Saddle up! It’s time to hop on a horse and take in the beautiful countryside and forests of Blue Ridge. Nothing is more relaxing than listening to the sounds of nature, taking in the sights, the relaxing gate of the horse beneath you, and creating new memories with the ones you love. We’re incredibly lucky to have so many wonderful stables nearby that offer trail rides for the most beginner of riders all the way up to the most experienced. Escape to Blue Ridge on horseback!
Cowgirl Up Stables
Photo Courtesy of Cowgirl Up Stables
Nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains right here in Blue Ridge is Cowgirl Up Stables. They are an all-female-owned and operated stable, which is where their clever name comes from. Cowgirl Up Stables specializes in rides for beginners, so if you’re just starting out this is the place for you. You’ll go on trail rides through the beautiful Blue Ridge countryside led by their experienced and professional trail guides. Not only are the staff there to help you, but the horses also know how to do their jobs well and are great for riders of any experience level. Choose from a variety of ride options including; The Novice Ride, The Intermediate Ride, The Sunset Ride, The Picnic Ride, The Proposal/Romantic Ride, and the Valley River Ride. No matter what ride you choose it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!
Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides at Hells Hollow
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides at Hells Hollow
If you’re looking for a safe and fun outdoor family adventure right here in Blue Ridge then Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides at Hells Hollow is your place! With over 25 years of experience, the staff knows exactly what they’re doing and are happy to help riders from beginners all the way to experts. Enjoy trail rides with stunning views of the Cohutta Mountains! Or take advantage of the pony rides, sunset rides, riding lessons, or a custom ride/event. They have every kind of horseback riding experience you can imagine! After the ride, plan to have a picnic by the woodland stream or visit with the baby goats. And in the spring you can even gem mine and fish! Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides has everything you need for a fun-filled day outside!
Cohutta Stables
Photo Courtesy of Cohutta Stables
Cohutta Stables is a family owned and operated stable here in Blue Ridge. With over 40 years of experience and specializing in work with gaited horse breeds, their services include everything from training, boarding, sales, riding lessons and trail rides. The trail rides range from half day to full day through the Cohutta Wildlife Management Area, and are meant for more experienced riders. They offer personalized and private trail rides that will take you and your group along 13 miles of beautiful trails in the Chattahoochee National Forest. You’ll cross rivers and creeks, climb up mountains, and explore nature all around you. At Cohutta Stables their goal is to not only provide riders with a great experience but to also help riders find the horse to meet their individual needs, and to facilitate a memorable horseback riding experience. If you’re an experienced rider looking for an adventure then look no further!
Appalachian Trail Rides
Photo Courtesy of Appalachian Trail Rides at S&T Stables
Venture a little ways outside of Blue Ridge to Mineral Bluff for Appalachian Trail Rides at S&T Stables. With more than 30 years of experience their trail guides will help to make your ride a memorable one! With 250 acres of land to explore as well as lakes, creeks, and stunning mountain views; you’ll have plenty of sights to take in along your ride. From trail rides, dinner rides, pony rides, and even proposal rides; you can ride any day or for any special occasion.The staff and horses at Appalachian Trail Rides are happy to help you have a great and memorable time!
Blanche Manor Horseback Riding
Photo Courtesy of Blanche Manor Horseback Riding
Venture on over to Copperhill, TN (just 15 minutes away from Blue Ridge), to Blanche Manor Horseback Riding. Perfect for riders of all experience levels, there will be something for everyone in your group. The experienced and professional staff help to ensure customer satisfaction and safety. Explore beautiful forest trails and admire the Blue Ridge Mountains as you ride. Enjoy any of Blanche Manor’s wonderful rides like private rides, trail rides, sunset rides, proposal rides, and pony rides. Don’t want the adventure to stop there? You can even combine your horseback riding experience with an Ocoee Rafting trip or ziplining at Canopy Tours. There’s so much fun to be had at Blanche Manor that you won’t want your great outdoor adventure to ever end!
Fine dining is different at every restaurant, but there are common threads woven through all of them. First, there is a Chef-inspired menu, with his or her signature, stamped on each offering. Unlike casual restaurants, fine dining service usually includes eating utensils that are a matched set, and have more weight than your summer camp mess hall offered you. Generally, there is a linen napkin to lay across your lap, water served in a glass vessel sans the local bank logo and the table legs have been leveled to assure your plate doesn’t travel across the tabletop each time someone rests against it. There’s also the expectations of the staff. When visiting a fine dining establishment you expect the staff to deliver you a higher standard of service, where they understand the menu and can assist you with accurate answers and solutions to your dietary concerns and preferences. Blue Ridge is proud to be home to many of such dining establishments. Let us introduce you to a small plate offering of six of our favorites.
