Union County - 21 Attractions You Must Visit

Blood Mountain is a remarkable destination for hikers and outdoor adventurers. The mountain boasts an array of spectacular sights such as expansive views from the summit, wildflowers meadows on the way up, and rock-lined creeks that wind their way down. It is also home to the famous Appalachian Trail leading along the pinnacle of its summit during summer months. Blood Mountain has a reputation for providing an experience full of breathtaking scenery and unforgettable memories.

Coopers Creek Wildlife Management Area offers an array of natural wonders for its visitors. Situated just south of Blairsville, Coopers Creek contains over 100 acres of parkland surrounded by lush mountain forests and valleys. Visitors can take a stroll around the scenic watershed trails and discover fascinating local wildlife such as white-tailed deer, grouse and wild turkeys. The management area provides plenty of opportunities to observe the local flora and fauna.

Coosa Bald, is a great place for outdoor adventurers to explore. Taking up an entire mountain side, the terrain offers incredible sights and plenty of opportunities for hiking or camping. Along the ridge of Coosa Bald you'll find some of the highest points in Georgia with elevations over 2900 feet. The views are breathtaking and the scenery offers a plethora of natural beauty. Wildlife such as black bear, deer, turkeys and other animals can be seen roaming around this rugged landscape.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Lake Winfield Scott is a hidden gem in the north Georgia mountains. Located inside the Chattahoochee National Forest, near Union County, this pristine lake offers visitors beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities. Camping and fishing are both popular activities here, with a variety of fish species swimming in its depths. Additionally, hikers will love exploring miles of forest trails close to the lake, while birdwatchers can spot dozens of unique species.

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.

Meeks Park, is one of the most beautiful parks in the state. its natural beauty has made it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Boating, fishing, hiking and camping are all available for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors. The park also provides educational programming through their nature center to promote conservation and stewardship among guests. With plenty of events and activities throughout the year, Meeks Park is an excellent source of fun and relaxation.

Nottely Dam is an impressive engineering structure. Built by the Tennessee Valley Authority in the 1940s, this impressive dam spans 1,200 feet long and rises 170 feet high. The dam has served an important purpose: providing flood control downstream from the Appalachian Mountains and creating a reservoir for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, camping, and swimming. Nottely Dam even provides a scenic location for photographers.

Nottely Lake, a stunning 4,180-acre body of water and one of the largest reservoirs in this region of Georgia, Nottely Lake is teeming with native fish species and other aquatic life, making it an ideal locale for fishing. Skiers and wakeboarders can also get their fix at Nottely Lake, which stretches 21 miles long and boasts several smooth-sailing outlets. A network of hiking trails also wind around its lower portion, providing hikers with beautiful views as they explore its wooded skirt.

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.

Slaughter Mountain, is deemed to be one of the most mystical and beautiful places in the county. It is known for its incredible biodiversity and picturesque landscapes. Thousands of people flock here annually to witness its diverse flora and fauna, which include deer, raccoon, foxes, snakes, red squirrels, a variety of birds and more. The mountain also has an extensive network of trails that offer breathtaking views at the high points of elevation.

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.

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.

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.

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.