Fall in the North Georgia Mountains is a magical time of year.  Folks from all over the country come to North Georgia to share its beauty and vibrant colors.  As you approach Dahlonega ( www.dahlonega.org )  from Ga. Hwy. 400, you begin to experience one of the greatest “free shows” on earth.  The spectacular fall colors of the Southern Appalachian  mountain range are striking !  Breathtaking views and sweeping panoramic vistas  abound.

I’d say that most folks who live up here enjoy sitting on their back porch, taking in the sweet aroma of the mountains in the fall.  As the days grow shorter, a crisp chill fills the evening air.  You can smell wood burning in fireplaces and back yard pits throughout the mountains.  The aroma is distinct. It invigorates the senses.  One can feel the warm glow of lights twinkling through the trees and hear the distant rustling of the fallen multi-colored leaves as the mountain animals prepare for the winter.

Venture to the top of Brasstown Bald
( www.ngeorgia.com/ang/Brasstown-Bald ) near Young Harris and enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the mountains and valleys below.  Also near Young Harris is the Brasstown Valley Resort
( www.brasstownvalley.com).  Sit on the back porch of the Lodge and “take-in” the amazing vistas year-round.  A bit closer to metro Atlanta is Amicalola State Park ( www.amicalolafalls.com ), which is also near Dahlonega. Enjoy the vistas from the Lodge, or hike up to the top of the falls.

Even better, stay in the mountains for a weekend.  Rent a cabin and enjoy all that the mountains have to offer.  Take walks along a stream with your spouse, kids, or grandkids. Be sure to bring your canine companion.  Watch your dog chasing leaves and squirrels, while jumping in and out of the cool mountain waters.  Take your sweetheart for a romantic evening stroll down a quiet mountain road or just sit and rock on the back porch, as the moonlight dances through the half-naked trees.

As an experienced architect and north Georgia Mountain builder, I have helped many families make the mountains their home.  All it takes is the aroma of the mountains in the fall, and a vision of sitting on your back porch.  Please visit ( www.henryzuckerman.com )