When the leaves turn in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the best seat in the house is behind the wheel with the windows down. From our cabin near Ellijay, you’re perfectly placed for some of the most beautiful fall drives in the Southeast. Here are five worth the trip.

1. Fort Mountain State Park (~40 min)

Winding roads climb to sweeping overlooks and a mysterious ancient stone tower — with fall color in every direction. Pack a picnic and make an afternoon of it.

2. Aska Adventure Area, Blue Ridge (~30 min)

A network of ridge roads above Lake Blue Ridge, framed by hardwood forest that blazes orange and red in October. Stop at an overlook and watch the light move across the water.

3. Amicalola Falls (~45 min)

Home to the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast — and it’s stunning surrounded by autumn foliage. Easy overlooks or a full hike, your call.

4. The Orchard Loop

No fall trip to Ellijay is complete without apples. Cruise between Mercier Orchards and the local farm markets for cider, cider donuts, and hillsides of color along the way.

5. Cohutta Wilderness Overlook Drives

For the quiet, uncrowded version of fall, head toward the Cohuttas. Fewer people, endless ridgeline color, pure mountain autumn.

Come home to cozy

After a day of chasing color, there’s a hot tub, a fire pit, and a stone fireplace waiting at The Bear Necessity — minutes from all five of these drives.

Plan your fall escape — book direct and save 13%.