With the trees starting to change into their autumn brilliance, this is the ideal time of year to take a tour of the Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway. The 40.6-mile road, bordered by the beautiful Chattahoochee National Forest, is a winding journey through forests and canyons in the North Georgia Mountains.
Our Inn guests can access the byway just north of Helen, by taking Highway 17 about two and one-half miles to Georgia 356. Make a left, crossing over the Chattahoochee River, and continue on a short distance to Georgia 348, the beginning of the Russell-Brasstown byway.
As you turn right onto the road, you enter the forest and begin an upward climb. Along the way you’ll find several places to pull over and stop to look at vistas. At the Dukes Creeks Falls overlook, walk a path to an overlook for a better view of the falls below. Further up near the summit is a pull-off on the left where you can get a great view of massive Yonah Mountain. Continuing up the curving road, you come to Hogpen Gap and the intersection of the Appalachian Trail. The vista from here is just magnificent.
The downhill trek is fairly steep, making you realize just how far you climbed up! At the intersection of Georgia 348 and 180, make a right and head to the Brasstown Bald park entrance. The road climbs through pretty mountain scenery on its way to an upper parking area. In addition to enjoying stunning panoramic views, there is a museum there with educational displays on Brasstown Bald and the area.
Check with us if you’d like to pack a picnic to enjoy along the way. We can offer suggestions on where to pick up what you need. Not only is this an ideal time for a drive through the mountains, it’s a lovely time to visit Lucille Mountaintop Inn & Spa too, where the views are always spectacular!