Fall Itinerary Through North Georgia’s Mountains

This fall itinerary traces a scenic route from Auburn, Alabama through the mountain towns of North Georgia, highlighting cozy stops, seasonal flavors, and places to pause along the way. Each destination includes mileage from Auburn to help visualize the journey, but you can easily adapt the route from wherever you’re starting. While I’ve visited all of these locations before, I haven’t experienced them during peak fall—so this guide reflects both personal recommendations and my hope to return and see their autumn beauty firsthand.

Ellijay, Georgia (~180 miles from Auburn) — [My posts about Ellijay]
• R&A Orchards :: Begin with warm fried pies and fresh cider. The orchard’s gentle hills and crisp air invite you to linger.
• Downtown Ellijay :: Antique shops and cozy cafés line the streets, perfect for browsing with a cup of something warm.
• Apple Festival (October weekends) :: If your timing aligns, enjoy handmade crafts, mountain music, and the joy of fall gathered in one place.
• Long Creek Falls :: Nestled in the Chattahoochee National Forest, this 50-foot waterfall is a peaceful stop along the Appalachian Trail. The hike is moderate and scenic, especially vibrant with fall color.

Blue Ridge, Georgia (~16 miles from Ellijay) — [My posts about Blue Ridge]
• Blue Ridge Scenic Railway :: Ride through forests ablaze with color. The slow pace invites reflection and wonder.
• Mercier Orchards :: Apple picking, cinnamon whipped cream pie, and a market full of seasonal treats.
• Downtown shops :: Handmade knits, pottery, and mountain-inspired art offer tactile memories to take home.
• Fall Branch Falls :: Just a short drive from downtown, this double-tiered waterfall is framed by mossy rocks and forest. Easy to reach and especially photogenic in autumn.

Hiawassee, Georgia (~39 miles from Blue Ridge) — [My posts about Hiawassee]
• Lake Chatuge Overlook :: A quiet place to breathe deeply and watch the hills shimmer in amber light.
• Tilted Cafe :: Check for seasonal events or simply enjoy a lakeside walk.
• Bell Mountain :: A dramatic view worth the climb. Let the wind carry your thoughts.
• Anna Ruby Falls :: Located in Unicoi State Park, this twin waterfall is fed by two creeks and surrounded by fiery foliage in October. Paved trail and dramatic views make it a seasonal favorite.
• Dukes Creek Falls — [My posts about Dukes Creek Falls] :: Located about 20 miles from Hiawassee, this 150-foot waterfall cascades into a rocky gorge. The 1.9-mile round-trip trail is well-maintained and offers scenic overlooks along the way—especially stunning with fall foliage.

Young Harris, Georgia (~9 miles from Hiawassee) [My posts about Young Harris]
• Young Harris College :: Stroll the campus where maples blaze and quiet paths invite introspection.
• Crane Creek Vineyards offers mountain views, estate wines, and a peaceful place to pause. It’s a scenic stop for sipping and savoring the season.
• Brasstown Bald — [My posts about Brasstown Bald] :: Take a 15 mile drive over to Georgia’s highest point for sweeping 360° vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains dressed in their autumn best. On clear days, you can see four states.
• Cupid Falls :: A small but charming waterfall tucked near Young Harris College. It’s quiet, intimate, and perfect for a reflective pause—especially if you’re already walking campus paths.

Blairsville, Georgia (~8 miles from Young Harris) — [My posts about Blairsville]
• Vogel State Park :: [My posts about Vogel State Park] Walk around Lake Trahlyta at golden hour. The reflections feel like memory.
• Sunrise Grocery :: Boiled peanuts, local honey, and nostalgic roadside charm.
• Mountain Life Mercantile :: Cozy gifts and handmade candles to carry the season home.
• Pappy’s Fudge Shop — [My posts about Pappy’s] :: Just minutes from Vogel State Park, Pappy’s serves up homemade fudge, saltwater taffy, and sweet nostalgia you can’t leave without.
• Helton Creek Falls — [My posts about Helton Creek Falls]- This spot features two beautiful drops surrounded by lush forest. The short trail (about 0.6 miles round trip) is easy to access and especially photogenic in autumn. A great stop for a peaceful pause or quick photo detour.

Return to Auburn (~219 miles from Blairsville)
Let the drive home be slow and sacred. Carry the hush of the mountains, the scent of apples, and the flicker of golden leaves. This wasn’t just a trip—it was a turning of the heart.

Whether you follow this route in full or visit just a few stops, I hope it offers a meaningful way to experience North Georgia in the fall. From apple orchards to scenic overlooks, each town invites you to slow down and savor the season. I’ll be returning with my camera when the leaves turn and until then, this guide holds the places I’ve loved and the ones I long to see in gold.