Historic High Country Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Historic High Country with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and what to eat in Georgia.


Introduction to Historic High Country

Historic High Country, located in northern Georgia, is a region filled with rolling hills, scenic mountains, and rich history. The region spans across ten counties and offers visitors a variety of attractions, from culturally important museums and historical places to outdoor adventures and scenic views.

In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you through the must-visit places, best things to do, and where to stay and eat in the region. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the diverse landscape of Historic High Country.

List of Places to Visit in Historic High Country

Here are some of the top places to visit in Historic High Country:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chieftains Museum/Major Ridge Home - A National Historic Landmark, this museum showcases the history and culture of the Cherokee people and the Trail of Tears.

  • Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site - Explore the archaeology and history of the Mississippian culture that lived in Etowah thousands of years ago.

  • Oak Hill and the Martha Berry Museum - Visit the home of Martha Berry, the founder of Berry College, and learn about her life and legacy.

  • The Booth Western Art Museum - This Smithsonian-affiliated museum houses the largest collection of Western art in the United States.

  • Barnsley Resort - Once an antebellum estate, Barnsley Resort offers visitors a glimpse into the life of the 19th-century South.

Natural Attractions of Historic High Country: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Amicalola Falls State Park - With a 729-foot waterfall, this park is a hiker’s paradise with trails of all skill levels.

  • Cloudland Canyon State Park - One of Georgia’s most scenic parks, Cloudland Canyon offers miles of hiking trails and stunning views.

  • Rock City Gardens - Journey through ancient rock formations and enjoy the beautiful gardens at one of Georgia’s most iconic attractions.

  • Tallulah Gorge State Park - Hike the stunning trails of Tallulah Gorge and take in views of the 1,000-foot-deep canyon.

  • Red Top Mountain State Park - Located on the shores of Lake Allatoona, this park offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and boating.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Historic High Country

Historic High Country is filled with hiking and biking trails of all skill levels. Here are some of the top routes:

  • Pinhoti Trail - A long-distance hiking trail that spans over 330 miles and offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains.

  • Silver Comet Trail - A 61.5-mile trail for biking, running, and walking that connects Smyrna, Georgia, to the Alabama state line.

  • Bear Creek Trail - A 2.2-mile trail located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, perfect for a leisurely hike or mountain biking.

Best Things to Do in Historic High Country: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Historic High Country:

  • Take a hot air balloon ride - Take in the stunning landscapes of the region from above by riding in a hot air balloon.

  • Explore local wineries - Georgia is a burgeoning wine country, and exploring the various wineries and vineyards is a must-do activity in the region.

  • Visit a farm - From petting zoos to u-pick farms, there are plenty of opportunities to experience rural life in Historic High Country.

  • Go on a ghost tour - Learn about the haunted history of the region by taking a tour of some of the most haunted places in Historic High Country.

Week-Long Itinerary for Historic High Country

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for Historic High Country:

Day Activity
Day 1 Hike Amicalola Falls State Park, visit Chieftains Museum/Major Ridge Home
Day 2 Explore local wineries
Day 3 Take a hot air balloon ride, visit Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site
Day 4 Visit Barnsley Resort, hike at Red Top Mountain State Park
Day 5 Take a ghost tour, visit Oak Hill and the Martha Berry Museum
Day 6 Bike the Silver Comet Trail, visit The Booth Western Art Museum
Day 7 Hike Tallulah Gorge State Park, visit Rock City Gardens

Food and Drink Scene of Historic High Country

Historic High Country is a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of unique dishes and local products. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried green tomatoes - A Southern classic, fried green tomatoes are a must-try dish.

  • Biscuits and gravy - A breakfast staple of the South, biscuits and gravy are a delicious and filling morning meal.

  • Pimento cheese - A spread made with cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. Great as a dip or spread on crackers or sandwiches.

  • Brunswick stew - A Southern stew made with meats, vegetables, and a tomato base.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet tea - A Southern classic, sweet tea is the perfect beverage to enjoy on a hot day.

  • Moonshine - A classic liquor of the South, moonshine can be found at various distilleries in Historic High Country.

  • Georgia wine - With a growing wine industry, Georgia is producing delicious wines that are a must-try during your visit.

