North Georgia

Unlike the rest of Georgia, North Georgia is all about breathtaking scenery, fast-flowing rivers, still fishing lakes and mountain vistas. The region includes the mountains and foothills of the Southern Appalachian Range. Excellent state parks — including Vogel, Unicoi, Fort Mountain and Cloudland Canyon — boast miles of hiking trails, spectacular views, waterfalls, delicious lakes and woodsy camping. The towns are small and interesting and include Helen (a languishing lumber town turned faux Swiss-German village); Dahlonega (the site of the U.S.'s first gold rush in 1828); Rome (a beautiful river town filled with turn-of-the-century homes); ...

Unlike the rest of Georgia, North Georgia is all about breathtaking scenery, fast-flowing rivers, still fishing lakes and mountain vistas. The region includes the mountains and foothills of the Southern Appalachian Range. Excellent state parks — including Vogel, Unicoi, Fort Mountain and Cloudland Canyon — boast miles of hiking trails, spectacular views, waterfalls, delicious lakes and woodsy camping. The towns are small and interesting and include Helen (a languishing lumber town turned faux Swiss-German village); Dahlonega (the site of the U.S.'s first gold rush in 1828); Rome (a beautiful river town filled with turn-of-the-century homes); Blue Ridge (incredible mountain recreation) and Ellijay (whose orchards grow 30 varieties of apples). Throughout your travels you'll hear the toe-tapping sounds of Appalachian folk music and everywhere you'll see examples of Appalachian arts and crafts. North Georgia is a fascinating place to explore — whether you want to hang-glide into the blissful blue at Lookout Mountain, gaze at the awe-inspiring Amicalola Falls or track the remains of native American tribes — you'll find plenty to do.

About the Expert

Debra Landau has written eight Lonely Planet guidebooks, including books on the USA, Caribbean, and the South.