North Georgia Stargazing

The Perseids are one of the year’s most spectacular meteor showers, producing 50 to 100 bright meteors per hour under warm summer skies. Known for their long, colorful trails and occasional fireballs—brilliant bursts caused by larger comet particles—the Perseids offer an unforgettable stargazing experience.

Active from mid-July to late August, the showers will peak here in Atlanta in the early morning hours of August 12th and 13th. Because city lights can make viewing difficult in the Metro Atlanta area, many stargazers recommend heading to North Georgia for the best views.

Wander North Georgia has a fantastic list of all the best places to stargaze in North Georgia - as well as tips on how to make the most of your stargazing experience. We've included some of the highlights below, but highly suggest exploring Wander North Georgia for more insight. 

1. Brasstown Bald: The highest point in Georgia, Brasstown Bald sits in a remote “dark triangle” between Clayton, Helen, and Hiawassee. Its visitor center turns off lights at night and the parking lot remains open—ideal for minimal effort and maximum reward.

2. Rabun Bald: This peak lies in a true dark zone in northeast Georgia - surrounded entirely by national forest. Although it requires a 3-mile hike, it offers some of the darkest skies and expansive horizons in the region.

3. Low Gap Road Viewpoint: Situated between Clarkesville and Lake Rabun, Low Gap offers good sky visibility away from overhead light domes. The western horizon may show some glow, but overhead skies remain dark and clear.

4. Hogpen Gap: Located near Helen and close to state parks like Vogel and Unicoi, Hogpen Gap is convenient for campers and those uneasy navigating mountain roads after dark. Slight light pollution exists, but the location remains a reliable choice for sky gazing.

5. Popcorn Overlook: This Highway 76 overlook lies between Clayton and Hiawassee, just 15 minutes from either town. It offers a clear northern view toward North Carolina, with no cities and minimal lights for nearly 60 miles—making it an excellent wilderness spot for stargazing, though you may encounter some passing traffic.