Top Spots in Georgia for Enjoying the Fall Foliage (4/4)

As the sultry days of summer give way to the crisp, cool breeze of autumn, nature puts on its most breathtaking display, inviting us to partake in a cherished seasonal tradition known as “leaf peeping.” This delightful pastime involves taking leisurely strolls or drives through the countryside, parks and forests to admire the stunning transformation of leaves from their lush greens to vibrant shades of red, orange and gold. Leaf peeping in the fall has become a beloved tradition for many, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature and immerse yourself in the beauty of the changing seasons.

Leaf peeping typically reaches its peak in various regions at different times in the fall. Generally, the process begins in mid-September and extends through late November, progressing from northern locations to southern ones. In North Georgia, the best leaf peeping typically takes place from the end of October for higher elevations to the beginning of November for lower elevations. So grab a warm sweater, pack a picnic and head out to bask in the kaleidoscope of colors that nature offers during this magical season.

Here are some of the best leaf-peeping locations in Georgia to explore this fall.

• Blue Ridge Mountains – The Blue Ridge Mountains in North Georgia are a prime location for leaf peeping. The area is dotted with charming mountain towns like Blue Ridge, Ellijay and Dahlonega. The Appalachian Trail winds through this region, providing excellent hiking opportunities with stunning vistas. Amicalola Falls State Park is another fantastic spot to take in the fall foliage, and you can hike to the top of Amicalola Falls, the largest waterfall in the state of Georgia, for a breathtaking view.

• Tallulah Gorge State Park – Located in Northeast Georgia, Tallulah Gorge is known for its stunning canyon and waterfalls. In the fall, the surrounding forest bursts into vibrant hues of red, orange and yellow. The park offers several rim trails that you can hike, featuring different outlooks and waterfalls. During this season, the most beautiful fall colors can be found around the suspension bridge, which sways 80 feet over the water below. From here, you’ll have a spectacular view of the Tallulah River and upper Hurricane Falls.

• Red Top Mountain State Park – Situated on the shores of Lake Allatoona, this state park is a great option for leaf peeping without venturing too far from the Atlanta metropolitan area. The park’s hardwood forests come alive with color in the fall, making it an excellent destination for day trips, picnics and short hikes. In fact, there are over 15 miles of hiking trails where you can see gorgeous fall foliage throughout the forest and surrounding Lake Allatoona. Check out Iron Hill Trail for an easy 3.4-mile loop that is perfect for the whole family!

• Brasstown Bald – Known as the highest peak in Georgia at 4,784 feet above sea level, Brasstown Bald offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The fall foliage in this area is typically at its peak in late October. Its 360-degree views of the Chattahoochee National Forest provide an ideal vantage point to view the fall colors. You can reach the summit either by taking a shuttle service from the parking lot or by hiking the half-mile Summit Trail. If you happen to visit on an especially clear day, you can actually see four different states from this spot – Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina and South Carolina.

• Helen – Helen is undoubtedly one of the best places to experience autumn in Georgia; although this mountain town is located along the Chattahoochee River, it’ll make you feel like you’ve been transported to Germany! A picturesque destination for leaf peeping, this Alpine-style town is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains and has streets lined with trees that turn brilliant shades in the autumn. While in Helen, you can also spot some of the best foliage Georgia has to offer on hiking trails in the area. For example, don’t miss Raven Cliff Falls Trail, Anna Ruby Falls and Dukes Creek Trail.

• Black Rock Mountain State Park – Located in Rabun County, Black Rock Mountain State Park sits along the Eastern Continental Divide at 3,640 feet. Moreover, it includes four other peaks over 3,000 feet tall, making it Georgia’s highest state park. Therefore, this park is an ideal spot to see beautiful autumn scenery. During your visit, make sure to stop at the Summit Visitor Center and the roadside overlooks to take photos of the incredible views of the Blue Ridge Mountains! Also check out hiking trails that wind their way through wooded areas, streams and Black Rock Lake. Some of the most popular trails are the Tennessee Rock Trail, the James E. Edmonds Backcountry Trail and the Black Rock Lake Trail.

• Chattahoochee – Oconee National Forest – The Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway, a 40-mile loop through the nearly 867,000-acre Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, winds through mountains drenched in the yellows of tulip poplars, the crimsons of dogwood and the scarlets and purples of maples. Whether on foot or in the car, this vast forest offers numerous opportunities for leaf peeping. Explore the trails or enjoy it by cruising one of the scenic byways.

• Sweetwater Creek State Park – Just west of Atlanta, Sweetwater Creek State Park is known for its beautiful creek, forests and hiking trails. During the fall, the park’s hardwood forests become a symphony of colors, making it an excellent spot for a day trip to enjoy the foliage. It features nine miles of hiking trails, a beautiful creek and a small lake at Sweetwater Creek State Park. For an easy walk, take the popular one-mile Red Trail, which follows the creek to the ruins of an old mill. For more of a workout, continue past the mill to the Blue Trail, where you’ll climb steep bluffs for outstanding creek views.

• Unicoi State Park – This state park is a gorgeous 1,000-acre oasis just outside of the downtown area of charming Helen. A popular destination for leaf peeping, the park has a lovely lake and numerous trails where you can admire the fall colors. Hike the 2.2 mile loop around Unicoi Lake, mountain bike or zipline around the park to enjoy amazing views of fall foliage. While you are at the park, you can also stop by Anna Ruby Falls for an additional fee. Reach the falls by walking the .5 mile paved trail to the top to two different lookout decks.

• Pine Mountain and Callaway Gardens – Located in West Georgia, Pine Mountain and Callaway Gardens offer both natural beauty and cultivated gardens. Many people are surprised to find hardwood forests and rolling mountains south of Atlanta — but FDR State Park in Pine Mountain has them! The 6.7-mile Wolf Den Loop is a favorite section of the longer Pine Mountain Trail. For a touch of history, drive to Dowdell’s Knob to see a life-size bronze sculpture of President F. D. Roosevelt and great views of the forested valley. And if you are in the area, nearby Callaway’s extensive gardens showcase a wide variety of trees and shrubs, resulting in a fantastic display of fall colors.