Any Happy Hours on island

Question

Coming in Jan, just wondering haven't seen any on the menues.

Answer

That sounds like a great trip! The drive from Helen to Asheville offers some beautiful scenic views, and there are plenty of charming towns and places to explore along the way. Since you're looking for a more peaceful, less crowded leaf viewing experience, I'll recommend a few routes and stops that should give you the perfect mix of scenic beauty and quiet charm.

### Scenic Drive Overview

The drive from Helen to Asheville can take several different routes, but one of the most scenic is along U.S. Highway 23 and Highway 441. This route takes you through some of the most picturesque areas of the Georgia and North Carolina mountains, passing through small towns, winding roads, and colorful foliage during the fall. The drive usually takes about 3-4 hours, depending on stops, and offers plenty of opportunities for scenic views and peaceful stops.

### Suggested Route and Stops

Helen to Clayton: After you leave Helen, you can take U.S. 76 West towards Clayton, a small town in Georgia’s northeastern corner. Clayton is known for its quaint downtown area and proximity to the Chattahoochee National Forest, which offers fantastic opportunities for scenic drives and leaf viewing. You might want to stop at Black Rock Mountain State Park for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It's one of Georgia's highest points, and the fall colors here are often stunning.
Clayton to Highlands, NC: From Clayton, head north on U.S. 441 to Highlands, a beautiful mountain town in North Carolina. Highlands is less crowded than the more well-known towns in the area and offers several hiking opportunities, including Glen Falls and Dry Falls. The drive to Highlands itself is beautiful, with plenty of scenic overlooks and wooded areas that offer a peaceful atmosphere for leaf viewing. Highlands also has a charming downtown with boutiques and cafes for a relaxing stop.
Highlands to Cashiers: If you’re looking for more quiet and scenic places, consider driving over to Cashiers, a small town just south of Highlands. This area is filled with scenic mountain views and fall foliage, and it’s less touristy, which means fewer crowds. The Nantahala National Forest has plenty of hiking trails, or you can take a relaxing drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway toward the border with North Carolina.
Asheville: After stopping in Clayton, Highlands, and/or Cashiers, you can head up toward Asheville, taking the Blue Ridge Parkway if you're looking for some of the best views in the area. While Asheville itself can be busier, especially in the fall, the surrounding area offers plenty of quieter, less crowded spots for leaf viewing. The Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville is often less crowded during the weekdays, especially in more remote areas like Craggy Gardens and Mount Pisgah.

### Clayton as a Base for the Night

If you decide to stay in Clayton, there are some great options for accommodations, and it’s a good central spot for exploring the nearby mountains. You can choose from cozy mountain cabins, charming bed and breakfasts, or hotels. Clayton itself is a quiet, charming town with good restaurants and shops to explore. It’s also a good base for exploring nearby natural attractions, such as Tallulah Gorge State Park, where you can take short hikes and enjoy the waterfalls, or Lake Burton for a more relaxing experience.

### Other Considerations

Fall Foliage Peak Times: The peak time for fall colors in the Georgia and North Carolina mountains is typically mid-to-late October. If you’re hoping to catch the best colors, try to time your visit for the second or third week of October. However, timing can vary depending on elevation and weather conditions.
Avoiding Crowds: To avoid the heaviest crowds, try to plan your driving and sightseeing for early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Popular tourist towns like Highlands and Asheville can get crowded on weekends in October, especially around the time of Oktoberfest events, so it’s best to visit during quieter times of the day.
Driving Tips: The mountain roads can be winding and steep, especially near places like Black Rock Mountain and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Be prepared for slower driving, especially if you stop to take photos or explore the area.

With your plans to stop in Helen for Oktoberfest, enjoy the fun there, then drive north through beautiful, quieter mountain towns like Clayton, Highlands, and Cashiers before making your way to Asheville. You’ll find plenty of peaceful spots to experience the beauty of fall foliage without the crowds, making for a relaxing and scenic road trip.

Enjoy your trip, and happy leaf viewing!

Any Happy Hours on island

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