This stylish, and classy restaurant believes in fresh food that’s locally sourced and artfully prepared. Set in a historic house (circa 1814) you have your choice of pet-friendly patio seating under a 200-year-old oak tree, the enclosed porch with its flaming heaters, up at the beautifully appointed bar or in the main dining room, where service is second to none. Start with an appetizer of pork belly and marmalade, add a perfect beet salad and eventually savor the lamb pappardelle. We can’t forget to mention that The Black Sheep offers a killer Brunch menu every Saturday and Sunday from 12 noon to 4pm. The Sunday paper, an inspired Bloody Mary and a chicken & red velvet waffle. Who can resist? Reservations are recommended.
Photo Courtesy of Chester Brunnemeyer’s Bar & Grill
Everyone just refers to it as “Chester’s”, and it’s Blue Ridge’s answer to “Cheer’s”, where everyone knows your name, or at least it feels like they do. But don’t let this friendly bar atmosphere fool you. The dining experience at Chester’s is so noteworthy. The amazing craft beer selection shakes hands nicely with signature appetizers like chili and beer cheese nachos or deep-fried sticky ribs. The soup, salad and sandwich menu all have a plethora of delicious, inspired choices, but if you have a heartier appetite, dig into the entrees like the 14 oz blackened ribeye, cooked to perfection and served with herb roasted fingerling potatoes, garlic broccolini and finished with fresh herb butter. This is fine……real fine.
The Dogwoodis a wonderful spot in the heart of Blue Ridge to spend an evening with friends and family. The outdoor patio is THE place to be on a Saturday night with live music, great drinks, delicious food, and an awesome atmosphere! With 150 outdoor seats, a beautiful mural, and 100+ year old trees you’ll have plenty of beautiful places to relax. For yummy eats and appetizers they have a limited menu of 10 items that will be just the delicious comfort food you’re looking for. And the drink options are as unique and personalized as it comes! Venture over to their Beer Garage where you can create your own six pack from over 70 options. The Dogwood also has a full bar with incredible craft cocktails and a specially selected wine list. Plus it’s dog friendly so bring your favorite pup with you!
Talented chef and owner, Igor Ferraro brings the “Italian Way” to Blue Ridge to create delicious food with exceptional quality. We can’t get enough of their Risotto di Mare and Lasagna alla Bolognese dishes. And their exceptional service is unapparelled! Be sure to pay them a visit on your next escape to Blue Ridge!
The General Ledger is the newest restaurant in downtown Blue Ridge and you will definitely want to check out their menu for lunch or dinner. This contemporary American restaurant features upscale casual cuisine from both the land and sea. Chef Ryan is always creating specials to tickle your tastebuds and at the bar, Karen mixes up the coolest drinks in town! Whatever you choose, make sure to save room for Miss Holly’s Lemon Lavender Cake!
This is the second of three Chef Danny Mellman eateries to make our list of eight. This was his first establishment in Blue Ridge and it has become what all its competition aspires to be. You might think that it would be the service, the menu, the wine and beer selections that would put this place over the top. Not to minimize any of these, because they are all worthy of five stars, but it’s the rustic appointments of the décor that nails it. Every moment you are being treated to a dining experience at Harvest on Main you are made to feel you are dining at the most affluent of ski resorts, high up in the Grand Tetons when actually you are smack in the middle of downtown Blue Ridge. Make a reservation. Spend the evening. Know that you’ll be back to try every item on the menu. It’s that good.
Make reservations at ROE. Blue Ridge for a fine dining seafood & steakhouse experience! ROE. brings the taste of the ocean right to our little mountain town! You’ll have both a raw bar experience with clams, oysters, and more delicious fresh seafood options; as well as an elegant steakhouse experience with smoked duck and filet mignon. Enjoy all your favorite dishes paired with a glass of wine to wash it all down! Enjoy elegant outdoor dining under the twinkling lights Tuesday-Saturday and live music on Wednesday nights.
The Tavern at Old Toccoa Farm is the perfect place to gather with friends and family to enjoy their “all-day” menu. Here delicious wings, amazing burgers, healthy salads, and great starters, are paired with creative and tasty craft cocktails and beers in a setting that is most comfortable. The Tavern at Old Toccoa Farm is open Mondays and Wednesdays through Sundays. Wednesday is dinner only. Sunday Lunch only. Thursday-Saturday: Lunch and Dinner. Reservations are recommended.
