Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway
Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway is a National Scenic Byway in Georgia. Within Georgia it covers roughly 45 miles. The map below shows its route. Use “Plan a drive” to open it in the Road Sorties route planner — already routing along Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway with scenic roads turned on, ready to add your own stops.
This loop of about 40 miles winds through the Chattahoochee National Forest in the north Georgia mountains, climbing to the foot of Brasstown Bald — at 4,784 feet the highest point in the state, with a summit lookout that on clear days takes in four states. Spur trails reach Anna Ruby Falls, a pair of side-by-side waterfalls, and the Bavarian-themed village of Helen sits just outside the loop. The forest blazes with color each October.
- Brasstown Bald (4,784 ft)
- Anna Ruby Falls
- Chattahoochee National Forest
- Helen
- fall color
Designated for its scenic qualities
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Places to stop along Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway
Helen
A former logging town rebuilt in the 1970s as an Alpine village, with tubing on the Chattahoochee and a big Oktoberfest.
Dukes Creek Falls
A paved and stepped trail down to a 150-foot waterfall in a deep gorge.
Chattahoochee River Headwaters
Where the river that waters Atlanta begins as a mountain spring near Jacks Gap.
Brasstown Bald
Georgia's highest point at 4,784 feet, reached by a steep paved trail or shuttle to an observation tower with views into four states.
Vogel State Park
One of Georgia's oldest state parks, with a mountain lake, CCC history, and trails at the foot of Blood Mountain.
Website
Where to Stay along Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway
6 campgrounds and RV parks sit within about 5 miles of Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway.
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What is a National Scenic Byway?
National Scenic Byways are roads recognized at the federal level for at least one outstanding quality — scenic, natural, historic, cultural, archaeological or recreational — that gives travelers a reason to seek them out rather than just pass through.