6 Southern Outdoor Getaways for the Adventure Traveler
Discover adventurous outdoor escapes across the South, from scenic mountain hikes and cascading waterfalls to crystal-clear lakes and thrilling whitewater rapids. Image: Discover Dahlonega
Craving your next outdoor adventure? From mountain trails to rushing rivers, these Southern destinations are packed with breathtaking scenery and endless ways to explore the great outdoors.
Located just an hour north of Atlanta and often referred to as the gateway to the North Georgia Mountains, Dahlonega, GA boasts a charming historic downtown, sprawling vineyards, and scenic mountains begging to be explored. Once celebrated as the site of America’s first major Gold Rush, Dahlonega is now best known for being the heart of Georgia’s Wine Country (and its appearance in a few classic Hallmark Christmas movies).
Here’s how to make the most of your visit!
PinVisit Three Sisters Vineyards to taste Dahlonega’s 100% estate-grown plateau wines. Image: Discover Dahlonega
To soak up the incredible scenery of Dahlonega, begin your adventure in Chattahoochee National Forest. Among the 10 wilderness areas, you’ll find cascading waterfalls, 1,367 miles of trout streams, 430 miles of trails, horseback riding routes, and the start of the famous 2,135-mile Appalachian Trail.
PinHike to the scenic summit of Preachers Rock on the Appalachian Trail, climbing from the trailhead at Woody Gap. Image: Discover Dahlonega
Nearby, the Etowah and Chestatee Rivers offer challenging canoeing and kayaking with Class I and II rapids. For more water activities, spend the day at Lake Zwerner.
PinSurrounding Lake Zwerner is a dog-friendly 3.3-mile loop with ample opportunities for birdwatching. Image: Discover Dahlonega
Fun fact — Dahlonega has long been regarded by professional riders, including Lance Armstrong, as providing some of America’s most challenging bicycling. Whether you prefer road or mountain biking, Dahlonega offers a little something for everyone.
When planning your outdoor escape, don’t forget to check for upcoming events, like the Bear on the Square Festival on April 26 and 27 or the Arts & Wine Festival on May 17 and 18.
Helen, GA
For those seeking more time in the mountains, book your next outdoor adventure in Helen, GA. With picturesque landscapes and crisp mountain air, Helen sets the ideal atmosphere for a wide variety of activities. Hike to waterfalls through ancient forests, go for a thrilling tube ride down the Chattahoochee River, or test your bravery at the top of a towering waterslide. At the end of a packed day, sip a glass of wine at a vineyard with epic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Visit all four waterfalls in Helen—Anna Ruby Falls, Dukes Creek Falls, Horse Trough Falls, and Raven Cliff Falls. Many of the area’s hiking trails pass by them, but others traverse scenic lakes, like the routes at Unicoi State Park or Yonah Preserve. Put a check mark on your bucket list by hiking a bit of the Appalachian Trail or walking alongside the Chattahoochee River on the beautiful Helen to Hardman Heritage Trail.
PinNothing beats a cold beer after a long day of outdoor adventure! Book your trip to Helen in late May to experience Bavarianfest — an evening of live music, authentic eats, and refreshing brews. Image: Facebook
To explore Helen’s beautiful scenery on horseback, visit Chattahoochee Stables. Nestled in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains, the stables cover over 150 acres of the historic Sautee Nacoochee Valley.
Thrill-seekers shouldn’t miss Cool River Adventures, where you can zipline, trek across aerial bridges, and catch unparalleled views of the Chattahoochee River. Head to Wildwood Outfitters to rent a kayak for a leisurely float down the river — or a more adrenaline-pumping ride through the rapids!
PinStep into the enchanting world of Uhuburg, Helen’s Renaissance Eagle Owl Castle. Explore the stunning grounds, book a medieval photo shoot, and stay overnight for a unique experience. Image: Facebook
When you’re ready to take the adventure down a notch and enjoy tranquil nature scenes, book a Lake Chatuge Cruise for a day on the lake.
For lodging, stay in a cabin at Sunburst Adventures, where you can go horseback riding, ziplining, or four-wheeling.
If you’re seeking a resort setting, Valhalla offers a spa, golf course, and luxurious rooms.
PinGolf against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains at Valhalla Resort. Image: Facebook
Jackson County, TN
For a Tennessee adventure, pristine Jackson County is situated among the Upper Cumberland and offers outdoor enthusiasts ample hiking opportunities. Cummins Falls State Park is a 282-acre state park in Cookeville featuring a 75-foot waterfall on the Blackburn Fork State Scenic River.
