A scenic drive in Georgia is a journey filled with breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience.
Situated among the cool Blue Ridge Mountains, the winding roads along this magical path open up to endless natural beauty.
With its chunky green forests, a spectacular landscape comprised of lush rolling hills, valleys of rich farmland and hidden lakes, enjoying Georgia’s natural beauty is definitely a must.
The crystal clear rivers invitingly span through the state, passing incredible waterfalls while the boats leisurely glide along the coastline.
You can make some lasting memories on your picturesque excursion with visits to white sand beaches, national parks and museums exhibiting fossils from millions of years ago.
Also worth noting are the opulent villages painted in diverse cultures that showcase traditional arts and display an upbeat vibe. Undoubtedly a scenic drive in Georgia will serve as an exquisite visual treat for everyone!
Overview Scenic Drive In Georgia
A trip down the Peach State is always enjoyable. Georgia’s many routes provide plenty of opportunities for even the most experienced driver to explore its rolling hills, diverse vegetation, and winding curves, which have continually captivated people from all walks of life since it was settled hundreds of years ago.
Every scenic drive in Georgia is unique from beginning to end. Enjoy highlights like Tallulah Gorge (a 1,000-foot-deep gorge with awesome waterfalls), and Stone Mountain Park (1000 acres of natural beauty), or take the byway through Mashulaville (the old mill town featured in the movie Driving Miss Daisy).
There are plenty of other stops on the way, with quaint towns and villages that reveal the best in Southern hospitality.
Popular List Of Scenic Drive In Georgia
Georgia is a beautiful state, and the best way to experience it is to head out for a scenic drive! From epic mountain views to coastal shorelines, Georgia offers some of the most stunning route combinations for drivers.
Here are some popular scenic drives that you may want to try if you’re planning a road trip program in the Peach State:
The Georgia Mountain Parkway sprawls along 99 miles between Athens and Chattanooga, winding past stunning vistas of stone cliffs, forests, waterfalls, rivers and reservoirs.
The Coosa Backcountry Trail takes drivers on an incredible historical journey through native American sites like the Chief Vann House Historic Site and Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site.
Of course, you can’t forget the famous Antebellum Trail—421 miles running through Macon, Savannah and Augusta where visitors can observe traces of magnificent Southern architecture as they drive.
If you’re looking for breathtaking ocean views then check out the Okefenokee Scenic Byway which connects Waycross with Folkston while driving alongside the Florida-Georgia state line.
All these drives provide lots of opportunities for exploration and relaxation along Georgian country roads so why not start planning your next excursion today?
Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway is a stunning scenic drive to take in Georgia.
Spanning 40 miles between Blairsville and Highway 441, this two-lane stretch of road offers spectacular views of not just rolling hills and valleys, but lush forests boasting vibrant fall foliage, waterfalls and an array of wildlife.
Adjacent to Chattahoochee National Forest, this byway traverses through small towns like Mountain Ministries; here you can explore places where locals enjoy music festivals, picnics, and craft fairs.
Although you may not pass any major attractions or bustling cities while on this road trip, you won’t need them, the beautiful forest all around will keep your heart content and your mind refreshed with its incredible sights.
Richard Russell Scenic Highway
Georgia’s Richard Russell Scenic Highway is a 41-mile road winding through the Chattahoochee National Forest.
Spanning from Blairsville to Toccoa, the highway offers stunning views of Appalachian mountain ranges and lush green forests for travellers with an appetite for adventure.
Along with sweeping lookout points that command breathtaking views out over lacework valleys, visitors can explore historical sites such as Brasstown Bald, the highest peak in Georgia, or catch fish in the cool, rushing streams of the Chattahoochee.
Wildlife enthusiasts will find plenty of deer and wild turkeys meandering through the untouched woodlands while hikers can access trails leading up to precipices overlooking crystal-clear rivers cutting through dense foliage.
The Blue Ridge Mountains
A scenic drive in Georgia wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Located at the border of Georgia and North Carolina, this natural wonder showcases stunning views from Lookout Mountain, Sawnee Mountain, and more. On clear days, you can see into Appalachia up to 300 miles away.
