Yesterday, I rode the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, and to get to Blue Ridge from where I was staying in Helen, I took the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway (Georgia Hwy 348) as part of my route. I’m very glad that I did. It runs through part of the eastern side of the Chattahoochee National Forest for 23 miles and offers spectacular views of the north Georgia mountains from a proper driving road. It twists and turns through a lot of elevation changes and there are scenic outlooks to stop at and take in the breathtaking views. I went though once in the morning while low clouds and fog were hanging around the mountains and once in the afternoon as some light showers were passing through. At this time of the year, the forest is a verdant landscape with myriad shades of green from all the various types of trees; it truly is a beautiful thing to behold.

The most spectacular of the overlooks of the Chattahoochee National Forest along the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway is the one at Hogpen Gap. The photos below were taken during the afternoon as some light showers were passing through the area. From the overlook you can take in Locust Log Ridge, Rattlesnake Mountain, Chimney Top Mountain, Jones Mountain, Rocky Mountain, and Brasstown Bald among other parts of the landscape. It’s truly a breathtaking view.

If you’re visiting north Georgia, even if you don’t have to take it to get where you’re going, take the time to drive the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway, you won’t be disappointed. It’s a wonderful way to take in the beauty of the Chattahoochee National Forest.