Georgia’s cascading falls, majestic gorges, and sprawling mountains are all the more beautiful come fall. In fact, one could argue that fall is the best time of year to get outside in the Peach State. From RV camping to rigorous mountain climbing to ATV adventures, there’s something for everyone here. Check out the best fall activities in Georgia.
There’s never a bad time of year to visit Tallulah Gorge, but the fall brings this area to life with gorgeous foliage and crisp mountain air. The park features several campsites for tents and RVs where you can start your journey to view the majestic gorge and Tallulah Falls. With 20 miles of trails, rock climbing opportunities, geocaching, and other fall-friendly activities, you’ll want to make a trip here a fall tradition.
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Situated between Helen and Blairsville in the Northeast Georgia mountains, Helton Creek Falls is a short but sweet hike with a rewarding view at the end. Clocking in at just 0.2 miles each way, the trail is ideal for beginners and up. Since Helen is a hotbed of fall activity, especially during their famous Oktoberfest, squeezing in a quick hike here makes good sense.
Bicycle Ride Across Georgia features several events throughout the year, but this three-day fall ride from Chattanooga to Atlanta is not to be missed. Participants make the trek using Georgia’s new U.S. Bicycle Route System and can take advantage of live music and a beer tent at every nightly stop. They add in several rest stops and snack stations along the route and manage your luggage for you so you can enjoy the ride.
If you’re riding the Bicycle Route 21 or just happen to be in Atlanta during the fall, stop by Stone Mountain for their annual pumpkin festival. Jack-o’-lanterns abound everywhere you look, and there’s even a special glow event when the sun sets. Stone Mountain is a hot spot for a variety of outdoor activities, including a ropes course, rock climbing, hiking, and camping
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In Georgia, we like to get muddy. Especially if that's on the back of an ATV. Moccasin Creek Off Road Park in Blackshear spans 500 acres and features eight miles of well-maintained trails. This family-focused off-roading destination has something for every level of skill. Stick around for concerts, camping, and so much more.
This cozy little barrier island is a hot birding destination from fall through spring. The North Beach section of the island typically attracts over 200 species, including scoters, bald eagle, osprey, and the Red-Throated Loon. The marsh areas are also teeming with bird life, so there’s no shortage of places to stake out your viewing spot.
Mount Yonah remains one of the top fall climbing destinations in Georgia for many reasons. For starters, the North Georgia mountains offer breathtaking views of fall foliage and an ideal temperature for playing outside. Also, camping at Mount Yonah is free where permitted, making it a budget-friendly spot for a weekend getaway.
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A day’s worth of climbing calls for a trip to the best burger joint in the area. This family-owned roadside haunt is a true Georgia establishment, offering fresh-never-frozen beef, fast service, and friendly faces that make you feel right at home. Customers rave about the portion sizes and fair prices, so you can fill up without feeling guilty.
If you love the thrill of the ATV without the mudholes and chilly creek water, you’ll want to head to Durhamtown Off Road Resort for dry off-road riding.. They offer on-site camping and motorcycle, ATV, and side-by-side rentals so you can play your way for as long as you like. And the fun doesn’t stop with the trails, either: they also have skeet shooting, day hunts, a pro shop, and an on-site restaurant—you might never want to leave!
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Alli Hill is a freelance content writer and mom of two. She spends most of her free time exploring the great outdoors by trail or by kayak. She is also the founder and director of FreelanceSpeak, a blog to support other freelance creatives.
