Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia, the tiny Bavarian-inspired village of Helen, GA is unlike any destination you’ve ever seen!
The Bavarian architecture, cobblestone walkways, and wide variety of German-themed events (including the nation’s longest-running Oktoberfest celebration) in Helen, GA make you feel as if you’ve traveled across the sea to Germany itself. Plus, the village is very welcoming towards your furry family members.
If you’re looking for pet-friendly things to do in Helen, GA, you’ve come to the right place! Read on to learn more about our favorite dog-approved activities and some suggestions for places to stay during your visit.
Are your dogs joining you for your next trip? Then you won’t want to be without our complimentary Doggie Packing Checklist!
This is the same checklist I use when packing for a trip with my dog and has helped me and hundreds of other pet parents stay organized during the packing process.
5 Pet-Friendly Things to Do in Helen, GA
1. Explore Downtown Helen
The town of Helen may be made up of only 2.1-square miles, but it packs more charm into one place than most other destinations we’ve visited.
Downtown Helen is where you’ll find the Bavarian village that consists of several shops, restaurants, bakeries, and more. There’s so much to see, simply walking through the village is an experience in and of itself.
The dog-friendly streets are lined with traditional German architecture and the sound of hooves clanking against the pavement from the horse-drawn carriages. Lady enjoyed taking in all the interesting sights and smells of the fresh-baked German pastries and delicacies pouring out from nearly every open door. Of course, she also reveled in all the attention she received from the dog-loving locals and visitors.
If you’re looking for a spot for you and your dog to rest your feet after exploring the town, the main square is the perfect spot to grab a table in the outdoor courtyard, order an ice cold beer from King Ludwig’s Biergarten, and listen to live music or people watch!
2. Hiking
Outside the Bavarian village, you’ll find some of the most spectacular natural beauty that Georgia has to offer. Hiking is a very popular tourist activity in this area, and most of the trails are also dog-friendly!
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy trek or a full-day adventure through the North Georgia wilderness, there are dozens of trails available for exploration. Here are just a few pet-friendly trails that we most highly recommend.
- Anna Ruby Falls: As Helen’s most popular hiking trail, a visit to Anna Ruby Falls is a must! The spectacular double waterfall is located in Unicoi State Park and can be reached after a brief .4-mile walk from the Visitors Center. The paved trail meanders through the forest and beside Curtis Creek, which is fed by the tumbling waters of Anna Ruby Falls. At the end of the trail, there are two platforms that provide incredible views of the falls.
- Raven Cliff Falls: This is another popular waterfall hike located just outside of Helen, GA. Roundtrip, the trek is approximately five miles, making it ideal for a full afternoon of hiking. During the journey, you and your pup will see beautiful wildflower fields, gurgling streams, and more lovely scenery shaded by a canopy of tall tree branches. At the end, you’ll be rewarded with views of Raven Cliff Falls, a towering cascade that flows right through an enormous rock formation.
- Yonah Mountain Trail: Yonah Mountain is one of the most prominent natural features in the area. For some of the most majestic mountaintop views in Helen, take the Yonah Mountain Trail to the summit and ready your cameras for some postcard-worthy photos. The trail is approximately 4.4-miles roundtrip and is known to be relatively challenging, so I recommend this trail for more experienced hikers and active dogs.
3. River Tubing
During the warmer months, you and your furry friend can enjoy a relaxing excursion down the Chattahoochee River together!
Cool River Tubing and Helen Tubing are the town’s premier tubing companies and provide service to both families and their pets! Keep in mind that you’ll need a towel to lay out on your dog’s tube to protect it from their nails.
The trip starts about five minutes outside of the village, floats through downtown, and ends at the designated pick-up points on the outskirts of town. Depending on the water levels, you may encounter some light rapids, so this adventure is perfect for dogs who love water and can easily swim!
4. Dine Out
Helen, GA boasts a wide variety of unique restaurants and cafes, most of which will warmly welcome you and your dog to dine in their outdoor spaces. If all of your adventures have worked up an appetite, here are some great pet-friendly places in Helen, GA to enjoy a satisfying meal.
- Cowboys and Angels: Known for its tasty burgers and succulent steaks, Cowboys and Angels is dedicated to providing a fun and friendly atmosphere that exudes the region’s famous Southern hospitality. This was one of the first restaurants we tried in Helen and we were blown away by the quality of food and service. Lady also made plenty of new doggie friends on the outside patio!
