At 4,784 feet above sea level, Brasstown Bald is the highest peak in Georgia and one of the most breathtaking places to visit in the North Georgia mountains. Located within the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests, this iconic destination rewards visitors with sweeping views that span four states on a clear day. Whether you’re chasing fall color, seeking a scenic summer escape in the cooler North Georgia Mountains, or simply want to stretch your legs on a fantastic hike, Brasstown Bald offers a one-of-a-kind vantage point and experience that captures the rugged beauty of North Georgia.
The Brasstown Bald hike from the parking area to the summit is short but steep, making the panoramic views at the top feel well-earned and deeply satisfying. For those seeking easier access, a shuttle is available seasonally, allowing visitors of all ages to enjoy the mountaintop without the strenuous climb. Of course, this is just one of the many fantastic hikes to take in the North Georgia Mountains. From soaring mountaintop peaks to stunning waterfall trails and the trails through the cavernous Tallulah Gorge, there are endless ways to explore this beautiful part of the state.
Hiking is just the start of your adventure. From kayaking on Lake Rabun and visiting charming towns like Clayton or Clarkesville, to fishing these world-class trout streams and tasting your way through Georgia Wine Country, there are plenty of things to do in North Georgia. The area offers a rich mix of natural beauty and small-town culture, with opportunities for shopping, dining, wine tasting, and plenty of memorable outdoor adventures. When the day reaches its end, there’s no better way to relax than with a stay at Glen-Ella Springs, the top-rated Bed and Breakfast in North Georgia.
With elevated dining, exceptional hospitality, and a peaceful setting in the heart of the mountains, it’s the perfect home base for exploring this stunning corner of the state. Book your getaway at our historic Inn today!
Why You Should Visit Brasstown Bald in North Georgia
If you’re planning to explore the North Georgia mountains, Brasstown Bald deserves a spot at the top of your itinerary, literally. As the highest peak in Georgia, this iconic destination offers unmatched views, a well-maintained visitor experience, and easy access to some of the best Georgia hikes. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual sightseer, visiting Brasstown Bald is a chance to take in the natural beauty that defines this region.
How to Get to Brasstown Bald
Brasstown Bald is located near the towns of Hiawassee and Blairsville in North Georgia, within the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests. The main access point is the Brasstown Bald Visitor Center, which is reached by driving along Georgia Highway 180. If you’re coming from our Bed and Breakfast in North Georgia, plan on a scenic 90-minute drive through winding mountain roads, with plenty of scenic overlooks and charming small towns along the way.
There’s a large parking area at the base of the Brasstown Bald summit. From there, you have two options: walk the short but steep Brasstown Bald hike to the top, or ride the seasonal shuttle that runs on a regular schedule. The paved trail is only about half a mile long but gains nearly 500 feet in elevation. It’s a bit of a workout, but the reward at the summit is worth it. Benches along the way offer a place to catch your breath and take in the forest views.
Why Visit Brasstown Bald
At the summit, you’ll find a large observation deck that delivers 360-degree views of the North Georgia mountains and, on clear days, into Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina. It’s one of the most photographed vistas in the Southeast, particularly during peak fall foliage or when the summer skies are bright and clear. Even in the middle of a hot Georgia summer, the air at the top of Brasstown Bald feels crisper, the sounds of the forest fade into the distance, and you’re surrounded by some of the best natural scenery Georgia has to offer.
There is also a visitor center featuring educational exhibits on the region’s ecology, history, and wildlife, as well as a gift shop and restrooms. Rangers and volunteers are often available to answer questions or share insight into the area’s significance. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone who returns to explore more of North Georgia year after year, Brasstown Bald GA offers something memorable year-round.
What to Do Around Brasstown Bald
Visiting Brasstown Bald is just one of many ways to enjoy the outdoors in this region. If you’re in the mood for more North Georgia hiking, we recommend heading to nearby Raven Cliff Falls. It’s about 30 minutes back down the highway toward Helen, GA, and is one of our favorite waterfall hikes in North Georgia. For a more relaxed afternoon, explore the quaint shops and restaurants in Blairsville or Hiawassee, sample local wine at a nearby vineyard, or cool off at the beach at Vogel State Park.
There are so many charming communities, parks, trails, wineries, and more to enjoy, whether in the Brasstown Bald area or back at your home away from home in Clarkesville. Our Innkeepers know the area intimately and would love to help you build a personalized itinerary for all your North Georgia adventures.Â
The Best Place to Stay in North Georgia
When planning your visit to Brasstown Bald and the surrounding North Georgia mountains, where you stay matters just as much as where you explore. Our historic Georgia Inn offers a welcoming and elevated retreat that perfectly complements a day spent hiking, sightseeing, or relaxing outdoors. Located in the heart of Clarkesville GA, this North Georgia Bed and Breakfast provides the ideal mix of comfort, charm, and refined hospitality, making it the top choice for travelers seeking something truly special.
Each of the guest rooms and suites at our B&B is thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind. After a day spent hiking to the highest elevation in Georgia or exploring other local Georgia hikes, return to plush bedding, quiet surroundings, and amenities like a private pool, ensuite whirlpool tubs, and more. Mornings begin with a homemade Southern breakfast that fuels your adventures, while evenings offer the chance to dine on-site at one of the top-rated Clarkesville GA restaurants. During the warmer months, dining on the patio surrounded by lush gardens is an experience all its own.
Regardless of what you do while you’re here, staying at Glen-Ella Springs turns a simple getaway into something unforgettable. From its unbeatable location to its personalized service and acclaimed restaurant, it’s easy to see why Glen-Ella Springs stands out as the ultimate choice for where to stay in North Georgia. Book your stay and enjoy the best of the region, all in one place.
