Southern Byways

The year was 1968, and the small mountain town of Helen, Ga., needed help. It needed something to bring in visitors. The town needed a makeover, so they went to a local artist for some suggestions. The artist happened spent some time in Germany and noticed some similarities between the two places. So, he developed some sketches that would transform a sleepy mountain town into an Alpine village in the South.

Today, Alpine Helen is a thriving tourist destination and is one of the more popular places to visit in Georgia – right after Atlanta and Savannah. Perhaps best known for Oktoberfest, a celebration that lasts, oh, about six weeks; however, when you visit Alpine Helen any time of the year, you will find something to do

You can’t talk about this area without talking about the nature beauty that surrounds it. One of Georgia’s well-known state parks, Unicoi State Park is located about two miles from Alpine Helen. The over-1,000 acre park includes 12 miles of hiking trails and eight miles of mountain biking trails ($2 fee to use these trails). Want to stay here longer? Consider getting a room at the lodge – a great retreat to relax, unwind and recharge.Another can’t miss site is nearby Anna Ruby Falls. You may think you have seen waterfalls before, but this is a unique (and spectacular) double waterfall. Hiking trails are also found here.Also, close by is Smithgall Woods Conservation and Lodge is home to what is said to be the best trout stream in the state. For those who love to hike, there is five miles of trails waiting for you to explore. There is also a 28-room lodge on-site as well.Whether you’re visiting Alpine Helen to enjoy the quaintness of the area or the outdoors, you’ll soon add this destination to one of your all-time favorites.