As the weather gets cooler and the days get shorter, many people find themselves longing for a little bit of color in their lives. Let’s be honest, Augusta is not known for leaves-turning scenery. If you want to brighten up your autumn, you will need to drive a little.
Luckily, plenty of places within driving distance from Augusta offer stunning autumn foliage displays.
It’s no secret that mountains are the best place to enjoy the cooler temperatures and stunning scenery that autumn offers. And Georgia has many mountains. Each of them provides a different and unique experience.
Get your coffee mug and a nice blanket, and enjoy the ride.
Amicalola State Park
Located in Dawsonville, just an hour north of Atlanta and less than four hours drive from Augusta, you will find Amicalola State Park. It is the perfect park if you are looking for an amazing hike.
It’s hard to beat the sublime natural beauty of Amicalola State Park. Suppose you’re looking for a breathtaking natural wonder in the Southeast. The park is home to the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River, and a short, easy-to-walk path leads right to it.
But Amicalola Falls State Park is more than just a pretty waterfall. The park’s 729 acres offer stunning views of the leafy mountainside and breathtaking views when the leaves are turning, and there are plenty of hiking trails to explore.
In the fall, the leaves turn beautiful shades of orange and red, making it the perfect place to enjoy the changing seasons. The best place to enjoy all this is at the top of the mountain, which makes it easy to see the entire city.
Additionally, the park offers lodging. The lodge has almost 70 rooms, all with breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys below. The leaves begin to turn in early October, and by mid-October, the colors are at their peak. The sunsets during this time of year are also spectacular.
Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Amicalola Falls State Park is worth a visit.
Black Rock Mountain
Black Rock Mountain State Park is located in Clayton, GA, just over 3 hours from Augusta. The park covers 3,292 acres and is known for its leaf turning in the fall. The park also offers hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, and bird watching.
Georgia’s highest state park encompasses some of the most outstanding scenery in Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Roadside overlooks provide spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys — especially when the leaves are turning. In the fall, the leaves of the hardwood trees turn a beautiful red, orange, and yellow.
The Black Rock Mountain chalets are near a playground, while campsites are hidden under rhododendron, aspens, and oak trees.
The Black Rock Mountain lakeside is also for fishing trips and is encircled by an easy walking trail.
One thing to remember is that at an elevation of nearly 3,640 feet, Black Rock Mountain temperatures are cooler than other Georgia parks. So be sure to bring a jacket when you come.
Cloudland Canyon State Park
The Cloudland Canyon State Park is the home of deep canyons, cliffs, wild caves, cascading creeks, beautiful waterfalls, and arguably Georgia’s most beautiful park and a great place to watch the leaves turning. It is located south of Chattanooga and offers breathtaking overlooks and challenging trails.
The state park is nestled among the rolling foothills and deep ravines of Lookout Mountain. The park also offers disc golf, fishing ponds, and horseback riding.
Vacationers interested in a unique overnight experience can stay in charming cabins, cheerful yurts, and even classic tents.
Nearby attractions are Ruby Falls, Rock City, Lookout Mountain, and more. Additionally, the park is within driving distance of Rome and Dalton, GA.
Tallulah Gorge State Park
Just a three hours drive from Augusta, Tallulah Gorge is located at Tallulah Falls. Many believe the park is one of the most spectacular canyons in the Southeast.
Tallulah Gorge is two miles long and 1,000 feet deep. People can hike the rim trails of varying lengths to magnificent views of the river and the waterfall. Visitors can also purchase a ticket to hike to the gorge floor (max 100 people per day).
The suspension bridge hovers 80 feet above the rocky riverbed, offering spectacular views of the river and the mountains.
The park’s Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center exhibit highlights the rich cultural heritage of this Victorian resort town, along with the rugged landscape and unstable ecosystem of the area. The persistent trillium, monkey-face orchid, and green salamander are all protected species in the gorge.
Note: Pets are not allowed on the gorge floor, sliding rock trail, and Hurricane Falls staircase.
Unicoi State Park & Lodge
Just northeast of charming Alpine Helen and a little over three hours drive from Augusta, in the stunning North Georgia mountains. Unicoi State Park is centered around Lake Unicoi in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
The landscape at the state park is teeming with opportunities for adventure and fun. The leaves in the fall are a beautiful sight, and the park is a great place to boat, fish, camp, and hike. The way you choose to enjoy this park is up to you. The gorgeous natural setting is sure to impress. There are also plenty of activities for families to enjoy, including archery courses and guided hiking trips.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a trip to the Georgia mountains to see the leaves turning colors is a must-do for anyone looking to experience fall in all its glory. The views are breathtaking, and the experience is one that you’ll never forget.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to the mountains!