Cool in the summer, mild in the winter, the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway encircles the headwaters of the Chattahoochee River and is surrounded by the Chattahoochee National Forest. Featuring nearly 118,000 acres of designated wilderness, hundreds of miles of clear-running streams and rivers, 850 miles of recreation trails, and dozens of campgrounds, picnic areas, and other recreation opportunities, these lands are rich in natural scenery, history and culture. Colorful wildflowers, waterfalls, and dazzling fall colors are some of what you will see. Secluded valleys abound. Though only 40 miles long, allow at least three hours driving time and allow for time to stop at the popular mountain recreation stops.
The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is a haven for outdoor lovers. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the national forest’s outdoor recreational activities along the byway. Adventurous visitors will love horse riding, fishing, or geocaching throughout the park. Try your hand at panning for gold in one of the streams within the borders of the national forest. Although in most cases only a few cents of stream-bed gold can be planned in an hour, there’s always a chance of finding a stray nugget or odd pocket of finer gold. Alternative, try your hand at “rock hounding” by collecting a handful of interesting rocks, minerals, or petrified wood. You may even find a fossil.
Get out and stretch at Dukes Creek Falls and enjoy the two-mile round trip trail that brings you to a misty poolside below and to the base of a cascading waterfall. Mount Yonah’s prominent cliff can be seen in the distance. The mountain itself is climbable. The 2.1 mil trail is great for hikers who wish to go up 1,400 feet for spectacular views.
Cross the famous Appalachian Trail at Hogpen Gap. Views from Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s largest mountain offers 360-degree views of the rolling highlands. Be sure to check out the visitor center there. From the top of this great summit, visitors can see views of four states, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Visitors can choose whether to hike up to the top or take the accessible shuttle in order to experience this great vista.
Smithgall Woods State Park offers hiking and biking trails, trout streams, and much wildlife for visitors of all skill levels. Nearby Unicoi State Park has something for everyone, including a lodge, restaurant, campground, trails, and a swim beach. Overnight visitors should be sure to take a look at the rustic haven of cottages that are easily accessible from the byway. Check out the twin falls at Anna Ruby Falls where two creeks meet to create the rare, 150-foot twin falls. The path is .4 miles and is paved for everyone’s enjoyment.
For those that get hungry along the way, share a meal at a cozy picnic site along the way, or break bread in Helen, a Bavarian-themed hamlet located near the byway.
If you still haven’t gotten enough of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest by the time you finish the byway, try exploring the 60/180/129/19 Scenic Loop, which is nearby.