The Chattahoochee National Forest welcomes more than 10 million visitors every year to our north Georgia home. Offering some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities in the United States, there are plenty of adventures to have in the forest year-round, and the fall season is no exception. Fall is arguably one of the best times to visit north Georgia: the humidity declines and temperatures become better suited for outdoor activities while the leaves change color and offer multidimensional views of the scenic hillsides. To help you plan your fall visit, here are some of our favorite fall activities in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
Hiking
The home of the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, Chattahoochee National Forest may be most famous for its hiking opportunities. More than 450 miles of hiking trails span the nearly 750,000 acres that comprise the forest. There are four long distance trails for backpacking: Duncan Ridge, Benton MacKaye, Bartram and the Appalachian Trail, as well as many shorter trails catering to the casual walker and the hiking expert alike. Trail maps for some forest trails may be found online, but the most up-to-date and comprehensive trail information can be found at the Chattahoochee National Forest ranger stations.
Biking
The Aska Trail System is one of the premier mountain biking trails not only in the Chattahoochee National Forest but also in the Blue Ridge Mountains as a whole. The trail system offers 15 miles of scenic single-track with everything from technical challenges to smooth cruising along the way. Comprised of the renowned Stanley Gap Trail, Green Mountain, Long Branch and Flat Creek Loop, mountains bikers will enjoy checking the Aska Trail System off their Chattahoochee National Forest bucket list.
Fishing
For a wide range of fishing experiences, be sure to visit the Chattahoochee National Forest in the fall. Whether you enjoy casting your line from a peaceful shoreline or the rewarding challenge of fly fishing knee-deep in a river, Chattahoochee National Forest is the place to come to make the catch of the day. For some serious trout fishing, check out the 4,000 miles of streams designated as trout streams in north Georgia. Hurry, because trout season comes to a close October 31st.
Horseback Riding
There are many trails for horseback riding in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Sunburst Stables is the place to go for guided horseback trail rides that are suitable for all ages and experience levels. If you’re looking for the unique experience of camping with your equine friend, the Chattahoochee National Forest has horse camping areas specifically designed with you and your horse in mind.
Scenic Driving
Gain access to wildlife, scenic vistas, geology, streams, lakes, waterfalls and more with a scenic drive through Chattahoochee National Forest. As the leaves are turning to brilliant oranges and reds, fall is the perfect time to tour the Chattahoochee National Forest by car. For access to Georgia’s highest point, Brasstown Bald, where the views of the forest are absolutely breathtaking, take the Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway. This 40.6-mile national byway winds through the southern Appalachians and offers several scenic overlooks and interpretive signs along the way.
Waterfall Viewing
The Chattahoochee National Forest offers an impressive number of waterfalls: the most famous of which is Anna Ruby Falls. Anna Ruby Falls is known for its twin waterfalls created by two separate streams, Curtis Creek and York Creek, tumbling down to form Smith Creek. Dukes Creek Falls, Raven Cliffs Falls and Desoto Falls are also great spots for waterfall viewing in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
As you can see, there are many fun activities to keep you busy in the Chattahoochee National Forest in the fall. Glen-Ella Springs has a variety of special getaway packages to help you enjoy your favorite fall activity in this area. Check out our Georgia Trail Ride Package for horseback riding during your stay or our Tallulah Gorge Vacation Package to discover some local waterfalls. Or, customize your own vacation package for your stay at Glen-Ella Springs this fall!
