A Mirage Amidst the Pines in the North Georgia Mountains

Northern Georgia is a perfect riding destination - smooth pavement, windy roads, scenic mountain views and warm weather. If you find yourself in this part of the state, hop on route 75 which leads to a surprising little town called 'Helen'. Cobble-stone walkways and replications of Bavarian mountain buildings create this unique alpine village making it a special place in the North Georgia Mountains.


Each year the town is host to several events including the upcoming rally 'Destination Helen'. Held in August each year, this four day motorcycle rally hosts poker runs, scavenger hunts and even a Ms. Destination Helen bikini contest. 'Destination Helen' is sponsored the Chattahoochee Biker Gear store, which is located one block off strip. The store has everything a biking enthusiast needs, including a wide of apparel, boots, and accessories. Outside is plenty of paved parking and several shaded picnic tables.
Another big event is held each year in October. For the entire month, the town rolls out the red carpet for guests wishing to experience an 'Oktoberfest' without leaving the country. Complete with a biergarten, knockworsts and St. Pauly girls, Helen's Oktoberfest attracts huge crowds with guests from all over the country. The festivities and the fall foliage make Helen a very biker-friendly destination.


If you're looking for a more-low key visit, Helen hosts many other events throughout the year, including a hot-air balloon festival. Outside of the many special events, Helen has a host of other attractions, including a winery, a state park and a dinner theater. Off-peak season is a great time to visit as the town is full of quaint shops and restaurants, including some with authentic German cuisine.


There are plenty of biker-friendly accommodations in Helen ranging from low-cost motels to secluded mountain cabins. Several hotels are convenient to downtown and are walking distance to all the activities. For the more adventurous, nearby Unicoi State Park offers camping sites.


If your travels find you anywhere near the North Georgia Mountains, Helen is a town you don't want to miss.

Visit this Troll under the Bridge in Helen, GA

Located along the banks of the Chattahoochee river in Helen, Georgia, the Troll Tavern is a great place to grab a drink or have some lunch.

If you've never been to Helen, it is a kitschy little Bavarian town in the North Georgia mountains. Some might say tacky, but we love the uniqueness and quaintness of the locale.

There is plenty of parking for bikes in the public lots, about a block from the center. Easy walk, and cheap. I think on a weekday we paid $3 and around $5 on the weekend.



The Troll Tavern is the best setting in town if you like to sit outdoors. There is plenty of seating; we especially enjoyed watching the tubers float down the river.


Contrary to other reviews on the web, we enjoyed our meal at the Troll Tavern in Helen. Nothing fancy or gourmet...tavern food. It was good for what it is...prices weren't too bad. It has an eclectic menu with German food as the focus, but also has Italian and American dishes. Lunch (sandwiches) ran us about $9-$12 a piece - dinners range from $12-$20. Service was slow, and the place is always busy so don't think it was a one-off. Make sure to have some extra time, and bring your patience with you!



A variety of draft is on tap at the Troll Tavern, along with bottled domestic beers priced around $4 and a nice selection of imports priced around $5. A bit pricey but in line with other local establishments. Noticed a party next to us ordering a pitcher of margaritas...definitely going to try that the next time we are there.

Should your travels find you in this quaint Bavarian town, head to the Troll Tavern, grab a seat by the river and watch the Chattahoochee flow by.

Contact Info:
Troll Tavern
8590 North Main Street
Helen, GA 30545
(706) 878-3117
http://www.trolltavern.com/