Take a Drive Down Scenic Hwy 197

SOQUE RIVER – This winding drive follows the unique tributary of the Chattahoochee River and is over 28 miles long. Use caution as you travel, as at one point on Scenic 197 there will be a dip in the road (clearly marked by a road sign) where the river can flow over the road, this is humorously known as a “Low Bridge”. Many trout fisherman love this watershed, as the Soque River's cold temperatures are the secret to the large Rainbow, Brook, & Brown trout that inhabit it.

BATESVILLE – has a General Store numerous galleries of regional handmade arts and crafts. Mark of the Potter is a scenic and historic grist mill was built in the 1930's and is a must photo stop for the beautiful 25 foot falls from the Soque River that flow beside it. Potters make their “mark” on the store and feature handcrafted pottery. Many more local artists and stores are a must stop including: Hickory Flat Pottery, Burton Gallery, stained glass, and other handcrafted artwork studios.

LAKE BURTON – This 2,775-acre reservoir and is one of the first lakes created to generate hydroelectric energy by Georgia Power. Lake Burton's name was derived from the former town of Burton, which now lies below the lake's surface. The town (and the lake) was named after local prominent citizen Jeremiah Burton. Many species of fish, call this home, including bass, crappie, bluegill, sunfish, catfish, walleye, trout, and perch.

MOCCASIN CREEK STATE PARK & LAKE BURTON FISH HATCHERY – Camp at one of Rabun Counties most popular State Parks on the shores of Lake Burton. The park is relatively flat, offering easy navigation for large RVs, bicycles and wheelchairs and offers a fishing pier that sits above a trout-filled creek. Lake Burton Fish Hatchery offers tours and raises trout to stock for coldwater streams of North Georgia.

SAM PITTS PARK - beside the beautiful Soque River for walking trails, picnic, and playground

HEMLOCK FALLS TRAIL - A two-mile trail begins just south to the entrance of Moccasin Creek State Park. The trail is relatively easy and follows a stream where many small waterfalls are created by branches. The trail leads to a wooden bridge that crosses the river where you continue a few feet to see Hemlock Falls.