Located on beautiful Lake Chatuge, Hiawassee is the county seat of Towns County. It was incorporated on May 17, 1956. The name "Hiawassee" comes from the Cherokee word Ayuhwasi, which means "meadow". Hiawassee is the only incorporated municipality in Towns County.
Hiawassee is an Appalachian Trail Community and a recognized Tree City USA by the 
Arbor Day Foundation.
We are surrounded by the beauty of our trees, mountains, lake, botanical gardens, waterfalls and trails, celebrate our many events and also work towards continued stewardship of these prized natural resources.
Music, Art, Hiking, Pets, Education Family fun and more!
An Award Winning City adds one more ! 2024 Visionary City Award
Hiawassee, Georgia – The City of Hiawassee is proud to announce that it has been honored with the prestigious 2024 Visionary City Award by the Georgia Municipal Association in partnership with Georgia Trend Magazine. This award, presented during the GMA’s Cities United Summit on January 28, recognizes Hiawassee’s significant achievements in fostering positive community change through effective civic engagement and collaboration.
The City of Hiawassee was selected as a winner in the Small Cities Category for its innovative "Hikeawassee" project. This initiative has successfully transformed the city into a vibrant hub for Appalachian Trail hikers, significantly boosting the local economy during the off-season months.
Specific impacts from the "Hikeawassee" program include the introduction of free transportation for hikers, the enhancement of local businesses, and the establishment of weekly social events that foster community spirit. This project exemplifies Hiawassee's commitment to creative economic development and inclusive community engagement.
“The Visionary City Awards are a testament to the power of local governments working collaboratively with their communities to create meaningful improvements," said Larry Hanson, CEO and Executive Director of GMA. "Hiawassee’s 'Hikeawassee' project is a prime example of an initiative that leverages the city’s unique assets to benefit both residents and visitors."
“This initiative was a community effort brought to us from our businesses that suffer during the winter months in our area. It brought the community together to provide food on Mayor Mondays, Shuttle services and bring much needed revenues during our slowest months. We look forward to enhancing our offerings for the Class of 2024!”
For more information about Hiawassee’s "Hikeawassee" project, please contact Liz Ordiales at 706-896-2202
For the latest special events check our very active Towns County Chamber of Commerce Calendar Here. In our active vibrant community we have a large variety of events to please all ages and interests!
History & Facts
Following are web resources pertaining to the City of Hiawassee:
Towns County Historical Society
Georgia Municipal Association
At the time of the 2000 census, the City of Hiawassee had a population of 810. It is contained in 2.2 square miles.
To learn more about Hiawassee, please visit the following web resources:
Towns County Government Telephone Directory
Georgia Department of Community Affairs
Georgia.gov Hiawassee Info
Georgia.gov Towns County Info
Towns County Area Information
Fun For All
Things to do In Hiawassee from 365atlantafamily (some are near us)