A striking introduction to Towns County is Brasstown Bald: At 4,784 feet above sea level, it is Georgia’s highest mountain. From the observation deck, the view extends 360 degrees; on a clear day, you can see four states. The building at the summit houses an 8,000-square-foot museum with interactive exhibits on cultural and natural history.

Summit Views and Trails

From the parking lot, you can reach the summit either by shuttle or via the 0.5-mile Summit Trail. Because shuttle operations may change, check the details before planning your visit.

The Appalachian Trail also contributes to the area’s hiking opportunities. Several access points are in Towns County, including Unicoi Gap, Dicks Creek Gap and the access point via the Jack’s Knob Trail. The Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail is 78 miles long: It runs from Springer Mountain to Bly Gap, where the trail continues into North Carolina. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy designated Towns County an Appalachian Trail Community in 2001.

Water, Forest and Hikes

The hike to High Shoals Falls and Blue Hole Falls is 2.5 miles long and passes through the Chattahoochee National Forest. Blue Hole Falls is the first waterfall on the hike: It plunges more than 20 feet into a deep blue pool. The two falls and the trail’s length offer a helpful point of reference for anyone looking to pair a hike with a waterfall destination.

The Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens span more than 40 acres of secluded woodland. The grounds feature more than 400 rhododendron varieties and 3,000 plants in total. The easy-to-walk loops are 1 and 2 miles long; the Gardens also aim to educate the public about native species and rhododendron varieties.

Lake Chatuge was created by the Tennessee Valley Authority in 1942 and has 132 miles of shoreline. Activities at the lake include boating, swimming, water skiing, fishing and camping. The Towns County Recreational Beach offers a different kind of swimming experience: It has a white-sand beach, a buoy-marked swimming area, beach access and free parking. Because operating details may change, check them before your visit.

In Tate City, opportunities for trout fishing are available along the Tallulah River. Trails run beside the river and lead through the unspoiled landscape. At the Tallulah River, trout fishing and hikes through the unspoiled landscape offer two distinct ways to experience Tate City.

Events and History

The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee host concerts and festivals throughout the year. Event dates and programs may change, so check in advance for the dates you’re interested in. Towns County first hosted the annual Georgia Mountain Fair in 1950. The Old Rock Jail served as the county jail from 1936 through the early 1970s and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.

The summit of Bell Mountain has a history of its own: Towns County received it as a gift. On February 18, 2016, the summit was officially named Bell Mountain Park and Historical Site. The name connects the mountain’s name with the documented history of the park.

Art, Stargazing and Wine

The Campus Gate Art Gallery program includes exhibitions by nationally recognized professional artists, the annual Student Juried Art + Design Exhibition and a Senior Thesis Exhibition. The program may vary from one academic year to another. Exhibitions typically include free opening receptions for guests from the college and the local community.

The Rollins Planetarium offers public shows and educational programs beneath a 40-foot dome with 104 seats. Because the schedule changes, check showtimes before your visit. On special evenings, the Young Harris College Observatory hosts public telescope viewing, weather and sky conditions permitting; dates vary.

Crane Creek Vineyards’ Vintner’s Tour includes a winery tour, a wine tasting, a souvenir glass and a cheese and cracker plate. Tour inclusions may change, so it’s worth checking in advance.

Places in the County and More Destinations

Towns County includes the communities of Hiawassee and Young Harris.

Explore more destinations: Walton, Columbia, Union, Paulding County, Colquitt County, Upson.

Go to the main travel overview: Georgia.