Georgia can be an unpredictable state during the winter, but the season is an incredibly enjoyable time to visit. One day might be 70 degrees and beautiful, and the very next day might see an ice storm. Given the surprising elements, packing for various settings and environments is essential, as there’s plenty to do and see.
A romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a pre-wedding bash are all perfect trip ideas for this area. Your crew can enjoy indoor and outdoor activities in some of the most unmatched settings. Let’s look at some of the top things to do in North Georgia this winter and see what there is to offer.
North Georgia in the Winter
Consider the climate before you head on vacation. North Georgia is beautiful in the winter, but it requires a little extra attention to detail when you pack your bags. The area is mountainous, so temperatures can drop quickly compared to other cities. In the thick of the winter months—January and February—the day temp generally hovers in the 50s and drops below freezing in the evenings and through the night. Around March, the weather will begin to warm up and reach the 60s, with cooler temps in the evenings still. Some areas only average about two inches of snowfall per year, so monitor the forecast in the days leading to departure to ensure you have the appropriate supplies.
What To Pack
For those warmer March days, a lightweight jacket is sufficient. But if you’re heading to the area for a January or February adventure, you’ll want to bring something on the heavier side, such as a down puffer coat. In addition to a warm jacket, things such as hats, gloves, and warm socks are necessary. A few other items to consider include:
- Hiking boots
- Snowshoes
- Thermal undergarments
Get Outdoors
Though the weather might be on the chilly side, there are numerous outdoor activities to enjoy. The area of North Georgia offers year-round access to excellent, accessible hiking trails. There are also various state parks to choose from, including Moccasin Creek State Park, Tallulah Gorge State Park, and the Chattahoochee National Forest. Depending on when you visit, you might get lucky enough to experience a snowcapped mountain or two. North Georgia’s views and scenery are unforgettable, even in the winter.
If you’re more into cultural experiences rather than trails and parks, consider a day in Helen, Georgia, where you can enjoy the Bavarian Village. The village is a small German town that includes authentic German eats and beverages, with 200-plus specialty shops on cobblestone-paved streets.
Explore Cloudland Canyon State Park
Situated in the northwest corner of Georgia is Cloudland Canyon, another state park to explore. The park features caves, deep valleys, aged trees, and wildlife habitats. This place is unbelievably scenic in the wintery months as the falls crystalize into icy, glimmering pieces of art. Though Cloudland is an excellent visit year-round, it stands out in the winter as a truly fascinating sight to see.
Rest in a Cozy Cabin
With the area’s incredible mountain views and a lot of outdoor ground to cover, consider renting a cabin for your stay. There are various rentable cabins in the Dahlonega or Blairsville Mountains, but one of the coziest places to visit is Nevaeh Cabin Rentals, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
In addition to packing wisely, ensure you thoroughly review the cabin rental agreement form to cover all your bases about the cabin and your stay.
Indoor Activities
With endless things to do outdoors, it can be easy to forget there are many ways to enjoy indoor activities. Activities such as visiting wineries, shopping, and fine dining will appease people who aren’t as into exploring the wilderness. This is a great time to grab souvenirs for the family or add a few new pieces to your wardrobe from one of your favorite spots.
Shop at Lenox Square
Lenox Square makes a name for itself as one of the best shopping destinations in the state and an excellent thing to do in North Georgia this winter. It offers high-end luxury handbags, chocolate treats, and everything in between. Your friends and family members will enjoy this day spent indoors.
When you get hungry, be sure to check out the eats. Lenox Square not only offers an abundance of shopping but also doubles as one of the best food venues. A few things to look forward to include:
- A doughnut kiosk
- Lobster rolls and other New England classics
- Artisan Chinese dishes
- Asian sweet treats
- Decadent popcorn shops
Visit Ponce City Market
Not quite as far north as the mountains but tremendous for a day trip on a warmer winter day is the Ponce City Market. It features a handful of outdoor treats such as rooftop areas, but the majority of the shops and restaurants are indoors. The building features a lot of history and artisan dishes, some of the best beef jerky at Bitlong, and safe-to-eat cookie dough for something sweet.
Schedule a Wine Tour
Many people connect wine with California, but North Georgia has many beautiful wineries to visit. Habersham Vineyards has been a staple to the Helen, Georgia, area since 1983. The winery uses French-American grapes and offers a complimentary tasting hosted indoors. The self-guided tour lets guests sip and see the wine-making process.
Understandably, planning an entire vacation in the winter when there’s so much to do can be challenging. Remember to keep the following in mind:
- The weather forecast for the location you choose
- The proximity between where you’re staying versus the activities you plan
- Whether your group enjoys indoor or outdoor activities or both
- Cabin rental accommodations and if you need to prepare meals
Hopefully, this guide will encourage you to plan a winter trip no matter the occasion. Many people prefer the summer months for a getaway, but North Georgia has a lot to offer in any weather condition. Reach out to us at Nevaeh Cabin Rentals today to discuss your getaway needs.
