Popular Instagram Spots in the North Georgia Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains are chock full of fun and adventure. From lively annual events that always draw a crowd to just about every outdoor activity imaginable, it’s not hard to see why visitors love the natural beauty and charm of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Northern Georgia is situated on the southern end of the mountain range, which boasts picturesque national parks, stunning waterfalls, hidden historic gems, and so much more.
If you’re wondering where you can snag a few pictures to make your family, friends, and followers envious—we’ve got you covered. Check out these top spots for Instagram pictures in the Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains!
Amicalola Falls
Photo Credit: Gina Carmichael
Nestled in the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest, Amicalola Falls is the highest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River. It’s no wonder this scenic spot tops our list of the most Instagram-able spots in the Georgia Blue Ridge! At over 700 feet high, the falls are truly a sight to be seen. The catch? The trek to the falls can be a bit treacherous; from the parking area, visitors must ascend 600+ steep stairs, which equates to a 0.25-mile incline. Rest assured that the hike is well worth the effort and you’ll snag several gorgeous shots of the waterfall and surrounding foliage.
*Note: Amicalola Falls is located inside the national park, which does have limited hours (9 a.m. - until, seasonally) and requires a small entrance fee ($5).
https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/amicalolafalls/?hl=en
Burt’s Pumpkin Farm
Photo Credit: Hailey Hauss
5 Burts Pumpkin Farm Rd, Dawsonville, GA 30534 | (706) 265-3701
If pumpkin spice is your favorite fall flavor, you’ll flip at the Instagram-worth backdrops available at Bert’s Pumpkin Farm. Open seasonally to the public, Bert’s Farm comes to life in the fall with fun activities for families and endless fields of bright orange pumpkins. The farm also features hayrides through the pumpkin patch and flower fields, and a full country store stocked with fall decor and sweet treats. Burt’s Pumpkin Farm is the ultimate fall destination tucked away in the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains. As noted, the farm is open seasonally from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/burtsfarm/
Mercier Orchards
Photo Credit: Zlatko Unger via Flickr CC2.0
8660 Blue Ridge Dr, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 | (706) 632-3411
Foodies seeking a secret spot for a few fun boomerang posts will love the sweet ciders and beautiful backdrops at Mercier Orchards. Situated off Blue Ridge Drive right next to the Blue Ridge Lake, it doesn’t get more mountain than this! The expansive orchard features a full tasting room and on-site cafe, an adventure course, tractor tours of the orchard and facilities, and hosts several seasonal events, like the famous Hard Cider and Craft Beer Festival. The orchard is open from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.
https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/mercierorchards/
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Photo Credit: PentaxianK70 via Flickr CC2.0
241 Depot St, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 | (877) 413-8724
Located in the charming ‘antique capital of Georgia’, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is a ‘must visit’ attraction for Instagram lovers and history buffs alike. The vintage train experience features a 4-hour hour, 26-mile round trip along the winding Toccoa River. The leisurely loop begins and ends at the historic train depot, with several scenic stops along the way. Snag a few shots on the train and enjoy the nostalgic feel of the charming venue with nearby attractions like funky antique stores, old-timey ice cream shops, and more.
https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/blueridgescenicrailway/
The Swinging Bridge over the Toccoa
Photo Credit: Jewelz Hugger
Parking lot - N 34°44.350' W084°10.213'
The Toccoa Swinging Bridge is a 270-foot swinging bridge over the Toccoa River. You can access it off of the Benton MacKaye Trail. This is the longest swinging bridge east of the Mississippi River. You can access the bridge by a short hike from either side of the Toccoa River. There are many trails that extend to and from the bridge that are sure to be a pleasant experience for a beginner hiker. For more information please visit the below link to the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce.
https://www.blueridgemountains.com/things-to-do/outdoors/hiking/swinging-bridge/
Lake Nottely
Photo credit: Gina Carmichael
Lake Nottely is a gorgeous 4,000-acre lake located in Blairsville. This quiet lake is surrounded by forests filled with hiking trails and has some of the best fishing in Georgia, especially bass. This is also a fantastic lake for swimming and boating and has impressive views from the cliffs. At the Lake Nottely Marina, you can purchase a map that will lead you to a hidden rope swing at mile marker 3, the cliffs, the public beach areas, and the Public Launch sites. Although the lake is well known by the locals, it isn't well known by visitors in our area so the lake is not overcrowded and remains a peaceful location the whole family can spread out and enjoy!
---Do you already have FOMO? Your personal Instagram feed could be full of Blue Ridge travel inspiration!
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