Scenic Drives in the Georgia Mountains

As a child of the Blue Ridge Mountains, I grew up on twisty, curvy mountain roads. My paw-paw Don had a saying that, “anyone can make a straight road, but it takes a damn good one to make a curvy road.”

To this day, I’m not sure if he meant that as a compliment to the engineers or a lament about the lack of any straight roads in the mountains. However, one thing is definitely true: the curvy roads in the Appalachian mountains offer some of the most interesting and best scenic road trips in the USA!

Fall Foliage Scenic Drives Hogpen Gap Georgia 2023

Fall Foliage on Scenic Drive at Hogpen Gap Georgia 2023

One could argue that all of the roads in the North Georgia mountains are technically “scenic roads.” The views seem to get better and better as you travel higher into the mountains and deeper into the forests. Enjoy the views and vibes on these scenic drives in the Georgia mountains.

 

Scenic Mountain Drives in North Georgia

The North Georgia mountains have a lot of different options for scenic driving. There are scenic routes on wide-open divided highways and beautiful natural scenes along some of the secluded one-lane gravel roads. The drives featured below are all on paved roads and travel past some of the most scenic places in Georgia.

 

Map of North Georgia Scenic Drives

These scenic mountain routes in North Georgia are thrilling rides at any time of year, but they burst with color (and more traffic) during the peak Fall season. Use the interactive Georgia scenic drives map below to get an idea of where to find Georgia’s most scenic mountain roads and plan your scenic road trip!

Hint: use the map menu (top left) to hide/display different routes or points of interest.

There are many beautiful roads throughout the Georgia mountains, but some of the most recognized are the designated scenic drives along Georgia state highways. These 2-lane highways are well maintained and easy to find on a map.

 

North Georgia Dragon Eyes Scenic Route

One of the most famous (and most curvy) scenic drives in North Georgia is known as Georgia’s Dragon Eyes. This thrilling drive consists of 2 twisty loops (the dragon’s “eyes”) and boasts 77 miles, 715 curves, and six mountain gaps!

Learn more below about the two scenic loops of Georgia’s Dragon Eyes and the amazing curvy roads that attract drivers from all over the world. Shine up your favorite wheels and head out for the thrilling rides that go up, down, around, and through the North Georgia mountains.

 

Northern Loop / Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway

Map of Russell Brasstown National Scenic Byway in North Georgia

Map of Russell Brasstown National Scenic Byway in North Georgia

 

The northern/northeastern loop of Dragon Eyes is very closely aligned with the Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway. The main difference is that the Russell-Brasstown route includes an additional stop at Georgia’s highest peak, Brasstown Bald (4,374′). This section of the scenic route is just over 40 miles long and includes almost 40 switchbacks!

View from Brasstown Bald - Highest Peak in Georgia

View from Brasstown Bald – Highest Peak in Georgia [photo ExploreGeorgia.org]

Enjoy numerous natural points of interest along the route, including:

 

Southern Loop / Scenic Loop 60 / 180 / 129 / 19

This scenic route goes through 3 gaps (Neels Gap 3,120′, Woody Gap 3,183′, and Wolfpen Gap 3,310′) and intersects the famous Appalachian Trail at both Woody Gap and Neels Gap. Stop at the well-known Mountain Crossings outfitters at Neels Gap and see the only place where the Appalachian Trail passes through the inside of the building (it’s the only covered portion of the entire 2,100-mile trail)!

Map of Scenic Loop Drive in the Georgia Mountains (60/180/129/19)

Map of Scenic Loop Drive in the Georgia Mountains (60/180/129/19)

 

Continue the twisty ride on Georgia’s Dragon along the Suches route. Stope at Chestatee Overlook and Woody Gap scenic overlook to give the driver a chance to pause and enjoy the wide-open mountain and valley views. Notable points of interest along this route include:

 

Cohutta-Chattahoochee Scenic Byway

Discover Native American history and trace the steps of the US Civil War to Georgia’s “Apple Capital” of Ellijay on the 54-mile Cohutta-Chattahoochee Scenic Byway. Start at the historic Prater’s Mill in Whitfield County, then follow the scenic byway past rolling bucolic scenes of quiet country roads and the Cohutta Mountains in the Chattahoochee National Forest.

 

Chatsworth to Ellijay on GA 52

Fort Mountain State Park in North Georgia

Fort Mountain State Park in North Georgia [photo ExploreGeorgia.org]

Part of the Cohutta-Chattahoochee Scenic Byway is this scenic section of Georgia Highway 52 between Chatsworth and Ellijay. Travel down mountain roads into the Chattahoochee National Forest — if time allows, stop at Fort Mountain State Park before getting back to the drive.
  • Fort Mountain State Park explore and learn more about the mysterious Native American history and ancient rock wall on the highest point of the mountain

 

Southern Highroads Trail

The Southern Highroads Trail is a multi-state route that runs through mountain towns and tourist attractions in 4 states (Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee).

Georgia Portion of Southern Highroads Trail

Georgia Counties of the scenic and historic Southern Highroads Trail

 

Take US Highway 76 West from the South Carolina border all the way to apple country in Ellijay, then turn right to wander North on Highway 411 towards Tennessee. Stop along the way to enjoy the scenic Georgia towns, including Clayton, Tiger, and Blue Ridge. The Southern Highroads Trail route overlaps/includes many of North Georgia’s other scenic routes, including Georgia Scenic Highway 197, Cohutta-Chattahoochee Scenic Byway, and Highway 441 from Baldwin to Clayton.

