If you want to avoid 180 and 60, the best path is usually to go up 129, then back down RRR. If you still have some time (which you should), you can run up Alt 75 and up BB. If not, you can easily head home from Helen.

Two places to eat up there. Blairsville and Helen.

If I can go, I will. Not sure about Sat. It will be a slower ride obviously, but wear your best gear anyway.