Top 10 Things to Do in Northeast Georgia This October

Northeast Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains

Top 10 Things to Do in Northeast Georgia This October

October in Northeast Georgia is pure magic — crisp mountain air, fiery fall colors, and that unmistakable small-town charm around every corner. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or savoring a glass of wine with a view, here are ten unforgettable ways to celebrate the season:

1. Cruise the Scenic Byways for Fall Foliage

Roll down the windows and take in the views along the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway or Wolfpen Gap Road. Every turn reveals a kaleidoscope of color as the Blue Ridge Mountains put on their autumn show.

2. Celebrate Helen’s Famous Oktoberfest

Step into Bavaria right here in Georgia! Helen’s Oktoberfest runs all month long, with lively polka music, dancing, hearty German fare, and locally brewed beer. It’s a must for festive fall vibes. [ https://highsouthadventures.com/helen%20ga.html ]

3. Explore Tallulah Gorge State Park

This breathtaking canyon is even more spectacular in October. Hike the rim trails for sweeping views or, if you’re adventurous, grab a limited gorge floor permit to see the waterfalls up close. 

4. Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

All aboard! This nostalgic train journey takes you along the Toccoa River, through golden forests, and into charming small towns — the perfect way to soak up the season’s beauty. https://highsouthadventures.com/Blue%20Ridge%20Ga.html

5. Experience the Georgia Mountain Fall Festival (Hiawassee, mid-October)

Live bluegrass music, mountain crafts, and carnival rides make this one of the region’s most beloved fall traditions at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds.

6. Hike to the Top of Brasstown Bald

At 4,784 feet, Georgia’s highest point offers panoramic views stretching into four states — a front-row seat to fall’s fiery colors.  https://highsouthadventures.com/Brasstown%20Bald.html

7. Step Back in Time at Dahlonega’s Gold Rush Days

Held the third weekend of October, this heritage festival fills the historic square with artisans, live music, and gold mining history — all surrounded by autumn’s golden glow.  https://highsouthadventures.com/Dahlonega.html

8. Sip Wine with a View

Northeast Georgia’s wine country shines in fall. Enjoy a tasting at Wolf Mountain, Three Sisters, or Yonah Mountain Vineyards, where the vineyards are framed by mountains dressed in color.   https://highsouthadventures.com/North%20Georgia%20Wine%20Tour.html

9. Go Apple Picking and Pumpkin Hunting

Celebrate the harvest at Hillcrest Orchards or Jaemor Farms. Pick your own apples, sip cider, and wander through pumpkin patches — the essence of fall fun.

10. Chase Waterfalls Wrapped in Color

Autumn adds a special magic to Anna Ruby Falls, Dukes Creek Falls, and Amicalola Falls. Each is surrounded by forests glowing in red, orange, and gold.

---Travel Tip: Mid to late October is typically peak color in the higher elevations — plan scenic drives early and pack layers for cool mountain mornings.

Featured Rental

Helen Georgia

Northeast Georgia Family Fun To Do list for September and Fall Festivals

Northeast Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains

Fall Shoulder Season - Late September

This is the sweet spot after the busy summer tourist rush but before (and during the start of) peak leaf season. Early fall offers cooler temps, fewer crowds on trails, and lower lodging prices—right up until mid-October, when leaf color peaks and crowds return.

First - September to do List:

1. Take in Early Fall Foliage from Brasstown Bald

As the highest point in Georgia, Brasstown Bald offers a breathtaking 360° panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains—especially captivating in the fall when the leaves illuminate the slopes in fiery reds, golds, and oranges. You can either hike or take a shuttle from the parking lot to the observation deck. The sightlines stretch across Georgia and even into parts of neighboring states, making it an unforgettable autumn experience. [Brasstown Bald Info]

2. Stroll Through Unicoi State Park & Visit Anna Ruby Falls

Located just outside Helen, Unicoi State Park is particularly beautiful as the foliage begins its seasonal transformation. Enjoy hiking, paddleboarding, or relaxing by Lake Unicoi before heading to Anna Ruby Falls—a forest-framed double waterfall that's especially stunning amid fall colors. [More Info]

3. Sip Wine with Scenic Views at North Georgia Vineyards

September is a perfect time to explore North Georgia's burgeoning wine scene amid changing leaves. Top vineyards like Wolf Mountain, Three Sisters, Tiger Mountain, and Bear Claw (near Blue Ridge) combine world-class wines with beautiful landscapes and seasonal events. Whether you're touring, tasting, or listening to live music, fall adds a magical dimension to the experience. [Northeast Georgia Wine Tour]

Special: here are out top picks for fall festivals. We checked hotels/VRBO and all these locations have availability. Festivals in Northeast Georgia are very popular, so prices are up a bit.

