North Georgia
The mountains of North Georgia are not meer foothills of the Appalachians. This is a region of 4000 plus foot peaks, deep gorges, towering waterfalls and stunning alpine views. The further north you travel, the more mountainous it becomes. Here are a few things you should see:
Amicalola Falls
This 729-foot waterfall is the tallest in Georgia. An entire state park was built around the falls. It is one of the most visited geographic features in the state and is considered one of Georgia’s natural wonders.
Tallulah Gorge
Tallulah Gorge is another of the state’s natural wonders and has been a tourist attraction, along with Tallulah Falls, since the nineteenth century. Water from the Tallulah River have carved a 1000-foot through the surrounding Tallulah Dome rock formation.
Dahlonega
This small city was at the center of the Georgia gold rush in the early 19th century and, as a result, was once the site of a federal mint. Elements of this early history are still in evidence throughout the town an in the surrounding countryside. The historic Lumpkin County Courthouse is now home to the Dahlonega Gold Museum.
Today the city is home to the University of North Georgia, but it is also an important tourist destination. The old courthouse lies at the center of the historic downtown. The old homes have primarily been converted into restaurants, shops and hotels, which make it a lovely, walkable space.
Wine Country
It is possible, because of cooler temperatures at higher elevations, to grow wine grapes in North Georgia. Wines produced south of the mountains are produced primarily from fruit or muscadine and tend to be very sweet.
There are many wineries in the north, but only a few of note. I have visited most of them, but marked just three on the map. My favorite, by far, is Wolf Mountain Vineyards. Not only do they make extraordinary wine, but the views from the tasting room are nothing short of breathtaking.
Brasstown Bald
Rising to an elevation of nearly 4800 feet, this mountain is the highest point in Georgia. It can be climbed on foot along the Wagon Train Trail or by road. Visitors reaching the summit will be offered 360 degree views. A visitor center and observation deck are available at the summit and visitors can enjoy a 360 degree view of the surrounding states and countryside.