Brasstown Bald
Georgia's highest peak, offering stunning 360° views of 4 states, hiking, and a visitor center.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Brasstown Bald
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Georgia's highest peak, offering stunning 360° views of 4 states, hiking, and a visitor center.
"The views are spectacular and you will see 3 states as you walk around the top."
Check the Weather First! :cloud:
Visibility is key for those epic 4-state views. Don't climb if it's foggy or cloudy!
Steep Hike, Worth It! :athletic_shoe:
The 0.6-mile trail is steep but paved. Consider the shuttle if needed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic 4-State View
Observation Tower
Gaze across Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee from the highest point in Georgia.
Sunrise or Sunset Spectacle
Observation Tower
Witness breathtaking sunrises or sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the mountains.
Visitor Center Exhibits
Visitor Center
Learn about the mountain's history, ecology, and the Cherokee people through engaging displays.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Getting to the Summit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check the Weather First! :cloud:
Visibility is key for those epic 4-state views. Don't climb if it's foggy or cloudy!
Steep Hike, Worth It! :athletic_shoe:
The 0.6-mile trail is steep but paved. Consider the shuttle if needed. 
Go Early for Sunrise :sunrise:
Sunrise views are out of this world! Bring a flashlight for the steep walk up.
Fall Foliage Peak :maple_leaf:
Mid-October to early November offers stunning colors. Check local foliage reports.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check the Weather First! :cloud:
Visibility is key for those epic 4-state views. Don't climb if it's foggy or cloudy!
Steep Hike, Worth It! :athletic_shoe:
The 0.6-mile trail is steep but paved. Consider the shuttle if needed.
Go Early for Sunrise :sunrise:
Sunrise views are out of this world! Bring a flashlight for the steep walk up.
Fall Foliage Peak :maple_leaf:
Mid-October to early November offers stunning colors. Check local foliage reports.
Shuttle Service Available :bus:
Skip the steep walk and take the shuttle to the summit for easy access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Brasstown Bald for its breathtaking 360-degree views, which can extend across four states on clear days. The accessibility via a steep paved trail or a convenient shuttle, along with the informative visitor center, makes it a worthwhile half-day excursion for many. While the views are the main draw, some find the admission fee a bit high for the duration of the visit.
"This is such a great 1/2 day place to visit. You can either hike up from the parking lot (less than a mile but pretty steep) or take the shuttle bus which runs continuously. The views are spectacular and you will see 3 states as you walk around the top. The visitors center has a video loop about the mountain and a museum to see artifacts about the local area. Cost was $8 per adult. Definitely worth it!"
Susu Pitkin
"We had an awesome time here! I feel like Brasstown Bald needs to be more well-known, so more Families can enjoy this amazing place.
When we came for our visit, it was Smokey's Birthday! We purchased tram tickets, and rode up to Georgia's highest elevation. When we got up to the top, we went up to the observation deck.
It was so neat seeing different views and states! We went back down got Smokey Bear baggies and Birthday cake!
Before, we left we took pics with Smokey!"
Traci Watford
"Stunning mountain views! We took the shuttle van to the top and walked back down. Nice shuttle van and great staff. The walking path is beautiful and well maintained."
Joseph Pino
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Brasstown Bald is located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. The closest towns are Hiawassee and Helen, Georgia. It's about a 2-hour drive from Atlanta. You can use GPS coordinates or search for 'Brasstown Bald Visitor Center' for directions.
From Atlanta, take I-575 North to US-515 North, which becomes US-19/US-129 North. Continue on US-19/US-129 North towards Blairsville. Turn right onto GA-180 East towards Brasstown Bald. Follow signs to the summit.
No, Brasstown Bald is not accessible by public transport. A car is necessary to reach the location.
Brasstown Bald is approximately a 2-hour drive from Atlanta, making it a popular day trip destination.
While Brasstown Bald is part of the Appalachian Mountains, direct hiking access from the main Appalachian Trail to the summit is limited. The primary access is via the paved trail from the visitor center parking lot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is typically around $8 per person, which often includes access to the visitor center and shuttle service. It's always a good idea to check the official website for the most current pricing.