 

Georgia Mountain Parkway (GA 515 / US 76)

One of the most accessible scenic drives in the Georgia mountains is the Georgia Mountain Parkway along GA 515 / US 76. These scenic highways of North Georgia start where I-575 ends, then travel along into the beautiful North Georgia mountains and towns. This 4-lane divided highway is the main thoroughfare that connects the mountain towns of Ellijay, Blue Ridge, Blairsville, and Hiawassee.

Map of Scenic Routes near Georgia Mountain Parkway in North Georgia

Map of Scenic Routes near Georgia Mountain Parkway in North Georgia

Follow the map along the scenic Georgia Mountain Parkway or explore the other scenic routes marked on the official parkway map. Enjoy views of mountains, trees, and wildflowers while sampling local treats like apple orchards, festivals, antique shops, and gorgeous outdoor spaces!

 

Georgia Scenic 197 (GA 197)

This 27-mile scenic route is part of the Southern Highroads Trail and includes dozens of options for unique shopping and sightseeing.

Scenic Georgia 197 in the North Georgia Mountains

Scenic Georgia 197 in the North Georgia Mountains [photo ExploreGeorgia.org]

Thrillist also named this Georgia highway as of the most scenic in America:

Head into the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest and you’ll be rewarded with some pretty killer turns. Get out of your car, though, and you’ll see gorgeous scenery like this. The highway was a moonshine route back in the day (the day in this case being Prohibition) but is now known more as a destination for artisanal pottery, stained glass, and wood furniture. Moccasin Creek State Park is your go-to for camping, hiking, and fishing — there’s even a trout fishery you can tour — and Lake Burton is where you can put a day trip inside your road trip with boating, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and all the lake-related activities.

 

Old 76 to Blairsville

Lake Blue Ridge Dam on Old Hwy 76

Lake Blue Ridge Dam on Old Hwy 76 [photo ExploreGeorgia.org]

Enjoy this 25-mile scenic drive on a 2-lane road that travels over Lake Blue Ridge Dam and across miles and miles of farms on rolling landscapes.

 

Warwoman Road

Warwoman Road is a 16-mile scenic drive from Clayton to Pine Mountain that follows Warwoman Shear, an ancient geologic feature that provided an east-west trading route for Native Americans and early settlers.

  • Warwoman Dell: enjoy a picnic area and an interactive trail about local history, legends, geography, and plant life

 

Tips for a Great Scenic Drive

Woody Gap Overlook on the Appalachian Trail in Autumn

Autumn Day on Georgia’s Scenic Dragon Eyes at Woody Gap Overlook

Each of these routes will transport you to the scenic mountain playgrounds of North Georgia. Be sure to follow a few smart guidelines to make the most of your trip!

 

Safety on Mountain Roads

These scenic drives in North Georgia are free to travel, suitable for most well-maintained cars (4-wheel drive is not required), and remain open year-round.

As you use this guide as a scenic road trip planner, keep in mind that the roads are busiest during the Fall when the leaves change colors and put on a spectacular show. Be aware that you will need to share the curvy mountain roads with bicycles and motorcycles and expect more riders during milder weather (Spring and Fall).

 

Be Prepared

Scenic Drives in North Georgia

Scenic Drives in North Georgia

While these curvy mountain roads are a beautiful thrill ride for many people, there are ways to make the ride more enjoyable for everyone. Follow the steps below to ensure passengers are comfortable and safe on the scenic highways in Georgia.

 

Avoid Motion Sickness

For anyone prone to motion sickness, it is wise to take precautions to avoid feeling queasy on the road.

  • Take motion sickness medication BEFORE your trip (note that some medications may cause drowsiness)
  • Let people who are prone to motion sickness ride in the front seat or drive
  • Avoid looking down (at the phone, map, etc.) when riding on curvy roads
  • Provide motion sickness bags or containers (some roads have no shoulder to pull over for sick passengers)

 

Car Safety

Make sure that your vehicle is road-ready before heading out on your scenic drive. Do a car safety check and carry safety equipment to help in case of emergencies.

  • Fill up with gas and check fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer fluid, brake fluid, power steering, transmission fluid)
  • Check lights, signals, windshield wipers, tires (tread and air pressure), and brakes
  • Clean car windows inside and out before departing (clean windows at each stop for the best views possible)
  • Mount cell phone for hands-free use and set up a Bluetooth connection for calls
    • Georgia is a “hands-free” state
    • Drivers may not use their hands to make calls or texts

Once your car is ready to go, carry useful items to assist others (or yourself) during emergencies, including emergency LED flares, portable air compressors, and portable car battery chargers.

 

Personal safety

Whether or not you plan to do anything strenuous, it is helpful to plan for surprises and have a few helpful items in your car.

