My love of the Smoky Mountains is well-known, but I've never visited the town of Helen, GA before. It's at the southern most tip of Appalachia where the Smoky-Blue Ridge Mountains of East Tennessee, North Carolina and North Georgia converge.
I've heard about the little village for years, but this year my in-laws rented a cabin and invited our family to come for a few days. We weren't sure what to expect after years of vacay on the shore. But with a little planning and an attitude for adventure, we had a blast.
We arrived on July 4. Be warned, there is no direct interstate into town. You will wind through state parks and a national forest on two-lane roads where you must drive slowly. It's okay, let that speed get you into the slow-down groove. We arrived and got settled, then had a traditional Independence Day cookout on the grill. Our cabin had beautiful views, a great hot tub and felt secluded while being just a half mile from main street.
We watched the town fireworks from above. I brought some of our own...but we thought it might not be wise to set them off in a new area.
The town of Helen itself is darling. I enjoyed morning walks without the crowds where the flowers and colors felt like a real life fairy tale. The Bavarian-Alpine theme was fun. Alpine mini golf felt like an oasis with their colorful gardens, statuary and well groomed course. It was clear they care for the course and we enjoyed our game. My mother-in-law had the time of her life and was our winner, including several holes-in-one.
Betty's Country Store is the place to get what you need for your stay. Fresh meats, baked goods and pantry staples along with fresh honey or old fashioned sodas are all waiting here. We had breakfast (and baked goods) from Hofers which was excellent. I enjoyed the German fare at Bodensee, and the service was fantastic. We sampled pretzels, schnitzel, spaetzle and more. We found Mexican food one night, too, but nothing overly special. Otherwise, we ate sandwiches or grilled at the lodge.
My mother in law made a reservation for us to go white water rafting on the Chattooga River. This was incredible! I'm so thankful for the experience and hope to do it again soon. We used Wildwater Rafting company for our trip.
Our group had to divide into two boats. One made it through the rapids (backwards) and one toppled. It was exhilarating and nerve wrenching, but most of all fun!
There are many nearby hikes, and the Unicoi State Park is just a few miles outside of Helen. The boys fished a couple of afternoons, with no results. We loved the hike to Anna Ruby Falls. It is steep but fully paved and follows a beautiful stream through lush forest. You will be rewarded with two waterfalls when you reach the end of the trail. Note, there is a $5 fee to enter the park area.
Another nearby walkway is the
Helen-Hardman Trail. You will find the entrance just off Edelweiss and it follows the Chattahoochee River, once again providing a wonderful bubbling brook soundtrack. History is told through several markers where you can learn about the early times of the area. If you want to get off the beaten track, you can venture left to see old mining equipment and even the upper/lower entrance to the mine. The Hardman Farm is charming and I appreciate the worker at the welcome center. Note, there is a $6 fee to enjoy the farm, but there is no cost to enjoy the walkway.
We tried axe throwing for the first time, and found a new family fun activity. AxeBilly accommodated our group and it was so fun to see who had skill...and who did not.
Whenever I hear of Helen, GA, I hear about the tubing. If the weather cooperates, you really have to join the fun.
Cool River Tubing has a long and short track, and we chose the longer version. The river was moving at a great speed and it was fun to laugh together as we floated down the Chattahoochee. The first half is spent in the woods and with natural surroundings which I love. Then, you just float through town for anyone to see.
We weren't sure what to expect, after spending so many summer vacations at Hilton Head. We were so pleasantly surprised that the week was fun and relaxing, and offered new experiences to share together.
I imagine the whole place would be delightful in the fall or at Christmastime!