Brasstown Bald is generally open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, hours can vary seasonally, so it's recommended to check their official website or call ahead.
Advance booking is usually not required for general admission. Tickets can typically be purchased upon arrival at the visitor center.
The shuttle service to the summit is usually included in the admission fee, making it a convenient way to reach the top without the steep hike.
Information on discounts is not widely available. It's best to inquire directly with the visitor center or check their official website for any potential group or senior discounts.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike from the parking lot to the summit is a 0.6-mile paved trail that is quite steep. It's a good workout, but many visitors opt for the shuttle.
The steep, paved hike to the summit typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on your fitness level.
From the observation tower, you can enjoy spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and up to four states: Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
While the main access to the summit is the paved trail, the surrounding area offers other hiking opportunities. The Arkaquah Trail and Jacks Knob Trail are nearby options for more extensive hiking.
Absolutely! Brasstown Bald is a photographer's dream, especially during sunrise, sunset, and fall foliage season. The panoramic views and changing light offer incredible opportunities.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for stunning photographs. Golden hour light bathes the mountains in a warm glow.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive panoramas. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset. Don't forget extra batteries!
The observation tower provides the primary 360-degree viewpoint. For different perspectives, explore the paved path leading up to the tower and the surrounding visitor center area.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national forests and parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check with the U.S. Forest Service for specific regulations.
Fall offers vibrant foliage, while spring and summer provide lush green landscapes. Winter can offer clear, crisp views if the weather is cooperative.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the fall for a colorful spectacle that kids will love. The drive itself is scenic, and the payoff at the top is immense. Make it a full day trip by combining it with other nearby attractions in North Georgia. Remember to check the hours of operation and admission fees before your visit.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive panoramas and a tripod for low-light shooting. Be prepared for the steep walk up if you're aiming for sunrise or sunset, and consider bringing a headlamp or flashlight. The visitor center also offers interesting subjects for cultural and historical photography.
⛰️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
The summit itself offers a unique ecological experience due to its high elevation and climate. Nature lovers will appreciate the distinct plant life and the chance to observe the mountain ecosystem. Even the paved trail to the summit offers a pleasant walk with rewarding views, making it accessible for those who enjoy a moderate outdoor activity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Brasstown Bald's Views
+1The experience of seeing multiple states from a single vantage point is often described as awe-inspiring. Many visitors highlight the clarity of the views on good weather days, noting that the ability to see so far is a unique and memorable aspect of their visit. The observation tower itself is a key feature, providing an elevated platform that maximizes the visual spectacle. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the vastness of the mountain landscape and the interconnectedness of the region.
Beyond the immediate views, the summit area also offers insights into the local environment. The cooler, wetter climate at this elevation supports a unique biodiversity, with rare plants and habitats found nowhere else in Georgia. This ecological significance adds another layer of appreciation for the natural wonder that is Brasstown Bald.
Navigating the Ascent: Hike vs. Shuttle
For those seeking a more accessible or quicker route, the shuttle service is an excellent alternative. This service runs continuously from the parking area to the summit, providing a comfortable and efficient way to ascend. Many visitors appreciate the shuttle for its convenience, especially those with young children, mobility issues, or who simply prefer to save their energy for enjoying the views at the top. The shuttle staff are often noted for being friendly and helpful.
+1Regardless of the chosen method, the journey to the summit is an integral part of the Brasstown Bald experience. Whether you embrace the challenge of the steep hike or opt for the ease of the shuttle, the ultimate reward is the spectacular panoramic view that awaits at Georgia's highest point.
Brasstown Bald in Fall: A Spectacle of Color
+1Visiting during the fall foliage season offers a unique perspective on the Appalachian Mountains. The higher elevation of Brasstown Bald means that the leaves often change color earlier than in lower-lying areas, providing an extended viewing window. The panoramic views from the summit are particularly striking when framed by the rich hues of autumn, creating unforgettable photographic opportunities.
+1Due to its popularity during this time, it's advisable to plan your visit accordingly. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, and arriving early in the morning can help you beat some of the rush. The crisp autumn air and the dazzling colors make Brasstown Bald a must-visit for anyone seeking to experience the beauty of Georgia in the fall.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit