Best Fall Activities & Festivals in North Georgia 2024

The Ultimate Guide to Fall Attractions and Things to Do in North Georgia

Autumn in North Georgia is a spectacular experience. With the cool mountain air, vivid fall colors, and a range of seasonal activities, it’s the perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. This ultimate guide highlights the best fall attractions and things to do, from scenic hikes and apple picking to fall festivals and cozy cabin getaways. Dahlonega, a town rich in history and natural beauty, serves as a focal point for much of the fall fun. Let’s dive into what makes fall in North Georgia an unforgettable experience.

Table of Contents

1. Experience the Fall Foliage: Best Hikes & Scenic Drives
2. Fall Festivals You Can’t Miss
3. Apple Orchards, Pumpkin Patches, and Corn Mazes
4. Wine and Cider Tastings: Explore North Georgia’s Vineyards
5. Waterfall Hikes and Outdoor Adventures
6. Family-Friendly Activities in Dahlonega
7. Stay at Cozy Cabins or Lodges
8. FAQs About Fall in North Georgia
9. Planning Your Visit: Tips and Travel Information

1. Experience the Fall Foliage: Best Hikes & Scenic Drives

North Georgia offers some of the best views of fall foliage in the Southeast. Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls or cruising along scenic highways, the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the autumn leaves are stunning.

Best Fall Hikes

• Amicalola Falls State Park: Just outside of Dahlonega, this park is home to the tallest waterfall in Georgia. The Amicalola Falls Loop Trail provides sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, with fall colors reflecting in the cascading waters.
• Tallulah Gorge State Park: This park boasts a 1,000-foot-deep gorge and several hiking trails, including the North and South Rim Trails, which offer excellent views of the gorge and fall foliage.
• Blood Mountain: Part of the Appalachian Trail, this challenging hike rewards visitors with panoramic views of the North Georgia mountains drenched in autumn colors.

Scenic Drives

• Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway: This 40-mile loop through the North Georgia mountains offers numerous overlooks and photo ops, making it perfect for leaf-peeping.
• Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway: Winding through the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, this highway is one of the most picturesque drives in Georgia, especially during the fall months.

2. Fall Festivals You Can’t Miss

Fall festivals are a must-do in North Georgia, celebrating everything from local history to seasonal treats.

• Dahlonega Gold Rush Days Festival: One of the largest festivals in the region, this event celebrates the 1828 discovery of gold in Dahlonega with live music, craft vendors, and family-friendly activities.
• Georgia Apple Festival in Ellijay: Known for its apple-themed attractions, this festival offers everything from apple pie contests to live entertainment and artisan crafts.
• Mountain Moonshine Festival in Dawsonville: Celebrate the history of moonshine with classic car shows, tastings, and a parade.
• Sorghum Festival in Blairsville: Discover the tradition of making sorghum syrup, a Southern delicacy, while enjoying live music, crafts, and mountain culture.

These festivals are not just fun—they also offer great opportunities to enjoy local food, crafts, and the natural beauty of the area.

3. Apple Orchards, Pumpkin Patches, and Corn Mazes

Fall in North Georgia means harvest season, and there’s no better way to experience it than by visiting the local farms and orchards.

Apple Orchards

• Hillcrest Orchards in Ellijay: This family-friendly orchard offers U-pick apples, wagon rides, and a petting zoo. Be sure to try their famous fried apple pies!
• Mercier Orchards in Blue Ridge: Known for their cider and apple donuts, this orchard is a favorite for both locals and tourists.

Pumpkin Patches

• Burt’s Pumpkin Farm in Dawsonville: With thousands of pumpkins on display, this farm is a great spot for families. Wagon rides and a country store with seasonal treats make it a perfect fall outing.

Corn Mazes

• Jaemor Farms Corn Maze: Located in Alto, this maze offers hours of fun for kids and adults alike. After conquering the maze, enjoy funnel cakes, kettle corn, and cider.

4. Wine and Cider Tastings: Explore North Georgia’s Vineyards

North Georgia has blossomed into one of the premier wine regions in the South, making fall the perfect time to explore its vineyards.

• Wolf Mountain Vineyards in Dahlonega: This award-winning winery is known for its breathtaking views and robust wines. Enjoy tastings while overlooking the fall foliage of the Dahlonega Plateau.
• Fausett Farms in Dawsonville: Home to over 30 acres of sunflower fields, Fausett Farms is perfect for photoshoots and a relaxing stroll through their stunning sunflower fields during autumn.
• Bear Claw Vineyards in Blue Ridge: This boutique winery offers not only great wines but also live music on weekends, making it a fantastic fall destination.

5. Waterfall Hikes and Outdoor Adventures

In addition to the beautiful colors, fall is the perfect season to chase waterfalls in North Georgia.

• Amicalola Falls: A must-see for its towering 729-foot drop, Amicalola Falls is especially beautiful in the fall when framed by autumn leaves.
• Minnehaha Falls: Located near Lake Rabun, this short hike is one of the most scenic fall spots in the region.
• Panther Creek Falls: This 7-mile roundtrip hike is more challenging but offers a rewarding view of the falls, which are surrounded by vibrant fall foliage.

6. Family-Friendly Activities in Dahlonega

Dahlonega offers many family-friendly attractions that make it a top destination for fall.

• Consolidated Gold Mine: Learn about the history of the Dahlonega gold rush with an underground mine tour and try your hand at panning for gold.
• Dahlonega General Store: A nostalgic stop where you can pick up souvenirs and seasonal treats like homemade fudge and apple cider.
• Horseback Riding: Several stables near Dahlonega, such as Sunny Farms North, offer trail rides through the colorful fall landscape, making it a fun family adventure.

7. Stay at Cozy Cabins or Lodges

Nothing beats a cozy cabin retreat in the fall. North Georgia offers countless lodging options that allow you to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying all the comforts of home.

• Forrest Hills Mountain Resort in Dahlonega: This resort offers private cabins with fireplaces and hot tubs, perfect for a romantic getaway or family retreat.
• Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins: For a luxurious mountain escape, rent a cabin in Blue Ridge, where you can enjoy the fall colors from your porch while sipping a hot drink.

8. FAQs About Fall in North Georgia

Q: What is the best time to see fall foliage in North Georgia?
A: Peak foliage typically occurs in late October to early November, depending on the elevation and weather patterns.

Q: What are some family-friendly fall activities in Dahlonega?
A: Apple picking, corn mazes, and the Dahlonega Gold Rush Days Festival are perfect for families looking for a fun fall outing.

Q: Are there any haunted attractions in North Georgia during the fall?
A: Yes! Several farms, including Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze, offer haunted corn mazes in October, perfect for those seeking spooky thrills.

9. Planning Your Visit: Tips and Travel Information

• Where to Stay: From rustic cabins to luxury lodges, North Georgia offers accommodations for every budget and style.
• What to Pack: Bring layers! Fall mornings can be chilly, but afternoons warm up. Don’t forget comfortable hiking boots if you plan on exploring the outdoors.
• How to Get There: Dahlonega is about a 1-hour drive from Atlanta, making it an easy weekend destination for fall enthusiasts.

Conclusion: Fall in Love with North Georgia

Whether you're exploring the scenic beauty of Dahlonega, hiking to waterfalls, or enjoying a local vineyard, North Georgia offers endless opportunities for fall fun. This ultimate guide ensures that you'll find the best attractions and experiences for your autumn adventure. From festivals to foliage, there’s no better time to visit North Georgia than in the fall.