Hiawassee, Georgia, population about 800 as of 2010, lies roughly two hours north of Atlanta in the heart of the North Georgia Mountains. It is just a few miles from the border of North Carolina. The area is rich in natural history and wildlife trails and visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions within a few miles of Hiawassee.
Brasstown Bald, just 16 miles away in Blairsville, is the highest peak in the North Georgia Mountains. It lies at the top of Georgia's only cloud forest and the ground and plants are usually wet as a consequence. Nature lovers can look for oak, willow, ash, beech and sugar maple trees, wildflowers and local wildlife such as songbirds, white-tail deer and brown bear. Brasstown Tower sits at the mountain's summit and allows visitors a 360-degree view of the surrounding area. On a clear day, four states are visible from the top of the observation deck in the tower building. The tower also includes a natural and human history museum entitled "Man and the Mountain." Visitors can choose from a variety of trails to the top. One passes through the Track Rock Road Archaeological Area, where ancient Cherokee writings can be seen. The visitor's center at the top of the mountain and the gift shop/bookstore at the base are open daily from May to October and on weekends in November. Visitors can enjoy lunch or a snack at a 15-table picnic area near the visitor parking area at the mountain's base. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
Blairsville Ranger Office
1881 Hwy. 515
Blairsville, GA 30512
706-745-6928
Eight miles from Hiawassee lies Young Harris, home of Fun World at Fieldstone, a family fun center. Visitors can play laser tag and miniature golf, scale the four-face climbing wall, try out the go-kart track or try out their skills at the batting cages. The arcade features over 120 games. The property also includes the Foam Factory a three-level play area for kids under 11 that includes slides, foam cannons and mazes. A concession stand sells hot dogs, nachos, pizza, cotton candy, popcorn, ice cream and beverages. Adults can take in some much-needed caffeine with a flavored cappuccino while the kids refresh with a frozen slush drink. Fun World supports education by offering "bonus bucks" to kids who earn As and Bs on their report cards. They also sponsor college sponsorships for area high school seniors.
Fun World at Fieldstone
1159 Jack Dayton Circle
Young Harris, GA 30582
706-896-7777
funworldga.com
There's always something happening at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. From art festivals and world-class bluegrass, country gospel and rock and roll performances to visiting conventions and dance shows, the fairgrounds offers events for every taste. It is also the home of the annual Georgia Mountain Fair, which features rides, midway games and agricultural displays each July. Each October, it is home to the Georgia Mountain Fall Festival, a nine-day event featuring live musical performances, educational demonstrations, a flower show and Georgia's Official State Fiddlers' Convention. The fairgrounds also offer 189 camping and RV sites for overnight guests.
Georgia Mountain Fair, Inc.
1311 Music Hall Rd.
Hiawassee, Georgia 30546
706-896-4191
georgiamountainfairgrounds.com