Where to Stay in Historic High Country: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxurious resorts to cozy cabins, Historic High Country offers a variety of options for accommodations. Here are some places to consider:

  • Barnsley Resort - This resort offers luxurious accommodations in a beautiful 19th-century estate.

  • The 1927 Lake Lure Inn & Spa - Located in the charming town of Lake Lure, this hotel offers a spa and stunning views of the lake.

  • The Lodge at Copperhead - A cozy and affordable option, this lodge is located in the heart of the North Georgia Mountains.

What to Buy in Historic High Country: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take home a piece of Historic High Country with these local products:

  • Georgia peaches - A delicious souvenir, Georgia peaches are a must-try during your visit to the region.

  • Moonshine - Bring home a bottle of this classic Southern liquor to share with friends and family.

  • Handmade pottery - With a rich history of pottery-making in the region, handmade pottery is a unique and beautiful souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Historic High Country

The culture of Historic High Country is deeply rooted in the history and traditions of the South. Hospitality is a hallmark of the region, and visitors will find locals to be welcoming and friendly. Some customs to keep in mind include:

  • Saying “yes, ma’am” and “no, sir” - These respectful terms are a part of Southern culture and are often used as a sign of respect.

  • Respecting history and traditions - The region has a rich history, and visitors should be respectful of the historic sites and traditions of the area.

Best Time to Visit Historic High Country

The best time to visit Historic High Country is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its peak. Summer is also a popular time to visit, but be prepared for hot temperatures and high humidity.

Do’s and Don’ts of Historic High Country

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Historic High Country:

Do:

  • Explore the outdoors - With so many scenic hiking trails and outdoor activities, take advantage of the beautiful landscapes of the region.

  • Try local dishes - From biscuits and gravy to fried green tomatoes, there are plenty of unique and delicious dishes to try in Historic High Country.

  • Be respectful of history - The region has a rich history, and it’s important to be respectful of the historic sites and traditions of the area.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect nature - While exploring the outdoors, be mindful of the impact you have on the environment.

  • Overlook local wineries - Georgia is a growing wine region, and trying local wines is a must-do activity in the region.

  • Ignore traffic laws - With winding roads and steep inclines, it’s important to follow traffic laws and be mindful of safety while driving in the region.

Safety and Health

Safety in Historic High Country

Historic High Country is a safe region to visit, but it’s important to be mindful of safety while exploring the outdoors. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Hiking safety - Always stay on designated trails and bring plenty of water and snacks.

  • Driving safety - Be mindful of steep inclines and winding roads while driving in the region.

  • Wildlife safety - Be aware of wildlife while exploring the outdoors, and avoid feeding or approaching animals.

Health in Historic High Country

While visiting Historic High Country, it’s important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun and heat. Be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring.

Getting to Historic High Country: Transportation Options and Logistics

Historic High Country is easily accessible by car, with major highways and interstates leading into the region. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Historic High Country

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport - Located 90 miles south of Historic High Country.

  • Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport - Located 65 miles north of Historic High Country.

Bus Stations Near Historic High Country

  • Greyhound Bus Lines - Located in Rome, Georgia, approximately 20 miles east of Historic High Country.

Other Options

  • Ride-sharing services - Uber and Lyft are available in the region.

How to Get Around in Historic High Country

The best way to get around Historic High Country is by personal car, as public transportation options are limited. However, for those without a car, ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available.

Where to Go Next from Historic High Country: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to extend your trip in the region, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Chattanooga, Tennessee - Just a short drive from Historic High Country, Chattanooga is home to stunning views and a vibrant downtown.

  • Atlanta, Georgia - Located approximately 90 miles south of Historic High Country, Atlanta offers visitors a wealth of cultural activities, restaurants, and attractions.

Conclusion

From the stunning natural landscapes to the rich history and culture, Historic High Country is a must-visit region in Georgia. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’ll have everything you need to plan a memorable trip filled with adventure, delicious food, and unique experiences.

Amicalola Falls Amicalola Falls Appalachian Trail plaque on Springer Mountain Appalachian Trail plaque on Springer Mountain Three Sisters Vineyards Three Sisters Vineyards


    Central High Country
    East High Country
    Northeast High Country
    Northwest High Country
    West High Country