  • Carry cash – some places (parking lots, parks, etc.) do not accept other forms of payment
  • Carry water – do not drink from streams/rivers/lakes without proper filtration
  • Have a first aid kit – keep essential items on hand to handle allergies, upset stomach, minor cuts, insect bites, and personal health concerns
  • Don’t count on cell service or data in remote areas

 

Be Alert

Bicyclist Sharing the Road at Vogel State Park, GA

Bicyclist Sharing the Road at Vogel State Park, GA [photo ExploreGeorgia.org]

The roads through the Georgia mountains are beautiful, but they present unique challenges that city drivers may not encounter often. Be aware of the conditions that you may encounter on these drives and be sure to:
  • Observe speed limits – slow down when approaching curves or other areas that have warnings about lowered speed limits
  • Share the road
    • Bicyclists may legally use the roads but will generally move slower than cars (especially up hills!)
    • Motorcycles and bicycles can be hard to see
  • Mind the sun – car visors may not be effective when curvy mountain roads change direction too frequently
    • Wear a brimmed hat to shield your eyes
    • Wear polarized sunglasses to reduce glare
  • Watch for wildlife – there is increased wildlife activity during rut seasons and there may be large animals like deer crossing the road

 

Staying Comfortable on Road Trips

Scenic Road Trips in GA

Scenic Road Trips in GA

You can do certain things to have a more comfortable trip. Follow these tips for a great trip!

 

Clothing for Road Trips

Make sure to wear comfortable clothing that will travel well. Driving shoes are designed to help the driver feel the pedals better for more control. Polarized sunglasses can prevent glare and provide better visibility on bright days. A hat with a brim can help shield eyes from the sun (especially when the sun is low on the horizon). Long sleeves and pants can provide protection from the sun and prevent chafing from seat belts.

 

Road Trip Travel Tech

The more thrilling scenic roads are filled with multiple switchbacks and hairpin curves that will be fun to re-live through video from an HD dashcam. Cell phone mounts and Bluetooth speakers allow drivers to follow Georgia law to use their phones in hands-free mode when driving.

 

Road Trip Travel Gear

Spill-proof mugs allow everyone to enjoy their coffee without causing spills. Seat cushion fillers keep items from falling out of reach and causing distractions. A simple travel pillow and blanket can help keep everyone comfortable on the trip.

 

Where to Stop on Road Trips

There are lots of great places to stop along these scenic routes!

These North Ga scenic routes are on paved roads suitable for any car, but some attractions near these routes are along gravel or dirt roads. Choose to stay on the main roads or venture along the narrow paths to see even more of what the Georgia mountains offer. The level of adventure is up to you!

For those exploring North Georgia’s scenic roads in electric cars, check out this article on EV chargers in North GA in case a charging stop is needed.

 

Stop at Scenic Overlooks

There are a handful of scenic overlooks along the scenic routes where you can stop to enjoy the scenery and fresh air. The parking areas can get very busy on peak Fall weekends, but if you can, stop at these locations to enjoy some of the best views!

Bright Autumn Colors at Chestatee Overlook on Georgia's Dragon Eyes

Autumn on Georgia’s Dragon Eyes Scenic Route at Chestatee Overlook

Remember to bring your camera and selfie stick for great roadside photo opportunities!

 

Visit the Local Attractions

Anna Ruby Falls on Georgia's Dragon scenic drive

Anna Ruby Falls near Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway [photo ExploreGeorgia.org]

These scenic drives of North GA are beautiful and a destination on their own, but you would be missing out if you didn’t stop to explore the scenic Georgia towns and unique places and parks along these roads.

Use the interactive map (above) to choose a scenic route, then view the nearby points of interest that you can enjoy along the way.

There are many great sightseeing options, and the choice is up to you when planning road trip stops. Whether you prefer a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant, a well-deserved picnic after hiking to a waterfall, or a stroll through a quirky antique shop, there are many ways to enjoy scenic drives in the North GA mountains!

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Preview some of the beautiful North Georgia scenic drives at:

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Scenic Drives North Georgia

Scenic Drives North Georgia

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What are your favorite scenic road trips in GA? Do you drive your own vehicle or do you rent an exotic car for even more fun?

89 Responses

  1. Lauren Korte says:

    Your article about scenic drives in the Georgia mountains has truly captured the essence of this breathtaking region. The descriptions and recommendations you provided showcase the natural beauty and picturesque landscapes that await travelers. I appreciate the inclusion of practical details such as recommended stopping points and points of interest along the way. Your article has certainly piqued my wanderlust and inspired me to explore the Georgia mountains on these scenic drives.

    • Alyce says:

      Aww, yeah! Buckle up for the great views and the thrill of the exciting rides on these incredible scenic routes!

  2. keith says:

    Wow what a nice site. Very well put together!! Plenty of info for a traveler going down to Georgia.

    The Georgia Mountains are a hidden gem in the southern United States, boasting some of the best scenic drives (USA). The article showcases stunning routes which offer breathtaking views of mountain peaks and serene valleys. It’s no wonder these drives are considered some of the best scenic drives in the USA!

    • Alyce says:

      I’m glad to hear that you enjoyed the site and found it helpful for your travels to Georgia. The GA Mountains truly are a hidden gem, and the scenic drives are a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the region!

  3. Dave says:

    I don’t have personal experiences to share, but I can imagine that driving through the winding roads of the Blue Ridge Mountains and taking in the breathtaking scenery would be an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just someone who enjoys a leisurely drive, the Georgia Mountains have something to offer. I am definitely adding this to my bucket list and soon enough I will do the road trip and I am sure I’ll remember it for a lifetime!

