Head to Blue Ridge, your easy, affordable summer escape, all within a day’s drive. Trade crowded beaches and high airfare for rolling green hills, cooler temps, and endless outdoor fun. From hiking and tubing to train rides and family-friendly festivals, there’s something for everyone here. Below are just a few of the unforgettable summer adventures waiting for you in Blue Ridge.

If you're looking for an adventure that makes you feel at ease and involves kicking your feet up, tubing is the type of trip for you. There truly is nothing quite so peaceful as floating down the Toccoa River and soaking up the sun. Learn more about tubing on the Toccoa and tubing rentals on our blog: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/tubing-and-kayaking-in-blue-ridge 

The Southeastern United States is known for having some of the best whitewater rafting around. The 1996 Atlanta Olympics even had their whitewater events in the upper part of the Ocoee River in Tennessee. And here in Blue Ridge we are within 1 hour of 3 action packed, exciting rivers and 2 hours away from one of the most challenging rivers in the state! But unless you’re a pro you need a guide to help you navigate the rapids. Learn more about whitewater rafting experiences in the area here: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/hit-the-rapids-whitewater-blue-ridge 

Saddle up! It’s time to hop on a horse and take in the beautiful countryside and forests of Blue Ridge. No matter your experience level anyone is welcome to go on a trail ride, with the help of our local stables. If you love horses and being out in nature this is an adventure for you! Learn more here: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/horseback-riding-in-blue-ridge 

Extreme activities in the great outdoors allow you to capture the place we all call home from an entirely different perspective. Get your heart pumping by flying through the air at Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge. Or pair ziplining with a challenging ropes course at Blue Ridge Adventure Park. Find your extreme outdoor adventure here: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/7-extreme-outdoor-adventures 

Who doesn’t love a train ride? This relaxing and enjoyable ride begins in downtown Blue Ridge and the tracks meander through the countryside, the Copper Basin, and back on a twenty-six-mile round trip journey. Bring along the whole family for this exciting, unplugged adventure:  https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/unplugged-family-fun-blue-ridge 

Ditch the passenger seat and take the driver’s seat on a custom rail bike. Cruise the historic tracks out of Blue Ridge on a powered tandem ride where you do the pedaling through forests, past creeks, and straight into a one-of-a-kind mountain adventure! Learn more here:  https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/25-things-to-do-in-blue-ridge-in-2025 

Sometimes the best summer moments are the quiet ones: boots on the trail, birdsong overhead, and fresh mountain air all around you. Whether you're wandering a shaded forest path or soaking in sweeping views from a ridge, hiking in Blue Ridge is the ultimate slow-paced escape. Be sure to check out these 8 Blue Ridge area trails on your next escape: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/8-blue-ridge-hiking-trails 

The Blue Ridge Mountains provide the terrain, views, and challenge that all mountain bikers search for. The back country trails and systems will have bikers pedaling through a series of rocks, roots, and jumps. Pick from the variety of trails near Blue Ridge and the adrenaline rush will quickly follow: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/11-memorable-mountain-biking-trails 

The crystal-clear waters and mountain peak views make Lake Blue Ridge one of the most premier spots for a full day of fishing. The waters are packed with a variety of species, including walleye, catfish, white bass, smallmouth bass, and bluegill. Lake Blue Ridge’s consistency and abundance of fish make this spot a must-visit! Learn more about fishing on Lake Blue Ridge here: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/the-trout-capital-of-georgia-is-wading 

Have an epic summer on Lake Blue Ridge! First stop at the Lake Blue Ridge Marina or Blue Ridge Boat Rentals for all your boating needs. Pontoon boats, kayaks, canoes, jetskis and paddle boards are all available to rent for a day of adventure. Cool off by jumping off the boat and splashing in the water or rent a 2 person tube to ride along behind the boat and hit the wake. No matter what boat or craft you choose to spend your day on you’ll have a blast on Lake Blue Ridge! Learn more about water sports and rentals on Lake Blue Ridge here: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/cruising-on-lake-blue-ridge