From hiking trails, waterfalls and unique lodging options to canoeing and fishing, adventure is calling in Dawsonville, Georgia
DAWSONVILLE, GEORGIA—NOVEMBER 2024—Located in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains, about an hour northwest of Atlanta and two hours south of Chattanooga, Dawsonville offers visitors an array of outdoor adventure. This less-traveled area is home to mountain forests, waterfalls, hiking trails, camping and an abundance of hospitality. Here are a few ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Dawsonville.
Take a hike
Known worldwide as a hiking destination, Dawsonville is home to incredible trails, including the 8.5-mile Approach Trail that takes you to the beginning of the Appalachian Trail, which spans over 2,000 miles across 14 states and attracts over three million visitors each year. Hikers can begin at the Southern Terminus of the Appalachian Trail and access Georgia’s 78-mile section of the trail by way of the eight-mile approach trail at Amicalola Falls State Park, leading to Springer Mountain, the official start of the Appalachian Trail.
Looking for more variety? Amicalola Falls State Park also offers additional trails with varying difficulty levels. From easy to difficult, there are several trails and adventures to choose from. This mountaintop paradise also features the tallest cascading waterfall in Georgia, and the third tallest east of the Mississippi River. In addition to trails, visitors will also find camp sites, lodging and dining inside the park. Click here for more on what is offered at Amicalola Falls State Park.
For a Zen-like hike, check out the Edge of the World Trail. This riverside nature trail provides a great opportunity to get up close with nature. Visitors enjoy viewing areas, fishing areas and canoe launch areas. This trail system extends from the parking area and existing platforms downstream to Edge of the World Rapids, one of the most picturesque and challenging stretches of whitewater in the entire region. There is a 2.5-mile loop trail through the woods or a half-mile boardwalk trail. For more on the Edge of the World Trail, click here. If visiting during the weekend in spring/summer, stop in Amicalola Regional Farmers Market and pick up local treats for a picnic inside the park.
For even more ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Dawsonville, click here.
Rest and relax
Pair R and R with outdoor adventure. There’s no better place to rest and relax than a mountain getaway. Book an appointment at Salt Medspa and indulge in self-care. Providing a wide array of services for total health, wellness and rejuvenation, Salt Medspa offers everything from massages and facials to yoga classes, halotherapy and infrared saunas. Salt Medspa, 78 Dawson Village Way, Dawsonville, Georgia 30534; 678-831-7288
Treat yourself with a little retail therapy. With over 140 premium outlet shops, antiques, unique art galleries and eclectic boutiques, Dawsonville is also an unexpected shopping destination. Pick up a perfect gift at The Blue Barn or Purple Corn Boutique. Then, score major deals at North Georgia Premium Outlets or choose a piece of original art at Around Back at Rocky’s Place. The shopping options are plentiful. See a full list of shops, boutiques and markets here.
Where to stay
Glamp in style at Timberline Glamping. Offering a unique, one-of-a-kind glamping experience, Timberline Glamping is perfect for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors in a less rustic way. Guests arrive to a beautifully furnished tent with a comfortable bed, air conditioning (in the warmer months) and heating (in the cooler months). Each site comes with two hammocks, string lights, a fire pit and a charcoal grill. Spacious tents sleep up to six people, making it ideal for families. Guests love having all Amicalola State Park’s recreation at their fingertips—hiking, zip-lining, archery and of course the park’s waterfall. Glamping doesn’t get any better than this! Timberline Glamping at Amicalola Fall, 418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Road, Dawsonville, Georgia, 30534; 706-204-9245
Looking for luxury and convenience? Look no further than the Lodge at Amicalola Falls. This mountain retreat is the perfect place to escape the trappings of the technology driven world we all live in. Guests love the spectacular sights viewed from comfortable and stylish rooms, just steps away from the legendary Amicalola Falls. Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge, 418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Road, Dawsonville, Georgia, 30534; 706-265-8888
It’s all about the journey at Len Foote Hike Inn. The five-mile trek to the inn ends with a warm meal, a soft bed and a welcoming smile. Hike Inn, located at the Len Foote trail’s end, offers guests a backcountry lodge experience and a gateway to the Appalachian Trail. Guests love the sweeping mountain views and secluded location. Len Foote Hike Inn, 280 Amicalola Falls State Park Road, Dawsonville, Georgia 30534; 706-344-1547
For a more traditional lodging experience, there are several hotels and vacation rentals available in the area. See a full list of lodging options here.