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Helen, GA

Our guide to Helen, GA. Restaurants, events, places to stay and things to do.

Community Spotlight: White County

White County, Georgia is nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, offering a scenic blend of natural beauty, history, and Southern charm. Visitors enjoy traveling along the rolling hills and serene landscapes and it's a must see destination for those seeking outdoor adventure and festive entertainment. One of the county's most popular attractions is Helen, a Bavarian-themed town located along the Chattahoochee River. Once a struggling lumber town, Helen was transformed into a charming replica of a Bavarian village in the 1960s. Visitors can wander through cobblestone streets, sample authentic German cuisine, or browse the many specialty shops that line the downtown area. Helen is especially known for its annual Oktoberfest, and Christmas Market and events that include a parade and lights throughout the city that attracts visitors from all over the Southeast. For those who love the great outdoors, Unicoi State Park is a natural gem located just outside of Helen. The park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating on the serene Unicoi Lake. One of the park’s most popular hikes leads to Anna Ruby Falls, a stunning double waterfall that cascades from the Tray Mountain Wilderness. The short trail to the falls is easily accessible and surrounded by lush forest, making it a favorite spot for families and nature lovers alike. Another natural wonder in White County is Yonah Mountain, a prominent peak that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. For adventurous souls, hiking to the summit of Yonah Mountain is a rewarding experience. The trail is moderately challenging, but the panoramic views at the top are well worth the effort. History enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the Hardman Farm Historic Site, located near Helen. This well-preserved 19th-century farm was once owned by James Nichols, a prominent businessman, and later by Dr. Lamartine Hardman, who served as Georgia’s governor. The Italianate mansion and surrounding buildings offer a glimpse into the agricultural history of the region. A walk along the farm's nature trails reveals more about the area's past and its connection to the Native American peoples who once lived in the region. The iconic Sautee Nacoochee Indian Mound is a famous landmark of Native American origin, set against a scenic backdrop of the Appalachian foothills. The Sautee Nacoochee Center is a centerpiece for events and housed in a restored schoolhouse to offer a mix of art galleries and theater performances. The adjacent history museum and Folk Pottery Museum showcases the region's rich pottery traditions. For wine lovers, White County is home to several vineyards that take advantage of the cool mountain air and rich soil to produce excellent wines. Many of the wineries offer tastings and live music in a picturesque setting with views of the nearby mountains. White county also has a few breweries and nearby distilleries. For a taste of small-town Southern charm, a visit to Cleveland, the county seat of White County, is a must. Cleveland is known as the birthplace of the Cabbage Patch Kids, and the BabyLand [...]

Community Spotlight: White County2024-10-24T14:30:26-04:00

Welcome to the top of Georgia: Brasstown Bald

Brasstown Bald is 4,784 feet above sea level and is the highest point in North Georgia. Those who have visited have marveled at the unsurpassed views! Now you can view Brasstown Bald's Scenic vista in a whole new light - or dark? Coming in September & October, Astronomer, Alex Langoussis will guide you through the night atop Brasstown Bald's 360 degree veiew observation deck, where visitors will engage with wonders of the universe through galactic stories, expertise, and the use of a professional telescope. You could spend the evening being a "Gaurdian of the Galaxy" in learning about the magic of deep space and northern Georgia's incredible nightscape! Pre-registration is required for Friday night star gazing and there is a cost of $20.00 for 13 & up or $10.00 for ages 6-12. Events are subject to weather conditions, no pets, and people are encouraged to bring a flashlight and extra layer of clothers due to the cooler tempatures at night from higher elevation During the day there are several trails that lead up to Brasstown Bald, including Wagon Train Trail, Jack’s Knob Trail, where there is an access path to the Appalachian Trail. Arkaquah Trail follows high ridges to the Track Rock Archaeological area and Brasstown Bald Trail climbs 500 ft. in a half mile. Visitors can travel to Brasstown by car from State Rd. Hwy. 180 that can be accessed either coming from Helen or Hiawassee on 17/75 or by Blairsville on Hwy. 129. Once to the parking facility there is a steep, paved trail to the Visitor Information Center at the summit. Although difficult, this is an excellent hike for most people. Frequent stopping places along the path make it achievable for even the most out-of-shape hikers. A shuttle in the visitor parking provides access to the summit in addition to a picnic area for the public. The Visitors Center provides an unencumbered 360 view of the surrounding mountains and four states of North Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, and South Carolina. A museum and exhibit entitled “Man and the Mountain" shows rural mountain life, forestry in North Georgia and the diversifed wildlife in the area. For more info contact: Blairsville Ranger Office: 706-745-6928 or Brasstown Bald Visitors Information Center: 706-896-2556

Welcome to the top of Georgia: Brasstown Bald2024-10-24T12:38:29-04:00

Explore North Georgia State Parks

North Georgia State Parks include a variety of recreational activities besides camping and welcome travelers to explore “Our Neck of the Woods”. Enjoy your passion to see a waterfall, go horseback riding, canoeing, fishing, hiking, biking, or just have a picnic. The great State Parks of North Georgia are waiting for you to watch nature at it’s best! Moccasin Creek State Park Park (706) 947-3194 Reservations (800) 864-7275 Known as the park “where spring spends the summer,” Moccasin Creek is located on the shores of lovely 2,800-acre Lake Burton. Accessibility offers easy navigation for large RVs, children’s bicycles and wheelchairs. This also includes a fishing pier that sits above a trout-filled creek open only to physically challenged visitors, senior citizens and children. Smithgall Woods State Park Park (706) 878-3087 Reservations (800) 864-7275 Dukes Creek, one of North Georgia’s premier trout stream, runs through this spectacular mountain property and has become known for it’s catch-and-release fishing. Eighteen miles of roads and five miles of trails allow hikers and bicyclists to explore hardwoods, streams and wildlife. Dukes Creek Falls has a direct trail for cottage guests to view. Unicoi State Park Park (706) 878-2201 Reservations (800) 864-7275 Lodge (800) 573-9659 Unicoi State Park, named from the turnpike that was the early means of transportation, is over 1,050 acres of beautiful nature trails. It includes a 53 acre lake for non-motorized boats and a swimming beach. Enjoy flora, fauna and abundant wildlife as you picnic or hike a trail. Campsites and Cottages provide campers with many accommodations, including a 100 Room Lodge and Conference Center with a restaurant.

Explore North Georgia State Parks2024-10-24T12:34:13-04:00
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