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Helen, Georgia, is a charming mountain town tucked inside the North Georgia mountains. Dubbed Alpine Helen for its German roots, the Southern town is loaded with Bavarian influence from its architecture to the delicious German cuisine.
While Helen is a year-round travel destination, there’s something really special about visiting during the spring. This time of year is known for fewer crowds, epic outdoor adventures, and beautiful scenery at every turn.
We’ve put together the ultimate guide to springtime in Helen, Georgia. We can’t wait to host you for your spring getaway at Blue Creek Cabins!
Getting Around Helen
From Atlanta
The town of Helen is approximately two hours from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Those who are flying into Atlanta can rent a car from the airport before heading to Helen. The drive from the airport is scenic as you drive past Atlanta and head into the North Georgia mountains.
Other airports nearby include Chattanooga, TN (2.5 hours) and Knoxville, TN (3 hours).
Getting Around Town
Photo Credit: PQK
The easiest way to get around Helen and the surrounding areas is by renting a vehicle. Due to the steep mountainous drives, we recommend a 4-wheel- or all-wheel drive vehicle if possible.
While activities outside Helen require a car to get to, Downtown Helen is easily walkable! You can stroll Main Street by foot and access all of the restaurants, shops, and entertainment options that it offers.
Spring Weather in Helen
The spring weather in Helen starts to warm up in March, with average highs in the 60s and lows in the 40s. By April and May, average highs rise to the 70s, with lows in the 50s. These warmer temperatures bring blooming flowers, lush trees, and bursts of color throughout the Blue Ridge mountains.
The chance of rain is low during the spring months. Expect plenty of sunshine to accompany your outdoor activities.
Top Spring Activities in Helen
Go Chasing Waterfalls
Photo Credit: Sean Pavone
Helen is surrounded by some of the most beautiful waterfalls in North Georgia. Spring is the best time to experience waterfalls because the water flow is at its peak, giving you the quintessential waterfall experience.
Anna Ruby Falls is a popular waterfall hike near Helen. It is a relatively easy 1-mile trailhead that is paved the entire way, making it a great option for people of all ages. Once you reach the waterfalls, two viewing platforms are available to take in the magnificent sight.
Other popular nearby waterfall hikes include Raven Cliff Falls, Dukes Creek Falls, and Desoto Falls.
Visit Unicoi State Park
Photo Credit: Sean Pavone
- Address: 1788 GA-356, Helen Georgia
- Website: unicoilodge.com/ga-state-park
Just outside of Downtown Helen, Unicoi State Park & Lodge offers a little bit of everything for the outdoor enthusiast.
Home to over 1,000 acres, including Unicoi Lake, visitors can enjoy hiking trails, mountain biking, fishing, canoe rentals, and more. Looking for a unique activity? Try their Archery and Open Air Gun Range, which is open year-round. Want the thrill of adventure? Go ziplining in the park. Want a pet-friendly activity? Enjoy the guided “Paws on Trails” hike with your furry friends!
Park hours are 7 am-10 pm, and parking is $5 per vehicle.
Enjoy Outdoor Eating in Downtown Helen
Photo Credit: Alex Voronov
There’s nothing better than eating al fresco on a perfect spring day. Luckily for our guests, there are plenty of opportunities to do just that in Downtown Helen.
Downtown Helen mimics a traditional Alpine Village, with German restaurants in Bavarian-style buildings lining Main Street.
Restaurants like Hofbrauhaus Restaurant, Bigg Daddy’s, and Hofer’s Bakery and Cafe offer plenty of outdoor seating. Cafe International offers a front-seat view of the Chattahoochee River from their outdoor patio. Finally, Main Street is lined with cafes with quaint outdoor seating, like The Mason Jar Coffee & Gelato.
Pull up a chair and enjoy delicious cuisine while enjoying Helen's views!
Go Horseback Riding
Photo Credit: Jerry Ray via Flickr CC2.0
- Address: 2180 GA-17, Sautee Nacoochee, GA
- Website: chattahoocheestables.com
Looking for a unique way to experience the North Georgia Mountains? Horseback riding is the answer, and spring is the perfect time to enjoy it.
Located in neighboring Sautee Nacoochee, Chattahoochee Stables has offered horseback rides since 1987. Their guided trail rides take you through 3 miles of the Sautee Nacoochee Valley, including along the Chattahoochee River. The rides last one hour long and are $60 per person for a group ride. Cash only.
We recommend making reservations before your Helen trip to secure your spot! They take walk-ups, but space is limited. Trust us; you don’t want to miss out on this fun activity.
Visit Local Wineries
Photo Credit: Beverly Altobello
Spring is a beautiful time to visit the many local wineries nearby. Between the rolling vineyards and spectacular mountain views, it’s the ideal spot to unwind after a day of adventures.
Helen is home to Habersham Winery, a local winery known for its award-winning Georgia wines. Their tasting room is open daily for wine tastings, which include five wines for a very reasonable price. Walk-ins are welcome, but make reservations if your group is ten people or more.
Other nearby wineries include:
Hike Yonah Mountain
Photo Credit: Nicholas Lamontanaro
There is no shortage of hiking spots near Helen, Georgia, but one of our favorites during the spring months is Mount Yonah Trailhead.
This Yonah Mountain trail is a 4.4-mile roundtrip hike that is considered moderately challenging due to the incline up the mountain. During the springtime, the mountain is covered in blooming wildflowers, making the hike uphill an experience in and of itself.
But, of course, the summit is the real star here. Yonah sits tall above the foothills of the Blue Ridge mountains. Once you reach the top, you’ll be amazed at the panoramic views below you. It’s a tough one, but it’s completely worth it!
What to Pack
With warm weather during the day and cooler temps at night, we recommend packing layers for your spring trip to Helen. It’s helpful to bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for long days in the sun. This season is also known for its abundant waterfalls, so you may want to pack water shoes and a bathing suit if you hope to splash in the water!
Book a Spring Getaway to Helen, Georgia
There’s no shortage of fun things to experience during your spring getaway to Helen, Georgia. Helen comes alive in during this season, making it the perfect time to engage in outdoor activities, take in the surrounding views, and enjoy fewer crowds.
Whether you’re visiting our cabin rentals for Spring Break or just a weekend away, we hope you have an epic spring vacation in Helen!