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The Atlas/Georgia/GA-197 Scenic Highway

GA-197 Scenic Highway

A 30-mile two-lane road running north from Clarkesville through Batesville and the Soque River corridor to US-76 at Lake Burton. Known locally as the Old Moonshine Highway, the road starts as mildly rolling Appalachian foothills before becoming progressively twistier as elevation rises into Rabun County. The northern half borders Lake Burton's eastern shore, offering cool lake breezes and forest shade. LaPrade's Marina at Lake Burton is a classic lunch stop for riders.

29 mi
Length
0
Verified stops
—
High point
Scenic
Road type
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// Nearby & related
RallyGeorgia
Biker Nation Reunion Rally
Georgia
An annual motorcycle rally held in Helen, Georgia's Bavarian-themed alpine village, at Riverside City Park. Running since 2000 (26th annual ran June 2026, 27th planned for 2027), the event draws riders with live music, national vendors, and easy access to the best mountain roads in the Southeast — the Richard Russell Scenic Hwy, Wolf Pen Gap, and Unicoi Gap are all within 20 miles. Described as the 'Goldilocks' rally: big enough for national vendors, small enough to feel like a reunion.
RouteGeorgia
8.8/10
Brasstown Bald area (GA-180 + Spur)
Georgia
~18 mi plus 2.5 mi spur to Georgia's highest peak (4,784 ft). Pairs perfectly with the Russell.
26
miles
StopGeorgia
Brasstown Bald Visitor Center
Georgia
Georgia's highest point at 4,784 feet, accessed via a scenic spur off GA-180. Riders park at the lot 0.5 miles below the summit and either hike or take the shuttle to the observation deck, which offers a 360-degree view across four states. The USFS Visitor Center houses exhibits on the Southern Appalachian ecosystem. The approach road (GA-180 Spur) adds a bonus set of tight curves on top of an already excellent ride.