Winding through the heart of Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway delivers 40.6 miles of breathtaking Appalachian beauty. This National Scenic Byway follows SR 348, SR 17, SR 75, and SR 180 from Robertstown to Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest peak at 4,784 feet.

The journey rewards travelers with sweeping mountain vistas, cascading waterfalls, and dense hardwood forests that transform with the seasons. Pull over at numerous overlooks to photograph rolling ridgelines stretching to the horizon. The route passes through the Chattahoochee National Forest, where hiking trails beckon adventurers to explore deeper into the wilderness.

The crown jewel awaits at Brasstown Bald, where a visitor center and observation deck offer 360-degree panoramic views spanning four states on clear days. Along the way, discover charming mountain communities, roadside streams perfect for trout fishing, and the serene waters of Lake Burton.

Fall brings the most spectacular display, when blazing reds, oranges, and golds blanket the mountainsides. Spring wildflowers and summer’s lush greenery also offer rewarding drives. Allow two to three hours to fully appreciate the overlooks and stops, though you may find yourself lingering longer as each curve reveals another stunning vista worth savoring.

Explore Nearby

• Smithgall Woods State Park — State Park in Georgia
• Unicoi State Park & Lodge — State Park in Georgia
• Chattahoochee–Oconee National Forest — National Forest in Georgia
• Nantahala National Forest — National Forest in North Carolina
• Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute Dark Sky Park — Dark Sky Site in North Carolina