Hiawassee, Young Harris and Lake Chatuge

The little town of Hiawassee, population 900, and nearby Young Harris, population 1,200, are near the largest lake in North Georgia, Lake Chatuge, and the tallest mountain in the state, Brasstown Bald. The lake has excellent boating and other water-themed recreation. Appealing mountain resorts are nearby as well. A half-hour drive leads to Brasstown Bald, where temperatures even on the hottest summer day rarely rise above 80°F. The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds has a permanent location on the shores of Lake Chatuge. A number of festivals are held at the fairgrounds, including the Fall Festival and State Fiddler's Convention in October and the Georgia Mountain Fair held in the summer.