Photo Courtesy of Whiskey & Water – Seafood and Bourbon Bar
Whiskey & Water is one of Blue Ridge’s only spots to get fresh seafood and a nice glass of whiskey. It’s home is a renovated, 1937 historic post office in Blue Ridge, where they serve up the best from America’s coasts. You’ll chat and catch up with your friends over fresh, high-quality seafood like Whole Fried Snapper and their delicious Maine Lobster Rolls. Pair your meal with a whiskey or bourbon from their wide selection of drinks from around the world. They also offer original cocktails and have a great wine selection!
Authentic and delightful Michaelee’s Italian Life Caffe is the premier spot for an elegant and delicious Italian dinner. Located about 30 minutes East of Blue Ridge in the town of Blairsville you find a seasoned chef that delivers quality dishes time and time again. The closest you’ll get to Italian food in North Georgia, Michaelee’s features creative pasta dishes, a noteable bourbon chicken, and the most flavorful chocolate shrimp! Yes, chocolate shrimp. Try them, you won’t be disappointed!
If you could create a fusion of gourmet fine dining, a honky-tonk roadhouse, a florida-style beach tavern, and a hipster craft cocktail joint, you would have The Waterfront Bar. No joke! When you dine here you dine in style; you’ll sit high above the Ocoee River on their expansive deck with amazing views of the Copper Basin below. Not to mention the atmosphere here is sure to keep you coming back for more! It’s always 5’oclock at The Waterfront Bar with amazing specialty cocktails like Oh Me, Oh Mai Tai or Chesney on the Beach. And when you’re ready to dig into some food you’ll have a great selection of traditional Sicilian cuisine prepared with a unique Southern twist. For great drinks, delicious food, and a fun night out with friends be sure to check out The Waterfront Bar!
Experience the steak of your life at Grace Blue Ridge. The steaks here are aged 45 days or more and are hand cut and prepared with the maximum flavor and tenderness. While the menu is 5-star, you will also find their service is excellent and their cocktails are even better! A dinner at Grace is more than a meal, it’s an unforgettable dining experience.
I’m supposed to write to you about telling ghost stories around the campfire, but the truth is this writer is a big ‘ol scaredy cat and just researching good ghost stories is enough to have the hair on the back of my neck stand up! Why do we like telling ghost stories? Do we like to be scared or do we prefer to do the scaring and see someone else’s reaction? Is it the thrill of the story? The adrenaline rush when your brain is thinking is this a fight or flight situation? I mean, we know it’s not real and can’t possibly be true, but…….why is this so scary then?
I’ve been around firepits where some of the funniest moments that ever happened was when someone got super scared. You know the scared I mean, when they are all tensed up, on high alert, and usually make some really strange and high pitched shrieking sounds. Next thing you know, they are tripping over themselves and acting a fool running back toward the safety of the cabin in a frantic wail! (That may or may not be a rather personal experience, but I’ll let you be the judge of that!)
A dear friend is an amazing storyteller that puts on the Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival and participates in Appalachian Story nights at the Haunts & Harvest at Blue Ridge Community Theater. So, I reached out to her to find out if there are any legends or lore in these Blue Ridge mountains that would be fit for a ghost story tale. She shared this super creepy Cherokee Tail that happened right here in these mountains that you may be interested in. But fair warning, if you don’t like to be scared or don’t want to be super creeped out try these lighter ghost stories and don’t scroll below to read the Cherokee Legend of Spear-Finger!
Ok. I lied. There is no such thing as “lighter” ghost stories. Even the kid’s ones are totally creepy! Why can’t we just stick to roasting marshmallows and singing “Kumbaya” around the campfire?! Ok. I’m pulling myself together. Here we go. I remember hearing this one as a kid. Maybe this was the beginning of my trauma. Courtesy of Café Mom, enjoy “The Pink Jelly Bean”.
Premise: At the end of a long, dark road is a long, dark path. At the end of the long, dark path is a lone, dark house. And the lone, dark house has a single, dark door. Behind the single, dark door is a long, dark hall. At the end of the long, dark hall are some tall, dark stairs. (Story continues, narrowing in from a room to a closet to a chest to a box, etc.) And in the small, dark box is … a pink jellybean!!!!
Notes for telling: The idea here is to build as much suspense as possible before you leap forward and dramatically shout the jellybean line. You’ll know you did it right if your audience reacts by instantly pooping their pants.
