Full Day Self Guided Tour in Bell Mountain via Slingshot

An Honest Look at the Bell Mountain Self-Guided Tour with Slingshot

Thinking about adding a bit of adventure to your Georgia trip? If you enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace combined with the thrill of a sporty vehicle, this full-day self-guided tour in Bell Mountain via Slingshot might just fit the bill. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and details, it promises a blend of scenic drives, panoramic views, and a relaxed journey that’s perfect for those looking for a bit of outdoor excitement without the hassle of a group tour.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to drive a Polaris Slingshot through winding mountain roads feels like a true adventure, offering the kind of flexibility that organized tours can’t quite match. Second, the stops—especially the visit to Bell Mountain—offer some of the most stunning views you’ll find in North Georgia, with clear vistas of neighboring states. That said, if you’re not comfortable with self-navigation or prefer guided commentary, this might feel less engaging than a guided tour. Still, for those craving independence and scenic exploration, this tour fits like a glove.

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy driving their own vehicle, have a spirit of adventure, and want to explore the mountains at their own pace. It’s also suited for anyone who appreciates incredible panoramic vistas and the freedom to pause or skip spots according to their mood. If you’re budget-conscious but craving a unique journey, the price of around $199.99 per group offers solid value considering the vehicle and the exclusive scenic stops.

Key Points

• Self-guided freedom allows you to explore at your own pace with minimal pressure.
• The Polaris Slingshot provides a fun, open-air driving experience perfect for scenic routes.
• Bell Mountain offers breathtaking views of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
• The tour includes a charming lunch stop in Hiawassee, with mountain views and local flavor.
• The duration of 5 to 7 hours makes it a full but manageable day trip.
• Booking in advance (average 28 days ahead) helps secure your preferred date and vehicle.

Getting to Know the Tour in Detail

Starting Point and Overall Setup

The adventure begins at North Atlanta Slingshot Rentals, conveniently located at 4835 Buford Hwy in Peachtree Corners. From here, you’ll receive your mobile ticket, and after a quick briefing, you’ll hop into your chosen Slingshot. The rental company is praised for excellent customer service and clear instructions, even for first-time drivers. One review emphasizes: “You get a choice of Slingshots, and if you’ve never driven one before, the staff explain everything in an easy way.” That means even newcomers can feel confident behind the wheel.

The tour is designed as a completely self-guided experience, giving you the flexibility to set your own rhythm. The maximum number of travelers is 16, but most groups tend to be small, making it a personalized experience. The total duration includes travel time, so plan for around 5 to 7 hours depending on how long you linger at each stop.

The Scenic Drive through Dahlonega

Before reaching Bell Mountain, your route passes through Dahlonega, a charming mountain town rich with history and character. The winding roads here are part of the fun, offering twists and turns that make driving the Slingshot especially rewarding. You’ll get to enjoy Georgia’s lush landscape, with plenty of opportunities to slow down and take in the scenery or snap photos.

Bell Mountain – The Highlight

The crown jewel of this tour is the stop at Bell Mountain. Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views extending across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee—a landscape of rolling hills, mountain ranges, and clear blue skies. It’s a perfect spot to stretch, take photos, or simply breathe in the mountain air. The walk from your vehicle to the top is straightforward, but the real reward is the breathtaking vista that makes the climb worth it.

Hiawassee and Lunch

After soaking in the views, the journey takes you to Hiawassee, a picturesque mountain town. Here, you’ll stop at the Hiawassee Brew, which features an upper deck where you can enjoy your meal while gazing over the mountains. The lunch stop is about one hour long. Travelers often comment on how this scenic dining spot adds a relaxing touch to the day, making the trip feel like a well-balanced mix of adventure and leisure.

Additional Details and Practicalities

The tour’s price of $199.99 per group includes the Polaris Slingshot, but not fuel or food. It’s worth noting that fuel surcharges and snacks are not included, so plan accordingly. The rental allows service animals, making it accessible for travelers with pets.

Booking is straightforward and confirmation is received immediately. However, it’s recommended to reserve at least a month in advance—on average, travelers book around 28 days ahead—to ensure availability. The tour is also weather-dependent; if rain or storms are forecasted, you might need to reschedule or receive a full refund.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the experience for its smooth process and friendly staff. One review notes, “You get a choice of Slingshots and if you’ve never driven one before, the staff explain everything in an easy way,” highlighting the approachable nature of the rental process. The panoramic views at Bell Mountain are also a recurring highlight, with guests remarking on how breathtaking and expansive the scenery appears.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While $199.99 might seem steep for a short trip, considering it covers the rental of a sporty vehicle and access to stunning vistas, many find it a worthwhile investment. The freedom to explore on your terms, combined with scenic stops and a relaxed pace, offers a level of personalization that guided tours often lack. Plus, the experience is ideal for those wanting a self-driven adventure rather than just sightseeing passively from a bus or guided vehicle.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience works best for adventurous couples, small groups, or solo travelers who enjoy driving and scenic exploration. It’s perfect if you’re craving something more engaging than a traditional guided tour and want to tailor your day. It also suits travelers who value stunning mountain views and the chance to take photos in a less crowded environment. If you’re comfortable behind the wheel and eager to discover Georgia’s hidden mountain gems, this trip offers a fun, flexible, and memorable way to do it.

Final Thoughts

This self-guided Polaris Slingshot tour to Bell Mountain and Hiawassee delivers a delightful blend of scenic driving, panoramic views, and personal freedom. The ability to set your own pace, combined with the vehicle’s open-air thrill, makes it a standout option for those wanting an active, picturesque day in North Georgia.

While not a guided experience, the quality of the rental service and the spectacular scenery make this a worthwhile adventure. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate independent exploration, have a sense of adventure, and enjoy scenic mountain vistas. If you’re seeking a unique way to see the Georgia mountains without the constraints of a group tour, this could be just the ticket.

FAQ

Do I need experience driving a Slingshot?
No, the staff explain everything clearly, and most first-timers find it easy to handle after a brief tutorial.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The information provided doesn’t specify age restrictions, but since it involves driving a vehicle, it’s best suited for adults or older teens comfortable with driving.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring your driver’s license, some snacks or drinks (not supplied), and weather-appropriate clothing. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour has a flexible cancellation policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for public transportation?
The meeting point is near public transportation, but you’ll need your own transportation to reach the rental location.

How long is the whole experience?
Expect the total time, including driving and stops, to be around 5 to 7 hours.

Are fuel costs included?
No, fuel is not included and is considered a separate surcharge.

What is the group size limit?
The experience is limited to a maximum of 16 travelers at a time.

Can I bring my pet?
Service animals are permitted, but other pets are not specified.

This self-guided Polaris Slingshot tour is a clever way to combine adventure, scenic beauty, and personal freedom—all at a reasonable price for an unforgettable day in Georgia’s mountains.