Last updated: October 30, 2023

I closed the book on 2022 by enjoying the views from the top of Georgia. At 4,784 feet, Georgia takes 25th place in the America’s high points by state. Located within the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests, this highpoint observation tower atop the mountain is impressive!

Getting to the Top

When we arrived, we paid the entry fee which was $7 per person and that includes a shuttle fee to and from the top. Unfortunately, there’s no way to get out of the shuttle fee, even if you don’t use it (believe me, I tried). I chose to hike up instead of take the shuttle, but it’s available if you’d prefer a ride up.

Brasstown Bald Trail

This high point was much more riveting than my recent trips to Ohio’s high point and Indiana’s high point as I was able to get my heart pumping by hiking a steep .06 mile trail that lead to the top. I like this much better than drive ups as it makes me feel as if I earned my spot when I get to the top. I was truly impressed at how pretty this hike was with the paved trail and greenery. I’m definitely out of shape so if I can do it, just about anyone can! My legs were jelly when I got the top and because I’m super weird, I was really happy about that.

The beautiful hike to the top of Georgia

There’s some informational plaques along the way.

Victory! The top of the trail (with my dad in the background who beat me. 😆)

Visitor Center and Observation Tower

Once at the top, there’s a visitor center and an 360 degree view via the observation deck. Even though the day was quite cloudy, the views were still stunning. On a clear day, one can view the skyline of Atlanta and four states (GA, TN, NC, SC)!

Additionally, I noticed a picnic area and think this would be a lovely way to enjoy lunch after hiking the steep trail to the top. BONUS: you can take your pooches as long as they’re on a leash. I didn’t take my furkids with me this time, but I liked this trip so much, I plan to go back on a clear day.

We unexpectedly passed the Georgia state welcome sign and the North Carolina welcome sign along the way which was a treat as I’m trying to get a photo with them all. It was dusk when we stopped on the way back for photos, so I’m excited to do this trip again and get some photos when it’s brighter and more clear. Also, I want to take advantage of the three other trials… there are four total:

✅ Brasstown Bald Trail: This steep, paved .06 mile trail leads from the parking lot to the Visitor Information Center on the Bald. For those who don’t want to walk, a concessionaire operates a shuttle bus from the parking area to the Visitor Information Center.
Arkaquah Foot Trail: 5.5 miles, ends at Track Rock Gap.
Jacks Knob Foot Trail: 4.5 miles leads to the Appalachian Trail.
Wagon Train Foot Trail: 5.8 miles, leads to Wagon Train Road which ends at Young Harris College.

Closest towns include: Hiawassee, Young Harris, and Blairsville. I highly recommend checking the weather at the top before going as it’s a bit colder due to the elevation than what your weather app will tell you for the nearest towns. It’s also recommended you take your camera!

So I’ve now officially been to four state high points… only 46 more to go! I’m honestly close to geeking out and becoming an official highpoint club member. 🤓🤷🏻‍♀️