Long, long ago there dwelt in the mountains a terrible ogress, a woman monster, whose food was human livers. She could take on any shape or appearance to suit her purpose, but in her right form she looked very much like an old woman.
But not an ordinary woman: her whole body was covered with a skin as hard as a rock that no weapon could wound or penetrate, and that on her right hand she had a long, stony forefinger of bone, like an awl or spearhead, with which she stabbed everyone to whom she could get near enough.
On account of this fact she was called U `tlun’ta “Spear-finger,” and on account of her stony skin she was sometimes called Nun’yunu’I, “Sone-dress.” There was another stone-clothed monster that killed people, but that is a different story.
Spear-finger had such powers over stone that she could easily lift and carry immense rocks, and could cement them together by merely striking one against another. To get over the rough country more easily she undertook to build a great rock bridge through the air from Nunyu’tlu `gun’yi, the “Tree rock,” on Hiwassee, over to Sanigila’gi (Whiteside mountain), on the Blue Ridge, and had it well started from the top of the “Tree rock” when the lightning struck it and scattered the fragments along the whole ridge, where the pieces can still be seen by those who go there. She used to range all over the mountains about the heads of the streams and in the dark passes of Nantahala, always hungry looking for victims. Her favorite haunt on the Tennessee side was about the gap on the trail where Chilhowie mountain comes down to the river.
Sometimes an old woman would approach along the rail where the children were picking strawberries or playing near the village, and would say to them coaxingly, “Come, my grandchildren, come to your granny and let granny dress your hair.”
When some little girl ran up and laid her head in the old woman’s lap to be petted and combed the old witch would gently run her fingers through the child’s hair until it went to sleep, when she would stab the little one through the heart or back of the neck with the long awl finger, which she had kept hidden under her robe. Then she would take out the liver and eat it.
She would enter a house by taking the appearance of one of the family who happened to have gone out for a short time, and would watch her chance to stab someone with her long finger and take out his liver.
She could stab him without being noticed, and often the victim did not even know it himself at the time – for it left no wound and caused no pain – but went on about his own affairs, until all at once he felt weak and began gradually to pine away, and was always sure to die, because Spear-finger had taken his liver.
When the Cherokee went out in the fall, according to their custom, to burn the leaves off from the mountains in order to get the chestnuts on the ground, they were never safe, for the old witch was always on the lookout, and as soon as she saw the smoke rise she knew there were Indians there and sneaked up to try to surprise one alone.
So as well as they could they tried to keep together, and were very cautious of allowing any stranger to approach the camp. But if one went down to the spring for a drink they never knew but it might be the liver eater that came back and sat with them.
Sometimes she took her proper form, and once or twice, when far out from the settlements, a solitary hunter had seen an old woman, with a queer-looking hand, going through the woods singing low to herself:
Uwe’la na’tsiku’. Su’ sa’ sai’.
Liver, I eat it. Su’ sa’ sai’.
It was rather pretty song, but it chilled his blood, for he knew it was the liver eater, and he hurried away, silently, before she might see him.
At last a great council was held to devise some means to get rid of U `tlun’ta before she should destroy everybody. The people came from all around, and after much talk it was decided that the best way would be to trap her in a pitfall where all the warriors could attack her at once.
So they dug a deep pitfall across the trail and covered it over with earth and grass as if the ground had never been disturbed. Then they kindled a large fire of brush near the trail and hid themselves in the laurels, because they knew she would come as soon as she saw the smoke.
Sure enough they soon saw an old woman coming along the trail. She looked like an old woman whom they knew well in the village, and although several of the wiser men wanted to shoot at her, the other interfered, because they did not want to hurt one of their own people. The old woman came slowly along the trail, with one hand under her blanket, until she stepped upon the pitfall and tumbled through the brush top into the deep hole below.
Then, at once, she showed her true nature, and instead of the feeble old woman there was the terrible U`tlun’ta with her stony skin, and her sharp awl finger reaching out in every direction for someone to stab.
The hunters rushed out from the thicket and surrounded the pit, but shoot as true and as often as they could, their arrows struck the stony mail of the witch only to be broken and fall useless at her feet, while she taunted them and tried to climb out of the pit to get at them. They kept out of her way, but were only wasting their arrows when a small bird, Utsu’ gi, the titmouse, perched on a tree overhead and began to sing “un, un, un.”
They thought it was saying u’nahu’, heart, meaning that they should aim at the heart of the stone witch. They directed their arrows where the heart should be, but the arrows only glanced off with the flint heads broken.
