Basics
- Length:
- 40.64 miles (65 km)
- Time:
- Three hours to enjoy the Byway.
- Fees:
- No fees are required to drive the Byway.
Description
The Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway climbs over the top of Georgia's tallest mountain and peers out over rolling hills and rich green forests. Sprays from numerous waterfalls spritz hikers as they walk along the trails. And tucked between the mountains, an enchanting Bavarian village shies away from the eyes of the world.
The Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway has so many trails to choose from that weekend hikers could come here for years and never walk the same path twice! The Byway forms a loop, following Alternate Route 75 as well as Routes 180 and 348 in the state of Georgia.
The 1600-acre Tray Mountain Wilderness calls out to the adventurous at heart with a dare to live off the land. Hiking and camping amid the cool and beautiful surroundings of tumbling waterfalls and a blanket of wildflowers makes for a great getaway.
Tourism Resources
Helpful Links
Tourism Resources
Points of Interest
Points of Interest Along The Way
Andrews Cove (GA)
Andrews Cove Recreation Area, off State Route 17/75, offers visitors relaxing camping, fishing, and hiking opportunities. Picnic tables, grills, and tent pads are provided at the 11 camp sites situated along Andrews Creek. Trout fishing enthusiasts can put their skills to the test in the creek's cool waters. The 2-mile Andrews Cove Trail, running parallel to the creek, follows an old logging road and connects to the Appalachian Trail.
Directions
Located on SR 17/75, 4.6 miles from the start of the byway.
Anna Ruby Falls Scenic Area (GA)
Flowing down Tray Mountain, Curtis and York Creeks come together dramatically at Anna Ruby Falls. The twin waterfalls are a memorable sight with Curtis Creek dropping over 150 feet and York Creek falling 50 feet to form Smith Creek. The falls are the highlight of this 1,600 acre Scenic Area though visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, picnic facilities, and the visitor center.
Directions
Take SR-75 north from Helen for 1 mile. Turn right on SR-356 for 1.5 miles, then left at the sign to Anna Ruby Falls. Follow this road for 3.6 miles to the parking area.
Appalachian National Scenic Trail (GA)
Stretching over 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine, theAppalachian Trail is one of the ultimate hiking opportunities anddestinations in the United States. The AT's nearly 80-mile journeythrough Georgia takes it across the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Bywayat Hogpen Gap (SR 348) and Unicoi Gap (SR 17/75). This famous trailtravels through dense forests while it runs atop numerous mountainridges, often providing beautiful vistas. Parking and interpretivefacilities are provided at both Byway crossings.
Directions
The trail crosses the byway at Hogpen Gap (SR 348) and Unicoi Gap (SR 17/75).
Brasstown Bald (GA)
Following State Route 180 Spur up its steep and curving terrain, visitors reach Brasstown Bald. Rising 4,784 feet above sea level, Brasstown Bald is Georgia's tallest mountain. The main attraction at the mountain top is the scenery. An observation deck allows a spectacular 360-degree view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and fertile valleys of North Georgia and neighboring states.
Directions
Brasstown Bald is just south of Hiawassee, off of SR 180.
Chattahoochee River Campground (GA)
Travelers seeking a true mountain getaway should seek out the Chattahoochee River Campground. This site is surrounded by the Chattahoochee Wildlife Management Area and Mark Trail Wilderness. Recreational activities abound in the dense mountain forest. 34 camp sites with grills, picnic tables, and tent pads are provided. Hikers can venture off to the nearby Appalachian Trail or seek out the 70-foot drop of Horse Trough Falls. Several cool mountain streams allow for excellent trout fishing opportunities.
Directions
Located 9 miles off the route on SR 75 Alternate.
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest (GA)
Tour this forest in the fall for foliage or bring the family for a camping trip during the summer months.
Dukes Creek Falls (GA)
Dropping 250 feet down a steep granite canyon, Dukes Creek Falls is a memorable stop for Byway travelers. Following the one-mile trail from the parking area into Dukes Creek Gorge brings visitors to the base of the falls.
Directions
Located 12 miles along SR 348.
Helen (GA)
Drawing over four million visitors annually to the area, the Bavarian themed town of Helen is located within 2 miles from the intersection of State Route 75 Alternate and State Route 17/75. This popular destination is known throughout the region for its unique architecture and shopping opportunities. Tubing down the Chattahoochee River is also a popular summertime activity.
Directions
Located at the beginning and end of the byway.
High Shoals Creek Falls Scenic Area (GA)
ForestService Road 283 leads visitors through the Swallow Creek WildlifeManagement Area to the High Shoals Creek Falls Scenic Area. The twowaterfalls on High Shoals Creek are the highlight of this 170 acresite. A 1.2 mile trail takes visitors from FS 283 down to thefalls.
Directions
Located 9.6 miles along SR 17/75.
Raven Cliff Falls and Wilderness Area (GA)
Cascading a total of 100 feet down Dodd Creek, Raven Cliff Falls is a series of three beautiful waterfalls. The middle section flows through a split in a solid rock outcroping. Other waterfalls are found on the creek with the largest having a drop of 70 feet. The surrounding Wilderness Area, measuring over 9,100 acres, is Federally protected land designed to preserve the wilderness character of the region.
Directions
Located 11 miles along SR 348.
