East High Country Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of East High Country in Georgia with our comprehensive travel guide offering information about must-visit places, hiking/biking routes, activities and tours, local culture and customs, food and drink scene, and much more. Plan your next vacation with ease with our East High Country travel guide.


East High Country Travel Guide

Georgia is known for its history, beauty, and Southern hospitality, and East High Country is no exception. With stunning views and endless activities, this region provides an ideal vacation for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and outdoor adventurers alike. Here’s our comprehensive guide to East High Country, Georgia, including all the must-visit places, activities, and travel tips for your next vacation.

Introduction to East High Country

Located in the Historic High Country region of Georgia, East High Country is a picturesque place with breathtaking landscapes, top-rated attractions, and rich culture. The region is known for its mountains, rivers, and forests and is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts seeking hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing opportunities.

List of Places to Visit in East High Country

East High Country is a treasure trove of scenic destinations, historic places, and cultural attractions. Here are a few must-visit places to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History: This museum in Kennesaw showcases the history and evolution of locomotives and their impact during the Civil War.
  • Blue Ridge Scenic Railway: Enjoy a scenic train ride through the Blue Ridge Mountains and see the exquisite fall colors.
  • Berry College: A private liberal arts college located in Rome. It’s campus is one of the largest in the world
  • Booth Western Art Museum: Located in Cartersville, this museum houses a vast collection of Western art pieces, artifacts, and antique firearms.

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

  • Amicalola Falls State Park: Home to the tallest waterfall in Georgia, this park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, zip-lining, and rock climbing.
  • Chattahoochee National Forest: An outdoor lover’s paradise for those who love hiking, camping, kayaking, and fishing.
  • Appalachian Trail: A 79-mile stretch in Georgia of the renowned Appalachian Trail, which is the longest hiking trail in the world.
  • Lake Blue Ridge: One of the best places to go fishing in East High Country. Visitors can rent boats and kayaks to explore the lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of East High Country

Hiking and biking trails are abundant in East High Country, making it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few popular routes:

  • Benton MacKaye Trail: A 300 miles long trail that passes through the Appalachian Mountains.
  • Bear Creek Trail: A moderate 3.3 miles hike that offers breathtaking views of Amicalola Falls and the surrounding forest.
  • Pinhoti Trail: A 335 miles hiking and biking trail through Georgia and Alabama, famous for its stunning scenic beauty.

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

East High Country is home to some incredible activities and tours for people of all ages. Here are some options for visitors:

  • Wine Tasting Tour: Many wineries offer guided tours and tastings in the surrounding mountains.
  • Horseback Riding Tours: Take a guided riding tour through the mountains, which is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking views.
  • Zip-lining: Many zip-lining facilities are available in East High Country, providing visitors with an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for East High Country

Here is a seven-day itinerary for visitors to explore East High Country fully:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Amicalola Falls State Park and hike the trails.
Day 2 Take the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and explore the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Day 3 Visit the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History.
Day 4 Horseback riding tour in the morning and wine tasting tour in the evening.
Day 5 Go kayaking on the North Georgia rivers
Day 6 Visit Appalachian Trail and hike through the mountains.
Day 7 Visit and explore the local shops, restaurants, and museums.

Food and Drink Scene of East High Country

East High Country is known for its Southern hospitality, and a lot of restaurants feature traditional Southern dishes. Even the drinks are a treat to savor. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to experience:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Chicken: A Southern classic that is a must-try for visitors.
  • Barbecue: East High Country boasts of some of the best barbecues in the state.
  • Biscuits and Gravy: A hearty breakfast food that makes a perfect start to the day.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: The Georgia hills provide an excellent environment for growing grapes, and there are many award-winning wineries located in the area.
  • Beer: The local breweries serve some of the finest beer in the region.

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

East High Country offers many accommodation options, catering to every type of travelers’ needs. Here are some highly recommended places to rest your head after a long day of exploring:

  • The Ridges Resort & Marina: Located on Lake Chatuge, this resort offers a relaxing retreat to visitors and offers beautiful views of the mountains.
  • The Swag: A luxury mountain retreat that offers breathtaking views and a host of activities like horseback riding, hiking, and fly-fishing.
  • ** Hiawassee Inn & Suites:** Located in Hiawassee, this budget-friendly hotel offers a comfortable stay and is ideal for families.

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

East High Country has a lot of unique shops selling everything from souvenirs to locally produced items. Here are some popular things to buy:

  • Antiques: The area is known for its antique shops that sell vintage jewelry, furniture, and pottery.
  • Honey and Jams: Many local farms sell honey and jams that are unique to the region.
  • Local Crafts: Many shops sell handmade pottery, artwork, and knick-knacks that make for excellent souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of East High Country

The region has a foundation with old-fashioned mountain culture that is usually handed down by families for generations. Hospitality is in its DNA, and even visitors are treated like family.

Best Time to Visit East High Country

The best time to visit East High Country is between September and November when the temperatures are cooler, and the foliage is at its peak. This is also the time for many outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of East High Country

Do:

  • Do visit local shops and support local businesses.
  • Do engage with locals and learn about Southern traditions.
  • Do bring appropriate gear for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or harm wildlife.
  • Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and mosquito repellent while enjoying outdoor activities.
  • Don’t ignore the customs and manners of Southern hospitality.

Safety and Health

Safety in East High Country

While East High Country is generally safe, visitors should still take precautions while hiking, camping, or engaging in outdoor activities.

Health in East High Country

Visitors should carry insect repellent, water, first aid, and other necessary things while being outdoors to avoid problems like bug bites, dehydration, and sunburns.

Getting to East High Country: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach East High Country in several ways, including:

Airports Near East High Country

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport(ATL): The busiest airport in the region, located around two hours’ drive from East High Country.
  • Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport(CHA): Located approximately an hour from the region.

Bus Stations Near East High Country

  • Atlanta Greyhound Bus Station: Buses run three times a day from Atlanta to East High Country.
  • MegaBus: Runs several trips a week from Atlanta to East High Country.

Other Options

  • Car: Visitors can drive themselves from nearby cities like Athens, Chattanooga, or Atlanta.

How to Get Around in East High Country

Visitors can get around East High Country by car, bus, or taxi. However, having a car is crucial to explore the region fully.

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

Here are some nearby destinations visitors should check out after exploring East High Country:

  • Atlanta, Georgia: A bustling metropolis known for shopping, culture, and entertainment.
  • Chattanooga, Tennessee: A charming city with stunning views and outdoor adventures nearby.
  • Smoky Mountains National Park: One of the most visited National Parks in the US, located in Tennessee and North Carolina.

Conclusion

East High Country beckons travelers who want to connect with nature, explore the rich history and culture of the area, and try some delicious Southern food and beverage. With our comprehensive guide, visitors can easily plan their perfect vacation itinerary and experience everything this beautiful region has to offer.

Map of the Historic High Country. East High Country counties are in brown Map of the Historic High Country. East High Country counties are in brown


    Commerce (Georgia)