Then they caught the Utsu’ 1gi and cut off its tongue, so that ever since its tongue is short and everybody knows it is a liar. When the hunters let go it flew straight up into the sky until it was out of sight and never came back again. The titmouse that we know now is only an image of the other.
They kept up the fight without result until another bird, little Tsikilili, the chickadee, flew down from a tree and alighted upon the witch’s right hand. The warriors took this as a sign that they must aim there, and they were right, for her heart was on the inside of her hand, which she kept doubled into a fist, this same awl hand with which she had stabbed so many people.
Now she was frightened in earnest, and began to rush furiously at them with her long awl finger and to jump about in the pit to dodge the arrows, until at last a lucky arrow struck just where the awl joined her wrist and she fell down dead.
Ever since the tsikilili is know as a truth teller, and when a man is away on a journey, if this bird comes and perches near the house and chirps its song, his friends know he will soon be safe home.
But wait. There’s one more we have to share. The Blue Ridge Witch or the Ghost of Tilley Bend
The infamous Blue Ridge Witch, Elizabeth Jane Tilley Bradley pictured here with her husband Jason.
The Bradleys and Stanleys had a feud akin to the Hatfields & McCoys. After an unfortunate incident where several Tilleys were killed, retribution was due to the Stanleys. When the attack occurred, Elizabeth’s pregnant daughter, that was married to a Stanley, watched her husband be murdered and she and her child later died in childbirth. Distraught and outraged Elizabeth cursed both the Stanleys and the Bradleys that no child would be born to either family. And sure enough every single child was either still-born, miscarried, or died within the 1st year.
The Tilley family decided enough was enough and to break the curse, they must break Elizabeth. But before she was hung from a tree and given a witch’s burial, Elizabeth vowed to come back. Some say she came back through her sister-in-law Mary who one year to the DAY of Elizabeth’s hanging, Mary hung from the same. exact. tree. There are many reports of sightings of a woman in a long dress walking around, crying sounds, and feeling cold spots. 😲
When we say the old Blue Ridge mountains, we mean it! As part of the Appalachian mountain range, the Blue Ridge mountains are the second oldest range in the whole world. Over 1 BILLION years ago, shifts in our Earth’s tectonic plates caused the Blue Ridge mountains to form in a system of peaks and valleys that span eight states!
Sometimes it’s a little confusing that you can see the Blue Ridge mountains in other states besides Georgia but these mountains are vast. There is a Northern section that includes Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia. The Southern section includes West Virginia, Tennessee, North & South Carolina, and of course right here in Blue Ridge, Georgia! Our particular section of the range is known as the Appalachian Mountain Range and we are a part of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.
They Really are Blue!
View from “Adventure Us” cabin
Have you ever wondered why these mountains are called Blue Ridge? If you catch any section of the range at the right time of day, you’ll see that the mountains have a distinctive blue color. The forests that cover these rocky protrusions are predominately made up of spruce and fir trees and they emit isoprene into the atmosphere creating the blue hue!
The Blue Ridge Mountains can span across 60 miles in some locations. While the tallest mountain in this system is Mount Mitchell in North Carolina rising at 6,684 feet high, just 30 minutes from downtown Blue Ridge is the tallest peak in Georgia, Brasstown Bald rising at 4,784 feet above sea level! Here you can see 4 states!
Photo Courtesy of Brasstown Bald
Early Inhabitants
The Native Americans, and specifically the Cherokee, lived in the Blue Ridge area more than 12,000 years ago! The moderate climate and the character of the mountains themselves, made a perfect region for inhabitants to settle. They farmed and hunted in the valleys and mountains that they called “the Enchanted Land” until they were forced to leave on the Trail of Tears.
Two Features
Photo Courtesy of @ancole78
One popular trail system that follow the Blue Ridge mountains all the way through Virginia is the Appalachian Trail. Hikers along the trail get the advantage of seeing the stunning untouched beauty of the mountains.
At the extreme Southern tip of the Appalachian Trail and the
entire Blue Ridge mountain system is the spectacular Amicalola
Falls, the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi!
Grab your fishing gear, license, and get ready to go! Fishing in North Georgia is one of the most peaceful, but also exhilarating past-times! Some of the state’s best freshwater spots are conveniently located in and around Blue Ridge. Whether you’re searching for trout, bass, walleye, or all the above, you can find it all by boat or wading in the beautiful chilly waters.