The curvy roads are not only adventure-filled with sharp tree-lined turns, but provide breathtaking scenery filled with waterfalls, lush greenery, and wildlife.
Coffee and tobacco plantations line the roadsides while charming mountain towns await winding pathways to places like Lake Blue Ridge that offer serene swimming experiences surrounded by mountainous cliffs.
17-Mile Scenic Drive
Located in Georgia, the 17-Mile Scenic Drive is a breathtaking route that begins north of Atlanta.
The drive meanders through the countryside displaying spectacular views of rolling hills with numerous farms and small towns nestled throughout.
Shaded by large magnolia trees and other lovely flora, many regional restaurants along the way provide delicious servings of country cooking.
Every season offers something special such as autumn when farmers’ markets pop up at different points on the drive allowing visitors to buy straight from the source local goods such as honey, fruit, cheese, and more.
The Old Savannah Road
The Old Savannah Road is a scenic route through the beautiful Cotton Hill Plantation in Georgia, winding from one small town to the next.
The fifty-mile stretch of the two-lane road runs through quaint villages and rolling hills. Along the way, you’ll catch glimpses of stately homes made of southern yellow pine with grand balconies and lush yards, as well as old churches dotting the horizon.
You’ll pass along red clay ridges and church spires thrusting toward the heavens, graceful live oaks draped in Spanish moss and picturesque farms stretching out between serene meadows -all set against an idyllic backdrop of horizon-to-horizon Southern sky. From the coffee shops to roadside diners, you will get a true feel for Georgia’s hospitality like no other place.
The Cohutta Loop
The Cohutta Loop in Georgia is a 45-mile drive that passes through the Chattahoochee National Forest with breathtaking views around every corner.
In the north, the drive goes along Lake Nottley, providing beautiful reflections of the surrounding mountains and trees.
The road then dips down into a valley full of stunning wildflowers which, depending on the season, brighten up the journey considerably.
As you travel further south, majestic rock formations appear and pass by, catching your eye with their unique shapes and shadows.
All in all, driving the Cohutta Loop is an experience like no other that showcases Georgia in all its glory, from lush forests to rolling hills filled with nature’s beauty.
The Chattahoochee River Road
Nestled in Northern Georgia, the Chattahoochee River Road is a scenic drive like no other. Spanning just over 40 miles total, the drive provides weekend warriors and nature enthusiasts alike with plenty to explore.
The road stretches from Buford Dam to West Point Lake, providing travelers with views of the beautiful Chattahoochee River, from the rocky shoals, rushing rapids and tiny waterfalls to the sparkling clear pools filled at any angle with breathtaking hues of blues and greens.
But it’s not just about the river; keep your eyes open for glimpses of local wildlife like lush deer populations, birds flocking to hidden nesting grounds, or marvel at the rare opportunity to spot Georgia’s iconic timber rattlesnake sunbathing among prominent roadside rocks.
The North Georgia Wine Country
Georgia’s North Georgia Wine Country starts out at Dahlonega, a charming mountain town renowned for its Amicalola Falls State Park and gold mining history.
Once you hit the countryside, the roads offer stunning views of rolling hills and deep forests as far as the eye can see.
As you travel through idyllic small towns such as Helen, Cleveland, Sautee-Nacoochee Valley, and Amicalola; your eyes are bathed in breathtaking farmlands that perfectly fit the landscape of this lovely region.
On your way to wine country, make sure to stop off at many of the wineries and experience their acclaimed diversity of white wines (such as Riesling), reds (Mourvedre), rosés, blended wines and a variety of others.
Serving up impressive wine-tasting experiences with locally grown grapes, these businesses have contributed to the stunningly beautiful atmosphere surrounding this scenic drive.
The Georgia Coast
Taking a scenic drive down Georgia’s coast is an experience that needs to be on everyone’s bucket list. Starting in Savannah, with its beautiful Spanish moss-filled trees and cobblestone streets lined with cafes and shops, the journey continues all the way down to Saint Simons Island, known locally as “The Golden Isles.”
Travelling further south down the coast brings one closer to Cumberland Island National Seashore and Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge.
