Table of Contents
Introduction
If you’re planning a refreshing weekend escape from Atlanta, the mountains offer some of the most scenic, peaceful, and romantic destinations in the Southeast. Within 1–4 hours, you can reach charming mountain towns, waterfall trails, cozy cabins, and stunning overlooks. This guide lists the best mountain weekend getaways near Atlanta, including accurate distances, driving routes, real budgets, and affordable stay options
North Georgia Mountain Getaways for Couples
Atlanta is the perfect jumping-off point for weekend escapes into the North Georgia mountains. Just a short drive north, you’ll find charming small towns nestled in forested hillsides, each with its own personality and outdoor draws. Whether you crave fall leaf-peeping amid apple orchards or summer hikes by sparkling lakes, the mountains near Atlanta have something for nature-loving couples. Below are our top picks – Ellijay, Blue Ridge, Dahlonega, Helen, and Hiawassee – with tips on when to go, what to see, and how to make the most of a 2–3 day trip in each.
1. Ellijay, GA: Georgia’s Apple Capital
Mornings by the Coosawattee River set a peaceful tone for exploring Ellijay’s orchards and trails. Ellijay is known as “Georgia’s Apple Capital” for good reason – the rolling hills around town are dotted with family-run orchards bursting with apples, berries and pumpkins. The best time to visit is late summer through early fall, when orchards like Hillcrest, R&A and BJ Reece invite you to pick apples and sample homemade cider and donuts. Spring and early summer are beautiful too (wildflowers and peach season), but nothing beats crisp fall air for a romantic weekend apple-picking date.
In town you’ll find a laid-back, outdoor-lover vibe. Aside from the orchards, Ellijay has scenic hiking and biking trails into the Chattahoochee National Forest, and river tubing on the Coosawattee. A popular hike is Amicalola Falls (Georgia’s highest waterfall) – a steep 2-mile loop offers lush forest and a view from the top of the 730+ ft cascade. (Pro tip: arrive early or on a weekday to avoid crowds.) For a quirky twist, visit Expedition: Bigfoot in nearby Cherry Log – it’s a fun roadside museum devoted to the Sasquatch legend.
Top experiences:
U-pick apple or peach picking and cider-tasting in autumn; scenic hikes like Amicalola Falls; relaxing at a mountain-view winery (Cartecay Vineyards is just outside town); or browsing Ellijay’s boutiques and the Mountain Valley Farm Store for local meats, cheeses and cider. Don’t miss the new glamping options (domed tents and Airstream trailers) for a romantic splash of luxury, or a trek on gravel forest roads around Cohutta Wilderness.
Drive from Atlanta:
Take I‑75 N to I‑575 (the Georgia Mountain Parkway). This is a very scenic route – known for wildflower meadows and forested hollows – and drops you in Ellijay in about 1½ hours. (Alternately, GA‑52 via Dawsonville is a more rural backroads route.)
Food & stay:
Ellijay has dozens of cozy cabin rentals and charming B&Bsg. You’ll also find motels and a luxury RV resort (Talona Ridge) if you prefer hotel amenities. For dining, try The Roof for rooftop mountain views, Emily’s Bar & Restaurant for hearty seasonal American fare, or The Shack of Ellijay for creative, global-inspired comfort food. Bakery lovers should grab a loaf or sandwich at Arlowe’s and sweet treats at A Little Baked Bakery before heading out on the trails.
Budget tips:
Save money by picking your own produce at orchards (the fee covers buckets of fruit and homemade goodies). Cook one or two meals in your cabin or picnic by the river (there are local farmstands for ingredients). Book lodging in spring or late fall for lower rates. Many outdoor attractions (parks, trails, scenic overlooks) are free – only tasting rooms and tours cost extra.
Hidden gem:
Ellijay has a surprising Bigfoot obsession. Beyond the museum, you can hunt for “sasquatch” at Mountain Valley Farm (petting zoo and BBQ) or atop Dragonfly Dreams cabins’ trails. These lighthearted nods to local folklore add some fun to a nature escape.
2. Blue Ridge, GA: Scenic Railway & Mountain Lake
Riding the historic Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, through deep forest and over the Toccoa River, is a must-do for couples visiting Blue Ridge. Just a few minutes northeast of Ellijay, Blue Ridge is a friendly mountain town with a historic railroad, apple orchards and lake-side adventures. Downtown Blue Ridge is lined with galleries, antique shops and breweries – perfect for an afternoon stroll. From here you have endless outdoor options: hike to hidden waterfalls, go whitewater rafting or fishing on the Toccoa River, or rent a boat on Lake Blue Ridge (over 3,000 acres of clear water) for a picnic at sunset.
