North Georgia's Best Motorcycle Roads

Mountain passes, scenic byways and riding loops near Helen

By The Explore Helen Editorial Team Updated October 8, 2026 Routes checked with the Forest Service and Georgia State Parks

The short answer

Start with the 40-mile Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway, which loops from Helen over Unicoi and Hogpen gaps. For more curves, ride GA-180 over Wolf Pen Gap from Vogel State Park. Fall weekends are crowded, so go midweek if you can.

The short list

Helen sits at the foot of some of the best riding in the Southeast, so you can pick a route that fits the day. For one ride, make it the Russell-Brasstown byway: it starts in town, climbs over Unicoi Gap (2,940 feet) and Hogpen Gap, and finishes back on the valley floor. If you want more curves, head toward Vogel and Wolf Pen Gap.

Motorcycle routes near Helen with roads, length and notes
Route	Roads	Length or time	Highlights
Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway	GA-348, GA-180 and GA-17/75, a loop that starts and ends in Helen	40 miles; at least three hours of driving	Hogpen Gap (3,461 ft) where the Appalachian Trail crosses with a small parking area; the Brasstown Bald spur; Dukes Creek and Raven Cliff trailheads
Wolf Pen Gap Road	GA-180 west from Vogel State Park toward Suches	About 45 minutes from Helen to Vogel	A narrow, wooded mountain road that Georgia State Parks recommends for fall scenery. Vogel's lake is drained for dam repairs this fall
Suches loop (rider favorite)	US-19/129 north to Vogel, GA-180 over Wolf Pen Gap to Suches, then GA-60 south toward Dahlonega	Plan a half day	Woody Gap on GA-60 (3,164 ft) has restrooms and picnic spots and is on the Appalachian Trail
US-76, Blairsville to Clayton	US-76 through Young Harris and Hiawassee	Forest Service pick	Passes Lake Chatuge near Hiawassee
GA-197, Clarkesville to US-76	GA-197 north from Clarkesville	Forest Service pick	Past Mark of the Potter and Lake Burton

Check road and weather conditions before you go. Fall color weekends bring heavy traffic and full pull-offs, especially on GA-348.

The byway in detail

The 40-mile loop follows GA-348 (the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway), GA-180 and GA-17/75 around the headwaters of the Chattahoochee River. Spring wildflowers and fall color are the draw. GA-348 is the twisty, steep stretch, and the pull-offs can fill on peak weekends. There are no services on GA-348, so fill up in Helen, and expect little or no cell signal. Our Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway page and Brasstown Bald guide cover the stops.

Wolf Pen Gap and Vogel

State Parks points riders and drivers to Wolf Pen Gap Road (GA-180) for fall scenery, and the Vogel State Park entrance is the usual starting point. Know before you go: Lake Trahlyta is drained for dam repairs, the lake loop trail and waterfall are closed, and a new visitor center is under construction, so parking is limited. Cabins, campsites and other park facilities are open. Vogel is about 45 minutes from Helen. Our Vogel State Park guide has details.

Near Stonepile Gap on US-19/129, locals tell the story of Trahlyta, a Cherokee princess said to be buried under a pile of stones that travelers once added to for good luck. It's a legend, not a verified site, but it makes a good reason to slow down.

Ride smart

Watch the surface

Mountain roads collect gravel, wet leaves and mud, and shaded curves stay damp. Slow down before blind corners.

Expect company

Cars, RVs and cyclists share these roads, and fall weekends are the busiest. Weekday rides are calmer.

Gear up for temperature swings

The ridges run cooler than Helen, with October highs around 70 degrees in town and cooler up high. Bring a layer.

Plan fuel and food

There are no services on GA-348. Fill up in Helen and carry water.

Biker Nation Reunion Rally

Helen hosts the Biker Nation Reunion Rally at Riverside City Park, 600 Edelweiss Strasse, with vendors and live music. The 2027 rally is June 3-6, usually the same weekend as the balloon race.

Common questions

What is the best motorcycle ride near Helen?

The Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway, a 40-mile loop on GA-348, GA-180 and GA-17/75 that starts and ends in Helen. The Forest Service says to allow at least three hours of driving.