Mountain Roads Worth the Drive Around Helen
Six of the finest scenic drives in the North Georgia mountains, with the stops, elevations, and fees you need for each.
What to Know Before You Go
The signature drive here is the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway, a 40.6-mile loop that ties together GA-348, GA-180, and GA-75/17. It circles the headwaters of the Chattahoochee River and delivers the high-elevation views the region is known for.
A lot of history runs through these roads. Many of them, GA-180 and the infrastructure at Vogel State Park in particular, were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, and GA-197 was a moonshine route during Prohibition.
Come prepared for steep grades and sharp switchbacks, especially on Wolf Pen Gap Road (GA-180) and the climb to Bell Mountain. Motorcyclists and sports-car drivers love these roads, but take it slow in bad weather.
The drives also reach some unusual country, like the high-elevation, north-facing cove forest at Sosebee Cove and the rugged granite domes of the Raven Cliffs Wilderness.
Why These Roads Are Special
The North Georgia mountains are the southern end of the Blue Ridge range -- rolling peaks, deep hardwood forests, and layers of Cherokee and Appalachian history visible at every turn. For anyone who enjoys driving, this region has some of the best mountain roads in the southeastern United States, twisting through the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest and connecting Alpine villages to quiet farming valleys.
Below are the most significant scenic drives in the region, with the specific details you need to actually drive them -- elevations, mileages, key stops, and contact information for the attractions along the way.
Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway (GA-348)
Completed in 1967 and named for the late U.S. Senator Richard B. Russell, this 14-mile corridor runs through the wild core of the Blue Ridge, connecting Helen (via GA-75 Alt) to the Choestoe area south of Blairsville. A lot of people consider it the most spectacular stretch of pavement in the state. It climbs from the valleys to cross the Appalachian Trail at the high gaps.
Key Stops and Overlooks
Dukes Creek Falls Recreation Area
Location: ~1.5 miles north of the southern terminus of GA-348.
GPS Coordinates: 34.702063, -83.789413.
A moderate hiking trail leads to viewing platforms of the 150-foot multi-tiered falls, where Davis and Dukes Creeks come together.
Trail Data: 1.25 miles one-way (2.5 miles round-trip). The trail descends from the parking lot, making the return trip an uphill hike.
Fees: $4.00 per vehicle day-use fee (Credit card machine or Recreation.gov QR code onsite).
Wolf Pen Gap Road (GA-180)
Often called the Dragon's Tail of Georgia, GA-180 runs east-west, connecting US-19/129 at Vogel State Park to GA-60 in Suches. Motorcyclists know it well for its technical challenge, with tight switchbacks and limited sightlines.
Stops Along the Way
Vogel State Park
Address: 405 Vogel State Park Dr, Blairsville, GA 30512.
Phone: (706) 745-2628.
This is one of Georgia's oldest state parks, established in 1931, with much of its infrastructure built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The centerpiece is Lake Trahlyta, circled by a fairly flat 1-mile loop trail that includes a spur to the Trahlyta Falls spillway.
Fees: $5.00 parking pass.
The Blood Mountain Loop (US-19/129) and Neels Gap
This main route connects Cleveland and Turner's Corner to Blairsville, crossing the Blue Ridge at Neels Gap. It is the busiest way over the mountains and steeped in Appalachian Trail culture.
Stops Along the Way
Mountain Crossings at Walasi-Yi Center (Neels Gap)
Address: 12471 Gainesville Hwy, Blairsville, GA 30512.
Phone: (706) 745-6095.
Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Elevation: 3,125 feet.
Completed in 1937 by the CCC, this stone building is the only covered point where the Appalachian Trail passes directly through a man-made structure. It works as a hostel, outfitter, and resupply stop for thru-hikers.
Brasstown Bald Road (GA-180 Spur)
Branching off GA-180, this steep spur climbs to the rooftop of Georgia. It is part of the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway.
Brasstown Bald Visitor Center & Recreation Area
Location: 2941 Hwy 180 Spur, Hiawassee, GA 30546.
Phone: (706) 896-2556.
Elevation: 4,784 feet (Highest point in Georgia).
Hours of Operation: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Weather permitting; road often closes in winter due to ice).
GA-75 (Helen to Hiawassee)
Following the path of the historic Unicoi Turnpike, this road climbs out of the tourist hub of Helen, crosses Unicoi Gap, and drops into the Hiawassee Valley.
Unicoi Gap
Elevation: 2,949 feet.
Coordinates: 34.8009 N, 83.7429 W.
A large parking area marks where the AT crosses the highway. From here, hikers can head north toward Tray Mountain or south toward Blue Mountain.
Related Imagery from Around Helen
