20 Attractions to Explore Near Wolfpen Ridge

Brasstown Bald is the highest point in the entire state of Georgia and lies within the borders of Towns County. The peak stands at 4,784 feet and provides breathtaking views from its observation deck on a clear day. The summit can be reached by taking a shuttle from the nearby Visitor Center which winds around the mountain along a 6-mile long road. It is open 364 days a year, only closing down on Christmas Day, so visitors have plenty of time to take in attractions.

Brasstown Bald Visitors Center is a true-gem for those looking for fantastic views and great educational opportunities. The highest of Georgia's peaks at 4,784 ft., Brasstown Bald provides visitors with stunning panoramic views of the Appalachian and Chattahoochee National Forests. Furthermore, the Visitor Centre offers interactive exhibits about the history of the area and different hiking trails that can be taken to reach the summit.

Horsetrough Mountain is a notable peak stands 545 meters tall and is known for its characteristically steep sides. Horsetrough Mountain has been recognized as a unique geological formation throughout Union County since the earliest settlers arrived in the area. The mountain is currently home to an abundance of wildlife, and offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding areas, including a stunning vista of nearby Vogel State Park.

Horsetrough Falls, is a hidden gem of cascading beauty. The spectacular 120 foot tall waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and provides a perfect setting for a peaceful day out in nature. Visitors flock to the area to take in the incredible views and marvel at the power and majesty of the falls. The surrounding area contains plenty of places for exploration and picnicking, with nearby nooks where visitors can relax beneath the trees and take in the beauty of this area.

Young Harris, is a charming mountain town with a lot to offer. Situated in the breathtaking North Georgia Mountains, Young Harris is home to lakes and waterfalls, as well as hiking trails that are perfect for exploration. The area also boasts eight golf courses, parks, fishing spots and plenty of opportunities for those looking for an outdoor adventure. Culture abounds in this small town with live theatre performances at the nearby Arts Center, museums such as the Hammer Heritage Museum.

High Shoals Falls is a natural beauty of the area that brings visitors from near and far. Located on High Shoals Creek, the cascading falls measure 132 feet wide and descend nearly 200 feet. The peaceful, tranquil environment provides a wonderful place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. A short trail leading to the base of the falls plunges into rich greenery as evidence of why this location is beloved by hikers, photographers and sightseers alike.

Lake Chatuge, is a popular site for outdoor enthusiasts. It is fed by both the Hiwassee and Nottely Rivers, providing breathtaking views and great opportunities for recreation. Out on Lake Chatuge, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, skiing or simply floating lazily along its shoreline. There are several developed parks featuring picnic facilities, camping sites, boat ramps and playgrounds. Additionally, special access points to Lake Chatuge offer fishing piers and accessible beach area areas.

The Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens are a spectacular sight featuring beautiful cascading fountains, lush lawns and vibrant flower beds. A stroll through the gardens reveals over 125 varieties of rhododendron and azaleas, as well as Japanese maples, magnolias and Dogwood trees. The gargantuan mountain view in the background makes this park an idyllic place to spend quality time with family and friends. An impressive number of benches placed throughout the park make resting easy.

Bell Mountain offers the quintessential mountain experience for visitors to Towns County. The peak towers over the lush Chattahoochee National Forest at an elevation of 3,400 feet and offers breathtaking views from its many summit overlooks. From gentle hikes and breathtaking panoramas to birdwatching, tree identification, and photography, Bell Mountain captures the beauty of nature in all its glory. Along with the scenic wilderness that surrounds it, Bell Mountain hosts a number of campsites.

Tray Mountain is an iconic peak situated in the northwestern corner of Towns County. Towered by its highest summit, this impressive mountain rises well above 4,000 feet after covering a 2-mile stretch. Trails including the Appalachian Trail and Byron Herbert Reece Trail make their way up to the top with stunning views of White County's Blue Ridge Mountains right in view. Bird watchers especially enjoy visiting Tray Mountain due to its rich habitat that support many species.

Built in a Classical Revival style in 1902, the Union County Historical Courthouse stands proudly as a landmark of Union County, Georgia. The building was constructed of brick and stone to house Union County's court system, and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. On its front facade sits a clock tower with a stunning view of the downtown area. Inside, visitors can learn about the history of the local community through displays of artifacts and photographs.

Addis Gap, is a beloved mountain pass that connects the towns of Clayton and Dillard. Residents have been enjoying the views of this scenic passage for centuries - with glimpses at gorgeous vistas of lakes, forests and wildflowers. Addis Gap itself is narrow and full of tight curves, commonly referred to by locals as ‘the switchbacks’ due to its intertwining nature. Despite its tricky terrain when driving, many visitors take trips to this gap to explore the Appalachian Trail.

Double Spring Knob, is an iconic feature of the region. This peak stands out among its surroundings due to its elevation at almost 3,400 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Double Spring Knob has special significance for the Cherokee Nation and was already a spot of reverence when European settlers discovered it in the 1700s. Since then it's been visited by explorers and tourists alike who come to take in the breathtaking views from its summit.

Swallow Creek Wildlife Management Area is a stunning natural escape. Famous for its wildflowers and great variety of species of both animals and birds, this area covers 3,250 acres. Besides the natural beauty, there are also primary activities that include camping, hunting, fishing and nature observation. One can stay overnight anywhere in the management area; however camping is only allowed in the 2 designated campsites which have restroom facilities available.

This dramatic cascade pours 40 feet over the edge of a mountain into a lush green bowl below. It's an impressive site, and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Hiking trails lead to stunning views, while the nearby Vogel State Park allows visitors to explore wildlife and other spectacular sights. One can access the falls from various points of entry, including the Lodge Trailhead for easy access to the picturesque vista below.

Lake Trahlyta is a beautiful destination with its diverse scenery and natural attractions, it is an ideal spot for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. From the breathtaking views at Vogel State Park to the picturesque waterfall along the shore of Lake Trahlyta, there’s plenty to explore and experience. For those looking for excitement, a hike up Bartram Trail offers miles of trails that wind through some of Georgia’s most beautiful mountain terrain, with great opportunities for wildlife spotting.

This cascade of two separate falls pouring into one another is surrounded by lush greenery and an abundance of wildlife. The upper portion of the falls drops some 30 feet into a large pool before continuing to gently trickle down to the lower section, which is a 30-foot high wall of water. The area is well-maintained and even provides trails for visitors who wish to make the trek up the mountain for picturesque views.

The Richard B Russell Scenic Highway offers visitors breathtaking views of rolling blue mountains, lush valleys, and evergreen trees. Spanning 60 miles of mountainous terrain and winding roads bordered by the Chattahoochee National Forest, the highway passes through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Georgia. Along with scenery, travelers can also enjoy visiting historical sites such as Old Blairsville Homestead or scenic hiking trails or fishing spots.

Trahlyta Lake Trail is a destination for hikers and bikers looking for an invigorating getaway. It is approximately 4 miles long and begins at Vogel State Park. Along the way, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of Trahlyta Falls and breath-taking views of the North Georgia mountains. The terrain changes along the path, offering different challenges to even experienced hikers as well as casual explorers. Bird watching and wild life viewing opportunities also enhance this natural experience.

Tray Mountain Wilderness is a remote and sprawling mountainous region of 4,921 acres. With altitudes ranging from 1,400 to 4,410 feet above sea level, this wilderness area is characterized by steep ravines and mountain ridges covered with oak and poplar forests. It is also home to several tumbling waterfalls, including Dicks Creek Falls which cascades over 300 feet. For those seeking adventure and stunning scenery alike, Tray Mountain has something unique to offer.