Getting a passel of kids launched on an outdoor adventure that doesn't involve captivity on a long drive may sound like Mission Impossible: 3, but not so in Atlanta. The city's backyard is blessed with nearby mountain getaways, fascinating historic sites, and an exciting river.

Gorgeous Georgia: a peach of a state

Sure, the thundering waterfalls and cloud-piercing mountains will delight even the smallest explorer. But don't neglect the small-scale goodies, because closer to eye level bloom dozens of fancy and colorful wildflowers. Also, a handy bribe for getting the little ones to pipe down is to tell them that quiet explorers stand a better chance of seeing elusive songbirds and shy deer hiding in the forests.

If a wild ride is what your gang craves, there are rambunctious rivers and single-track bike trails aplenty. We've even found a backcountry lodge so remote that it requires a five-mile hike just to reach it. So, still looking for a nearby, weekend-worthy outdoor adventure that's both fun and an eye opener? Here's the scoop on some of our favorite areas.

Move on to Cloudland Canyon

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