Northwest High Country The northwest corner of the state borders Alabama and Tennessee. The nearest large city is Chattanooga, Tennessee and accordingly Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls, and Rock City. The largest city, Dalton is well known for its carpet industry. Other attractions include Cloudland Canyon State Park, Fort Mountain State Park, Chief Vann House Historic Site, and the Chattahoochee National Forest.
West High Country The West High Country region of Georgia is comprised of 6 counties located near the western border of the state with Alabama. Attractions include the Etowah Indian Mounds, the Booth Western Art Museum, and the Silver Comet bike trail.
Central High Country (Cherokee County (Georgia), Dawson County (Georgia), Lumpkin County (Georgia)) The Central High Country consists of 7 counties north of Atlanta. The southern most counties are quickly growing as the metro Atlanta area expands while the northern counties are well suited for outdoor activities and tourism. Several of the towns hold a variety of annual festivals. Lake Lanier and Lake Altoona also provide amply opportunity for water sports and recreation. The largest city in this region is Gainesville while Ellijay and Dahlonega offer many opportunities for tourists.
Although the climate and weather is usually mild with warm to hot summers and tolerably winters there is the possibility of severe weather. Although the chances of such weather are rare it is important for travelers to understand what to do in severe weather especially in cases where events are unfamiliar.
Flooding- In recent years this area suffered from severe drought and more recently increased amounts of rainfall. In 2009 the increased rainfall caused flooding. In the case of a flood find high ground and do not try to cross water flowing over a roadway.
Thunderstorms- Are large rain storms that contain high winds, rain, lighting, thunder, and sometimes hail. Thunderstorms can quickly develop into tornadoes. During a thunderstorm stay inside also be prepared for power outages caused by falling trees. More people are killed or injured in the United States by thunderstorms than by hurricanes and tornadoes combined.
Tornadoes- A tornado is a spinning column of very low-pressure air, which sucks the surrounding air inward and upward. See Tornado safety for more information.
Winter Weather- In this area of Georgia winter weather can cause lots of problems. There is a variance as to how much and what type of winter weather a specific area in this region will receive because of the differences in elevation caused by mountainous areas. Winter weather can be expected 2-3 times a year. Northerners often scoff at the locals fear of winter weather but caution should be observed. During such occasions the temperature usually hovers near freezing causing a wild mix of weather and conditions. A mix of snow, freezing rain, and sleet is usually expected. Local drivers are not accustomed to driving in this type of weather. Black ice can occur on roadways especially bridges. Ice storms are more common than blizzards.
