From hiking scenic mountain trails and admiring waterfalls to tubing the Chattahoochee River and so much more, Alpine Helen offers outdoor adventure with unique accommodations suitable for any budget
ALPINE HELEN, GEORGIA—FEBRUARY 2025—Situated in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia, the quaint Alpine village of Alpine Helen offers visitors a plethora of outdoor adventure. Helen is home to such an abundance of national forest, wilderness areas, state parks, rivers, scenic highways and trails that the area has been designated by the Legislature as “Georgia’s Official Outdoor Adventure Destination.” Here are a few ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Alpine Helen along with lodging options for every budget.
Alpine Helen is located just a few miles from the Chattahoochee National Forest, where visitors can hike just under five miles round-trip to the double-cascade Raven Cliff Falls. Raven Cliff Falls is one of the most unusual falls in Georgia due to water flowing through a split in the face of a solid rock outcropping to the ground 100 feet below. Behind the split, the water drops approximately 60 feet before rushing through the rock face and dropping 20 feet to a deep pool—a must see when visiting the area. For a bonus, there are also three other waterfalls near Raven Cliff Falls. Click here for more information on nearby falls.
In nearby Cleveland, the multi-use trail system within Yonah Preserve, a 1,000-acre property near Helen, is open to the public Thursday–Sunday. Access the trailhead from Albert Reid Road and enjoy some 10 acres of walking space and mountain trail biking. Yonah Mountain is one of the top three rock climbing spots in Georgia and its climbing and trail hikes are challenging enough that the Army Rangers use them for training. Other unique opportunities to explore on foot include a section of the Appalachian Trail. It intersects GA75 and SR348 and offers parking at both locations. For more on hiking opportunities around Helen and White County, click here.
If visiting during the warmer months, don’t miss a chance to tube down the Chattahoochee River. There’s no better way to celebrate summer than tubing along the Chattahoochee—or as the locals call it, “shoot the ‘hooch!” Whether you are looking for a leisurely float with friends or the thrill of a faster current, this quintessential summer activity is fun for the whole family. Check out Cool River Tubing for everything you need for a day of tubing. Cool River Tubing is open daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Memorial Day through Labor Day. Click here for more outdoor adventure in Alpine Helen. Cool River Tubing, 590 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen, Georgia, 30545; 706-878-2665
Looking for more water adventures? Check out Upper Chattahoochee River Water Trail which starts at Sautee Creek and the Chattahoochee River in White County and includes Class I – III rapids. Kayaking can be DIY or via a guided trip. Wildwood Outfitters takes guests on a Class I to II float down the river to soak in the scenery or a Class III rapids-running adrenaline kick. Overnight camping and other trips can also be arranged. Wildwood Outfitters, 26 Megan Drive, Cleveland, Georgia 30528; 706-865-4451
Try your luck and possibly strike it rich in Helen with a visit to Outpost Gold and Gem Panning. This long-time family attraction is fun for all ages. Try your luck with a Georgia Gold Rush Paydirt Bucket filled with either concentrated gold or take a chance on the Gemstone Bucket with rare earth gems such as rubies, sapphires, emeralds, amethyst, topaz and more. Get hands on lessons from trained staff members who are always nearby to help identify finds and evaluate them. Panning tables are covered and open rain or shine. Outpost Gold and Gem Panning, 7901 South Main Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-5065
Plan your stay
Alpine Helen offers a variety of lodging options to suit any budget. Whether you are looking to save, spend or splurge, there’s a perfect property for you. For those looking to save but not compromise authenticity, check in at Riverbend Motel and Cabins. Situated on the Chattahoochee River, this property offers rustic river view rooms and cozy cabins. Just a few steps from downtown Helen, guests love the location, spacious cabins, complimentary continental breakfast, riverfront amenities, convenient parking, free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly amenities and more. Riverbend Motel and Cabins, 134 River Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-2155
For more mid-range budgets, Helen’s Holiday Inn Express and Suites offers mid-range rates along with many perks and amenities. Ideally located within walking distance to the Festhalle, village shops, restaurants and many local attractions, this property is one of the newest in town. Guests also love the complimentary grab and go breakfast featuring cinnamon rolls, sausage biscuits and more. This property has everything you need from high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity, microwaves and refrigerators in each room, an indoor heated pool and a business center. Holiday Inn Express and Suites, 8100 South Main Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-1084
For more of a splurge, Valhalla Resort Hotel is a must. Helen’s mountain retreat resort is reminiscent of an ancient Scottish castle and is also close to downtown. Valhalla Resort Hotel offers sweeping mountain views, a relaxing pool, a rooftop sky bar and the area’s true fine-dining restaurant, all within the Innsbruck Golf Community. Upscale amenities include golf packages, concierge, valet, full spa services and three dining options. Packages can be arranged for hiking, fly fishing and winery tours Valhalla Resort Hotel, 688 Bahn Innsbruck, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-2200.
For more lodging options in Alpine Helen, click here.
If you go
Alpine Helen offers outstanding restaurants, shopping, attractions and more. In addition to an abundance of outdoor adventure, visitors to the area can also experience arts and culture, history and heritage, vineyards and breweries as well as a host of annual events—there’s truly something for every member of the family. Top off your stay with ample dining options from al fresco dining by the water to pizza, German cuisine, family friendly cafes and more. Lastly, don’t miss shopping in downtown Alpine Helen. This distinctive Bavarian inspired destination is full of unique boutiques, gift shops and more.