Georgia
Among mountaineers there is one type of mountain that makes the climb worth it. It is the bald mountain. Just above the treeline, the view becomes breathtaking. It is that sort of mountain that graces the top of my longtime home state of Georgia. Far away from the pecans and peanuts of my old stomping grounds in the southwest, the state's highest point sits on the state line with Tennesee. Unlike state treasures like Mount Mitchell of North Carolina, those who use the parking lot here must pay during visiting hours. But that includes a shuttle bus to the top, and believe me, that is worth the cost of admission.
There is a large parking lot with picnic areas a few hundred feet from the top. A visitors center with a store is where you take the shuttle about once every 15 minutes or so. A healthy person can hike the trail in about that time.
At the top, there is a platform that at has a science center at ground level. There is even an elevator for us older folks to the viewing area and observation tower.
The road from town is a long and winding one that is closed due to weather sometimes. The view is best in the fall, but expect a crowd during peak season.
Last August I had debated going there to view the eclipse, but the rare opportunity to get in-laws together had my mother, brother, sister-in-law, brothers-in-law, etc. In our own yards. Perhaps someone can tell me what seeing the shadow rush across the mountain was like.
Anyway, my most memorable visit was probably when we drove up one afternoon from Greenville, getting there after hours. I hiked to the top in time to get some pictures of sunset, while Debbie waited in the parking lot.
I'll let the reader judge if it was worth it.
