Northern Georgia is a world unto itself. This rural wonderland provides a little something for every nature lover. From the state's longest covered bridge, to a romantic gorge and cascading waterfalls, this is the perfect outdoor adventure.
Start at one of Georgia's most scenic state parks: Watson Mill Bridge. The crown jewel of the park is the Watson Mill Bridge itself, which is the longest covered bridge in the state. There used to be hundreds of covered bridges across Georgia, and now, only about 20 remain. Not only has it been standing since the 1800s, but you can still drive your car across it! You can also hike through the dense forest to the old hydroelectric mill, splash down the natural waterslide, and camp out while cooking s'mores over a fire!
Southerners (especially Georgians) really know how to do baked goods. 211 Main Street Restaurant is the perfect spot for Southern charm and good home cookin'. The soups, salads, and sandwiches are fresh and filling, but try and save room for dessert: their handmade pies, rich pound cakes, and decadent layer cakes are to die for, and can be ordered by the slice.
For more natural beauty, head to Toccoa Falls! Getting there might seem a little confusing at first, but just head to the campus bookstore at Toccoa Falls College to pay the $1 admission fee, and then you'll be guided right to this wonder! The trail to the waterfall is short and flat, and once you're there, you can relax on a bench and soak in the beauty of the 186-foot falls, or even go for a dip in the pool below!
Tallulah Gorge is one of Georgia's most incredible state parks. It offers several waterfalls, swim spots, a natural waterslide, camping, suspension bridges, several hikes, and, of course, sweeping views. You need a permit to hike around down inside the gorge (and if you're planning on that, you'll need to get there extra early, since permits are limited). Don't stress if you just want to make a quick visit and check out a few scenic overlooks and waterfalls: the views from above the gorge are seriously breathtaking.
To take your trip through the beauty of Northern Georgia to the next level, book a room at Lucille's Mountain Top Inn & Spa. The accommodations and service are on point, with delicious breakfasts to be enjoyed on the deck, incredibly comfy rooms, nightly desserts served in the gorgeous common area, luxurious spa treatments, and friendly service... but what truly sets Lucille's apart is its location. When they say mountaintop inn, they're not kidding! Views of the peaks and valleys come with every room, and the scenery from the deck is truly awe-inspiring. Stroll the grounds, drive to nearby Anna Ruby Falls, or explore one of the many quaint, small towns that dot the region... it's the perfect weekend escape.
For a totally different, but totally epic view of the mountains and rivers in North Georgia, hop on a tube! Cool River Tubing will set you up with everything you need for a relaxing float down the lovely Chattahoochee River. They have a longer 2 hour float and a shorter, 1 hour excursion, both of which are equally relaxing and a total blast. And, when you're done, you can cool off with a hand-dipped ice cream cone from their snack bar!
Of all of Northern Georgia's endless waterfalls, Amicalola Falls is the tallest and one of the most distinctively gorgeous-- there are stairs alongside that let you view this stunning feature from all angles. The state park here has tons of other things to see and do as well: tons of trails that crisscross the rocky, forested landscape, and the Len Foote Hike Inn, Georgia's only backcountry lodge, is a 5-mile hike into the park. There's also a classic campground that's easier to access, as well as a mountaintop lodge. And, if you're here during the weekend, the park's Maple Restaurant has an incredible Sunday brunch buffet... you'll deserve it after all of that hiking!
Chateau Meichtry’s grapevines came all the way from Switzerland, brought over by an ancestor of the family that runs the winery. From light Pinot Grigios and crisp rosés to rich Merlots and balanced red blends, there's something here for everyone to enjoy. Their tasting room, with indoor and outdoor seating, is the perfect place to relax with a few glasses of wine. Whatever you do, end your experience here with the decadent chocolate tasting cup!
Bring your adventure to a close at Cloudland Canyon State Park, a total hidden gem of Northern Georgia. Waterfalls along the Sitton Gulch Creek and views into the gorge make this park a beauty. Trails above and below the canyon make exploring easy, and the campground, with its cool, cozy yurt, makes staying the night here a totally unique experience. Plus, the park offers great stargazing... which is a perfectly unforgettable way to end a trip through Northern Georgia!
The mountains of Northern Georgia are calling, and if you answer, you'll be treated to incredible scenery, with a dash of old-school Southern charm thrown in. What more could you want from a trip?
