Resort and good hiking in Northern Georgia

Question

Looking to fly into ATL and drive to northern GA area the 3rd week of October for easy to moderate hikes. Somewhere that has an area with multiple trails for 3 days hopefully near a very nice hotel or resort. Thank you in advance!

Answer

For your hiking trip to Northern Georgia in October, you're in for a treat! The region offers beautiful landscapes with a mix of moderate to easy hikes, especially in the fall when the foliage is stunning. Here are some top recommendations for resorts with nearby trails and plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities:

Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge:
Located about 1.5 hours north of Atlanta, Amicalola Falls State Park is one of Georgia’s most popular hiking destinations. The park offers easy to moderate trails, including the challenging Appalachian Approach Trail, which is perfect for those looking for a more adventurous experience. For a more relaxed hike, the base of Amicalola Falls is accessible via a short, easy trail. The Amicalola Falls Lodge offers stunning views of the falls and is a great place to stay with easy access to the park's trails. This is a great choice if you're looking for both hiking and a comfortable, scenic place to stay.
The Ridges Resort on Lake Chatuge:
Situated on the shores of Lake Chatuge in the Appalachian Mountains, The Ridges Resort offers a beautiful setting with easy access to outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, and exploring nearby national forests. There are several great hiking trails in the area, including those in the Chattahoochee National Forest. The resort offers modern amenities, with comfortable rooms and lakeside views. It’s an excellent base for exploring North Georgia’s natural beauty while also enjoying a relaxing stay by the lake.
Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa:
Located near Young Harris, GA, Brasstown Valley Resort is a luxurious resort nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. The resort offers access to multiple trails for easy and moderate hikes, including the famous Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia. The area features beautiful vistas and a variety of scenic hikes. The resort itself boasts a golf course, a spa, and excellent dining, making it a great choice for those looking for both adventure and relaxation. It's a wonderful place for a 3-day stay with a combination of outdoor activities and upscale amenities.
Lake Burton & The Georgia Mountain Resort Area:
Lake Burton is surrounded by the scenic beauty of the North Georgia mountains, and the area offers a number of easy to moderate hiking trails. There are several resorts near the lake, including The Lake Burton Lodge, that provide easy access to hiking trails and outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing. The nearby Chattahoochee National Forest is home to several trails that vary in difficulty, offering great options for hikes with amazing fall foliage views. Staying near Lake Burton gives you the chance to enjoy the outdoors while being close to comfortable resorts with excellent dining and amenities.
Blue Ridge & The Blue Ridge Mountains:
Blue Ridge, GA, is a fantastic base for hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are plenty of options for easy to moderate hikes, such as the Toccoa River Swinging Bridge Trail and the hike to the top of Fort Mountain. Blue Ridge is home to several resorts, including the luxurious Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Lodge, which offers beautiful mountain views and easy access to hiking trails. The charming town of Blue Ridge also provides plenty of shops, restaurants, and scenic views, perfect for relaxation after a day of hiking.

All of these locations offer a mix of easy to moderate hikes, excellent accommodations, and beautiful fall scenery. If you're looking for a resort-style experience with plenty of trails nearby, any of these options would provide a wonderful 3-day stay. The weather in mid-October should be ideal for hiking, with cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage to enjoy.

Enjoy your trip to Northern Georgia, and happy hiking!