You Won't Believe This Town Is In Georgia

When people think of Georgia, it’s likely their first thought isn’t mountains and snow, as Georgia, located in the Deep South, is known for its warm climate. The state also brings to mind Southern hospitality and agricultural heritage. Georgia is especially known for producing peaches, peanuts, and poultry. The hot, humid weather makes it a favorite destination for snowbirds and retirees, and its food scene reflects deep Southern roots with warm, soulful dishes. Most people also think of Atlanta, a major modern city where 57% of Georgia’s population lives. Known as the "Hollywood of the South," Atlanta has become a hub for film and TV production.

But up in the northernmost part of the state sits a small town known for its snowfall. Despite being in the deep south, the town of Sky Valley has such a unique climate that it’s hard to believe it's in Georgia. Though Sky Valley is not what people expect to find in Georgia, it offers a unique experience that can’t be found elsewhere in the state.

Landscape and Activities

Sky Valley, in the northernmost part of the state, is Georgia’s highest-elevation city, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains at about 3,500 feet elevation, with some parts exceeding 4,200 feet, far higher than any other Georgia town or city. Located along the North Carolina border, Sky Valley sits between Knoxville and Atlanta, allowing easy access from major cities in multiple states. Though most people who visit Georgia expect warm, humid weather, the altitude of Sky Valley gives the town weather that the rest of the state does not experience. Unlike Georgia's typical hot weather, the mountain setting gives Sky Valley a cooler climate that even sees occasional snow. This cold weather, however, is not a bad thing, but more of a reason to visit.

Four Seasons of Adventure

Sky Valley was originally developed in 1969 as the southernmost ski resort in the U.S., offering skiing on man-made snow, before the slopes closed in 2004. Retirees and snowbirds often winter in Georgia to avoid cold weather, but the ski hill brought people in for the snow. Though the ski hill is shut down, there is still a variety of winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. In the summer, activities include white water rafting, trout fishing, a variety of waterfall hikes, and golf at the Sky Valley Country Club.

Even though Sky Valley doesn’t have the ocean beaches or big city amenities like many places in Georgia, the different type of landscape creates opportunities and activities that can’t be found elsewhere in the state. Enjoy fun-filled, snowy, and sunny outdoor activities in the most unique town in Georgia, Sky Valley.

Culture and Arts

Georgia, particularly Atlanta, is quickly becoming a staple city in the film industry. Due to generous tax incentives implemented by the state of Georgia, major studios are working more within the state. Atlanta now hosts world-class facilities like Tyler Perry Studios, Trilith Studios, and the newly opened Lionsgate Studios Atlanta, contributing to over 4 million square feet of soundstage space. Notable projects filmed in Georgia include The Hunger Games, Black Panther, Stranger Things, The Walking Dead, and The Suicide Squad. The booming movie industry in Atlanta has reshaped Georgia’s economy, and specifically put Atlanta on the map as a major creative powerhouse city.

Sky Valley, Georgia, may be a small mountain town, but its community arts and cultural events are full of charm and creativity. Though the arts scene in Sky Valley is not as wide-scaled as bigger cities in Georgia, there is still a creative side to the town. The Sky Valley Fall Festival is the centerpiece, showcasing local crafts, live performances, and seasonal fun like haybale trails and pumpkin decorating. Beyond that, the town hosts a variety of small-scale community events such as pancake breakfasts, croquet and pickleball tournaments, and the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, all of which bring the small but energetic community together. Sky Valley is a perfect place to visit for fun local events, all while escaping the big city crowds. Though the arts scene isn’t as glamorous as Hollywood productions, Sky Valley is still full of creativity and community.

Discover Sky Valley

Sky Valley, the town you won’t believe is in Georgia, has so much to offer. Due to the unique climate of being situated at a high elevation in the mountains, Sky Valley offers activities you can’t find anywhere else in Georgia. A retired ski town full of unique summer and winter activities, along with a local arts and culture scene. Sky Valley is a town that needs to be on your Georgia bucket list in winter and summer, as there is so much to offer during all seasons of the year.