Pine Mountain Scenic Drive at F.D. Roosevelt State Park: A Peaceful Escape from Atlanta

If you’re in Atlanta and craving mountain views without a long road trip, the Pine Mountain Scenic Drive at F.D. Roosevelt State Park in west Georgia is one of the most accessible, rewarding options. It’s close enough for a day trip, but scenic enough to feel like a true getaway.

Below is a clear guide to what the drive is like, how to get there from Atlanta, and how to make the most of your visit.

Where Pine Mountain Scenic Drive Is and How to Get There from Atlanta

Location:
F.D. Roosevelt State Park
2970 Georgia Highway 190
Pine Mountain, GA 31822
Park Office: (706) 663-4858

The Pine Mountain Scenic Drive follows GA Highway 190 along the ridge of Pine Mountain, winding through F.D. Roosevelt State Park near the towns of Pine Mountain and Warm Springs, about 70–90 minutes southwest of Atlanta, depending on your starting point and traffic.

Typical driving route from Atlanta:

• Take I-85 South from Atlanta.
• Exit near LaGrange or Columbus depending on your GPS directions.
• Connect to GA-18 or GA-190 toward Pine Mountain.
• Follow signs for F.D. Roosevelt State Park and Scenic Highway 190.

Most Atlanta drivers use apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps; searching for “F.D. Roosevelt State Park” or “Dowdell’s Knob” usually locks in the correct scenic section.

What the Pine Mountain Scenic Drive Is Like

The Pine Mountain Scenic Drive is essentially a mountaintop highway running along the ridge through Georgia’s largest state park. It’s not a fast cut-through; it’s a leisurely, curvy road designed for views, overlooks, and access to trailheads.

Key features you’ll notice along the drive

• Rolling ridgeline views over west Georgia
• Pull-offs and overlooks with stone walls and viewing areas
• Dense hardwood forests that transform with the seasons
• Access to popular hiking and picnic spots
• Occasional views of Lakes Delanor and Franklin D. Roosevelt (within the park)

Driving conditions are usually straightforward for most passenger cars. The road is paved and maintained, but it’s:

• Two lanes, with curves and some elevation changes
• Best enjoyed at posted speeds or slower, especially in fog or rain
• Often shaded, which can mean wet leaves or patches of ice in colder weather

How Long to Plan for the Drive from Atlanta

Here’s a quick overview for trip timing:

For most Atlantans, this works well as a full-day trip: drive down in the morning, enjoy the scenic route, add a hike or picnic, then head back before dark.

Must-See Stops Along the Scenic Drive

Several major highlights are easy to access right off GA-190. If you’re coming from Atlanta, consider planning around these:

Dowdell’s Knob Overlook

If you only visit one spot, make it Dowdell’s Knob.

• One of the highest points in the area
• Famous for its expansive west-facing views
• Features a statue of Franklin D. Roosevelt, who loved this spot
• Great for sunset, though be mindful of driving back down in the dark

Parking is directly beside the overlook with a short walk to the viewing area, making it a good option for families or anyone who doesn’t want a long hike.

Overlooks and Pull-Offs Along GA-190

As you wind through the park, watch for:

• Stone-walled overlooks with designated parking
• Small turnouts where you can safely pull off and enjoy unobstructed views
• Informational signs that explain local history, geology, or ecology

These spots tend to be quieter than Dowdell’s Knob and ideal for quick photo stops.

Trailheads from the Scenic Drive

Several hiking trails begin directly from the scenic road:

• Pine Mountain Trail access points – a long-distance trail with multiple segment options
• Short connector trails to waterfalls, creeks, and small overlooks

If you’re coming from Atlanta for the day and want a hike:

• Look for shorter, 1–3 mile loops or out-and-back sections
• Be sure to note your trailhead parking area and trail color/marker before starting

For specific segments suited to your group, the park office off GA-190 can provide a printed map and basic guidance.

