Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway (GA 348): A North Georgia Mountain Drive for Atlanta Day-Trippers

The Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway (GA 348) is one of the most dramatic mountain drives within easy reach of Atlanta. Winding through the Chattahoochee National Forest between Helen and Blairsville, it delivers sweeping overlooks, cool forest shade, and quick access to waterfalls and hiking trails—all in a single day trip.

If you live in Atlanta or you’re visiting the city and want a classic North Georgia scenic drive, this route is one of the best ways to trade traffic for mountain views.

Where the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway Is—and Why It Matters to Atlantans

The Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway is a roughly 14-mile stretch of Georgia State Route 348 in the North Georgia mountains. It runs between:

• GA 75 (near Helen and Unicoi Gap) on the east, and
• GA 180 (near Vogel State Park and Blairsville) on the west.

For most people in Atlanta, that means:

• Driving time from intown Atlanta: about 1.75–2.5 hours each way, depending on traffic and your exact starting point.
• General route from Atlanta:
  • Take I‑85 North or GA 400 North, then
  • Connect to US‑19/129 or GA‑365/US‑23, and
  • Head toward Helen or Blairsville as your entry point.

It’s close enough for:

• A true day trip from Atlanta
• A scenic detour on the way to Helen, Dahlonega, Blairsville, or Hiawassee
• A half-day escape if you’re already staying in North Georgia

What This Scenic Highway Is Known For

From an Atlanta perspective, the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway is popular because it offers:

• Sweeping mountain vistas at easily accessible overlooks
• Quick access to Brasstown Bald (Georgia’s highest point)
• Short drives to Dukes Creek Falls, Raven Cliff Falls, and other hikes
• A cooler temperature than the city, especially in summer
• Classic fall color viewing without leaving the state

You’re not just driving through pretty scenery—you’re driving along a ridgeline in sections, with twisting pavement and big views of the Appalachian Mountains.

Getting There from Atlanta: Common Routes

Here’s a simple, high-level look at how Atlantans usually approach the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway:

You can start the scenic drive from either end:

• Eastern approach (via Helen / GA 75):
  Good if you want to stop in Helen, hike Dukes Creek Falls or Raven Cliff Falls, or combine with Unicoi State Park.

• Western approach (via Vogel State Park / GA 180):
  Ideal if you’re visiting Vogel State Park, Brasstown Bald, or staying near Blairsville.

Highlights Along the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway

1. Overlooks and Pull-Offs

There are several designated overlooks and paved pull-offs along GA 348. They’re not always heavily signed from a distance, so stay alert for:

• Roadside pull-outs with stone or wooden barriers
• Small parking areas with open views to the south or north
• Short paths from the parking pad to a viewing area

Common experiences travelers report:

• Wide views of layered blue ridges, especially on clear days
• Excellent sunset color (but be careful driving back in the dark on curvy roads)
• Fall foliage panoramas in late October or early November, depending on conditions

If you’re leaving from Atlanta and want maximum views, many people prefer to:

• Start earlier in the day, drive up while it’s bright,
• Time one of the main overlooks for late afternoon golden light.

2. Brasstown Bald: Side Trip from the Scenic Highway

Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest peak, is not physically on GA 348 but is easily combined with this drive.

From the western end near GA 180, you can:

• Follow GA 180 east a short distance to connect to the Brasstown Bald access road.
• Park at the Brasstown Bald Visitor Center parking area (fee typically required).
• Take a short but steep paved hike to the summit observation deck, or use the shuttle service when it’s operating.

For someone driving up from Atlanta, Brasstown Bald plus the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway creates a full mountain day without needing an overnight stay.

3. Waterfalls and Hiking Near GA 348

You won’t find long visitor-center-style facilities right on the highway, but the surrounding area is packed with trails, most within a short drive.

Popular hikes often paired with this scenic drive include:

• Dukes Creek Falls Trail

  • Trailhead on GA 348 (Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway) near the eastern side.
  • Well-known, relatively moderate trail to an impressive multi-tiered waterfall.
  • Good option if you want a solid reward without a full-day hike.

• Raven Cliff Falls Trail

  • Accessed off GA 348, closer to the Helen side.
  • Follows a creek through a mossy, shaded valley to a dramatic waterfall emerging from a rock cleft.
  • Often popular on weekends; parking can get tight.

• DeSoto Falls (a bit farther away, off US‑19/129 near Neels Gap)

  • Can be combined with the scenic drive if you’re looping back toward Dahlonega or Gainesville.

For Atlanta drivers, a practical approach is:

• Drive up from Atlanta in the morning
• Hike one waterfall trail mid-day
• Then drive the full length of the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway as your “scenic finish”

Best Time of Year to Drive from Atlanta

Spring (March–May)

• Pros: Fresh green foliage, wildflowers, cooler temps than Atlanta
• Cons: Early spring can still be chilly at elevation; occasional storms
• Good for: Avoiding peak leaf-season crowds while still getting strong views

Summer (June–August)

• Pros: Typically 10–15 degrees cooler than Atlanta; lush greenery; good for combining with creek hikes
• Cons: Midday haze can slightly dull long-distance views; afternoon storms possible
• Good for: Escaping the city heat, especially if you bring picnic supplies and plan to stop frequently

Fall (Late September–Early November)

• Pros: Fall foliage, crisp air, clearer views on many days
• Cons: Can be very busy on weekends; slower driving times; more limited parking at popular trailheads
• Good for: Classic North Georgia leaf-looking from Atlanta without crossing state lines

Winter (December–February)

• Pros: Wide open views with no leaves on trees; less crowded
• Cons: Occasional ice/snow at higher elevations; short daylight; some services in nearby towns on reduced hours
• Good for: Experienced drivers comfortable with mountain winter conditions checking forecasts carefully

