Discover Union County, Georgia, where Blue Ridge Mountain scenery, lakes, waterfalls, Appalachian history, local farms and small-town charm come together in the North Georgia mountains.
Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains of Northeast Georgia, Union County is a destination for outdoor adventure, mountain culture and authentic small-town experiences. Centered around Blairsville, the county is surrounded by the Chattahoochee National Forest and is home to some of Georgia’s most recognizable natural landmarks.
From the summit of Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest point, to the waters of Lake Nottely, the trails of the Appalachian Trail and the historic communities scattered throughout the county, there is always something to explore in Union County.
At Mountains and Main, we love discovering the people and places that make North Georgia special.
In Union County, Georgia, those stories can be found throughout the mountains — from downtown Blairsville and local farms to Lake Nottely, Vogel State Park, Brasstown Bald, Appalachian Trail overlooks and the small businesses that help make these communities unique.
From Blairsville and Suches to the mountain roads surrounding Brasstown Bald and Lake Nottely, there’s always another corner of Union County to explore.
Whether you’re searching for things to do in Union County GA, planning a North Georgia mountain getaway, looking for hiking trails and waterfalls, exploring Lake Nottely or simply wanting to discover somewhere new, Union County has plenty to offer.
Explore Union County with Mountains and Main and discover the people, places, food, history, outdoor adventures and mountain traditions that make Northeast Georgia special. Have a story idea? Email us at MountainsandMain@gmail.com
Discover Blairsville
Blairsville, the county seat, is at the heart of Union County.
Founded in 1835, Blairsville has deep roots in the history and culture of the North Georgia mountains. Today, its downtown combines local shops, restaurants, galleries and community events with historic buildings and mountain-town character.
The historic town square is also home to the Union County Historical Society, where visitors can learn more about the people, families and events that shaped the community.
Blairsville serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the surrounding mountains, lakes, waterfalls and scenic roads.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail
Union County is also home to a significant section of the Appalachian Trail.
More than 80 miles of the trail pass through the Blairsville area and the surrounding Chattahoochee National Forest, giving hikers access to some of the most scenic mountain terrain in Georgia.
Popular hiking destinations include trails around Blood Mountain, Brasstown Bald, Helton Creek Falls, Vogel State Park and the Appalachian Trail’s mountain crossings.
For those who prefer a shorter adventure, Meeks Park in Blairsville offers walking trails, recreation areas, sports fields and other amenities close to downtown.
Waterfalls and Mountain Trails
Union County is home to several waterfalls tucked into its forests and mountain valleys.
Helton Creek Falls features two waterfalls with a combined drop of about 100 feet and is reached by a hiking trail through the forest.
The county’s network of trails ranges from easy walks to challenging mountain hikes, giving visitors plenty of options for exploring the outdoors.
The Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway is another way to experience the area. The 40.6-mile National Scenic Byway winds through the Chattahoochee National Forest, passing mountain overlooks, waterfalls and access points for hiking and fishing.
