Not all areas in Georgia are equal when it comes to fall foliage. Here are 5 great Georgia hikes in autumn according to what I’ve seen. Peak autumn in Georgia is roughly October 25-November 10.
1. Mount Yonah
Yonah Mountain is one of the best places to hike in Georgia and is arguably the best mountain hike in the state. Especially the first quarter-mile stretch to the top in fall, the colors of the landscape are incredibly beautiful and much better than the average hike. However, it’s also a pretty popular hike at this time.
Luckily, the top is known for its massive rock face summit leaving plenty of room for anyone to hang out. This hike is a total of 4.1 miles with a 1,453ft elevation gain so it’s a bit difficult but not out of reach. Also, there are many rest spots along the way. See the video of this hike in autumn here.
2. Anna Ruby Falls
Only 12 miles away, located near the famous German Bavarian town Helen, is Anna Ruby Falls. Being in the midst of the Chattahoochee National Forest and the fact that it’s in a cove forest, this half-mile stretch to the waterfall is one of the most scenic short stretches in the state. The fall colors here are stunning with various vibrant colors and you’ll also enjoy, the leaves flowing through and covering the pristine stream.
3. Desoto Falls
Desoto Falls got its name since in the 1880s a plate of armor at the base of the falls was found and is rumored to be Hernando Desoto’s. This hike has 2 waterfalls and halfway through the hike to the much larger upper falls, there’s a stretch of some of the most pristine forest around and it looks amazing in autumn.
4. Marble Mine Trail
Believe it or not, this random trail in the northwestern tip of Georgia has my overall favorite autumn colors to date. The 2.5-mile loop leads to an abandoned marble mine operation with a trickling waterfall. But before the mine about a half mile in is the most vibrant and gorgeous fall foliage road, I’ve ever seen in my life.
5. Amicalola Falls
Last but not least is the amazing Amicalola Falls. Within the Chattahoochee National Forest, Amicalola Falls State Park boasts the Southeast’s highest cascading waterfall, plunging an impressive 729 feet down a series of rugged cliffs. During the autumn season, the park transforms into a mesmerizing canvas of vibrant colors as the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating an enchanting backdrop for hikers.
Autumn lies in its remarkable transformation. The green canopy gradually evolves into a symphony of fiery colors, offering hikers a feast for the eyes. The contrast between the rushing water of the falls and the backdrop of vibrant foliage creates a scene straight out of a postcard.
As the sunlight filters through the changing leaves, it creates a surreal ambiance, casting an ethereal glow over the entire landscape. Every step along the trail reveals a new vista, each more captivating than the last, inviting hikers to pause, absorb, and capture the beauty that surrounds them.
Apart from the falls themselves, the surrounding area is rich in biodiversity. The diverse flora of the region includes a mix of hardwood trees such as maple, oak, and hickory, all contributing to the breathtaking display of colors. The soothing sound of rustling leaves and the earthy scent of the forest further enhance the hiking experience, making it a sensory delight. It’s certainly one of the better Georgia hikes in autumn.
Final Thoughts | Georgia Hikes in Autumn
Those were 5 amazing Georgia hikes in autumn from what I’ve seen so far. But if you want to watch a video of 2 Georgia Hikes in Autumn, see that here. In case you’re interested in an amazing hike in the Great Smoky Mountains, check out Mt. LeConte here.