Driving Conditions and Safety Tips for Atlanta Drivers

Although this is a state highway, it feels very different from I‑75 or Peachtree Street. Expect:

• Curvy, steep mountain roads with frequent elevation changes
• No large shoulders in some stretches
• Limited or no lighting after dark
• Wildlife crossings (deer, small animals) especially at dawn and dusk

Tips if you’re coming from Atlanta’s more urban driving environment:

• 🚗 Check your brakes and fuel before you leave the metro area. There are gas stations in Helen, Blairsville, and Cleveland, but not directly on GA 348.
• 🕐 Avoid rushing. Plan your day so you’re not trying to speed through curves to “beat traffic” back to Atlanta.
• 🌫 Watch for fog. Mountain fog can roll in quickly; use low beams, slow down, and allow extra space.
• 🌙 Consider daylight. In fall and winter, it’s easy to end up driving back to Atlanta in the dark if you start late. Plan your return carefully.

Facilities, Restrooms, and Food Access

You won’t find big rest areas or extensive services right on the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway. Plan to use facilities in nearby towns and state parks.

Common stops for Atlantans:

• Helen, GA

  • Restaurants, public restrooms, convenience stores, gas stations
  • Good “base” if you prefer a tourist town feel, tubing in season, and easy access to GA 348 and nearby trails.

• Cleveland, GA

  • On the route many Atlanta drivers take via US‑129 and GA‑75.
  • Gas, groceries, and quick food before heading into the mountains.

• Blairsville, GA

  • Full-service small town with food, fuel, and lodging.
  • Convenient if you’re linking the scenic highway with Vogel State Park or further explorations near Lake Nottely.

• Vogel State Park (off GA 180, western side)

  • Offers restrooms, picnic areas, and a small lake.
  • Good spot to stop before or after you drive GA 348.

For a day trip from Atlanta, many people:

1. Get an early start,
2. Stop in Cleveland or Helen for a bathroom break and snacks,
3. Drive GA 348 with a hike or two mixed in, and
4. Grab a late lunch or early dinner in Helen or Blairsville before heading back.

Parking, Passes, and Fees

On the scenic highway itself, many of the overlook pull-offs are simple roadside areas without separate fees. However:

• Some trailheads (such as Dukes Creek Falls) may have a parking fee or pass requirement.
• Brasstown Bald typically requires a separate parking or access fee at the visitor area.
• State parks like Vogel have their own daily parking fee or park pass, which applies per vehicle.

From Atlanta, it can be helpful to:

• Bring cash or a bank card for self-pay envelopes or kiosks.
• Check Georgia State Parks and Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest information in advance for any current pass requirements.

Weather and Road Information Resources for Atlanta Travelers

Before leaving Atlanta, it’s wise to check mountain conditions—especially in winter, early spring, or on days with strong storms in the forecast.

Useful starting points:

• Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT)

  • General road conditions, closures, and travel advisories across state routes and highways.

• Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest offices

  • For questions about trail conditions, closures, or maintenance near GA 348, Brasstown Bald, and nearby trailheads.
  • The Chattooga River Ranger District (based in Lakemont, GA) and Blue Ridge Ranger District (in Blairsville, GA) are often associated with recreation areas around the scenic highway.

You can also contact Georgia State Parks offices if you plan to visit Vogel State Park or connect your scenic drive with other park stops.

Suggested Itineraries from Atlanta

1. Classic Day Trip Loop: Helen + Scenic Highway

Best for: First-time visitors, families, casual hikers

1. Leave Atlanta around 8:00 a.m.
2. Drive to Helen (via GA 400 / GA‑365 / GA 75).
3. Early snack or coffee in Helen, then head to Dukes Creek Falls trailhead on GA 348.
4. Hike Dukes Creek Falls (allow around 2–3 hours with stops).
5. Continue the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway westbound, stopping at overlooks.
6. Either:
   • Loop back via Vogel State Park and US‑19/129 toward Dahlonega, then Atlanta, or
   • Return to Helen for a late lunch and drive back the same way you came.

2. Scenic and Summit: Brasstown Bald + GA 348

Best for: View-focused travelers, photographers, couples

1. Leave Atlanta by 7:00–7:30 a.m.
2. Drive toward Blairsville via US‑19/129 or GA 400 → Dahlonega → US‑19.
3. Stop at or near Vogel State Park for a short break.
4. Drive up Brasstown Bald access road, visit the summit area.
5. Return to GA 180, connect to the western end of GA 348, and drive the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway eastbound.
6. Exit near Helen, get a meal, then return to Atlanta via Cleveland / GA‑365 / I‑85 or GA 400.

3. Quick Mountain Escape: Half-Day from North Metro Atlanta

Best for: Northside residents who don’t want a long day

1. Start from Alpharetta, Cumming, or Sandy Springs late morning via GA 400 N.
2. Aim directly for Helen or Cleveland, then connect to GA 348.
3. Drive the scenic highway end-to-end with frequent overlook stops.
4. Optional: Do a short waterfall hike if time allows.
5. Eat an early dinner in Helen and head back to Atlanta before dark.

What to Pack When Leaving Atlanta

For Atlanta-based travelers, a few simple additions can make the day smoother:

• Layers of clothing: It can be noticeably cooler at elevation than in the city.
• Water and snacks: Especially if you’re hiking or traveling with kids.
• Printed or offline maps: Cell service can be spotty along parts of GA 348 and nearby trails.
• Full tank of gas: Fill up before you head into the mountains.
• Basic first aid kit and a flashlight: Helpful if a hike runs longer than expected.

Exploring the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway (GA 348) from Atlanta is one of the easiest ways to experience true mountain scenery without leaving Georgia. With thoughtful planning around timing, weather, and stops, you can turn a simple day trip into a memorable escape from the city’s pace.