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Dave, driving on the scenic roads in North Georgia is always a fantastic way to get from Point A to Point B!

  4. Kevin says:

    These scenic drives in the Appalachian mountains look splendid! Having grown up in Calgary, I almost never look at other mountain attractions because Banff is so close. But seeing this article made me realize that the world has much more than Banff. It sounds like the roads are pretty safe and well-maintained after hearing you say a 4-wheel drive isn’t needed. Do you think the roads would be suitable for sports cars? It’s always been a dream of mine to drive something like a Porsche through curvy scenic routes.

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Kevin! The scenic highways in North Georgia are well-maintained and are a treat to drive in a sports car. There are a handful of nearby car rental places that specialize in some great sports cars, including Porsches! See the article about Luxury Car Rentals for more details.

  5. Greypreneur says:

    Thank for these insights, they are most useful when considering a visit to this region. The trails look amazing and the Gerogia’s Dragon Eyes with 715 would be my choice I think with sweeping curves to be enjoyed on my a motor-cycle. I wondered if there were times of year when these are not passible? My guess is that the Autumn would be the best for the clour of the leaves alone, but maybe you would suggest the better season?

    • Alyce says:

      Hello Greypreneur, The fall is a beautiful time to visit, and also the most popular time for visits! Try to visit during the week, and you’ll be able to avoid some of the crowds and enjoy a more relaxing motorcycle ride. 

  6. Anusuya says:

    How about just enjoying the scenery and don’t think of the curve as long as you can get through it?

    Russel-Brasstown National Scenic byway looks eye-catching covering a huge patch. One can enjoy the beautiful landscape around and inside the loop. 40 miles!  It should be an easy one-day drive9 under n$20.000/ per person including the car! is a steal.) and enjoy around and may be able to see more. 

    Georgia scenic 197 looks spectacular from the picture. It look irregiistible.And which one is not.

    You just made me rethink my life and include travel as a must (not optional) in my yearly goals. Your tips on safety and driving are valuable along with the worthy places to visit. 

    • Alyce says:

      I do have some friends who suffer from motion sickness, and they definitely have a different perspective on how exciting the curvy roads feel! I think that as long as you know what to expect and make sure to plan for it, you’ll have a nice time on the roads. 

      Just to be clear regarding pricing, there isn’t a “fee” for driving these scenic roads, but you’ll need to make your own arrangements for transportation. Any charges listed in the article are parking or entry fees for optional stops that can be made along the way. 

      Enjoy!

  7. Jerry McCoy says:

    I would say that finding an area any more beautiful for a day-trip would be difficult to do. I would expect most people would want to carry a picnic lunch with them as the venture out on a day’s outing. The scenery you provided for fall in the Appalachian Mountains is quite beautiful and gives an example of what to expect when driving through some of the routes you suggested.

    Could you not also go on one of these day-trips as you explore the wineries. Just be sure to have a designated driver for the occasion. 

    Jerry

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Jerry, you have some great ideas! The routes between vineyards will often involve driving along one of the North Georgia scenic roads, making the journey as lovely as the destination(s).

  8. gravpeter says:

    Hey,

    Mountains, valleys, and forests are really my thing. But unfortunately, there are no such beautiful routes in Belgium (where I live), unless in our local Ardennes where it can also be worth the effort.

    I only know America from the movies on TV and I love to be able to admire the beautiful landscapes in some of those movies when a family drives the car along winding roads. For example, I am now thinking of the movie “The Shining” where the family makes their way to the hotel.

    I can understand that you are a super fan of Georgia if you are based there. It must be really beautiful. I am an angler myself and I love nature very much.

    We wish you a lot of nature and landscape enjoyment!

    With best regards,

    • Alyce says:

      Hello in Belgium and thanks for checking in! The state of Georgia started giving tax subsidies to film and TV productions in the past 10 years, and it’s led to a huge boom in the industry! You are likely to see a lot more of Georgia in films than in previous years. Some of the well-known works filmed in Georgia include The Hunger Games, Black Panther, Stranger Things, and Ozark. In fact, setting out for a Georgia Film Tour is a great excuse to make a North Georgia scenic drive! 😉

  9. Lio says:

    Wow, Georgia’s mountains are amazing. Seriously, the photos you shared have inspired me to organize a fantastic journey across Georgia before the end of the year. It is good you provided maps as well; these maps will guide me in planning the best routes. You’ve done a fantastic job representing Georgia, and I can’t wait to visit and see it for myself.

    Thanks for sharing.

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Lio, I’m so glad to hear this has inspired you to travel and see the year-round beauty of the North Georgia mountains! It’s a beautiful area at any time of year — it’s most crowded during peak fall colors (now through the next couple of weeks) — but when the leaves fall from the trees it opens up longer views that aren’t visible during warmer parts of the year. 

      Enjoy the drive!

  10. Stereohead45 says:

    Thanks for this review, very detailed and everything sounds really accurate, especially with the distances, routes, heights and so on. I’ve always wanted to visit the highest peaks of all 50 states, and I think Brasstown Bald might just be my first!

    Quick question, is there a better remedy to motion sickness? Dramamine tends to get a little dramatic on me

    Thanks again for this

    • Alyce says:

      Hello! While it’s not too challenging to get to the highest peak of Georgia at Brasstown Bald, you will definitely have your work cut out for you in states like Alaska, California, and Hawaii! 