- Troll Tavern: Located underneath the bridge and right beside the Chattahoochee River, the Troll Tavern serves up some of the best waterside views and German fare in town. The menu is also complete with an array of tasty selections that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters such as nachos (my personal favorite), wraps, seafood, steak, and more. Pets are welcome to dine with their families on the outdoor patio Monday-Thursday, where you can enjoy the views of the river and wave to tubers as they float by.
- Hofbrauhaus Restaurant: If you’re hoping to try some authentic German food during your time in Helen, then a visit to Hofbrauhaus Restaurant is in order! They have 13 German brews on tap, a full menu of German delicacies, and covered picnic tables alongside the banks of the Chattahoochee River for guests and their pets.
- Hofer’s Bakery Restaurant and Cafe: This local bakery whips up fresh-baked German bread, pastries, and traditional German dishes including schnitzel and goulash. The cafe also recreates the ambiance of an authentic German bakery. Should you come with your dog, you’ll be seated on the outdoor covered porch overlooking Main Street. Some days, you’ll even enjoy live music performances by local Bavarian bands!
- North Georgia Barbeque: A trip to the South isn’t complete without feasting on that famous Southern BBQ! This roadside eatery serves some of the best ribs and Brunswick stew in town, and the portions are very generous. The casual outdoor seating area is very dog-friendly, so bring your pooches along for the experience!
5. Hardman Farm Historic Site
Located just south of Helen, Hardman Farm Historic Site is home to one of the region’s most iconic and photographed features.
The Sautee Nacoochee Indian Mound has exceptional ties to local Native American history and holds a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. While you won’t be able to walk on the sacred grounds, it can easily be photographed and admired from the property located across the street.
While you’re there, don’t forget to explore the rest of the estate! Hardman Farm was built by Captain James Nichols in 1870. The home is a grand example of Italianate architecture and was occupied by many notable families. Your admission allows you to take an immersive estate tour that includes the 19th-century home, the original dairy barn, and more.
Dogs are permitted to join you on your tour and are even allowed inside the home as long as they are small enough to be carried.
*Quick Note* The Helen to Hardman Heritage Trail is a brand new paved hiking/biking trail that connects Downtown Helen to Hardman Farm. It’s a relatively quick excursion (approximately one mile) that showcases the natural beauty of the region. This is a great way for you and your dogs to enjoy a leisurely stroll between attractions and spend some time in the great outdoors!
Where to Stay With Your Dog in Helen, GA
Now that we’ve covered all the fun pet-friendly things to do in Helen, GA, it’s time to figure out where you’re going to stay! Luckily, there are several dog-friendly cabin rentals and hotels to choose from. Just to get you started, here are a few options that I have used myself or thoroughly researched to ensure you and your pets enjoy a comfortable and memorable stay.
- Pinnacle Cabin Rentals: With over 50 luxury mountain cabins to choose from, Pinnacle has established itself as one of the top vacation rental companies in the area. Their pet-friendly cabin selections come in many different styles and sizes, so you’ll be able to find the one that is perfect for you and your family’s next mountain vacation.
- Vacasa Georgia: We used this cabin rental company for our own vacation and were thoroughly impressed by our cabin’s quality and customer service. Many of their cabins are located just minutes outside of Helen and come with a wide variety of essential amenities. Plus, their prices are almost unbeatable!
- Cabin Rentals of Helen: Many visitors use Cabin Rentals of Helen to reserve properties located right in Downtown Helen! They also have locations in the mountains, at Lake Burton, and the outskirts of Sautee Nacoochee. That way, no matter what your vacation plans entail, you can pick the cabin and location that is best suited to you!
- Unicoi State Park and Lodge: This adventure lodge is more than just a place to stay. Their accommodations are paired with a wide variety of grand outdoor experiences such as paddle boarding on the lake, fly fishing classes, guided hikes, and much more. Visitors with dogs are limited to the on-site cabins, but you’ll still have the opportunity to enjoy everything that this incredible lodge has to offer.
***
Visiting Helen, GA was an experience that Lady and I won’t soon forget. The charming Bavarian community, the wide selection of outdoor activities, and incredible food give us more than enough reasons to return one day.
If you and your dogs decide to visit Helen, GA soon, be sure to share your photos and experiences with us. We love to hear from our readers!