Top experiences:
Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway (a restored vintage train) through the Nantahala National Forest. Visit Mercier Orchards in fall for apple picking, cider donuts and flower fields. Chase waterfalls on short hikes (Fall Branch or Long Creek Falls are great half-day treks). Spend a lazy day on Lake Blue Ridge (rent a kayak or paddleboard) or go tubing down the Toccoa River with Rolling Thunder or Toccoa Tubing. For something active, try fly-fishing with a local guide or ziplining through the treetops at Unicoi State Park.
Drive from Atlanta:
Head north on I‑575/GA‑515 (the same scenic Georgia Mountain Parkway noted above) about 80 miles. The ride is framed by mountains and farmland – watch for roadside wildflowers in spring and brilliant foliage in autumn. Blue Ridge is about 1¾ hours from Atlanta, making it an easy overnight road trip.
Food & stay:
Blue Ridge is dotted with cozy cabin rentals tucked in the woods, and there are a few downtown hotels (Hampton Inn) and inns too. We loved snuggling up in a woodsy cabin with a fireplace. For meals, don’t miss Harvest on Main (farm-to-table Southern fare) and Black Sheep Restaurant (creative Southern fusion). Toccoa Riverside is another local favorite for steak and trout with river views. In town, stop by the Orchard Restaurant for breakfast or lunch – their homemade pastries and quiches are famous.
Budget tips:
You can bike or hike most local trails for free, and the quaint downtown (with its crafts and boutiques) costs nothing to enjoy. To save on lodging, look for cabin deals in spring or book an RV site at Blue Ridge Campground if you have a rig. Consider packing picnic supplies from Out of the Blue (a gourmet market downtown) to picnic by the lake rather than eating out every meal. Many wineries around Blue Ridge have free or inexpensive tastings if you sign up for their mailing lists.
Hidden gem:
Head a few minutes north to the Aska Adventure Area for world-class mountain biking and hiking trails that see fewer crowds. And keep an eye out for the annual Blue Ridge Trout & Outdoor Adventures Festival (each spring) and the Blues & BBQ Festival (each September) – they’re loads of fun (and very local)
3. Dahlonega, GA: Gold Rush & Wine Country
Panning for “gold” is a hands-on way to relive Dahlonega’s 1829 Gold Rush history. The Consolidated Gold Mine offers guided tours and gold panning right on site. Dahlonega is a sweet mountain town known for its old courthouse square, wineries and waterfalls. It was home to the nation’s first major gold rush in 1829, so gold mining history is everywhere. Stroll the historic square (photo-op with the big gold pan statue!), tour the Dahlonega Gold Museum in the old jailhouse, and try gold panning at a real mine (Consolidated Gold Mine, the largest hardrock mine east of the Mississippi). In fall the Georgia Gold Rush Festival fills the streets with artisans and music – it’s a Hallmark-movie feel – and in winter the square lights up for an “Old Fashioned Christmas” celebration
Top experiences:
Taste Georgia wines at any of the dozen local vineyards (Wolf Mountain and Montaluce are favorites) – Dahlonega is literally in the heart of GA wine country. Hike the nearby Appalachian Trail approach (Springer Mountain is the southern terminus, about 4 miles from town) or enjoy shorter hikes to waterfalls like DeSoto Falls. Kayak or tube on the Chestatee River with a local outfitter for a splashy summer afternoon. Catch live bluegrass or fiddle music at the fairgrounds – they host big events like the State Fiddlers’ Convention each October.
Best time to visit:
Dahlonega’s climate is mild year-round. Spring and fall are especially lovely – spring dogwoods bloom and wine-and-art festivals pop up, while autumn brings cooler weather, leaf-peeping, and Gold Rush Days in October. Winters see only a few inches of snow, so holidays in Dahlonega are cozy but not brutally cold. Plan your trip around a festival if you like – the Arts & Wine Festival (May) and the Literary Festival (March) draw local crowds.
Drive from Atlanta:
Dahlonega is just about 65 miles north via GA‑400 (to GA‑60) or I‑75 to I‑575 then GA‑5/515. It’s roughly a 1¼-hour drive, making it an easy weekend escape. A scenic option is to follow GA‑400 north through the mountains and emerge near Dawsonville before heading east.
Food & stay:
Stay at a downtown historic inn like the Smith House (old Gold Rush hotel with an attached restaurant), or pick one of the many B&Bs and vineyard lodges nearby (Dahlonega Resort and Wolf Mountain have on-site rooms). The Dahlonega Square Hotel is also a convenient new lodging right near the action. Local cuisine is hearty and Southern: try Wolf Mountain’s cafe for brunch with a view, Shiraz Grill for upscale Greek, or Stillfire Smokehouse for wood-fired BBQ. On a budget, hit the square’s bakery (Hope’s Cottage) for fresh breakfast pastries and the farmers market (Saturday mornings) for picnic provisions.