      There are other options available for motion sickness. Bonine is a different brand of highly-rated OTC medication and the Sea-Band Acupressure Wristband also gets fairly high reviews!

  11. Michael says:

    Very well done. I am living in Kentucky but am originally from Massachusetts. And some of your pics and descriptions remind me so much of the White Mountains in the New Hampshire area. You have a lot of info about the views at certain spots and your pics just add to it. I know spending a lot of time in the mountains that Fall is the best time because of the foliage. The White Mountains have a highway called the Kangamangus (not sure if I spelt it right) but it’s a very dangerous highway. It’s barely wide enough for 2 lanes of traffic. On one side you have the mountain and the other is a total drop. Have traveled it in a snow storm once and moved very slow due to low visibility and the chance of sliding over the edge. But getting back, I do know what you mean about the curvy roads and sites. Love that this brought back such memories and would love to take the drive through there.

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Michael, You are a fairly close neighbor depending on the part of Kentucky that you’re living in! I have visited the White Mountains in New Hampshire and was blown away by the beauty of those mountains. We took the iconic scenic drive up to the top of Mt Washington and although I absolutely loved that drive, I’m glad that these scenic drives through North Georgia aren’t quite as intense!

  12. António Mateus says:

    Hi, Alyce!
    What a privileged childhood you must have had in such wonderful landscapes…! North Georgia Mountains scenic drives must be among the most rewarding travel destination. Old 76 looks simply amazing!
    Have you ever been to Portugal and checked out our beauties, as well?
    Looking forward to hearing from you soon. Thanks for sharing and keep safe!

    • Alyce says:

      Hi António, I definitely feel privileged to be able to spend time in such scenic places! The curvy roads reveal something new and exciting at every turn and truly make the journey as enjoyable as the great North Georgia destinations. 

      I have not yet been to Portugal but would love to visit – I have heard amazing things and seen gorgeous pictures of some of your beautiful landscapes!

  13. Shannon says:

    So happy I found this!! Just bought a convertible and plan to use this as a resource traverse North Georgia over the next few years. Outside of the vineyards, do you have restaurant recommendations especially for lunch?

  14. Fatoumata says:

    It looked like you had a lot if adventures when growing up. The area sounds super fun and entertaining for many. I bet it attracts a lot of tourists.

    Taking trips to this place will be nice for any family. From the images it looks peaceful and quiet. I would love to have one of those trips with my family.

    Now with the condition the world is in, family holidays will have to wait. 

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Fatoumata, Fortunately taking a scenic drive is a “socially distanced” kind of activity, providing a great way to get out and explore without exposure to others. I hope your family is able to stay safe and enjoy planning trips for when it’s safe for everyone to get back out and about again.

  15. Trent523 says:

    I love the Scenic Drives Map. 

    I’m not going to say that a person will fall asleep from such a long post, because let me say this..  If the person is a traveler and wants good choices for points of interest, and if the person wants a guide and helpful maps, this site has it all. I found myself reading the whole thing.  I was THAT interested!  It blew my mind how much knowledge was in one post.  And at this point, I haven’t even clicked the pull-down buttons yet!  🙂  This tells me the person posting this is an experienced traveler and KNOWS what the travelers need in the info realm.  Then, at the very bottom, they go into talking about Safety Practices and even had Adsense Amazon ads that dealt with safety items, etc. Again, On Point here!  Oh, and BTW?  The air pump they advertise on the bottom I do have and it IS a great accessory to have for your car.

    It looks like a very long page, but that’s because there are wonderful comments from visitors to this site at the bottom (and I am now adding to that). 🙂  You guys did a beautiful job here and I will implement a lot of ideas I’ve seen here.

    On Point!

    Trent523

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Trent, thanks so much for all the feedback. Hopefully, the articles are long enough to tell the story/share the information but short enough to be interesting! 

  16. Cori says:

    What a wonderful and informative site. I was especially impressed with the gold mining history. Also the information on lodging, food, entertainment, and where you can find everything you need to make a trip to Georgia Mountains. You were very informative in all areas of your site.  I have been wanting to do a trip somewhere where I could do gem mining, fossil excavating, and gold panning. So to know I could do all those in one location is wonderful and sounds like an amazing time for me soon. I know what site to go to when the time comes for me to make all the arrangements for my trip. Thank you for making it easy to navigate through your site, I really enjoyed everything you had to say. Cori

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Cori, Thanks so much for exploring the website! We’d love to see you here in the Georgia mountains to experience all of the historical exhibits, exciting fun attractions, and of course, the stunning natural beauty!

  17. Patricia Bracy says:

    Thank you for this article on Georgia Mountains.  Looking at the pictures makes me proud to be a Georgian.  I enjoy taking the scenic route whenever my husband and I travel to various parts of Georgia.  The safety tips you give are great as they are things some people take for granted.  For example, very rarely do people who use charge cards for everything think about having cash.  I will make it a priority to visit the Anna Ruby Falls on our next trip.  Your pictures are breathtaking.  Thank you for sharing this useful information.

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Patricia! Georgia is definitely a wonderful place both to live and to visit! I’m so glad to hear that you found this article about North Georgia’s scenic drives to have some useful tips and enjoyable photos. Enjoy!

