Ridge and Valley is in northwest Georgia about 75 miles northwest of Atlanta. It forms a loop drive between Villanow and Armuchee. The byway is 47 miles long and follows a series of roads: US 27, GA 136, GA 156, Armuchee, Thomas Ballenger, Floyd Springs, Johns Creek, Pocket, and Furnace Creek roads. The roads are two-lane paved roads suitable for all vehicles. They usually remain open year-round.

The Ridge and Valley scenic byway crosses Chattahoochee National Forest offering excellent scenery of long parallel ridges with broad valleys situated in between. Two beautiful waterfalls are the highlight of the 218-acre Keown Falls Scenic Area. A short walking trail leads to the scenic waterfalls. Picnic facilities have been constructed for your enjoyment. Nearby is John's Mountain Overlook, the site of an old fire tower that has since been removed. The spectacular view from the platform looks west as far as Lookout Mountain in Alabama and Tennessee. A three-mile walking trail departs from the overlook, goes to Keown Falls, and returns to the overlook.

Wildlife observers will delight in the many species found in this region of Georgia. White-tailed deer and wild turkey are among some of the wildlife commonly seen. Those interested in extending their stay will find camping and picnicking facilities at the Pocket Recreation Area. This area was once the site of a Civilian Conservation Corps encampment utilized from 1938 to 1942. A three-mile loop trail here will take you deep into the wooded countryside. The campground offers 27 campsites, restrooms, and drinking water.

There are two privately-owned lakes along the byway that are open to the public, Lake Marvin and Lake Arrowhead. The lakes offer good warm water fishing in a beautiful woodland setting.

Information: Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forests, 1755 Cleveland Hwy, Gainesville GA 30501 / 770-536-0541