Best Time of Year to Visit from Atlanta

You can drive Pine Mountain Scenic Drive year-round, but each season has its own Atlanta-friendly appeal:

Spring (March–May)

• Wildflowers and fresh greenery
• Mild temperatures compared to Atlanta’s warming spring
• Good time for pairing the drive with a hike or picnic

Summer (June–August)

• Cooler on the ridge than in the city, especially mornings and evenings
• Trees are full, creating a lush green tunnel in some sections
• Popular season for families and groups from metro Atlanta

If you don’t love heat, aim for early morning departures from Atlanta and plan to be off the trails by mid-afternoon.

Fall (Late October–November)

• Often the most popular time for Atlanta visitors
• Colorful fall foliage along the ridgeline
• Great visibility on clear days, with long-range views

Arrive earlier in the day on weekends; nearby parking at popular overlooks can fill up.

Winter (December–February)

• Fewer leaves = wider views from more sections of the road
• Lowest crowds, ideal if you prefer quiet
• Watch for occasional icy patches on shaded curves after cold snaps

If you’re driving from Atlanta after a winter weather event, check road conditions using Georgia DOT information or call the park office to confirm everything is open.

What Atlanta Visitors Should Pack and Plan For

Because you’re driving from Atlanta, you’ll likely be out most of the day. Consider:

Essentials:

• Full tank of gas before leaving metro Atlanta or filling up in LaGrange/Columbus/Pine Mountain
• Water and snacks (options exist in nearby towns, but they’re more limited than in the city)
• Layers – temperatures on the ridge can feel cooler than Atlanta, especially in wind or shade
• Comfortable shoes if you plan on walking overlooks or short trails
• Printed or saved map of the park, in case cell service is spotty

Nice-to-haves:

• Compact binoculars for distant views
• Camera or phone with plenty of storage for photos
• A small blanket for impromptu picnics at overlooks

Safety Tips for the Scenic Drive

Even though this is a relaxed drive compared to mountain passes in other regions, Atlanta drivers should keep a few basics in mind:

• Drive slowly on curves and watch for bicyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians near parking areas and trailheads.
• Use designated pull-offs; avoid stopping in travel lanes for photos.
• In fog, rain, or low light, turn on headlights and give yourself extra time.
• Cell service can be unreliable in spots. Let someone in Atlanta know your general plan and expected return time if you’re traveling solo.
• Be wildlife-aware: deer and smaller animals can cross the road, especially near dawn and dusk.

Fees, Passes, and Parking

F.D. Roosevelt State Park is managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. As with other Georgia state parks, you’ll typically encounter:

• A daily parking fee (per vehicle) at designated park lots
• Or the option to use a Georgia State Park annual pass if you already have one

The scenic highway itself (GA-190) is a public road, but many of the main overlooks, trailheads, and picnic areas use park-managed parking where the fee applies. Most Atlanta visitors factor this into the day’s budget just like they would for parking at a metro park.

For the most up-to-date information on park fees or passes, you can contact:

F.D. Roosevelt State Park Office
2970 Georgia Highway 190
Pine Mountain, GA 31822
Phone: (706) 663-4858

Combining the Drive with Other Nearby Stops

Many Atlantans make a full day or weekend out of the trip by adding:

• Warm Springs, GA – associated with Franklin D. Roosevelt’s time in Georgia
• Callaway Resort & Gardens in Pine Mountain – gardens, walking paths, seasonal events
• Short visits to LaGrange or Columbus for additional dining options on the way back

These are all a short drive from the scenic route, making it easy to customize your day based on your interests and how long you want to be away from Atlanta.

Is Pine Mountain Scenic Drive Worth It If You Live in Atlanta?

For most people in metro Atlanta, this drive offers:

• A true change of scenery without crossing state lines or driving into the North Georgia crowds
• A manageable day-trip distance, even with kids or older family members
• Flexible options: you can stick to the car and overlooks or add hiking, picnicking, or nearby attractions

If you enjoy quiet roads, forested ridges, and broad Georgia views, the Pine Mountain Scenic Drive at F.D. Roosevelt State Park is one of the most relaxing, nature-focused “things to do” within easy reach of Atlanta.