  18. Chuck Adkins says:

    Hi there, reading articles brought back some childhood memories. I grew up in VA and have driven the Blue Ridge Parkway the entire 469 miles. I love riding through the mountains. I have been on some of GA’s scenic drives but can’t remember which one. I was riding on my motorcycle and you just ride sometimes not knowing where you are. Thanks for the memories. Good read.

    • Alyce says:

      Thanks, Chuck! Even though I’ve only seen sections of it, the Blue Ridge Parkway is quite beautiful and the 45mph speed limit ensures that everyone takes enough time to enjoy the views! How wonderful that you’ve been able to enjoy the whole parkway!!

      Motorcycle riders come from all over the country to enjoy the great mountain roads in North Georgia. The mild weather and windy roads make it a popular destination for motorcycles!

  19. Cynthia says:

    I love a scenic drive!  My daughter and I were in Georgia a few years ago (destination: Senoia) so we were a bit south of these scenic drives. We both agree that we want to go back to your great state so I think we’ll plan for a few days of scenic driving!  What time of year would you suggest for the best views?

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Cynthia! Hands down, the best viewing in the Georgia mountains is during Autumn when the leaves are at their peak fall color. For a less crowded experience, visit during the week, as Autumn weekends are popular among both locals and tourists alike!

  20. Phalguni says:

    I read your article even though I know there are hardly any chances of me being able to go travel other countries ( I am from India btw). But for people who are looking for a good guidance, this article is great for that. Very informative and easy to follow. I hope one day I will travel the world and use your article for some of them. Thankyou for this.

    • Alyce says:

      Aww, thank you so much. I hope you enjoyed the online sample of the natural beauty and scenery in our little part of the world. Hopefully, we will all be able to travel far and wide again soon!

  21. Ann says:

    I am just watching the pisctures on your post and I am loving it already. Yeah, the roads over there are famous for being full of curves and although I haven been there yet, I have dear friends that make jokes about it often. I would like to go with my husband and kids. I am a photographer and I need some pictures as these. Thank you for the inspiration.

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Ann, The Georgia mountains are certainly a beautiful space at this time of year and the Fall colors look stunning in photographs!

  22. Alejandra says:

    I have a friend who lives in Georgia and she is always asking me to visit her, so I decided to take a look as my friend  always tells me I will love Georgia, today I decided to look to some articles to learn more about it, and I’m glad I found your website, your article has confirmed what my friend told me, I’m sure I will love it, so I will talk to my friend so we can talk more about what time will be better to visit her, thanks for sharing this article full of great information. 

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Alejandra, it’s always nice to have a couple of excuses to visit a good friend and a beautiful place! We hope to see you both for a visit in the North Georgia mountains soon!

  23. zac says:

    Thanks for all the great information. I did not realize that Georgia was such a beautiful place. After reading this article it made me want to visit there to see this in person. I cant believe how many scenic routes there actually are in Georgia. Thanks again this was helpful to help me decide my next vacation.

    • Alyce says:

      The Georgia mountain roads are definitely some of the prettiest I’ve ever seen and we certainly hope that you can make it for a visit soon!

  24. Saint says:

    Driven through the Georgia mountain is on of an the best experience I ever had, I was there ad a young kid when me and my family was going on a vacation and my dad decided we take a drive, it was a beautiful scenery, one which I will love to visit again as an adult and take pictures of its beautiful curves.

    • Alyce says:

      These roads are quite beautiful and the memories can certainly stay with you for a lifetime! I hope you get the chance to make it back to the scenic roads of North Georgia soon!!

  25. Andy says:

    Hi, There is truly an incredible choice of drives here. I’ve only once been to Georgia on a long business trip many years ago. I did take a day to visit and climb Stone Mountain though. The advice provided here clearly comes from long experience of how best to prepare for the mountains and all that can go wrong. It made me think of all the times I have driven through mountains and while things mostly went well I remember times when that was not the case. I drove once from Geneva north to Germany and it suddenly started snowing. I had winter tyres so I felt prepared. There was not much traffic on the roads and the combination of fresh snow on ice-cold roads made for treacherous conditions. I think the scariest thing I saw was when I was climbing an incline and I saw the car behind me just spun around for no apparent reason. I was very careful after that. I think that experience taught me to respect driving in the mountains. I would recommend anyone reading this to take the advice and precautions for mountain driving seriously. And of course, enjoy the fabulous scenery. Best regards, Andy

    • Alyce says:

      Andy, respecting the weather and road conditions is always solid advice for driving — no matter if you’re on a scenic route or not! Thanks for sharing!

  26. LineCowley says:

    How, you have just taken me on a lovely scenic tour of the Georgia mountains and what spectacular views. The 27 mile Georgia scenic 197 seems to be perfect for a day trip. If one wanted to do a weekend break or longer trip, would there be affordable accommodation along the way, or is it better to prepare yourself for camping while enjoying the scenic splendors. 

    • Alyce says:

      There are a wide variety of options for places to stay in North Georgia. There are rental cabins right along Scenic 197 or there are camping options in the area as well. It all depends on how you prefer to travel! Enjoy!!

