Explore Brasstown Bald: The Highest Point in Georgia

If you’re looking for breathtaking views, cooler mountain air, and one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the Southeast, Brasstown Bald should be at the top of your Georgia bucket list.

Located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Brasstown Bald is the highest point in Georgia, sitting at 4,784 feet above sea level. From the summit, visitors are treated to 360-degree panoramic views stretching across four states—Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina—on a clear day.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, hiker, road tripper, or history buff, Brasstown Bald offers a memorable experience for every kind of traveler.

Why Visit Brasstown Bald?

🏔️ Georgia’s Highest Peak

Brasstown Bald isn’t just a pretty place—it’s a geographic marvel. It offers unmatched mountain vistas and is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring North Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains.

🚶♂️ Family-Friendly Hiking

The main trail to the summit is 0.6 miles one-way (1.2 miles round trip), paved and moderately steep. It’s manageable for most visitors, and there’s a shuttle service available for a small fee if you'd prefer to ride.

🌄 Scenic Views Year-Round

• Spring: Wildflowers and fresh greenery

• Summer: Clear skies and pleasant mountain temps

• Fall: Vibrant foliage makes it one of the best leaf-peeping spots in Georgia

• Winter: On rare snowy days, it transforms into a magical winter overlook

🏛️ Educational Visitor Center

At the top, the Brasstown Bald Visitor Center features exhibits on mountain ecology, local history, and the Cherokee Nation who once called this land home. There's also a mountain-top observation deck with telescopes for closer looks at the surrounding landscape.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Location: 2941 Hwy 180 Spur, Hiawassee, GA 30546

• Hours: Typically open April through December (weather permitting). Check the US Forest Service website for seasonal updates.

• Entrance Fee: $7 per person (includes shuttle ride if available)

• Dogs: Allowed on the trail, but not in buildings or on the shuttle

Things to Do Near Brasstown Bald

Brasstown Bald makes a great basecamp for exploring more of North Georgia:

• Vogel State Park – Just 11 miles away, it offers camping, fishing, and scenic lake views.

• Helton Creek Falls – A short drive and short hike to a stunning double waterfall.

• Hiawassee & Lake Chatuge – Perfect for dining, boating, and relaxing lakeside.

• Hiking Trails – Access the Arkaquah Trail, a challenging 5.5-mile route from Brasstown Bald down to Track Rock Gap.

Tips for Visiting Brasstown Bald

• Arrive early, especially in the fall—parking fills up fast.

• Bring water and a light jacket—temperatures are often 10–20 degrees cooler than in the valley.

• Check visibility—Fog and haze can limit views, so choose a clear day for the best experience.

• Bring a camera—The views are picture-perfect, especially at sunrise and sunset.