20 Attractions to Explore Near Richard B Russell Scenic Highway

Hogpen Gap, is an area of stunning natural beauty. Located at the base of the soaring Blue Ridge Mountains, its rolling hills and lush green valleys provide an awe-inspiring landscape. The area also includes two notable waterfalls: Dukes Creek Falls and Tray Mountain Falls. Both are great spots for hikers, photographers and adventure lovers to explore the outstanding scenery. It's also a popular destination for campers, swimmers and fishermen due to its easy access to Lake Hartwell.

Raven Cliffs Wilderness is a nature lover's paradise. It consists of 4,891 acres and has breathtaking waterfalls, miles of trails for both hiking and backpacking, and diverse wildlife. It has many elevated points with stunning views of this beautiful forest on the Appalachian Mountains. You can fish in the trout-stocked Dukes Creek or swim in its clear waters. Four-thousand acre Raven Cliffs Wilderness offers memories to be made while enjoying those perfect moments of connecting with nature.

Cowrock Mountain is a majestic sight to behold. With its beauty and bountiful wildlife population, it attracts thousands of people each year. At an elevation of 4,072 feet above sea level, Cowrock Mountain as a wide array of recreational opportunities for everyone to take part in. Park visitors can enjoy hiking trails winding through the forests that offer breathtaking views of the forested ridges below, as well as fishing in the many picturesque lakes located nearby.

Raven Cliffs Trailhead is an outdoor adventurer's paradise. Located within the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, it is the perfect spot for hiking and exploring. With a steady elevation gain of about 2,450 feet over 3.7 miles, hikers can expect incredible mountain views along this loop trail. The trail also passes several waterfalls – some cascading as high as 20 feet - and leads into a small clearing surrounded by massive cliffs and filled with stunning wildflowers in late spring.

The Dukes Creek Falls Trail is a beautiful trail to explore and experience nature at its finest. The trail follows closely along the creek with stunning views of the cascading falls as well as picturesque views of surrounding mountains. Hikers will enjoy traversing through lush forests and across small wooden bridges. As you make your way on the winding path you will be graced with impressive natural wonders like wildflowers in every color and shape, steep rock formations.

The Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway offers the largest amount of breathtaking views in Georgia. This byway stretches for a total of 50 miles and passes through substantial portions of the Chattahoochee National Forest, gaining over 3,000 feet in elevation as it climbs to Brasstown Bald Mountain. Along the route, there are many hidden gems just waiting to be discovered with some of the most amazing overlooks that will certainly take your breath away.

Smithgall Woods State Park is a truly special and inspiring place. It offers visitors plenty of outdoor activities. Visitors can go hiking on the various scenic trails and admire the picturesque scenery around them. The park also has two primitive backpacking sites for those looking for overnight trips; a crystal-clear lake for fishing; rafting and kayaking on the nearby Dukes Creek; mountain biking on its 15 miles of trails; swimming in seasonal beach areas; as well as camping.

Levelland Mountain is a stunning natural landmark that commands the attention of any hiker who journeys to its peak. With an elevation of 1613 feet, it is the highest peak East of the Chattahoochee River in Georgia. Located a few miles North of Blairsville, this mountain offers dramatic vistas across several counties and a great escape into nature with gorgeous wildflowers in bloom year-round and refreshing trails that traverse through deep woods.

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.

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.

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.

DeSoto Falls is an impressive waterfall and a popular attraction among locals and tourists alike. This sizable cascade of water flows from the tumbling Young Cane Creek into the Conasauga River at around 100 feet in height. Its grandeur is further magnified by the surrounding trees and brush which provide a lush, green backdrop for its striking beauty. The surrounding area has several short trails which encircle DeSoto Falls, providing visitors with photographsque glimpses.

Unicoi Hill Park is a beautiful recreational area situated on an elevation of over 3,000 feet, the park offers stunning vistas and outdoor attractions that delight visitors from all walks of life. People can wander along the trails through the forest and witness the diverse wildlife habitats or enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the many pavilions. Unicoi Hill Park also features a wonderful lake where guests can boat and go fishing.

Unicoi State Park & Lodge offers something for everyone: outdoor adventurers, families and relaxation seekers alike. Meandering trails crisscross the park and lead to scenic vistas and cascading waterfalls while anglers can spend the day casting their lines into one of the park’s three sparkling lakes. Lodging is located in comfortable cabins or the lodge itself, well equipped with a restaurant, gift shop and more.

The Chestatee Wildlife Management Area, is a picturesque refuge for both wildlife and visitors to enjoy. Here natural habitats are protected and managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources in order to ensure wildlife diversity and health. Its landscapes range from pristine woodland forests to riverfront farmlands, providing suitable habitat for numerous species of birds, mammals and reptiles. Enjoy hunting and fishing in designated areas.

Lower Desoto Falls, is arguably one of the most beautiful and serene places in the United States. In the fall and winter months, visitors can enjoy hiking to the falls and even dip their toes in the cool rushing water. During the spring, wildflowers bloom all around, making it a prime spot for Instagram photos. On days when you're feeling more adventurous you can take a swim in its pool or simply explore miles of hidden trails in Chattahoochee National Forest.

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.

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.

Vogel State Park is a scenic respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Founded in 1931, the park sprawls across 233 acres, featuring mountain vistas, cascading waterfalls and lush forests that contribute to its idyllic atmosphere. Because of its easy access to the Appalachian Trail and other trails, Vogel State Park is popular with hikers looking for an escape from urban settings. Its 20-acre lake provides year-round swimming and fishing opportunities.