Where to stay in Northwest Georgia?

Question

Considering spending a week in the Chattanooga area but dont want to stay in Chattanooga. Was wondering if there are any good small towns nearby in Northwest Georgia that would make a good base? Something with microbreweries and good restaurants. Looking to do some hiking, Cloudland Canyon, maybe day trip to some places like Little River Canyon in Alabama and of course the places to see in Chattanooga.

Answer

If you're looking to explore the beautiful Northwest Georgia region while avoiding staying directly in Chattanooga, there are several charming small towns that could make an excellent base for your week-long trip. These towns offer a combination of outdoor activities, local breweries, and great restaurants, all while being close to hiking destinations like Cloudland Canyon and Little River Canyon in Alabama. Here are a few towns to consider:

1. Lookout Mountain (Georgia side)

Located just south of Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain is a great option if you want to be close to outdoor attractions and enjoy a peaceful retreat. The town is known for its stunning views, hiking trails, and historical sites. You’ll be close to Cloudland Canyon, as well as the scenic spots on the mountain like Rock City and Point Park. Though it’s a small town, there are a few cozy restaurants and some local places to enjoy a craft beer.

Outdoor Activities: Hiking at Cloudland Canyon, Lookout Mountain, and local parks.
Nearby Attractions: Rock City, Ruby Falls, and Point Park.
Breweries: A couple of small local spots, though not as abundant as in larger cities.

2. Dalton, GA

Dalton is another great base for exploring the surrounding areas of Northwest Georgia, just 30 minutes south of Chattanooga. It's a larger town with more restaurant options and a couple of microbreweries. Dalton is near hiking spots like the Cohutta Wilderness, and it’s easy to access areas like Little River Canyon in Alabama. Dalton is also known for its textile history, and you’ll find a mix of Southern charm and modern amenities.

Outdoor Activities: Hikes in the Cohutta Wilderness, Fort Mountain State Park, and local nature trails.
Nearby Attractions: Day trips to Little River Canyon, hiking at Fort Mountain.
Breweries & Restaurants: Dalton has a few microbreweries and a mix of Southern-style eateries. Check out places like The Dalton Brewing Company and local favorites for good food.

3. Trenton, GA

Located just outside of Lookout Mountain and near the Alabama state line, Trenton is a quieter town with easy access to hiking spots like Cloudland Canyon and the nearby Tennessee Valley Railroad. Trenton itself is small, but it has a few quaint local restaurants and is an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat while still being close to outdoor adventures. For a town this size, it may not have many microbreweries, but it’s close to both Chattanooga and Dalton, where you can find plenty of local craft beer options.

Outdoor Activities: Hiking at Cloudland Canyon, and access to nearby caves and parks.
Nearby Attractions: Day trips to Chattanooga, hiking in nearby national forests and parks.
Breweries & Restaurants: A few local restaurants, though breweries are more available in nearby Chattanooga and Dalton.

4. Fort Payne, AL

If you're willing to venture into Alabama for a bit, Fort Payne is a great option about an hour from Chattanooga. It's located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and offers beautiful scenery, hiking, and a historic downtown. You can visit nearby Little River Canyon National Preserve for some of the best outdoor activities in the region, and the town itself has a small-town charm with some good local dining options. Fort Payne is home to a couple of craft breweries, which makes it a great spot if you're looking for local brews.

Outdoor Activities: Hiking in Little River Canyon National Preserve and DeSoto State Park.
Nearby Attractions: Little River Canyon, DeSoto Falls, and nearby hiking trails.
Breweries & Restaurants: Fort Payne has a couple of microbreweries like the Back Forty Beer Company, along with a range of restaurants.

5. Summerville, GA

Summerville is a small town located a bit further south from Chattanooga, but it offers a good combination of scenic views, local culture, and access to outdoor activities. It's a great base if you want to explore the area more leisurely. While it doesn’t have a huge number of microbreweries, there are plenty of great local restaurants serving Southern food. You’re also close to some great hiking spots like the Taylor's Ridge and the Chattahoochee National Forest.

Outdoor Activities: Hiking around Taylor’s Ridge, Chattahoochee National Forest, and nearby parks.
Nearby Attractions: Close to hiking, fishing, and outdoor activities in the national forests.
Breweries & Restaurants: A few local spots for dining, though breweries are more common in nearby cities.

Summary:

Each of these towns offers its own unique blend of outdoor adventure, local dining, and access to nearby attractions. If you want to stay closer to Chattanooga but avoid the hustle and bustle, Lookout Mountain is your best bet, with easy access to hiking and a few local dining options. Dalton and Fort Payne are great for those who want a larger variety of restaurants and breweries while still being near outdoor activities. Trenton and Summerville are quieter and more rural, making them ideal for a relaxing base. All of these towns provide a great opportunity to explore the best of Northwest Georgia and neighboring Alabama while offering a comfortable place to stay.

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