Top Picks

1.Blue Ridge Fall Arts in the Park Festival — Blue Ridge

Held mid‑October in the beautiful city park. A true fall classic with local artists and crafts booths, live music, food vendors, and set against vibrant autumn foliage—ideal for a scenic yet relaxed day in town.

Website: https://brmaa.org/event-item/arts-in-the-parks/

Lodging Suggestion: Hampton Inn – Blue Ridge (walk to everything)

 2. Gold Rush Days — Dahlonega

Celebrated mid‑October, Dahlonega’s signature festival marks the 1828 discovery of gold. Expect thousands of visitors, gold‑panning contests (including a World Open Gold Panning Championship), heritage performances, artisan booths, and quirky events like beard-growing and hog‑calling contests

Website: https://goldrushdaysfestival.com/

Lodging: This TripAdvisor link [Dahlonega]  will show several hotels. Recommended: The Dahlonega Square Hotel, the Smith House, or Dahlonega Inn on Main Street. Walk to everything.

Finally:

3: Georgia Mountain Fall Festival — Hiawassee

Held each October (typically early mid month), this nine-day festival includes arts & crafts vendors, pioneer demonstrations (like blacksmithing and cider pressing), live music, food, and the annual Georgia State Fiddlers’ Convention with competitions and performances.

Website: https://georgiamountainfairgrounds.com/localevents/fallfest

Lodging: Lake Chatuge Lodge is very close/walking distance to the festival [Lake Chatuge Lodge]

Tour North Georgia - July To Do List!

Northeast Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains

Hike to Kilkenny Ridge via Bell Mountain Park – Hiawassee

A moderate trail with panoramic views over Lake Chatuge—perfect for a sunrise or sunset hike. Take a packed picnic to enjoy at the summit. [AllTrails]

Boat, Paddleboard or Kayak on Lake Chatuge – Hiawassee

With 132 miles of shoreline, Lake Chatuge offers ideal conditions for boating, paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing. Public ramps and beach areas make it easy to spend the day on the water. [Hiawassee]

Explore Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens – Hiawassee

Stroll through 33 acres of stunning native rhododendrons and azaleas, peaceful woodland trails leading to overlooks over Lake Chatuge. [Hiawassee]

Mountain Biking & Zip-Lining – Blue Ridge

Try the treetop obstacle courses at Blue Ridge Adventure Park or join thrilling zip-lining tours. For two wheels, head to Bear Creek or Fort Mountain State Park for rugged trails. [Blue Ridge]

Lake Blue Ridge Discovery – Blue Ridge

Spend a day boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding around the 3,290‑acre lake. Hiking options and campground access at Morganton Point make it easy to extend your adventure. [Blue Ridge]

Lake Burton & Black Rock Mountain State Park – Clayton

Swim, sunbathe, or picnic at Timpson Cove Beach on Lake Burton. Then drive or hike through Georgia’s highest state park with sweeping mountain views. [Lake Burton]

“Crime & Punishment” Historic Walking Tour – Dahlonega

Join a ranger-led outdoor history hike to explore true tales of bank robberies, moonshine, jailbreaks, and old-time justice. Perfect for combining strolls with storytelling. [Dahlonega]

Tips for Enjoying the Outdoors:

Weekday mornings are best to avoid weekend crowds.

State park parking fees are usually around $5; guided events may have extra costs.

Bring water, snacks, sun protection, and sturdy footwear.

Featured North Georgia Vacation Rental:

High  Country Hideaway - Blue Ridge

Find Family Fun:

[NoEGA Events Calendar]

WebCams!

Be sure to catch the action at some of North Carolina's and North Georgia's top web cams - Visit [HighSouthAdventures - WebCams]!!