This Charming Georgia Town Is Brimming With Outdoor Activities And Natural Scenery

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.

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.

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.

A short drive, about 20 minutes east, is Warm Springs, popular for its connection to President Franklin D. Roosevelt. You can tour the Little White House Historic Site, the president's home as he sought treatment for polio in the Roosevelt Warm Springs. The site features artifacts and original furniture that provide insight into his private life. The best part? Tickets to the museum cost between $0 to around $36, depending on age and veteran status, making it one of the best budget-friendly adventures in small American towns.

Cultural enthusiasts can head to LaGrange, about 30 minutes north. Start your excursion at the Biblical History Center, which has interactive exhibits, ancient artefacts, and archaeological replicas. The tour includes walking through a recreated shepherd's tent and a taste of Biblical-era meals. The Hills & Dales Estate is also a must-visit in LaGrange. The beautifully preserved Italianate mansion has historic 19th-century gardens and art.