PinCummins Falls State Park is a rugged 306-acre oasis, home to Tennessee’s eighth-largest waterfall and a beloved swimming hole for over a century. Image: Facebook
Visit The Boils WMA for a respite along the Roaring River. This fishing and swimming destination features a unique biological feature: a spring that “boils” up from the ground into the river.
For the ultimate nature retreat, stay at Wildwood Resort & Marina, located on Cordell Hull Lake. While there, take a scenic paddle board ride, book a massage, and spend the night in a modern cabin. Wildwood is the perfect destination for corporate retreats, family reunions, and romantic couples’ getaways — with just the right amount of outdoor adventure and scenery.
PinTake a Champagne Brunch or Sunset Cruise across Cordell Hull Lake at Wildwood Resort & Marina. Image: Wildwood Resort & Marina
For more boating, fishing, and swimming, stop by Salt Lick Creek Recreation Area or Roaring River Park. You can also take in beautiful lakeside views as you ride a Tennessee Walking Horse at Lake Meadow Farm.
PinMake a pit stop at the Sutton General Store for snacks and unique finds, or visit in the evening to hear live bluegrass! Image: Facebook
Round out your trip with a bit of history. Visit Granville Museum, which features furnishings depicting rural Tennessee life in the early 1900s. Stop by The Gaines House, which was once a Civil War hospital. You can also step back in time and visit the Sutton General Store and Museum in Granville, built in the 1800s.
In between activities, sample local cuisine at Nana’s Place for homestyle cooking and barbecue, Stolen Coin Oyster Bar & Bistro for Gulf Coast fare, or Helen’s for Southern comfort food. And don’t forget to treat yourself to frozen custard at Honest John’s!
Upcountry, SC
Kick off your outdoor adventures in Upcountry with a visit to Chattooga National Wild & Scenic River for a day of whitewater rafting. A premier whitewater rafting destination, the Chattooga drops an average of 49.3 feet per mile and is one of the longest and largest free-flowing mountain rivers in the southeast. The 50-mile river also provides outdoor enthusiasts with some of the best boating and fishing in the region.
PinExperience the thrill of rafting the Chattooga, which flows from the Appalachian Mountains to Lake Tugaloo with rapids varying from Class II to Class V. Image: Upcountry South Carolina
At Lake Jocassee, visitors can spend the day boating, kayaking, fishing, or scuba diving. With 7,500 acres of deep water and 75 miles of shoreline, the lake boasts mountains, waterfalls, and clear water. Devils Fork State Park provides public access to the lake and is a popular spot for camping and hiking.
PinBeautiful Lake Jocassee is surrounded by mountains and waterfalls, with most of the scenic shoreline untouched by man! Image: Upcountry South Carolina
Three of the region’s state parks are in Upcountry, making it the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, no matter which outdoor activity you prefer — boating, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, or hiking. Among the 13 state parks in Upcountry, there are approximately 50 cabins and villas in addition to campgrounds.
At Paris Mountain State Park, explore 17 miles of trails as you marvel at the beauty of Paris Mountain, a monadnock (large stone hill) that rises out of flat land. Table Rock State Park‘s hiking trails offer access to the 76-mile Foothills Trail, allowing visitors to journey between several connected South Carolina State Parks.
PinUpcountry is home to more than 100 waterfalls! For the perfect picnic spot, take a leisurely hike to King Creek Falls or Twin Falls. Image: Upcountry South Carolina
For breathtaking views, visit Caesars Head State Park. A granite outcropping sits atop the Blue Ridge Escarpment, offering panoramic views 3,200 feet above sea level. The park’s most popular trail leads to the 420-foot Raven Cliff Falls, where a suspension bridge offers a thrilling overlook — the perfect view to cap off a weekend (or more) of epic adventure.
West Volusia, FL
Start your summer of adventure in West Volusia at De León Springs State Park. Known for its refreshing spring waters, visitors can swim, kayak, or take a scenic boat tour to explore the surrounding landscape, home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, or seeking out the perfect picnic spot!
PinWith crystal clear spring waters, swimming, hiking, and birdwatching, De León Springs State Park is the perfect place for a day in nature. Image: Visit Florida
Nestled within the park is the famous Old Sugar Mill Pancake House, where you can cook your own pancakes at your table — a delicious way to fuel up before a day of exploration!