For beginner and advanced anglers, the fishing spots found in North Georgia rank in with top sights and top catches. With waterfront property rentals, Escape to Blue Ridge will ensure that your lodging experience is first-class after a long day of fishing. The summer season in North Georgia brings an assortment of adventure and a wonderful chance to test your fish-catching skills!
There’s a reason why Blue Ridge is named the Trout Capital of Georgia, and you’ll have to come fish around to agree. We picked a few of the best fish-biting spots in North Georgia, and with peak season upon us, you won’t leave empty-handed!
The Toccoa River
Photo Courtesy of KC Outfitters
The trout found in the Toccoa River include rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout. The variety of the species found in these waters weigh in heavier than average and seem to continue growing with each passing year. The consistent cold rushing water in this river makes it a prime spot for year-round fishing. The two main sections of the Toccoa River, the Upper and Lower areas, offer almost 20 excellent miles of available fishing spots. Access points for entry include the Blue Ridge Dam, Horseshoe Bend Park, and Tammen Park.
Shallowford Bridge
Photo Courtesy of Explore Georgia
This spot is located on the Toccoa River and provides fishing spots under the bridge or along the side of the river. The bridge is located on Aska Road and is a part of the Benton Mackaye Trail. This section is a Delayed Harvest Area, so you are almost guaranteed a catch if you are with fly fishermen. There are strict ‘catch and release’ policies during certain times of the year, nonetheless, this location is a great spot to strengthen your skills.
Lake Blue Ridge
Photo Courtesy of 365 Atlanta Traveler
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, with the bluegill being the most plentiful in this area. This lake is known for its walleye, catfish, white bass, smallmouth bass, and bluegill. There are several points to enter these waters, and a boat is necessary if you’re wanting to explore all that Lake Blue Ridge has to offer. Lake Blue Ridge Marina, Morganton Point Recreation Area, Lake Blue Ridge Day Use Area, and Lakewood Landing are top access sites. Lake Blue Ridge’s consistency and abundance of fish make this spot a must-visit!
Ellijay River
Photo Courtesy of Reel Em In Guide Service
This stream in the heart of Ellijay stretches for over 15 miles. Its ample width and length are full of brook trout, rainbow trout, and largemouth bass. These waters are private and some of the most pristine in North Georgia. All you need is your tackle and a little bit of patience and you are good to go!
Cartecay River
Photo Courtesy of Sweet Tea South
One of the best-kept secrets in North Georgia for bream and bass fishing is the Cartecay River. This waterway only 0.2 miles away from Ellijay is stocked with trout once a month. Popular species caught at this stream also include rainbow trout and flathead catfish. The sounds of the flowing waters and rolling hills in view make up a picture-perfect scenery for a fishing adventure. Enter the 34.691475 latitude, and -84.483536 longitude coordinates into your GPS or smartphone to find the Cartecay River.
Rock Creek
Photo Courtesy of Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery
This fish hatchery spot found in the Chattahoochee National Forest reels in a large population of wild trout. This creek has nearby streams that flow into these waters, providing several spots to cast a line. Rock Creek is nestled in between Dahlonega and Morganton, only 45 minutes from Blue Ridge. It’s found off Forest Service Rd. 69 on State Rte. 60, making it an easy entry for fishermen. This is a prime spot for rainbow trout, and if you’re lucky you’ll catch native brookies in the higher elevations!
Jacks and Conasauga Rivers
Photo Courtesy of Coastal Angler Magazine
These two rivers run parallel to each other, providing about 45 miles of ample fishing opportunities. The Conasauga River is open year-round and Jacks River is open from March to October. The overhanging branches keep these waters cool and have a population of Appalachian brook trout. The rugged terrain and 60-foot waterfall on Jacks River are added bonuses to the fishing experience!
September is a time of transition, when summer is coming to an end, but the crisp nights promise something even better! Life at the lake goes on, the rivers are flowing with enough intensity to host a kayak championship, apples are ripe and ready for picking, and weekend festivals feature live music, BBQ and brews! Check out the events below and come stay with us this month.
UPCOMING EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
Everybody Loves Opal August 29 – September 1 LOCATION: Blue Ridge Community Theater
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Community Theater
Every small town has an Opal. She’s a middle-age recluse who lives in an old, falling down mansion on the edge of town. She’s quirky, to say the least and she collects things, hauling them through town to her house in a little red wagon. She’s harmless, she’s also a target, but she’s oblivious and those trying to do her harm end up getting theirs in the end. Familiar story and funny. Check it out!
