Dawsonville, Georgia is a charming town located about an hour north of Atlanta. Boasting a variety of attractions ideal for the outdoor and adventure-seeking enthusiasts. One of the most popular spots is Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge, home to the tallest cascading waterfall in Georgia and third tallest east of the Mississippi River. At 729 feet, Amicalola Falls is one of the seven Natural Wonders of Georgia, and is a must-see while visiting. Within the 829-acre park, there’s multiple hiking trails with the most popular being the Approach Trail to the Appalachian Trail itself. 

Also in the park, don’t miss the Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventure Zipline Tour, with the longest run featuring 250 feet of elevation and whisking you 2,000 feet across the park!  Atop the falls is a 57-room resort-style lodge, complete with stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and an on-site restaurant, Cascades, featuring beautiful panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains.  In addition to guestrooms, the resort has onsite cabins, RV and tent campsites, as well as luxury glamping.

Looking for an even more adventurous getaway, the Len Foote Hike Inn is a must-visit. Located five miles north of Amicalola Falls, it is Georgia’s only backcountry lodge, accessible only by hiking a 5-mile trail through the Chattahoochee National Forest. The Hike Inn places an emphasis on conservation and sustainability, while providing rustic charm in a relaxed and beautiful setting that allows families to enjoy nature together. All you need is a change of clothes and a toothbrush, and they’ll handle the rest, even deliciously served family style meals. 

For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the Edge of the World Trail, a 2.5-mile nature trail or a half-mile boardwalk trail along Amicalola Creek, that will take you to the class II-IV rapids known as Edge of the World. This area is great for experienced kayakers with an onsite put-in, casting a fly rod or just kicking back and relaxing in the swimming hole. Keep in mind that this area does require a hunting/fishing license, so please make sure you have the proper requirements in advance of your visit.

Feeling the need for speed, check out the Atlanta Motorsports Park. This auto racing facility is a Formula One designed 2-mile road course for members and clients, along with America’s most unique public karting circuit, reaching speeds of 55+ mph, with elevation changes unlike any other in the world. The main track was named one of Road & Track’s Top 10 Tracks in North America.

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Racing fans will also relish in a visit to the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, where you can explore the roots of stock car racing and discover how running moonshine during the prohibition era grew into the NASCAR of today! The Hall of Fame has exhibits celebrating the history of motorsports in the State and features memorabilia and trophies from Dawsonville’s own 2020 NASCAR Cup Champion, Chase Elliott and his dad, former champion Awesome Bill from Dawsonville. After exploring the museum, walk down the street to the legendary Dawsonville Pool Room, known for their Bully Burgers and Fresh Cuts, where owner Gordon Pirkle has sounded the infamous “si-reeen” for every Elliott victory since the 1980s.

Finally, if you’re in need of a little retail therapy, look no further than the North Georgia Premium Outlets, Atlanta’s premier outlet shopping destination featuring 140+ stores with savings up to 65% off every day! Luxury retailers including Gucci, Versace, Prada, Jimmy Choo, Ferragamo, and more. 

There is something for everyone in Dawsonville and its surrounding areas. Embark on the adventure of a lifetime and experience all it has to offer.