Nothing beats a weekend getaway where small-town charm meets breathtaking outdoor beauty. That’s exactly what Pine Mountain, Georgia, promises. From beautiful gardens to hiking trails and lakes, Pine Mountain is a lovely escape for outdoor and nature lovers. In addition, with the Callaway Resort & Gardens’ golf courses and panoramic views of the countryside, the Georgia town is probably one of the most underrated golf destinations you haven’t considered.
Pine Mountain is in west-central Georgia, about a 40-minute drive north of Columbus, Georgia, and under 90 minutes south of Atlanta, depending on the route. If you are flying in, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the closest major airport. It’s about an hour’s drive northeast of the town. Originally known as Chipley in the late 1800s, the town flourished as a railway town. However, it was renamed Pine Mountain in 1958 due to the surrounding natural landscapes. In the 20th century, this town became a lovely destination for outdoor adventurers visiting the Callaway Resort & Gardens and botanical garden.
Outdoor adventures and the beautiful scenery
Pine Mountain is an outdoor playground with some of the most stunning landscapes in Georgia. Case in point: Callaway Resort & Gardens, a massive 2,500-acre resort that features gardens, championship-level golf courses, lakes, and fun events throughout the year, such as the Fantasy in Lights holiday show. The hiking and biking trails take you to the azalea gardens, which are usually in full bloom in spring. The resort also features Robin Lake Beach; although man-made, it’s one of the most spectacular beaches in the world. You can swim or paddleboard during the warmer months.
Want to explore mountain trails? The F.D. Roosevelt State Park has sections of the Pine Mountain Trail. You can follow the 23 miles of Pine Mountain Trail through the park, where you find hardwood forests, streams, and ridges. If you’re lucky, you may spot wildlife such as deer and turkeys. Along the way, you find trails that lead to waterfalls, meadows, and historic sites associated with President Roosevelt. Lake Deleanor, inside the F.D. Roosevelt State Park, is a peaceful place for a picnic with a beautiful backdrop of pines. You can also canoe or kayak in the calm waters as you watch seabirds gliding by the shoreline. If you want to fish in Pine Mountain, Mountain Creek Lake near the Callaway Resort & Gardens is perfect. At the lake, you have opportunities to catch bream, bass, and crappie.
Other places to explore near Pine Mountain
After spending the day hiking and exploring the gardens or marveling at the beautiful scenery, mix things up a bit. If you are a history buff, visit Chipley Historical Center for exhibits of the region’s history and stories about early settlers. Dining in Pine Mountain is also a treat. Travelers can start with Southern classics at the Country Kitchen or enjoy a delicious meal at Eddie Mae’s, which serves Southern comfort foods and seafood…