Welcome to North Georgia, where mountain magic meets Southern charm. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, there’s something about the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains, crisp mountain air, and small-town hospitality that makes this region unforgettable. At Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals, we see it all the time—guests fall in love with the area and come back year after year to relive the magic.
From hiking legendary trails to sipping wine among the vines, here are the top 20 things to do in North Georgia that keep visitors coming back.
Hike the Appalachian Trail at Springer Mountain
Start your adventure on the iconic Appalachian Trail, which begins at Springer Mountain in North Georgia. The hike offers sweeping mountain vistas, peaceful forests, and a true sense of accomplishment for hikers. It's a bucket-list experience for outdoor lovers, whether you're doing a short day hike or setting off on a longer trek.
Marvel at Amicalola Falls
Amicalola Falls is Georgia’s tallest waterfall, plunging over 700 feet in a breathtaking cascade. Located within a state park, this natural wonder offers both strenuous hikes and easy viewpoints, making it accessible for all types of visitors. The park is also home to the Len Foote Hike Inn and serves as a gateway to the Appalachian Trail.
Explore the Majestic Tallulah Gorge
Tallulah Gorge is one of the most dramatic canyons east of the Mississippi, plunging nearly 1,000 feet deep. With suspension bridges, steep staircases, and awe-inspiring overlooks, this state park is a must-see for thrill-seekers and photographers alike. A limited number of daily permits allow access to the gorge floor for an unforgettable hike.
Soak in the Views from Brasstown Bald
Standing at 4,784 feet, Brasstown Bald is the highest point in Georgia. A short walk or shuttle takes you to the observation tower, where you can see four states on a clear day. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical here, offering unforgettable photo ops and quiet reflection above the clouds.
Relax at Vogel State Park
Nestled at the base of Blood Mountain, Vogel State Park is a peaceful retreat with a picturesque lake, miles of trails, and family-friendly amenities. It’s one of Georgia’s oldest and most beloved state parks, and a great place for camping, kayaking, or enjoying a picnic with mountain views.
Chase Waterfalls Across the Region
From the twin cascades of Anna Ruby Falls to the forest-hidden High Shoals Falls and the dreamy Dukes Creek Falls, North Georgia is a waterfall lover’s paradise. Most falls are accessible via short hikes, making them ideal day-trip destinations for families and casual explorers.
Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Hop aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway for a relaxing journey through the mountains. The vintage train winds along the Toccoa River, offering panoramic views and stops in charming towns like McCaysville and Copperhill. It’s a perfect way to see the landscape while enjoying a bit of history.
Explore Historic Dahlonega
Step back in time in Dahlonega, the site of the first major U.S. gold rush. Stroll through its historic square lined with boutiques, restaurants, and the Gold Museum. Don’t miss a gold mine tour or wine tasting while you're there—it’s the perfect blend of heritage and hospitality.
Tour North Georgia Wine Country
With rolling hills and cool mountain breezes, North Georgia is an emerging wine destination. Wineries in Dahlonega, Cleveland, and Tiger offer tastings, vineyard tours, and live music events. Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or a casual sipper, the views and flavors are hard to beat.
Pick Apples in Ellijay
Known as Georgia’s Apple Capital, Ellijay bursts with charm during apple season. Visit one of the many orchards to pick your own apples, sample fresh cider donuts, or enjoy a wagon ride through the orchards. It's a quintessential fall experience the whole family will love.
Stroll Through the Alpine Town of Helen
Helen transforms into a Bavarian-style village nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. With cobblestone streets, German eateries, and riverfront shops, it feels like a European getaway. Be sure to visit during Oktoberfest or the holidays, when the whole town lights up with festive cheer.
Take a Scenic Drive on the Georgia Mountain Parkway
Highway 515, also known as the Georgia Mountain Parkway, is a scenic route that winds through charming towns like Jasper, Ellijay, Blue Ridge, and Blairsville. In the fall, the drive becomes a corridor of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows—perfect for leaf-peeping and roadside photo ops.
Cast a Line in a Mountain Stream
North Georgia’s clear, cold streams and rivers are ideal for trout fishing. The Toccoa River, Rock Creek, and Noontootla Creek are popular with both fly fishers and traditional anglers. Whether you're fishing from the shore or wading in the water, it's a peaceful way to connect with nature.
Zipline Through the Treetops
See the mountains from a new perspective—soaring through the canopy on a zipline! Several outfitters in the region offer exhilarating courses for all skill levels, combining adventure with sweeping views of the Appalachian foothills.
Horseback Ride Through Mountain Trails
Saddle up and explore the scenic backcountry of North Georgia by horseback. Guided trail rides meander through forests, creeks, and open pastures. It’s a relaxing way to slow down, soak in the beauty, and experience the mountains like early settlers once did.
Float the Rivers by Tube, Canoe, or Kayak
Cool off in summer with a lazy float down the Chestatee, Etowah, or Toccoa Rivers. Tubing and kayaking are popular warm-weather activities, with plenty of rental outfitters along the way. For a more serene experience, paddle a canoe across Lake Blue Ridge or Lake Trahlyta.
Venture into Cloudland Canyon State Park
Cloudland Canyon in the northwest corner of North Georgia features massive cliffs, waterfalls, and deep gorges. It's a dramatic landscape perfect for hiking, photography, and camping. Rim trails offer bird’s-eye views, while the journey to the canyon floor rewards you with breathtaking falls.
Discover History at Fort Mountain and Track Rock Gap
Explore mysterious stone ruins at Fort Mountain, believed to be prehistoric in origin. Nearby, Track Rock Gap features ancient petroglyphs etched into stone—an intriguing glimpse into the region's earliest inhabitants and their stories carved into time.
Celebrate at Local Festivals
From the Sorghum Festival in Blairsville to Blue Ridge’s Arts in the Park and Ellijay’s Apple Festival, North Georgia comes alive with local events throughout the year. These gatherings celebrate the region’s culture, crafts, food, and sense of community.
Stay in a Cozy Mountain Cabin
No visit to North Georgia is complete without a stay in a cozy cabin. Whether you're soaking in a hot tub overlooking the mountains, sipping coffee on a wraparound porch, or cuddling up by the fireplace, Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals offers the perfect home base for your adventure. Choose from luxury lodges, pet-friendly options, and romantic hideaways tucked in the woods.
Start Planning Your North Georgia Getaway
With so much natural beauty, small-town charm, and outdoor fun, it’s easy to see why visitors return to North Georgia again and again. When you're ready to explore, Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals is here to help you unwind, reconnect, and fall in love with the mountains.
Ready to plan your escape? Browse our wide selection of mountain cabins and discover the comfort and hospitality that makes every stay unforgettable.
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