GA-60 Morganton Hwy

## Overview Located along GA-60 (Morganton Highway) near the small mountain community of Suches, Georgia, this public drinking spring sits in the heart of the North Georgia mountains at an elevation of roughly 3,000 feet. Suches — sometimes called "the valley above the clouds" — is one of the most remote and scenic areas in the state, surrounded by the Chattahoochee National Forest and the southern reaches of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Roadside springs like this one have a long tradition in the Appalachian region, where travelers and locals alike have relied on mountain spring water flowing from natural rock formations for generations. The spring is situated along a well-traveled mountain highway that connects Morganton to Suches and continues toward Dahlonega, making it a convenient stop for hikers, motorcyclists, and scenic-drive enthusiasts exploring the area. The surrounding geology — ancient metamorphic and igneous rock of the Blue Ridge province — naturally filters groundwater through layers of gneiss and schist before it emerges at the surface, a process that has historically been associated with clean, cold, mineral-rich water. Visitors have reported that the water tastes crisp and refreshing, though as with any natural, untreated water source, conditions can vary. ## Directions 1. From **Blue Ridge, GA**, head south on GA-60 (Morganton Highway) toward Suches. 2. From **Dahlonega, GA**, head north on GA-60 through the mountains toward Suches. 3. The spring is located roadside along GA-60 near Suches (GPS: 34.8024, -84.1875). Watch for a pull-off area or pipe emerging from the hillside on the side of the road — a common setup for Appalachian roadside springs. 4. There is limited shoulder parking, so pull well off the road and use caution, especially on curves. ## What to Expect This is a classic Appalachian roadside spring — expect a simple, no-frills setup, likely a pipe or spout channeling water from the hillside to the road's edge. The surrounding area is lush with hardwood forest and mountain laurel, and the scenery along GA-60 is spectacular, particularly during fall foliage season (mid-October through early November) and in spring when wildflowers bloom. Suches is a popular destination for motorcyclists riding the nearby "Dragon's Tail" routes and for hikers accessing the Appalachian Trail at Woody Gap, just a short drive south on GA-60. The spring makes a natural rest stop along these routes. The area can experience cold temperatures and icy road conditions in winter, so plan accordingly if visiting between November and March. Water flow at mountain springs in this region can fluctuate with rainfall and season — it may run strongest in late winter and spring. There are no restroom facilities or other amenities at the spring itself, but the small community of Suches has a general store and a few local eateries nearby.