Winter might be the best time to visit the North Georgia mountains—here’s why

RABUN COUNTY, Ga. — From bonfires to beautiful views, snow tubing to s’mores, and fireplaces to farm-to-table dining, unique opportunities fill the North Georgia mountains this time of year.

While tens of thousands of travelers flock to the area every fall to soak in the stunning autumn colors, it’s worth planning a return trip in the winter. The region transforms into a winter wonderland, offering experiences unlike anything you’ll find during the warmer months.

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“The winter months are a beautiful time of year to come up here,” Bill Bennett from Outdoor 76 told wsbtv.com’s Nelson Hicks. “Getting outdoors, the winter views are just awesome.”

Thrills at Highlands Outpost

For those craving winter activities, head just across the state line to Highlands Outpost in Scaly Mountain. Hop aboard an inner tube for a heart-pounding ride down the snow tubing hills. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned snow tuber, it’s a thrilling adventure for kids and kids at heart. Highlands Outpost also offers ice skating for even more winter fun.

Explore Winter’s Beauty

Feeling adventurous? North Georgia’s hiking trails take on a whole new charm in winter.

“It’s probably my most favorite time to hike through the mountains because (of) the views, you can just see so much more through the woods,” Bennett said. “It’s just a really beautiful time of the year to get out and explore the mountains of north Georgia.”

Hikers in and around Rabun County may encounter snow-covered trails and crisp mountain air, making for a picturesque adventure. Winter hiking and trail skiing offer solitude and unique perspectives on trails that look entirely different in summer.

Tennessee Rock Overlook at Black Rock Mountain State Park Here are some more photos from the Tennessee Rock Overlook at Black Rock Mountain State Park. (Nelson Hicks)

Winter Activities at Black Rock Mountain

Black Rock Mountain State Park as a must-visit during the winter months. The park hosts programs with naturalists, winter crafts, campfires, hot chocolate, and more.

“Folks come primarily in the spring, summer and fall, but the wintertime is a great time to visit for a little more solitude,” Taylor Kimbrough from Black Rock Mountain State Park said. “You can see with the leaves down, a lot more of the contours of the mountain. Just a different experience here when you’re visiting.”

With 11 miles of hiking trails and the distinction of being Georgia’s highest state park, Black Rock offers something for everyone. Overnight visitors can stay in heated cottages for a cozy winter escape.

Glamping at Willow Valley RV Resort

For a more glamorous camping experience, check out Willow Valley RV Resort in Rabun Gap.

“Winter is a good time to come up here if you don’t want to be around crowds,” Willow Valley RV Resort owner Sam Rumsey said. “It’s very, very quiet, and a lot of people like that.”

Rumsey and his wife opened the resort six years ago, attracting visitors from across the Southeast. Guests gather around campfires, meet fellow campers, spend time with family and use the resort as a launchpad to explore the area’s waterfalls, lakes, and hiking trails.

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Cozy Stays and Southern Charm

No RV? No problem!

Prefer a bed-and-breakfast vibe? The North Georgia mountains are dotted with charming inns like the Beechwood Inn and the White Birch Inn in Clayton or the Lake Rabun Hotel in Lakemont.

Stay at one of the many cozy cottages or cabins that are scattered all over Rabun county. Julep Farms offers cottages that blend a peaceful pastoral setting with modern leisure and elegance.

For a tasty mountain experience, visit The Dillard House. Known for its famous Southern meals—think fried chicken and cabbage casserole—this winter hotspot also offers bonfires and s’mores on select evenings, and fireplace suites for romantic stays.

Exciting changes are on the horizon at The Dillard House, following its recent acquisition by David Marvin and Legacy Ventures. Plans include a major property refresh, a new hotel with expanded rooms, a brewery, and an upscale farm-to-table dining option, in addition to the the restaurant guests have come to love.

“What is so exciting about it is Mr. Marvin’s vision and energy and passion about this project is very similar to my father and how he wanted to take the Dillard House to another level and make it a destination resort,” John Dillard, Jr. said.

Moonrise Distillery Downtown Speakeasy Here are some more photos from the Moonrise Distillery Downtown Speakeasy in Clayton. (Nelson Hicks)

Sip by the Fire at Moonrise Distillery

In downtown Clayton, Moonrise Distillery recently opened a 1920s-themed speakeasy. Known as Georgia’s oldest continuously operating distillery, Moonrise now offers craft cocktails and cozy fireside seating.

“This is art and entertainment,” owner Doug Nassaur said. “This is where you come when you’re with someone special, when you want to be with a group, when you want to connect with them, you want to reminisce about when we used to sit together and have great conversations, drink out of Italian crystal glasses, world-class cocktails, that kind of thing.”