Georgia is a state that holds many wonders. The bright lights of Atlanta. The warm beaches of the Atlantic. The deep history of early colonial America. With so much to choose from, deciding how to spend your weekend getaways in Georgia can prove a bit challenging. How do you choose where to go on your weekend excursions?
Maybe it’s time you considered heading to the northern part of the state and the foothills of the mighty Appalachian mountains. This scenic portion of the state offers all kinds of options for as many weekend getaways in Georgia as you can imagine. Each weekend presents a new opportunity to sample and experience yet another facet of this region.
Rugged, Outdoor Adventures
Nature calls to those ready for an adventure in the mountains. Northern Georgia is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for the challenges of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. For this weekend getaway, the rugged, outdoor types can find any number of challenges to make their weekend conquests rival any battles in the board room.
- Hiking: There are hundreds of miles of hiking trails in and around the national forest. Many hikes are suitable for any level of expertise, but a few, like the Duncan Ridge Trail, offer more challenging hikes. Any avid hiker will want to join the historic Appalachian Trail at its southern terminus at Springer Mountain even for just a few miles.
- White Water Rafting: Families float the calmest parts of the Chattahoochee River in Helen, but adventurists seek out the rapids of this river. Experienced rafters can go on their own or newbies can book a tour with an outfitter for a thrilling ride down the river.
- Rock Climbing: Defy gravity by scaling the many rock faces and boulders in this area. Try Mount Yonah or Tallulah Gorge State Park, considered the toughest climbing spot in the state.
On the Vines
Weekend getaways in Georgia take many forms so if rugged outdoor adventure isn’t your cup of tea, try a weekend devoted to the finer things in life. North Georgia has a rapidly maturing wine industry featuring both traditional southern wines like Muscat and old-world vines like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. There are dozens of vineyards and tasting rooms spread across the northern counties from Ringgold to Clayton. You can check out several travel guides online to map your weekend of wine tasting.
Family Fun
At least a few weekends should be devoted to spending time with the family and northern Georgia is definitely the place to find all kinds of family fun. The most popular hikes in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest are shorter and less strenuous making them perfect for pint-sized hikers. Try Brasstown Bald, Anna Ruby Falls, or Smithgall Woods.
Other family-friendly activities include:
- Panning for gold and gems at one of the several working mines left over from Georgia’s gold rush days. Pick up a bucket of rock and dirt to search for your own buried treasure using the techniques miners used.
- Hit the links, the miniature links that is. Several outdoor miniature golf courses welcome families of all ages with wheelchair-accessible courses and courses that allow pets.
- Tube down the calmest portions of the Chattahoochee River as it winds through scenic Helen and then hit one of the water parks.
- Book a family of horseback riding with one of the numerous stables in the area.
With the wealth of family-friendly activities, everyone can enjoy weekend getaways in Georgia.
Angler’s Paradise
Like to fish? Want to learn? Northern Georgia’s lakes, rivers, and streams have a great reputation for trout and bass fishing with several places to drop a pole or cast a fly rod out over the water. Visit Betty’s Country Store in Helen to pick up a Georgia fishing license, gear, and local tips for the best place to snag your catch of the day.
Popular fishing spots include Smithgall Woods, Andrew’s Cove Recreation Area, Low Gap Campground, and Smith Lake Unicoi State Park. You can also wade into the Chattahoochee in Helen and fish right in town. Be sure to check the seasonal news from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to know what fish are in season.
Weekend getaways in Georgia can be anything you want them to be. So what’s in store for you this weekend? An outdoor adventure, a sophisticated wine tour, fun with the kids, or a quiet fishing trip? Can’t decide? Don’t worry. There are plenty of weekends for you to try out all northern Georgia has to offer. Which activity is the most appealing to you? Let us know!
