The route heads east to SR 348 (Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway).

[1] SR 180 traverses some of the most difficult terrain in Georgia, traveling the gaps of the highest mountains in the state.

Bald Mountain Road, named for the state's highest peak (Brasstown Bald), is the eastern section of the highway and has been designated a National Scenic Byway and a Georgia Scenic Byway.

[citation needed] Sites along this section include various hiking trails and scenery as well as Vogel State Park, access to Sosebee Cove, an intersection with the Coosa Back Country Trail, and Lake Winfield Scott (Georgia's highest lake).

[4] Because of the altitude and steepness of the road, and because it serves no through traffic, it is often closed in winter due to inclement weather.