Trees are shedding their last few leaves, the air is getting crisper and the holiday season is approaching. It's peak outdoor adventure weather, and chances are your family is looking to embrace the season with a little bonding time out of the house. A semi-local weekend getaway may be just the thing you're looking for.
Lucky for us, the mountains are never far. Pack the car, roll down the windows and embark on a journey to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Be sure to include the following stops in your weekend itinerary to maximize your time!
Amicalola Falls: Don't miss this pit stop before the mountains. Just below the base of the Appalachian Trail, this 729-foot cascade is the third tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi. Enjoy sweeping mountain views and shady tree canopies on the hiking path to the top, or trek 604 stairs straight to the top. Whichever route you take, don't miss the viewing platform partway down the steps for a perfect vantage point of one of Georgia's most stunning sights.
Vogel State Park: Pack a picnic and head to Vogel for a family lunch date beside the lake. Surrounded by layers of Blue Ridge Mountains and part of the Chattahoochee National Forest, the glassy lake offers a perfect view of fall's last few colors. After a lakeside lunch, choose from five hiking trails, some climbing to overlooks and some looping around the lake, to take your adventure into the wilderness.
Downtown Dahlonega: This charming square is the heart of all happenings in downtown Dahlonega. Lined with art galleries, eateries and quaint shops, there's a day's worth of activities without leaving the square. If you visit after November 24, plan to stick around into the evening for a taste of Christmas as the square lights up in celebration of Dahlonega's Old Fashioned Christmas.
Stay Dahlonega: Stay Dahlonega offers unique lodging accommodations to level up your weekend. With three treehouses, an authentic log cabin and a few cozy cottages, there's plenty to pick from. Set the tone for a weekend of exploration and adventure in one of the treehouses or relaxed quality time in the cabins and cottages. staydahlonega.com
