Why You Should Travel Solo to North Georgia
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Not many people realize that Georgia has mountains and even snow! I know, shocking. But the Appalachian Mountains actually begin in Georgia, and the state has some truly beautiful mountains.
The North Georgia mountains are where I took my first solo trip. I was living in Atlanta at the time, so this was a weekend trip dedicated to hiking and nature. I went in late Fall, so it was the perfect time to to explore Georgia more and see the Fall foliage. Below is my itinerary for traveling solo in North Georgia.
Day 1: Gibbs Gardens
I left for my weekend trip on a Friday afternoon, and since the drive wasn’t long, I was able to squeeze in a visit to Gibbs Gardens. One of the nation’s largest residential estate gardens, Gibbs Gardens has 2 sections, the Valley Gardens and Manor House Gardens. I had a limited amount of time here, since I arrived later in the day, but my favorite spots were the wildflower meadow, Japanese gardens bridge, and rose arbor. Bonus Tip: For affordable lodging, I always check Airbnb first. I’ve been able to find some, I’ll just say it, CHEAP places to stay, while still feeling safe and not grossed out. Click here to get $40 off your first Airbnb stay!
Day 2: Springer Mountain, Appalachian Trail
On day 2, my first stop was the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce and visitor’s center. I knew I wanted to go hiking, but wasn’t sure which trail since there are so many options in the area. I was able to get some great advice and chose the beginning stretch of the Appalachian Trail. Since I had just gotten into hiking, I literally only did 1 mile, but I can still say I did some of the A.T.
The road to the trail was very rugged, to say the least, and my compact barely made it. Also, parking is limited, so plan to arrive early. My favorite part of this hike was meeting someone who was finishing his full A.T. hike! It was eye-opening to hear all about his adventures over 6 months while trekking from Maine to Georgia. Bless his heart!
Day 3: Tumbling Water’s Trail, Carters Lake
My final day was spent driving back home, but I did have some time to check out Carters Lake in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It was sprinkling/raining that day, so I had the trail all to myself. I had scenic views of a waterfall, Carters Lake and the surrounding forests, not to mention a towering bridge above it all. Although the rain cut my hike short, it was still a wonderful end to my first solo trip.
I hope my weekend itinerary gives you some ideas on traveling solo either in North Georgia or anywhere close to you. I’d love to hear your favorite spots to visit in Georgia!
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22 Comments
Taci- Life Beyond Zebra
Georgia looks so pretty! I have only been to downtown Atlanta, I want to check it out for sure!
Jordan
Hi Taci,
Downtown Atlanta is a lot of fun too, but definitely a different vibe. I hope you get to check out North Georgia soon!
Stacey Billingsley
What beautiful trails! I definitely want to explore this area. I’ve been to parts of Appalachia, but not in Georgia. I need to plan a trip!
Lisa Manderino
I did not know that the Application Mountains started in GA! Looks beautiful!
Jordan
Hi Lisa,
Yes! Or ends, I guess, depending on how you look at it. 🙂
Nicole Cruze
Great info, thanks for sharing! Beautiful!
Tricia Snow
N GA is my soul spot. We were unable to go this year and boy am I missing it. Hoping to get there in the fall.
Jordan
Hi Tricia,
It’s nice to e-meet another North Georgia lover. I hope y’all can make it during the Fall too!
Missy
Love hiking and gardens. This looks like a wonderful place for us to visit. Thank you for sharing.
Jordan
Hi Missy,
Yes! Hiking and gardens are essentials for any getaway.
Pam
Your pictures are so beautiful! This looks like a lovely little getaway.
Jordan
Hi Pam,
Thanks so much!
Jennifer |Me and My Traveling Hat
We did many family reunions in North GA at Big Canoe. It’s so beautiful up there…love the Appalachian mountains and trail.
jen
these are some beautiful captures. I didn’t realize this type of terrain was in Georgia.
Jordan
Hi Jen,
Thank you! Yes, Georgia can surprise people, that’s for sure.
Susan Whitehead
We came very close to buying some property in the North Georgia mountains a while back. It is so beautiful, but it does get pretty cold in the winters!
Jordan
Hi Susan,
That’s so true. It gets snow up there, but is gorgeous in the Fall!
Heather
This looks like a great trip to take solo. Plenty of places to reflect.
kmf
Love my getaways with family and friends but do treasure my solo trips to reflect and recharge…and Georgia looks perfect for next one. Beautiful images!
Jordan
Yes that’s a good way to look at it. Reflect and recharge!