The Strangest Road Names in Georgia and How They Got Them
Just a short drive northeast of Atlanta, nestled in the charming town of Roswell, you’ll find Canton Street, a thoroughfare whose name might not raise eyebrows on its own, but its twists and turns reflect a rich local history filled with quirky anecdotes. Roswell itself is a delight to explore, with Canton Street serving as the vibrant heart of its historic district. Visitors stroll along shaded sidewalks past antebellum homes and quaint boutiques, soaking in the blend of Old South charm and modern flair. Canton Street earned its name as a nod to the settlers’ admiration for Canton, China, reflecting the 19th-century fascination with global trade and exotic places. The street is especially lively in spring when the town’s azaleas burst into color, framing the historic buildings with natural splendor.
Traveling south about half an hour from Augusta, the small town of Appling reveals a curious piece of Georgia’s naming tradition through Yellow Jacket Creek Road. This road leads to the Bartram Trail, a scenic hiking path named after botanist William Bartram, who wandered through the area in the 18th century. The trail, known for its moderate difficulty and peaceful woodland scenery, winds along Yellow Jacket Creek, a nod to the swarms of yellowjackets early settlers encountered. The road’s name, while simple, carries echoes of the insect’s persistent sting and the tenacity of those who carved out homesteads near its buzzing colonies. Autumn is the ideal time to hike this trail, when fallen leaves carpet the forest floor, and the air is crisp.
In the historic district of Savannah, about 20 minutes from downtown’s iconic River Street, you’ll find Turnbull Avenue, a street with a name that might puzzle many. Turnbull Avenue cuts through the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, one of the largest protected wetlands on the East Coast. The name commemorates an early surveyor whose maps helped shape the region’s development. Walking or biking along the refuge’s trails offers encounters with alligators, migratory birds, and marsh vistas that shimmer under the golden light of late afternoon. The avenue’s odd name feels at home amid this blend of natural beauty and human history, with winter months providing excellent birdwatching opportunities as waterfowl descend for the season.
Further south near Valdosta, about 15 minutes from the city center, is Possum Branch Road—a name that invites stories and smiles. This rural route runs alongside the grand Banks Lake, a favorite for fishing and kayaking. The “Possum Branch” name likely references the common sightings of opossums in the wooded areas flanking the water. Visitors can enjoy the Banks Lake Wildlife Management Area, where the road’s rustic charm enhances the outdoor experience. Early morning is the best time here, when mist rises from the lake, and the dance of wildlife begins. The road’s name, rooted in local fauna, perfectly captures the laid-back spirit of this part of Georgia.
In the mountains about an hour northwest of Athens, the Yonah Mountain Trailhead near Cleveland sits at the base of a steep granite peak that dominates the landscape. Nearby Yonah Dam Road carries a name tied to Cherokee legend—the word “Yonah” means “bear” in Cherokee, referencing a tale of a great bear that once roamed the mountain. The trail itself is a short but challenging climb of about 4 miles round trip, culminating in sweeping views of the Appalachian foothills. The vivid Cherokee mythology behind the road and mountain names adds a mystical layer to the hike, connecting visitors to the land’s Native American heritage. Springtime, when wildflowers bloom and the air is fresh with pine scents, is a magical moment to explore this area.
Down in the coastal town of St. Marys, roughly 30 minutes from historic downtown Brunswick, you’ll encounter Turtle River Loop, a road that meanders near the eponymous Turtle River. This waterway harbors a thriving population of ancient sea turtles, giving the road a fitting, if unusual, title. Close by, the Crooked River State Park offers trails and kayak rentals, allowing visitors to glide through winding marsh channels lined with cypress trees. Turtle River Loop exemplifies the interplay between local wildlife and place names—a reminder of the fragile ecosystems that define much of Georgia’s coast. Early summer, when hatchlings emerge on nearby beaches, is a poignant time to visit and witness nature’s cycles.
Finally, in the quirky mountain town of Helen, about 90 minutes north of Atlanta, you’ll find Hoferstraße, a name that stands out in Georgia’s generally English road nomenclature. This street pays homage to the town’s transformation into a Bavarian-style village, complete with Alpine architecture, crafted breweries, and folk festivals. Strolling along Hoferstraße feels like a brief trip to southern Germany, with its timbered houses and cobblestone walkways. In autumn, Helen’s Oktoberfest floods the town with music, dance, and lively crowds, bringing Hoferstraße to life in ways that echo its European inspiration. Here, a road name tells a story of cultural reinvention and joyful celebration.
Each of these roads invites travelers to uncover stories that go beyond the obvious, linking names to landscapes, legends, and lifestyles that define Georgia’s diverse regions. Whether tracing a Cherokee bear’s footsteps near Yonah Mountain or savoring the azaleas along Canton Street, these uniquely named roads offer a driving tour through the state’s rich tapestry of history and nature.