Discover Why Winter Is the Best Time to Explore This Georgia National Forest

What is your favorite winter activity? Do you like cuddles inside a cozy cabin, or roasting marshmallows beside a fire pit? Or perhaps you’re an outdoor enthusiast who loves to brave the weather to experience the magic of the season. No matter what your heart desires, you can find it here in Georgia, and I’ve got the perfect winter destination for you.

Come with me and let’s head to Coopers Creek Wildlife Management Area in Suches, which is the perfect place for a winter adventure in Georgia! While this WMA is a playground during the summer, we think winter is the best season to visit. Winter in Georgia is quite unpredictable, and we never know if we will get snow. When we do get lucky, portions of the state will transform into a gorgeous winter wonderland. 

That’s especially true for northern Georgia, where after a good snowfall, the entire area comes to life in the most spectacular way. And when it does, one of our favorite spots to explore is Coopers Creek Wildlife Management Area. 

Boasting over 30,000 acres inside the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, there is so much adventure that awaits here all year long. But for a truly unique experience, winter is certainly the secret season. From hiking trails to frozen waterfalls, snowy mountain landscapes, and more, you can’t help but fall in love with the wintry season.

If you love frozen waterfalls, one of the best trails inside the WMA is the Sea Creek Trail. This short half-mile hike takes you to a scenic waterfall with a swimming hole. It’s a popular spot in the summer, but in the winter, you might have the falls all to yourself. Forget your swimsuit and bring your camera instead, because if you plan your trip when the temperature is ideal, the area might transform into an icy dreamland. 

In need of a rewarding challenge? Hike the four-mile out-and-back Coosa Bald via Coosa Backcountry/Duncan Ridge Trail. Although you might have to put in some effort to complete this trek, the rewards are certainly worth it. You’ll have the best views inside the WMA, especially during the winter. If you get lucky, and visit after it snows, the snow-covered mountains are a sight to behold. Keep in mind, you’ll need to wear good hiking boots on this trek, and it wouldn’t hurt to bring your trekking poles too. There are steep inclines, and some spots will be slippery as well. 

Other trails include the Duncan Ridge Trail to Blood Mountain, which is one of the most popular hikes inside the park. You’ll also enjoy gorgeous mountain views here, and when covered in snow and the trees dripping with icicles, the dreamy, wintry scenery is to die for! 

After a day jam-packed with outdoor winter adventure, you deserve a good place to rest. Luckily, I found a cozy cabin within minutes of the WMA, where you can prepare a meal, get warm by the fireplace, and enjoy more views of the snowy landscapes. I don’t know about you, but this winter getaway in Georgia sounds like the perfect cold-weather adventure to me. Chances are, you’ll love it too! 

And if you're looking for even more things to do in the area during your trip, be sure to check out our itinerary planner for personalized recommendations.