Budget tips:
Many of Dahlonega’s attractions are low-cost: hiking and waterfalls are free, and panning for gold runs about $10 per pan. Sample wines for free by signing up for a tasting pass, and score lunch specials at local diners in mid-week. Camping at nearby sites (like Amicalola Falls State Park) can cut accommodation costs. Also, the Dahlonega Visitors Center website often lists local deals and coupons for tours and shops.
Local fact:
Dahlonega was a film location for several movies! The Chestatee Wildlife Preserve just outside town was featured in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, and Hallmark Christmas films have used the quaint downtown square as a set. It’s the real deal – and it feels like stepping into a movie set.
4. Helen, GA: Bavarian Village & Outdoor Thrills
Travel to Germany without leaving Georgia in Helen, a quirky Bavarian-themed village tucked into a North GA mountain valley. Alpine-style buildings line the streets, complete with cobblestone paths, beer halls and unique shops. In summer you can actually tube down the Chattahoochee River right through town – Helen Tubing & Waterpark and Cool River Tubing will shuttle you upriver for a few hours of lazy float time. Adventure-seeking couples can spend a day ziplining or rope-skimming through the forest at Unicoi State Park, or ride the Georgia Mountain Coaster (the only alpine coaster in the state) zooming through the woods. Waterfalls are nearby too – the paved, stroller-friendly trail to Anna Ruby Falls (a double cascade) is a popular half-day outing.
Top experiences:
Wander downtown Helen’s fairy-tale streets and grab a bratwurst or pretzel at a German bakery. Watch artisans at work in the Glassblowing Shop, then relax with a beer in the Biergarten. Head up to Unicoi State Park for Anna Ruby Falls or to ride Goats on the Roof (a kitschy mountain coaster). Spooky story: In nearby Cleveland you can even visit Babyland General Hospital, where Cabbage Patch Kids are “born” and admission is free – a fun (and free!) detour. At sunset, climb to the top of Anna Ruby Falls for golden views through the gorge.
Best time to visit:
Summer (May–Sep) is great for river activities (tubing, rafting and hiking), while fall is Helen’s busiest season thanks to Oktoberfest. From late September through October the town erupts in festivals with live music, German beer and dancing. Helen’s fall colors in the surrounding Nantahala National Forest are a bonus. Winter in Helen means holiday lights (the town kicks off Christmas the day after Thanksgiving) and events like the Winterfest Art Tour, which brings out 150 local artists.
Drive from Atlanta:
Helen is about 90 miles north via I‑75 N to GA‑17/75 (turning off I‑575). The winding route through the Chattahoochee National Forest is scenic, taking about 1¾ hours. (In the fall, you’ll share the road with leaf-peepers, so plan for extra travel time.)
Food & stay:
Stay in a cozy cabin or chalet near Unicoi State Park for privacy, or pick a hotel on Main Street to be within walking distance of shops and restaurants. Bavarian eats abound: Bodensee Restaurant and Hofer’s are classics for schnitzel and craft beer. For something different, hit the Nora Mill Granary for homemade stone-ground grits (be sure to try the cornbread and local apple butter). Cap off the evening at a riverside bar with live music (Marina Park is a popular spot).
Budget tips:
Helen can be touristy (especially during Oktoberfest), so save by visiting in shoulder seasons. Pack your own picnic lunches or cook in your cabin’s kitchenette to avoid pricey sit-down meals. Many outdoor activities (hiking, tubing with state-run outfitters) are very affordable. The city park allows river tubing for about $15–20/person for all-day float trips. Take advantage of free attractions too – strolling the village is free and there are many affordable German bakeries.
Hidden gem:
Don’t miss the Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race each June – it’s the oldest ballooning event in the Southeast. Watching a dozen giant balloons inflate in the mountain morning is surprisingly romantic. And if you love Christmas, plan a winter getaway to see Helen draped in holiday lights with carriage rides and Santa at every corner
5. Hiawassee, GA (Brasstown Bald): Lakes & Mountains
Autumn in Hiawassee means fiery colors from the summit of Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest peak (4,784 ft), where you can peer out at four states. Hiawassee sits on the north shore of Lake Chatuge and is best known as the gateway to Brasstown Bald. A paved pathway and shuttle take you to an observation deck 4,000+ feet up; on clear days you can see Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. Around Hiawassee you’ll find wide-open lake scenery and botanical gardens as well. Spend an afternoon cruising or fishing on Lake Chatuge (over 100 miles of shoreline), and stop by Hamilton Gardens at Lake Chatuge to wander 42 acres of rhododendrons and wildflowers – it’s one of the Southeast’s largest azalea collections. For a 360° mountain panorama at sunset, hike up 3,000-ft Bell Mountain Park (inside the town limits) – locals love this free overlook
Top experiences:
Climb Brasstown Bald for sunrise (or plan to be there for a stunning sunset if you have a tripod). Hike part of the Appalachian Trail (the Jack’s Knob Trail) for a backcountry experience. Rent a boat or jetski on Lake Chatuge from the marina. Explore High Shoals Falls (a 1.2-mile trail with multiple cascades totaling 300 ft in drop). At the fairgrounds, check the schedule – the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds hosts big events like the Georgia Mountain Fair and Roots & Music Festival, and the annual Fiddlers’ Convention. In fall, plan your trip to coincide with the Brew, Stew & Que festival (late Oct) or the Georgia Mountain Fall Festival (early Oct) for craft beer tastings, Southern stews, music and artisan booths.
