When is Peak Fall Foliage in North Georgia?

• Dry Summer conditions = Earlier than average color change and slower drop.
• Normal Summer conditions = Mid October - Mid November slow gradual change and  drop.
• Wet Summer conditions = Later than average color change and quicker drop.

The summer of 2013 brought above average rain fall for the North Georgia mountains. Each year, the Georgia Dept. of Natural Resources posts “Leaf Watch” to keep visitors informed on the fall color season. Below is one of the recent posts…

"Even though it's mid-October, most trees (including maples and hickories) are still green, with some color here and there. Even sumac is still green. This summer's rain is causing some leaves to drop early, especially yellow poplars. However, sourwoods and dogwoods are turning red and sweetgum are turning purple. We expect the best fall color to come in a few weeks since peak is usually around the end of October or early November."

To experience fall weather at its best, families from all around the Southeastern United States from Atlanta to Tampa and Charleston to New Orleans set their sights on the North Georgia Mountains., We know everyone loves the smell of a campfire and the sound of leaves crunching under your feet because it’s one of the busiest seasons for our cabin rentals. Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals offers numerous vacation homes with outdoor fire places and access to hiking trails near waterfalls.

Don't miss the Peak, book mid week. This years late fall foliage is an advantage to for the value shopping vacationer and people with flexible schedules! An early through mid November peak means better availability for prime Blue Ridge Cabin Rentals and less crowds! Check out the "Fill in the Gap" cabin rental special offered by Southern Comfort!

To make the most of your trip to the North Georgia Mountains to “leaf peep,” Team SoCo has compiled some driving routes to consider and tips to help you make the most up to date info for peak leaf season, festivals and attractions.

Best Scenic Drives in North Georgia

• Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway
• Ridge and Valley Scenic Byway
• U.S. Highway 76 from Ellijay to all points east to the state line and South Carolina
• Georgia Highway 60 between Dahlonega and Blue Ridge
• Georgia Highway 52 between Chatsworth and Ellijay
• Georgia Highway 129 between Cleveland and Blairsville
• Georgia Highway 75 between Cleveland and Hiawassee
• Georgia Highway 197 from Clarkesville to U.S. Highway 76
• U.S. Highway 441 from the Baldwin and Cornelia area north to the state line with North Carolina

As you travel it’s common to stumble upon numerous attractions such as; family farms open to the public, all types of mazes and pumpkin patches scattered throughout the North Georgia Mountains. Here are a few of the most popular.

Best Sight Seeing IN North Georgia

• Mercer Orchard in Blue Ridge, GA
• Amicalola Falls State Park
• Brasstown Bald
• Chestatee Wildlife Preserve in Dahlonega
• Wildlife Rehab Sanctuary in Ellijay
• Burt’s Pumpkin Farm and Hay Rides
• Hillcrest Orchards Petting Farm, Bakery and Farm Store
• Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

The weather can fluctuate quickly this time of year in the North Georgia Mountains and with all the outdoor opportunities you always want to be prepared to take advantage.

Best Items to bring for fall  Adventure in the North Georgia

• Walking stick
• A fleece sweater and wind breaker
• A hat and gloves
• Good walking or hiking shoes
• Water bottle
• Light backpack
• Camera and/ or binoculars
• Fishing poll

peak leaf viewing in the North Georgia Mountains is happening now, so don’t hesitate, pack your bags and make it a day trip, weekend getaway or take midweek break and head for the hills!

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