  27. Alicia Watts says:

    This is a beautiful post.  I never been to Georgia (believe it or not), but now I really I want to go.  You have informative information about Georgia and the descriptions make it sound like a wonderful place for a road trip.  I wish I could travel now (no travel due to the virus) but Georgia is on my bucket list.  I love the mountains and it seems so surreal and peaceful.  Alicia

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Alicia, The mountains are definitely a peaceful place to enjoy a vacation. I hope the pandemic threat passes soon and we can all get back to traveling and scenic adventures!

  28. Teboho Lekhanya says:

    Hi,

    Thanks very much for an enjoyable article – not just the text but the pictures too, which give us a taste of the beauty of the roads.

    Curvy roads, wow, what a pleasure and what absolute therapy! Even when you are really feeling down, taking a drive along curvy roads, especially ones that traverse woody places such as these, and more so when there has been some rain, can bring you right back to your healthy, bubbly self. Some may say curves increase the chances of road traffic accidents. But the reality is, as long as you don’t attempt to get too much adrenaline pumping through your body by speeding, the curves actually help to keep you awake and alert. Long stretches of straight roads are notorious for sending drivers to sleep!

    And having four distinctive seasons also makes driving along roads like these, both for leisure and business, absolutely exciting and not monotonous. Does Georgia have 4 distinctive seasons?

    Warmest regards.

    • Alyce says:

      Hello! Georgia certainly has all 4 seasons, but fortunately the winters are not too extreme (not too much snow or ice). The scenic roads are best enjoyed when the weather and roads are dry.

  29. Enrique says:

    Wow! The views look spectacular! I’ve been thinking of doing a road trip, and this is one of my options along with the scenic highway along the Pacific coast that stretches from California to Washington.

    I can imagine what it looks like. The only thing that scares me a little is the winding roads. I’m not used to driving like that. I remember when I went to a scenic drive near Austin, and my heart almost exploded lol. 

    Realistically, how much time would you need for such a drive? I’d love to tour it all. I love taking in the views and taking lots of pictures.

    I’d like to go in winter and see the mountains covered in white, but I can imagine it’s much harder to drive under those conditions. Do you have a recommendation for such a trip?

    Thanks for sharing. Looking forward to more awesome destinations.

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Enrique, The peak time of year for these drives is in the Autumn when the trees explode with color. It’s also a nice drive during other times of year when the weather is nice. Keep in mind that the North Georgia mountains do occasionally receive snow, but it’s generally does not last very long. I would not recommend taking a scenic drive when it is snowing — that is a phenomenon that is best enjoyed from your home or cabin.

  30. Dexidoo says:

    Every post on the Internet show photos of your travels and what you can of it to find out what people are up to and what you could do differently without compromising your quality If you are well-informed and read, you will be a better conversationalist, helping you to relax and be a better conversationalist in the future Traveling in the present is good because it gives you a glimpse of what the future will bring Traveling in the past is bad because it makes us feel like we were left behind in the past that made us subject to inevitable mistakes and troubles The future is bright because it gives us something to look forward to in the future.

  31. Mohammad says:

    Wow – what amazing scenery! I love driving and I love nature… You have some fantastic scenic routes in the US, we don’t have so many here in the UK… if I ever I were to visit your country, I would definitely look to rent a car and drive all over the place. I love camping too, so it would be great to go on a drive and then camp somewhere along the way.

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Mohammad, I’ve driven through the UK (from London to Inverness to Manchester) and found there to be lots of beautiful and scenic drives! It was a quite different experience for me to drive on the opposite side of the road, but I really enjoyed being immersed in all the scenic places, old towns, and legends of the area. 

  32. JJ says:

    Thank you for this travel guide to the mountains of Georgia. I live in the Caribbean, but I have relatives who live in Georgia. When my family visits from time to time we are always looking for something new to do while we are together. Looking at your descriptions and the maps, I feel that exploring this area is something we could consider doing. Thank you for the information. We are definitely going to consider a visit.

    • Alyce says:

      Hi JJ, There are lots of great places to explore in the Georgia mountains with family. Hopefully you all will have enough time to enjoy these scenic routes as you travel to your favorite attractions! 

  33. Marsha Pearson says:

    My dad also liked long road trips as well as Sunday “drives to nowhere”. We never made it down Georgia way, but you’ve made me think we should do it – perhaps in honor of my dad. In truth, we’ve been thinking about doing some things in the south for the winter months – it seems that snow bothers us more and more every year. You just might have provided the stimulation we need to explore Georgia.

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Marsha, Winter is the quietest season in the Georgia mountains and very nice place to escape from colder environments. The Georgia mountains do occasionally get snow, but generally speaking the weather is mild and very nice for a scenic drive or a hike.

  34. mitic08 says:

    Scenic drives are definitely a very good thing to find in nature. I live in Serbia in Europe and there are many such roads in my country. I love to travel by car but it is even better when I walk. Almost every weekend I go hiking with friends. The higher you climb, the more beautiful the view gets and the cleaner the air is, which is a rarity in big cities. I would definitely recommend it to everyone because it is a completely different experience from the usual straight paths. And even if they are steep, adrenaline lovers will enjoy.

    • Alyce says:

      These curvy mountain roads definitely feel a world apart from a city environment and it’s always a great adrenaline rush to drive them on a beautiful day!

