5 Best No-Hike Views Near Atlanta

For When You Want to Wear a Dress, See a View, and Have Some Lunch

I love the feeling of a good hike, especially one that rewards you with a great view. But sometimes, I need something with less of a time commitment or an option for when I simply don't feel like it, or if I am with people who can't hike.

If you're the same, here are five great options that deliver epic views with minimal effort.

1. Brasstown Bald

Experience Georgia's Highest Peak (without the climb!)

2941 GA-180 Spur, Hiawassee, GA

Brasstown Bald is Georgia's highest point at 4,784 feet, and here's the beautiful secret: you can drive almost to the top! A scenic road will take you to the parking area, and it's just a short (but steep) walk about .5 miles to the visitor center and observation deck.

For a true no-hike option, opt for the shuttle that runs during peak season and will take you all the way to the top for beautiful 360-degree views.

Admission: $8 (includes entrance fee and shuttle)

Accessibility: The shuttle makes this completely accessible, and the visitor center has restrooms and exhibits. There is an elevator -- but please call ahead as this was being repaired during my visit.

Perfect Lunch Pairing: Head to nearby Helen (about 30 minutes away) for German-inspired dining at Hofbrauhaus Helen (1277 Helen Hwy, Helen, GA 30545) or grab a pretzel and sausage from one of the Alpine-themed cafes along the main street.

2. Black Rock Mountain State Park

Some of the Most Picturesque Views in Georgia

3085 Black Rock Mountain Pkwy, Mountain City, GA

Black Rock Mountain is Georgia's highest state park and has one of the best views from a gift shop I've ever seen (you'll find two porches at the back of the shop)! There are plenty of hiking options, but the real magic happens at the main overlook by the visitor center/gift shop, which has parking and a pavilion with picnic tables. Keep your eyes open during the drive up/down the mountain, as you'll pass several other viewpoints worth getting out of your car to see!

Parking & Fees: $5 parking fee

Accessibility: The main overlook near the visitor center is easily accessible (as is the gift shop), although the area closest to the railing requires walking on rocks.

Perfect Lunch Pairing: Head into Clayton and you'll find lots of options, including one of my favorite cafes, White Birch Provisions (60 E Savannah St, Clayton, GA). In addition to an incredible selection of coffee and baked goods, you'll find a back area stocked with picnic supplies from cheeses to wine.

3. Bell Mountain

A Hidden Gem with Big Views

Bell Mountain Road, Hiawassee, GA

Bell Mountain might be the best-kept secret on this list. While there is no hike involved, the challenge is making it up the heart-pounding, narrow, windy road to the top! Once you reach the parking lot, you're rewarded with 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Chatuge.

The views from the base are gorgeous, but if you're able, you can also climb the stairs.

Parking & Fees: Free!

Accessibility: Drive-up access makes this very accessible, though the tower climb is optional

Perfect Lunch Pairing: I haven't explored the restaurants in this area, but there looks like there are plenty of options in and around downtown Hiawassee.

4. Cloudland Canyon Overlook

Drama Without the Drama

122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn, GA

I love Cloudland Canyon (as you might know from some of my other adventures), and the main overlook is absolutely perfect for a no-hike day. You can park and walk less than .25 miles on a paved path to reach one of Georgia's most dramatic views. The canyon drops away dramatically in front of you, creating this incredible sense of scale, and if it's been raining, you'll be able to make out a waterfall in the distance flowing down the canyon walls.

The overlook gives you that "wow, I can't believe this exists in Georgia" feeling without any of the effort usually required for this kind of view.

Parking & Fees: $5 cash parking fee (or card in the visitor center -- but it's not always open!)

Accessibility: Short, paved walk makes this very accessible

Perfect Lunch Pairing: Drive 30 minutes to McLemore Resort and dine at Croft (334 Scenic Hwy, Rising Fawn, GA 30738) -- their bl(fg)t (fried green tomato BLT) is delicious, and the mountain views from the dining room are spectacular. Call ahead for reservations and enjoy free valet parking!

5. JumpinGoat Coffee Roastery

Mountain Views with a Side of Caffeine

915 Helen Hwy, Cleveland, GA

Ok, so this one is a little different -- it's not a traditional scenic overlook, but hear me out. JumpinGoat sits on a hillside with the most incredible mountain views, and its outdoor seating area provides a gorgeous backdrop for a relaxing afternoon. It's the perfect spot to start or end your mountain adventure day.

Parking & Fees: Free parking

Accessibility: Easy access, indoor + outdoor seating options, and a fenced dog park

Perfect Lunch Pairing: The cafe features a few food items in addition to a full coffee menu.

Enjoy the view!

xoKerry