Question on roads in the mountains

Question

I am considering doing a road trip to see the north Georgia mountains and wanted to know what the roads are like if I were to get off on the state highways after Chattanooga, TN, and not go down through Atlanta first (I was told I had to go through Atlanta but looking at a map I don't see why I would). I would rather not drive through Atlanta but wanted to know how windy the roads are in the mountains.

Answer

If you're planning a road trip to the North Georgia mountains and would like to avoid driving through Atlanta, that's definitely doable. You can take alternative routes from Chattanooga, TN, that bypass the city and head directly toward the mountains.

Here’s a breakdown of the roads and what you can expect:

US Highway 27 (Northwest Georgia): This highway runs directly south from Chattanooga, TN, and crosses into Georgia before heading toward Rome and continuing south through the mountains. It’s a less-trafficked route compared to the Interstates, and while it’s not as direct as the Interstate highways, it offers a scenic drive without going through the heart of Atlanta. The roads are generally in good condition but can be winding and hilly as you move toward the mountain areas. This is a great choice if you want to avoid major cities and still enjoy some beautiful views.
Georgia 52 (Mountain Scenic Route): For a more scenic route, you could also consider taking Georgia 52 from Ellijay through to Dahlonega. This route takes you deeper into the heart of the North Georgia mountains, with winding roads that climb up into the foothills and higher mountain areas. Some sections can be narrow and windy, so it’s important to drive carefully, especially if you're not used to mountain driving. But the views are stunning, and it's a popular route for travelers who want to explore the area’s beauty.
Georgia 75 and 76: These are two more mountain roads you could take to explore the area further. These highways are more winding and can be steep in sections. They’re excellent choices if you want to experience the rolling hills, forests, and small towns of North Georgia. Be prepared for switchbacks and sharp curves as you drive through these areas, but they are definitely manageable if you’re comfortable with mountain driving.

Regarding the windiness of the roads, it's common for mountain routes to be curvy and hilly, especially as you approach the Appalachian foothills. However, most of these routes are well-maintained, and many of the roads are four-lane highways or paved roads that should be manageable. Just be aware that some parts of these roads are narrow and winding, particularly if you’re driving on smaller state highways like GA 52 or parts of GA 76. It’s important to take your time, especially when climbing or descending through steep areas, as some of the roads may have sharp curves.

In summary, bypassing Atlanta is entirely possible, and the alternative routes can give you a beautiful, scenic experience without the stress of city traffic. Just be aware of the winding nature of mountain roads, and take your time to enjoy the views!

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