PinThe popular Old Sugar Mill Pancake House in De León Springs State Park is a 100-year-old replica of the original 1830s sugar mill. Image: Visit West Volusia
West Volusia is home to thousands of acres of pristine wilderness, hundreds of species of migratory birds, and the second-largest Southern bald eagle nesting habitat in America. Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge is a favorite spot for birdwatching.
For optimal wildlife viewing, rent a kayak or take a pontoon boat tour and explore the St. Johns River — one of only 14 American Heritage Rivers in the United States. Much of the shoreline looks as it did 100 years ago, unspoiled and teeming with wildlife.
PinThis summer, see entertaining tribute shows at Athens Theatre like The Beach Buoys, Beautiful Loser, The Bob Seger Tribute, and Diamond, A Tribute to Neil Diamond. Image: Visit West Volusia
Ideal for sampling the flavors of the region, the Artisan Alley Farmers Market takes place every Friday in historic downtown DeLand. Visitors can enjoy handcrafted goods, delicious food, and live music.
Refuel at Hunters and Gatherers, Cress Restaurant, or Central 28 Brewing Co. Many of these spots host summer wine-pairing dinners and craft beer tastings highlighting seasonal flavors and locally sourced ingredients.
If you can, align your getaway with the CoolCraft Summer Beverage Competition! The award-winning competition returns with a kick-off on June 23 and showcases beverages crafted by over 20 local breweries, coffee roasters, tea purveyors, and mixologists. In the evening, wind down after a day of activity at West Volusia’s historic and beautifully restored Athens Theatre for its summer concert series.
Bentonville, AR
Known as the “Mountain Biking Capital of the World,” Bentonville boasts nearly 70 miles of interconnected bike trails throughout the city, linking to a massive 400-mile trail system across Northwest Arkansas. Whether you’re a seasoned rider looking to conquer massive jumps or a beginner eager to cruise through scenic pathways, Bentonville has a trail for every skill level.
PinBentonville, AR, is a mountain biker’s paradise with nearly 70 miles of trails. Image: Facebook
Along the way, discover vibrant public art, top-tier restaurants, and Bike Rack Brewing Co. — the perfect place to grab a cold brew after an adrenaline-packed ride.
For a world-class mountain biking experience, Coler Mountain Bike Preserve is a must-visit. With 17+ miles of trails, including exhilarating jump lines, technical rock sections, and massive gap jumps, it’s a haven for thrill-seekers. The Hub, a striking 20-foot steel structure at the top of Coler Mountain, serves as the launch point for three adrenaline-pumping downhill runs.
PinThe Rise at Coler Mountain Bike Preserve serves as an ergonomic running space to the preserve’s highest point. It was inspired by the workout stairs in Santa Monica, CA. The journey ascends 185 steps and is equal to 11 flights of stairs! Image: Facebook
For those who prefer a slower pace, Coler also offers hiking trails, a scenic cafe hidden in the preserve, and camping options with modern amenities like hot showers and a bike repair station.
Beyond biking, Bentonville offers 16 stunning parks with hiking trails. Osage Park is a unique urban escape where visitors can explore 12 acres of wetlands, practice archery at The Quiver Archery Range, or enjoy live music and pickleball. Orchard Park showcases 4th of July fireworks, summer concerts, and First Friday Movies.
The Bentonville trail system consists of three looped trails within the parks, (Memorial Park, Lake Bella Vista, and Park Springs Park), seven linear pedestrian pathways and bikeways along city streets, an all-terrain mountain bike trail, and on-road bicycle routes, creating a network of over 40 trail miles.
PinThe HUB Bike Lounge is a gathering place for outdoor enthusiasts — all trails lead to The HUB! Image: Facebook
Whether you’re tackling thrilling trails, exploring scenic gardens, or discovering hidden cafes in the mountains, Bentonville is a one-of-a-kind outdoor playground you won’t want to miss!
Happy exploring!This article is sponsored by Discover Dahlonega, Alpine Helen/White County CVB, Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, Upcountry South Carolina, and Visit West Volusia.
Kate Feinberg is a professional writer based in Nashville. She has more than 14 years of freelance writing experience covering travel, wellness, and lifestyle. A certified meditation teacher, RYT-200 yoga instructor, and integrative nutrition health coach, she brings a strong wellness perspective to her work. Kate is also a marathon runner and the creator of a plant-based food blog, Chef Kate F, where she shares nourishing recipes and mindful living tips. When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her on the golf course, exploring new destinations, or combining both with golf-focused travel. She enjoys lake life on Percy Priest Lake.
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