Is autumn your favorite time of year? It is for many and fall is in the air. Who can blame those who love fall? The weather is cooler, it’s the holiday season, and the Georgia mountains are blooming with foliage. You don’t need to travel to New England to enjoy autumn colors that will take your breath away. Rather, drive around the north part of Georgia to take in the dramatic reds, oranges, browns, and yellows.
Appalachian Foothills Parkway
Hop on the Appalachian Foothills Parkway to take a trip horizontally across north Georgia. This scenic route travels through the southern portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which are beautiful any time of year. Valleys and ridges make up this drive, so take it slow and be swept up in the beauty of fall. The Appalachian Foothills Parkway runs on GA-52 and GA-515 and is 60 miles of winding terrain. Stop at the numerous heritage sites that honor Georgia’s Appalachia culture along the way to learn the area’s history.
Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway
The Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway goes through 40.64 miles of the Chattahoochee National Forest. You’ll travel on GA-17, GA-75, GA-180, GA-348, and the 75 ALT, and there are numerous small mountain towns to stop at for food and sleep. This byway not only allows you to enjoy the fall beauty of the southern Appalachian mountains, it also gives you cause to get out of the car. Notable sites include Brasstown Bald, the Andrews Cove Recreation Area, Anna Ruby Falls Scenic Area, and Curtis Creek.
Southern Highroads Trail
The Southern Highroads Trail is one of the most scenics in all of Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Yes, the entire trail goes through four states. If you decide to stick to the trail in Georgia only, you still won’t be disappointed, as you’ll travel along U.S. Route 76 from east to west and U.S. 441 Heritage Highway from north to south. Numerous small towns with food and accommodations can be found all along the trail, and you can also enjoy outdoor activities at countless recreation areas.
Before You Go
Contact the U.S. Forest Service before you plan your trip for an update on the best fall foliage sightings. The Forest Service keeps an eye on the turning leaves and posts prime viewing spots on its website. Also, make certain your vehicle is ready for the road with an inspection from United Auto Care in Flowery Branch. Nothing will put a damper on your fall foliage excursion more than an unexpected breakdown.
