The unusually warm fall has resulted in more muted colors this fall across the southeast, but vibrant colors are starting to emerge and now is a good time to see fall colors in north Georgia. Here are some great places where you can go on a hike and see fall colors today. For those looking for something inside, consider the return of the “Flight of the Butterflies” at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Here are details for both of these ideas:
Black Rock Mountain State Park - Rabun County.
At an altitude of 3,640 feet, Black Rock Mountain is Georgia’s highest state park. (Brasstown Bald is the state’s highest peak.) Roadside overlooks and the summit visitor center,offering sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The 2.2-mile Tennessee Rock Trail is a good choice for a short, moderate hike. For an all-day challenge, take the 7.2-mile James E. Edmonds Backcountry Trail. If driving U.S. 441 north to the park, stop by Tallulah Gorge State Park and quirky Goats on the Roof. Free $5 parking
Cloundland Canyon State Park - near Chattanooga, Tenn.
One of Georgia’s most beautiful parks offers easy-to-reach rim overlooks and challenging hiking trails. A favorite hike takes you down a long, steep staircase to the bottom of the canyon, where you’ll find two waterfalls. (Remember, you have to hike back up, but it’s worth it.) The 5-mile West Rim Loop is moderately difficult and offers great views of the canyon. “Glamping” yurts are located off this trail. Free $5 parking
Fort Mountain State Park - Chatsworth
This park is best known for a mysterious rock wall along the mountaintop, plus a variety of trails. For the easiest walk, take the 1.2-mile loop around the park’s pretty green lake. For a challenging, all-day hike, choose the 8-mile Gahuti Trail. Mountain bikers have more than 14 miles to explore. Ga. 52 has beautiful mountain scenery and overlooks worth stopping for, if you can. Free $5 parking
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Credit: HANDOUT
Credit: HANDOUT
‘Flight of the Butterflies’ at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History
For those looking for entertainment inside, consider “Flight of the Butterflies” — a breathtaking giant screen adventure making its return to the 4-story Giant Screen Theater at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History— this time in 3D. “Flight of the Butterflies” is scheduled to show daily now through Jan. 10.
Projected on an impressive four-story screen, "Flight of the Butterflies 3D" will show daily at Fernbank's Giant Screen Theatre, and will also show Friday evenings during Fernbank After Dark. 10 a.m., 12 noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Monday showings. Now through Jan. 10. $8-$13. 767 Clifton Road, Atlanta. 404-929-6400, www.fernbankmuseum.org
Check out the weather and traffic conditions before you head out
Looking for more suggestions? Listen to our weekly accessAtlanta podcast, for features on the arts and entertainment and ideas for things to do.
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