Just a short drive from Atlanta’s 2026 FIFA World Cup action, this Bavarian-inspired village delivers wildflowers, waterfall hikes and Chattahoochee River adventures
ALPINE HELEN-WHITE COUNTY, GEORGIA–MARCH 2026–The world descends on Atlanta this summer with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but if you’re looking for a peaceful escape before or after the crowds arrive, head to the North Georgia Mountains to the quaint alpine town of Helen. Nestled by the Chattahoochee River and surrounded by protected national forests, designated wilderness areas, state parks and scenic highways, in addition to great restaurants and entertainment, Alpine Helen and White County is the perfect North Georgia Mountain getaway and only 90 minutes north of Atlanta.
Waterfalls and wildflowers
The mountains are alive this time of year with majestic waterfalls and wildflowers. The temperate climate of the region means it’s delightful weather from spring to fall offering plenty of great opportunities to hike, mountain bike and take in a horse ride. Unicoi State Park (1788 GA-356, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-2201), only a short drive from the heart of Helen, offers that and more, including a mountain lodge with massive stone fireplace for cozy gatherings, restaurants and a spectacular mountain view. Enjoy the many activities offered at the 1,063-acre state park, including water sports on a neighboring lake, or the short hike to the breathtaking twin falls at Anna Ruby Falls (3455 Anna Ruby Falls Road, Helen, GA 30545; 706-878-1448).
Another state park that’s a short drive from Helen is Smithgall Woods State Park (61 Tsalaki Trail, Helen, Georgia 30545; 800-864-7275) which offers restful woodland cottages, and a one-mile hike to Dukes Creek Falls within the pristine Dukes Creek Valley in the middle of a Southern Appalachian wilderness.
In the nearby Chattahoochee National Forest, a hike that’s just under five miles takes visitors to the double-cascade Raven Cliff Falls, unique in that the water flows in two sections through a 40-foot rock cliff.
Need more waterfall adventure? Find them all on the Alpine Helen-White County website’s waterfall guide.
River action
The Chattahoochee River stretches from the North Georgia Mountains all the way to Florida and provides unlimited outdoor fun. In White County, that means tubing, fly fishing and white water adventures. Shoot the Hooch by kayak, tube or with a guide from Wildwood Outfitters (26 Megan Drive, Cleveland, Georgia 30528; 706-865-4451). Cool River Tubing (590 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-2665) has been in the relaxation business for more than 30 years offering tubing fun and Helen Tubing (9917 Highway 75 North, Helen, Georgia; 706-878-7465), starts its seasonal tubing in May.
Trout runs in abundance in the North Georgia Mountains and White County fly fishing sites include Unicoi State Park and Dukes Creek at Smithgall—a top North Georgia trout stream. For a list of the state’s trout streams, click here.
Savoring the wilderness
The Appalachian Trail intersects two highways in White County—Georgia Highway 75 and State Road 348—and allows parking at both locations. Nearby Yonah Mountain is one of the top three rock climbing spots in Georgia. Its Yonah Preserve is a great place to mountain bike, and the Yonah Mountain Trail an ideal hike to the summit with wildflowers to enjoy—and the mountain’s only nine miles from downtown Helen! It’s no wonder Helen and White County has been named “Georgia’s Official Outdoor Adventure Destination.”
Mountain coasters & mini golf
We like to recommend these attractions for kids and teens but in reality all ages adore the Georgia Mountain Coaster (8409 South Main Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-1347). For those who love to putter, the Alpine Mini Golf Village (7914 South Main Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-3328) offers an 18-hole course surrounded by flowering gardens. Serious golfers should head to the Valhalla Resort Hotel (664 Bahn Innsbruck Road, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-2100) for all your golfing needs, from rentals and a driving range to golf lessons.
Stop over in the mountains
Family and group-friendly as well as upscale dining options range from pizza to German and other international cuisines. Plenty of outdoor patios and decks by the water show off the scenery. Don’t miss shopping in downtown Alpine Helen. This distinctive Bavarian inspired destination is full of unique boutiques, gift shops and more.
Alpine Helen offers a variety of lodging options. Situated on the Chattahoochee River and close to downtown Helen, Riverbend Motel and Cabins (134 River Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-2155) offers rustic river views from cozy cabins, complimentary continental breakfast, riverfront and pet-friendly amenities, convenient parking, free Wi-Fi and more.
Helen’s Holiday Inn Express and Suites (8100 South Main Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-1084) features mid-range rates 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 and includes an indoor heated pool and business center.
Whatever your accommodations, whether hotels, bed and breakfasts or campgrounds, remember to plan early for metro Atlanta (and Helen) will fill up fast with arriving World Cup international and national visitors.