Leaf Watch: Time To Head For The Hills

Georgia fall foliage features brilliant hues and spectacular scenery. The changing colors of leaves in autumn is one of nature’s most beloved rites of passage -- and makes for one of the most popular and inexpensive getaways for families. As part of LeafQuest -- a MapQuest series helping leaf peepers across North America find easy and rewarding destinations -- here are three recommended spots for viewing Georgia fall foliage.

Brasstown Bald

Brasstown Bald is Georgia's highest peak, making it the ideal place for foliage fans to take in the brilliant shades of fall -- Southern style. Sourwoods, dogwoods, sumacs, black gums and hickories add a splash of color to the mountainside during the peak foliage season in late October. The observation tower offers "breathtaking views of surrounding slopes, valleys and distant peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains," as well as of four states.

Spur 180, Hiawassee, GA 30546 | Get Directions

Cloudland Canyon State Park

Cloudland Canyon State Park in Georgia overlooks a gorge cut by the Sitton Gulch Creek, offering views of cascading waterfalls and mountainsides bursting with golden and crimson colors. Evergreens -- including a hemlock grove, where one can camp overnight -- punctuate the forests for a colorful effect. Rental cottages are available on park grounds.

122 Cloudland Canyon Park Road, Rising Fawn, GA 30738 | Get Directions

F.D. Roosevelt State Park

Named after former President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Georgia's F.D. Roosevelt State Park was a special place for the former four-term leader. He spent hours at his favorite spot, Dowdell's Knob, which is still home to his stone barbeque grill. Tourists can take in the same views once enjoyed by the late president in cottages, picnic areas and the Pine Mountain Trail. The latter winds its way around Pine Mountain, presenting stunning views of orange oaks and red maples, which light up the sweeping vistas.

2970 Highway 190, Pine Mountain, GA 31822 | Get Directions

Also, check out the Georgia Department of Natural Resources' fall Leaf Watch for up-to-the-minute info on the changing colors. 

Related Topics: Fall Colors, Leaf peeping, Mapquest, and fall leaves