A stop here will inspire any traveller as they get lost in nature, paying homage to the vast wildlife population of sea turtles, migratory birds, small mammals, large deer herds and a variety of plant species.
After a full day out discovering Georgia’s natural beauty, head back towards the city lights of Tybee Island on your scenic drive through Georgia, where an evening spent strolling along the shore admiring ocean views is guaranteed to make unforgettable memories that last forever.
The Ocmulgee Heritage Trail
Beginning along the banks of the Ocmulgee River on the outskirts of Macon, the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail will take you along a winding path through mesmerizing rural scenes surrounded by live oak trees that seem to go on forever.
It is no wonder why this 79-mile drive has become such a beloved vacation spot for many Georgians and tourists alike. On your journey down the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail, there are places where you can stop to explore further.
At the Ocmulgee National Monument, visitors can wander around ancient mounds built by Native Americans and view artifacts that tell the stories of these people’s lives hundreds of years ago.
Also just off the trail lie the Jarrell Plantation Historic Site and Hofer Museum, which feature farm life prior to the Civil War.
Tips For Enjoying The Drive
A scenic drive in Georgia is a great way to experience the beauty and natural wonders of the state.
- To ensure you enjoy the drive, there are a few tips to keep in mind.
- Starting out with a well-maintained and reliable vehicle is key – it won’t do any good if you end up stranded mid-journey.
- Be sure to bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as well as comfortable clothing that allows freedom of movement.
- Don’t forget maps and directions so you don’t get lost along these winding roads.
- Following these tips will mean you can maximize your fun on the scenic drive of Georgia without having any mishaps or unforeseen issues
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit and appreciate the spectacular landscape is during the fall when the seasons are transitioning.
The leaves change from green to deep oranges and reds, casting a warm, nurturing hue across the entire region.
In addition, Georgia’s lush forests become adorned with seasonal fruits such as blackberries and huckleberries along roadside spots adding to the perfect autumnal drive.
Preparing For The Drive
A scenic drive in Georgia is always an enjoyable experience, so it’s important to plan ahead. Take the time to thoroughly research the route and potential highlights that you will come across during the journey. Note which detours or alternate routes could be taken for a more enriching experience.
Pack a cooler full of snacks and drinks to sustain energy during rest stops, making sure to stay hydrated as temperatures may rise as you reach new points in your journey.
Charge up any camera batteries and make sure there are enough memory cards available to capture moments along the way.
Be sure that all necessary paperwork such as car registrations and insurance documents are up-to-date, as well as planning for any overnight stays if needed during your trip.
With careful preparation and planning, the scenic drive in Georgia will surely be an unforgettable experience.
Must-Have Supplies
Georgia is easily one of the most scenic states in America, so taking a leisurely drive through the Peach State is an absolute must for anyone visiting the area.
For those looking to make the most of their time on the road, there are certain supplies that will ensure an enjoyable and stress-free experience.
Weather can be unpredictable and having access to warm clothes, blankets, sunscreen, hats and rain gear can help protect from any changes.
A practical first aid kit should also be included just in case of any minor cuts or scrapes. Bring plenty of water, non-perishable snacks, car games or activities and a phone charger with you so that you can avoid frequent stops.
With these simple items in tow, driving through Georgia’s picturesque panoramas can become a memorable part of your trip.
Road Conditions
Taking a scenic drive in Georgia can be both enjoyable and unforgettable. Georgia’s roads are mostly well-maintained, but there are certain areas to look out for with varying conditions.
Most major highways feature brand-new paving and solid pavement that makes the drive smooth and stress-free. Many county roads and backroads have potholes that can cause significant damage to vehicles if not avoided, so it pays to be aware.
Conclusion
Taking a scenic drive in Georgia is an experience that no traveller should miss. Whether it’s exploring the rolling hills of North Georgia or the sand dunes along the coast, you are sure to find something unforgettable wherever you go.
From mountain scenery to flowering dogwood trees, to historical sites and museums, there is definitely something for everyone in this beautiful state.
As you reach your final destination and look around at all of the breathtaking scenery, it is easy to understand why some claim that “Georgia on My Mind” is truly an accurate description of what it feels like.
