The winding, country roads in North Georgia offer spectacular views of fall foliage. “Dragon Eyes” is a 77-mile scenic drive (in a figure 8 pattern) that includes 715 curves, two loops and six gaps, and passes through small towns, near waterfalls and through state parks. The route is named for the two loops—the “eyes”—and each loop wanders through three gaps, where the road passes between the mountains.
The southern portion of Dragon Eyes is 35 miles long, and the northern route is 41 miles. If you decided to take the whole 77-mile scenic drive, you will climb from 1,470’ to 3,480’ at Hogpen Gap, crossing several points of entry to the Appalachian Trail. Along the drive, you will pass through the charming mountain towns of Dahlonega, Helen and Blairsville, where you will find great shopping and dining options.
It is difficult to do justice to the whole 77 miles in one day, so if you are doing a day trip, select just the southern or northern loop, so you have time to stop and enjoy the sites. The Southern Loop (or Suches Loop), winds along Hwys 60/180/129/19 and passes through Neel Gap, Woody Gap and Wolfpen Gap, with several turnouts along the way to view the fall foliage. The drive intersects with the Appalachian Trail at several points. Be sure to stop at the historic Mountain Crossings at Neel Gap. This vintage stone structure was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and was designated first as a restaurant and inn for hikers and mountain tourists. Now Mountain Crossings is a hiking gear and gift shop, with picnic tables offering great mountain views. Fun Fact: Mountain Crossings is the only place on the entire Appalachian Trail where the trail actually crosses through a building!
The Northern Loop, also known as the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway, is comprised of a 41 -mile loop that passes through the Chattahoochee National Forest. The route includes parts of Georgia State Route 17, SR 75, SR 180, and SR 75 Alternate, as well as the entire length of SR 348. The loop passes through Hogpen Gap, Unicoi Gap and Jack’s Gap. Many who follow this loop like to start at the Sunrise Grocery in Blairsville to pick up picnic supplies.