Photo Courtesy of the Boys & Girls Club of North Georgia
A fun and beautiful run for all ages, sponsored by the Boys and Girls Club of North Georgia. Awards presented for the top three runners in 5-year incremental age groups, as well as overall firsts for male and female. Welcome the first fall weekend with an exercise activity and some spirited encouragement!
It’s a tradition each Labor Day Weekend in Blairsville to celebrate local history and heritage at the place where it all began. Focused on the restored 1861 Payne family log cabin, the Mauney family barn, the Duncan family cabin and other structures from the area’s past, music and craft activities will be very much in evidence, providing entertainment as well as education!
The Art of Dylan Pierce August 31 – September 28 LOCATION: Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association
Photo Courtesy of Dylan Pierce
Beautiful watercolors capturing the soul of his subjects and the heart and beauty of animals, Dylan Pierce has been painting, presenting and touring since he was 12 and hasn’t lost a step.
Mountains and sea meet with some Lowcountry cooking, local brews from Grumpy Old Men Brewery and a bit of New Orleans thrown in for good measure. This is a a little bit country Cajun and a little bit charming Charleston. Diversity for sure. The culinary team from Cucina Rustica monitors the fusion to make sure there’s no- con-fusion!
Apple U-Pick September 1 – 30 LOCATION: Mercier Orchards and Area Orchards in Blue Ridge & Ellijay
Photo Courtesy of Mercier Orchards
It’s apple-pickin’ time! Which means it’s also time for tractor rides through the orchards, corn mazes, and definitely time to enjoy breathtaking mountain views from the top of an apple pickin’ ladder (why is it, by the way, that the best apples always seem to be at the top of the tree?!). Mercier Orchards is in its 76th year of operation, and Labor Day Weekend has always been the time to kick off the season. It’s also time to drive slowly through the lovely stretch of highway near Ellijay, watching for just the right orchard to catch your attention. Look for apple signs all over!
Photo Courtesy of the Good Samaritans of Fannin County
Yes, barbecue and gospel music do go together! In fact, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of voices harmonizing, with a bit of sauce on the side. In addition to music and “cue”, there’s also an ice cream social and a chance to discover local churches in the area.
A beautiful vineyard and winery set in pastoral farmlands in the heart of the Southern Appalachians. Cartacay’s wine history dates to 2007, but it’s heritage is comprised of Cherokee roots (in fact, Cartecay translates to “bread valley”). The winery features plenty of locally sourced wines, tastings and special events, plus live music on most weekends.
Live Music at Cartecay Vineyards: September 1 – Downtown Roy September 7 – Gopher Broke Band September 8 – Tommy Joe Connor September 14 – Gregg Erwin September 15 – Surrender Hill September 21 – Timothy O’Donovan September 22 – Ricky Byers September 28 – Man Bites Dog September 29 – Cagle & Pitts Duo Review
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association
Be on the lookout for artists painting everything everywhere in Fannin County during this four-day international event. You may see artists in parks, in farm fields, even alongside the road – wherever the spirit has moved them to sit, or stand, and capture the beauty and uniqueness of this region on canvas. This is a judged show with various events surrounding it, including opportunities to meet the artists and purchase their work. Art will be on exhibit at the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association from September 10 through October 13.
Great beer (18 beers on tap), a fun atmosphere and a stellar philosophy (delicious beer, dog-friendly, people tolerated). Plenty of craft beers, including those brewed in the brewery, and lots of live music. It’s one of those places that locals like!
Live Music at Grumpy’s: September 6 – Doctor Paul September 13 – Travis Bowlin September 27 – Gregg Erwin
The perfect combination – yoga, followed by wine tasting at a vineyard with a view. Ashlee Lofton leads the yoga class, beginning at 10:45am and then there’s a moment of reflection before moving on to Bear Claw’s Grizzly Tasting. OMMM & AHHH. Nothing better!
Diane Durrett September 7 LOCATION: Blue Ridge Community Theater
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Community Theater
Diane Durret, who has performed with Sting, Gregg Allman, the Indigo Girls, Chuck Leavell and countless others will perform at the Blue Ridge Community Theater with her blend of raw soulful vocals, sultry tones and strong original songs!
World class whitewater and a bunch of folks who know how to navigate it, it’ll be like watching the Olympics in your own backyard, because these are truly Olympic-level competitors! This three-day event on the Upper Ocoee will feature raft, canoe and kayak competitions in formats ranging from slalom racing to freestyle, set against a spectacular backdrop! During down times you can enjoy the live music and regional vendor booths.