  35. Misael H says:

    Wow! Thank you so much for this article and for the story you put into it. I will be traveling across the US and Canda when I go to Alaska and the whole point of this trip is sight-seeing. This will definitely be something I will be adding to the list of places that I want to be visiting on that trip! Thank you so much for this

  36. Nelson says:

    Thanks so much for posting the article about road trips. I have been looking at google maps to try to pick a scenic route but that isn’t exactly google’s strong suit (it’s great for finding the fastest route through traffic in a city though!).

    This can be a helpful to those who don’t know how to plan a road trip and aren’t sure where to start in the Ga mountains. Georgia mountains have some of the best places to drive around, so it is very helpful to see what attractions are nearby to help plan fun stops along the trip!

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Nelson, It is true that if you always rely on google for navigation, then you’re probably going to miss the scenic routes. I am glad to hear that you found this resource helpful for planning your scenic mountain drive and your tourist stops!

  37. Martinz says:

    Hello, as a daily road user and I paid so much attention on reading this article and I can say it was worth it, thank you very much. And I’ll have to agree with your paw paw on what he said. This article entails the importance of road safety and passes a very good information to both drivers and pedestrians. Once again thank you.

  38. roprimixz says:

    I am very grateful for a very nice and educative article. This is so beautiful on different levels. Seeing places like this makes one appreciate nature. Driving down this road with all these colourful mountains will drive people crazy. I have put in on myself that I will visit this place and drive through this mountains someday.

    • Alyce says:

      Thanks so much for sharing – I’m glad to hear these amazing roads are on your travel list. For me, a drive down these scenic roads always makes the world seem less crazy. 🙂

  39. Joe says:

    WOW, thanks for sharing this post. I did not realise how beautiful and scenic some of the route are in Georgia. The maps are especially useful, and the pictures are stunning. I am surprised that people do not talk about Georgia more, compared to other American states… 

    I must admit until now, I have completely overlooked Georgia, so i will be certainlty going next year. 

    I will be definitely be checking out the vineyard restaurant along the way too

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Joe, Georgia has been in the news quite a bit this week, but somehow it isn’t for our gorgeous mountains or drives! 😉

      Whatever it took, I’m glad to know that more people are looking at Georgia right now and hope that you can make it for a visit someday soon!

  40. Anastazja says:

    This article is so much more than travel suggestions for touring Georgia.  Your pictures are beautiful. The trail maps and information is really valuable.  As well, tips on driving the mountain roads and being safe while hiking are quite important but unexpected.  I have only passed through Georgia, but when I have occasion again for an extended time on the east coast, I hope to see this state that you have represented so beautifully.

    • Alyce says:

      It’s wonderful to hear that you’ll consider visiting some of these beautiful places in North Georgia when we’re all able to travel freely across the country again! I hope that the maps and resources can be helpful as you plan your trip(s)!

  41. Fay says:

    Hello there, thanks a lot for sharing this beautiful piece of information here with us. .  These are really nice scenes to drive in Georgia mountains. There’s this view it has that makes you want to just stay there and think of everything going on in your life. It’s really awesome. I don’t really drive but I think I’ll go on a trip here to have a feel of it 

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Fay, it’s understandable that driving is often seen as a chore that exists to get us from point A to point B. 

      However, it’s nice that these rides through the mountains are less of a chore and more like scenic excursions — full of eye candy and always ready to send the mind into a state of daydreamy pondering about life. 

  42. Kelvin says:

    Wow — these are ALL beautiful scenes for one to behold. The North Georgia area and mountains seem to be such beautiful and wonderful places to visit (or live). The tourist sights and natural wonders are great but it’s nice to think that even the roads to get to the attractions can add their own excitement. 

    I’m looking forward to a future post-covid trip to see the Georgia Mountains and the heavenly nature that it looks to be. Thanks for the map to help plan the best routes!

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Kelvin, I’m glad you found the North Georgia road maps to be helpful for planning! It’s definitely nice to consider taking the scenic route to get somewhere instead of always taking the short / fast route. You never know what neat local treasures you’ll find!

  43. philebur says:

    Wow, these roads look like so much fun to just drive along — even without having any kind of destination to go to! They say that one should appreciate the journey in life (and not just the destination), and I think that would come naturally on roads like these! Thanks for sharing. I will make sure to travel on these scenic routes the next time I am in the area.

  44. Sophie says:

    Hello and thanks a lot for sharing the helpful driving and mountain touring information here with us. I enjoyed going through your descriptions of the roads to learn more about these natural and beautiful spaces.  Awesome mountains full of colors that can give you the creeps of excitement when you drive along that way and round each exciting corner!

    • Alyce says:

      Hi Sophie, I absolutely love the thrill of driving through the mountains, rounding the corners, then seeing what appears on the other side! These twisty Georgia roads are some of the most exciting drives I’ve ever taken and I hope you enjoy them too!!

  45. John says:

    Ah, it would be a good escape for me to take a good drive around the Georgia mountains right now! Georgia is a very pretty state in the United States with lots to offer (I have seen some great pictures). The photos you shared are very enticing — seriously tempting me to find the time to take a fun car out on the road! Thanks for the maps and resources to help plan a great road trip through GA.

    • Alyce says:

      Hi John, It is absolutely a great time of year to visit the Georgia mountains!! The leaves still have gorgeous Fall colors and the mountain roads are calling! Enjoy!!

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