A Handful of Reasons to Visit Hiawassee

A day at the lake doesn't have to mean Lanier, Oconee, Hartwell or Allatoona. North Georgia is packed full of natural and man-made bodies of water filled with fresh water. You can rent a boat, swim, waters ski, jet ski, or just float in a tube in the waters of 7,500-acre Lake Chatuge.

Home to the annual Georgia Mountain Fall Festival, concerts featuring artists whose hits you know from the radio, and various local festivals throughout the year, the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds also offer lakeside camping for tents and RVs.

Whether you steal away from the big city for a romantic interlude or make it a friends retreat, there are a number of cabins to rent in the Lake Chatuge area that give you plenty of opportunity to see the stars from your private deck. On your way up to the area, stop at some of North Georgia's award-winning wineries to stock up for the trip.

Driving up to North Georgia's mountains in the autumn is a beautiful way to spend the day. Get your reservations in early at The Ridges Resort on Lake Chatuge for an overnight stay. Then, plan on taking their leaf peeping pontoon boat ride for a different view of the fall color.

Drive to the Hal Herrin Scenic Overlook at Bell Mountain Park for 360-degree views of the surrounding lake and mountains.

And, if you have an off-road-worthy truck or SUV that can drive through a stream then on a trail, you can get to the beginning of a one-mile hike to the trailhead for High Shoals Falls. Stop, soak up nature, rest and take some pictures.

Find more great things to see and do, places to stay, and restaurants in this Guide to Hiawassee.