They used to say “let food be your medicine”…and how many times are diets based on a simple change of what you eat? In this class you will learn how to make and set up an herbal first aide kit, discover poultices, and try out some compresses. Each participant will be given a packet describing how to create your own herbal preparations along with a lot of lecture time and hands on, a small herbal profile, and all materials will be furnished for you to make your own concoctions.
A Facility For Living September 19 – October 6 LOCATION: Blue Ridge Community Theater
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Community Theater
For these bored seniors living at the “Home”, life is a monotonous cycle of pills, old movies and 7pm bedtimes, all while overseen by the killjoy nurse. But when a new arrival shakes things up, this geriatric group of grandparents hatch a scheme to break all the rules and rediscover their purpose and dignity.
There’s nothing like some cool blues riffs. And, there’s nothing like some tasty, mouth-watering barbecue. Hmmm – put those two together on the same day and you have a sure-fire winner of a fall festival! Which is what the Blues and BBQ Music Festival is, just a beautiful way to spend a day with friends, family, good sounds, and good smells!
The Boat Dock Bar and Grill at the Lake Blue Ridge Marina has one of the best views of Lake Blue Ridge around. The restaurant features a full kitchen, outdoor seating, a beachy atmosphere, and it’s dog-friendly (if your dog is dog friendly).
Live Music at the Boat Dock: September 27 – Gerry Herndon
The Blue Coyote is known for their live music and entertainment. While you’re there you can enjoy their tasty bar food and a whole bunch of beer! They even have a dog-friendly patio! Stop by, check it out, and enjoy the music!
Mudcat September 28 LOCATION: Mystic Mountain Pizza
Photo Courtesy of Kelly Thompson
Danny ‘Mudcat’ Dudeck is an internationally known gospel and bluesman continuing the traditions of the early blues pioneers while adding his own Mudcat edge, resulting in one of Atlanta’s greatest treasures. Don’t miss this show. At Mystic Mountain Pizza you’ll enjoy good food, cold beer, and an inviting atmosphere!
Live Music at the Blue Coyote: September 27 – Bone Daddy
First of all, there are no guarantees that these goats really will dance, but you can probably count on them to eat, and provide pretty good backdrops for a great folk festival. Mostly, it’s a pretty snappy name that catches your attention. Once captivated by the possibility of goat dancing, you can settle into a celebration of regional culture and local traditions, including talented artisans plying their crafts, storytelling, and showcases of true folk art. Well worth the trip.
You’ve seen ‘em, you just don’t know you’ve seen ‘em. They’re sometimes called Railroad Hand Cars, and sometimes you have to pump them to get around, an exercise best accomplished with two. Operating one of these is just a part of a weekend’s worth of tribute to the world of railroads – hosted, of course, in a train depot, where you can also enjoy a large “HO Scale” model railroad based on the L & N Railroad’s Old Line from Atlanta to Etowah, Tennessee.
NEW HOMES ADDED TO OUR PROGRAM
My Mountain Retreat
What matters most to you in a mountain vacation? Whether it’s a wide range of great activities nearby, a magnificent setting that brings you closer to nature, or the chance to relax, unwind and leave everything in your ‘real life’ behind, you’ll find it all at My Mountain Retreat. Perched on a hillside in a forest clearing overlooking a verdant canopy, with spectacular long-range mountain views, this spacious tri-level showplace is the ideal getaway retreat.
UPGRADED PROPERTIES
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvhYu6-WF6o
Summit Escape
Escape to a mountaintop in Blue Ridge to a home with some of North Georgia’s best views that extend out to two more states. Summit Escape is in the wonderful community of Sun Rock Mountain, and is easily accessible off of paved roads. This property is adjacent to 100 acres of pristine, undisturbed wilderness, yet is convenient to downtown Blue Ridge and McCaysville. There is no better place than this cabin’s expansive wraparound deck or beautiful screened in porch to watch the area’s abounding wildlife from wild turkeys, to deer and hummingbirds.
There are new owners as of 2019, and with the new owners, there are numerous updates! All new kitchen stainless steel appliances, new granite countertops and refinished hardwood floors. The main and downstairs bedrooms have new premium queen pillow top mattresses/boxsprings and there’s new bedding on all levels. Even the basement has a brand new look, with an all new ceiling!
When you plan an escape to Blue Ridge there is nothing better than spending time with friends and family while taking in the sights and sounds of natures’ majestic beauty. When you add in stunning mountain and lake views to your cabin selection, you’ve just taken your vacation to a whole new level! These eight amazing cabins with picture perfect postcard views are all located in the desirable Aska Adventure Area. KEEP READING.
