Getaway to the mountains in northwest Georgia
Given its location in northwest Georgia, Rising Fawn is the perfect day trip from many of the South’s major cities including Atlanta, Birmingham and Nashville. Rising Fawn is definitely lesser known than some of the other towns in North Georgia, but the scenic views are worth the visit. I have been a few times for the day and didn’t think a longer stay was necessary. If you do want to make it an over night trip there are cabins and cottages nearby or camping options. It would also be super easy to stay in Chattanooga and make the 30ish minute drive over. Here are some highlights in Rising Fawn.
The Creag at McLemore
McLemore is a mountaintop community at Lookout Mountain offering stunning views and a championship golf course. The Creag is the restaurant onsite that is open Wednesday through Sunday. From Friday through Sunday the restaurant offers brunch, lunch and dinner. The restaurant is beautiful inside with a combination of rustic and modern finishes, but the real highlight is the view that can be seen through the floor to ceiling windows. If the weather permits I suggest sitting outdoors on the patio. The views are amazing and there is even a fire pit. Be sure to make a reservation on OpenTable because at the gate to get into the community they ask you if you have a reservation to get in.
Canyon Grill
I have not yet visited Canyon Grill, but plan to on my next trip to Rising Fawn. Canyon Grill has great reviews and has received various awards. The menu changes daily based on the availability of fresh ingredients. Keep in mind that Canyon Grill is BYOB and if you bring wine you have to bring your own opener. You can make reservations in advance on their website or they accept walk ins.
Cloudland Canyon
Cloudland Canyon is a Georgia state park and is considered one of the largest and most scenic. The park has waterfalls, hiking trails, bike rentals, and scenic vistas. This is a great park to visit anytime of year but beware that at this time park staff may limit access if there are too many visitors. I visited last February on a rainy cloudy day and still had the best time. I did the West Rim Loop trail which was around 5 miles and I definitely plan to go back. Check out the Atlanta Trails site for more information on different trails.
Lula Lake Land Trust
The Lula Lake Land Trust seeks to protect and preserve the natural beauty and abundant resources within the Rock Creek watershed. Lula Lake has various hiking routes with the easiest being around 3.2 miles roundtrip. Lula Lake’s Core Preserve which contains Lula Lake and Lula Falls is only open to the general public on the first and last weekends of the month and reservations are required to visit. Reservations can be made on the Lula Lake site. There are other trail systems that are open daily, but I would recommend visiting when you can make a reservation for the Core Preserve.
OTHER PLACES a short drive FROM RISING FAWN
Rising Fawn is not far from Rock City and Chattanooga so be sure to check out my blog post about what to do in Chattanooga.
I have also heard that DeSoto State Park – DeSoto Falls is a great state park to visit atop Lookout Mountain right over the border in Alabama featuring many waterfalls and wildflowers. You can make reservations at the Alabama State Park site.