Sep 1, 2023

If you’re looking for great scenic drives near Dahlonega, GA, or throughout Georgia, we have some recommendations for you. Whether you prefer relaxing coastal road trips or winding mountain escapes, the diversity of the Peach State’s landscape makes it easy to find awe-inducing views just by hopping in your car.

 

1. Georgia Mountain Parkway

Enter the Georgia Mountain Parkway at 152 Orvin Lance Dr. in Blue Ridge and be prepared to encounter some of the most tempting outdoor entertainment that the state has to offer. Plan an extended trip down the parkway, also known as State Route 515, to take advantage of seasonal festivals, hiking, and rafting on your way to Atlanta.

2. Cohutta-Chattahoochee Scenic Byway

Enter the Cohutta-Chattahoochee Scenic Byway at the Prater’s Mill Historic Site, located at 5845 GA-2. The 54-mile byway winds through the pastoral lands of northwest Georgia on GA-2 and offers gorgeous Cohutta Mountain vistas along U.S. 41 before heading into the Chattahoochee National Forest. Follow the byway to the end for breathtaking views from a mountain overlook.

3. Highway 197

Head to Clarkesville to find the entrance to Highway 197, which will take you north toward Moccasin Creek State Park. On your way there, stop to explore pottery shops near historic Batesville or have a meal on the shores of Lake Burton. Load your gear into your Ford Bronco Sport before you head out and stop by LaPrade’s Marina to rent a boat and spend a relaxing day on the water.

4. Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway

If you’re near Blairsville, hop onto Hwy 17 to traverse the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway, a 40.6-mile stretch that winds through the Chattahoochee National Forest. Stop to hike along the Appalachian Trail, experience breathtaking views from Brasstop Bald, or simply admire the lush mountain landscape from the comfort of your car.

5. Dahlonega, GA Lumpkin-Union Loop

If you prefer to stay closer to town, the Dahlonega Lumpkin-Union Loop offers stunning Appalachian views nearby. The loop is one of the town’s best-kept secrets, which is why you might not be able to pull it up on your GPS — but finding it is simple enough. According to the visitors bureau, the loop starts at Hwy 19 and continues on to Hwy 129, SR 180, and eventually Hwy 60, taking visitors past several eye-catching waterfalls along the route.

Whether you want to explore the best of what Georgia’s small towns have to offer or be surrounded by the state’s stunning natural beauty, there’s bound to be something for you on the five drives above. When you’ve decided on your next adventure, stop by Chestatee Ford and our team of experts will help you find the perfect car for wherever your journey takes you.