Drive from Atlanta
About 90 miles north on I‑575/515 will bring you to Blairsville; from there US‑129/19 winds through the mountains to Hiawassee. Expect a 1½ to 2-hour drive with beautiful views along the way (the final leg skirts the Nantahala National Forest). This route is part of the Southern Highroads Trail scenic loop (a 90-mi drive if you loop back through Clayton).
Food & stay:
Accommodations range from lakeside resorts (The Ridges Resort on Lake Chatuge) to quaint riverfront cabins. For something different, camp at the fairgrounds (RV sites with lake views) or stay at a KOA for budget-friendly amenities. When hunger strikes, pull up to Marina Station on the lake for casual eats and live music, or The Oaks Lakeside Kitchen at The Ridges for a waterfront breakfast. Hilltop places like Deer Lodge (rustic steaks and burgers) and Hawg Wild BBQ (finger-licking Southern BBQ) are long-time local favorites. Pack layers for dinner – mountain nights can get chilly, and many places are CASH ONLY (like Deer Lodge).
Budget tips:
With lake, trails and parks galore, Hiawassee is a budget-friendly getaway. Pick up groceries in town and cook your own lake picnic to skip restaurant prices. Enjoy free outdoor fun: hiking Bell Mountain, exploring Fairgrounds trails, or watching sunrise at Brasstown are all free. Many festivals have affordable admission (or even free kids’ activities), so look for package deals or multi-day passes. If you’re on a shoestring, stay at the KOA or camp by the river (tent sites under $20) and dine at casual joints.
Local fact:
The fairgrounds on Lake Chatuge is home to Georgia’s Official State Fiddlers’ Convention, a major event each summer for bluegrass and old-time music. Also, Hiawassee was once Cherokee land – the town’s name is thought to come from a Cherokee word for meadow or savanna. Now it’s known as a hidden gem for stargazing, thanks to its dark mountain skies and lots of open lakeside vistas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far are these trips from Atlanta?
All five towns are within a 2–2.5 hour drive. Dahlonega is the closest (~70 miles via GA-400 North, about 1.5 hours). Blue Ridge and Helen are each roughly 90–93 miles (about 1.5–2 hours). Ellijay is around 70–80 miles (1.5 hours via I-75/GA-515), and Hiawassee is farthest at ~107 miles (about 2 hours).
What should I pack?
Layers are key – mountain weather can change quickly. Bring hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, and warm layers (especially in fall). Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle are musts. Since many trips involve water, consider swimwear or quick-dry clothes. For gear tips, check our road trip packing list.
What’s the best season for these getaways?
Spring and fall are generally ideal for mild weather and lower crowds. Spring offers wildflowers and cooler temps, while fall (especially Oct) has stunning foliage and festivals (apple and Oktoberfest). Summer allows water activities but can be busier, and winter is quieter (some shops may be closed).
Are these destinations family- or dog-friendly?
Yes! Most spots offer family fun and many parks and trails allow dogs on leashes. Anna Ruby Falls trail (Helen) and Aska Trails (Blue Ridge) are kid-friendly hikes. Small children will love tubing in Helen and apple-picking in Ellijay. Just double-check pet policies at cabins or campsites if bringing your pup.
Conclusion
It’s amazing how far a quick drive from Atlanta can take you – one weekend you’re in a Bavarian mountain village, the next you’re atop the highest Georgia peak. These five destinations offer something for every couple or nature lover: whether it’s apple cider in Ellijay, trains and trout in Blue Ridge, gold history in Dahlonega, festive streets in Helen, or sunrise views at Brasstown Bald. I hope this guide inspires you to pack up your car (don’t forget that camera!) and plan your own mountain escape. The Blue Ridge Parkway of Georgia awaits – adventure is calling!
Related Articles & Resources:
- 12 Best Weekend Trips from Atlanta for Couples: Explore more unforgettable road trip routes.
- 10 Cheap Weekend Getaways from Atlanta on a Budget (2026 Guide): affordable weekend escape that lets you reset, breathe, and remember.
