A vacation usually means a bit of sightseeing and possibly seeking that one celebrity spotting you always associated with your destination. If visiting the Palm Beaches you might be hoping to catch a glimpse of the Presidential motorcade, where on LA’s famous Rodeo Drive, a glimpse of Brad sipping an iced Caramel Macchiato at Starbucks might be your quest. And what (or whom) are some tourists visiting the Northeast Georgia Mountains yearning to see? Well, Bigfoot, of course!
Photo Courtesy of Patterson-Gimlin Footage
A legend or not?
To many in this neck of the woods, Bigfoot (aka Sasquatch, Yowie and Yedi) isn’t just a 20th-century folk legend. The first recorded sighting of him here in Fannin County was June 26, 1873. Georgia’s Chattahoochee National Forest has long been known as a hotbed for Bigfoot activity amongst the Bigfoot research community. And if you think that those who have an interest in this mysterious creature are just a little bit left of center, take into consideration that the famed anthropologist and highly regarded scientist Jane Goodall has said of Sasquatch beings, “I’m fascinated by them and would actually love them to exist”.
This reddish-brown hairy creature is reportedly about 8 feet in height and his alleged footprints that have been found all across the globe suggesting he has a 24-inch long foot that measures 8 inches across. To put that into some perspective, NBA giant Shaquille O’Neal is 7’1” and the length of his foot measures 15 inches.
Photo Courtesy of Expedition: Bigfoot
Blue Ridge Museum
If taking a hike out into the forest after the sun sets, night vision glasses in place, to snap your photo op with Bigfoot is too much effort, don’t let that deter you from finding out all you can about him. While here in Blue Ridge, plan to visit EXPEDITION: BIGFOOT! The Sasquatch Museum, located just east of the city. This museum may have you giggling on the way in the door, but you will leave with a new appreciation for your next walk in the woods. You’ll discover why Bigfooters from around the globe make the pilgrimage to Blue Ridge just to explore this museum and its many relics.
Photo Courtesy of Expedition: Bigfoot
See For Yourself
The quality of the displays and the huge amount of content are most impressive. In addition to the extensive collection of artifacts, the museum has interactive exhibits, lots of scientific analysis making the credible case that there are Sasquatches roaming the earth, and audio-video presentations that captivate even the least likely believers, young and old. Yes, kids are fascinated with this self-guided tour that usually lasts 90 mins to two hours. We highly recommend this as a Plan B family destination when a rainy mountain day messes up your original outdoor intentions.
Photo Courtesy of Expedition: Bigfoot
The museum, located at 1934 GA-515, Cherry Log, GA, is open Wednesday through Monday from 10 am till 5 pm. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children age 5 to 12. Kids under 5 and Active Military (with ID) are free! It’s more than a fair price for an educational and entertaining museum of this quality, with such fun opportunities for photo ops that will sure to bring gasps to your friends back home. And though you will be welcomed by a super cool staff that is known for sharing free coffee and cookies to their guests, you might want to be prepared to drop a few bucks on souvenirs at the museum’s bountiful gift shop, where Bigfoot really comes to life.
What Mom really wants for Mother’s Day might surprise you.
It rarely has to do with those lovely wrapped little boxes from the jewelry
store. And it has less to do with gift certificates to get body maintenance
done, like massages and manicures.
It was 50 years ago that this iconic ad first ran. “Calgon,
take me away”. It still epitomizes what
every Mom wants and needs – time away from the daily grind, if even for just
time for a private, quiet bath. So, this Mother’s Day we think we can help you
with giving Mom that Calgon moment she’ll remember for many years to come.
Mom with Little Ones
Daddy Daycare!
Mom is rising close to noon and not hearing a peep. As she
clears the cobwebs from her sleep, she realizes that she woke in the cabin they
came to last night. Oh, the bed felt so luxurious, and somehow, she was the
only one in it. Next to the bed is a note from hubby. “The kids and I are gone
for the day. White
wine in the fridge with brie, apple, and crackers. The hot tub is
waiting for you. Don’t forget your book at the bottom of the suitcase. We’ll see you at 6. Bringing dinner with us.
Relax and enjoy the solitude. You
deserve this. You’re the best Mom in the world. We love you.” She looks out over the magnificent view of
the mountains from her bedroom window. This is the best gift I could ever
imagine, she thought. Six hours later the gang rolls in, running into her arms
to tell her all about their visit to Lilly Pad Village, where they gem mined and went
trout fishing. After a great boxed
dinner from Blue Ridge Mountain BBQ was consumed, they all
packed up to head to the Swan Drive-in Theater for a nostalgic experience
watching the 21st-century Avengers on the outdoor screen. (Did you
know that you can choose from 177 of our properties that have at least two bedrooms and a
hot tub?)
Mom with Teen-agers
Growing up too fast!
Mom marvels at how they are growing and maturing. She
realizes that in just a few short years they will be leaving the nest. She
wants to make these times away to the mountains something special for them all
to remember. They all agree that ziplining
had been on their bucket list. But first, while the day was still cool, they’d
challenge themselves to trek on the swinging bridge across the Toccoa River. After an afternoon of adventure, they pull up
to the Rum Cake
Lady’s outdoor dining. Mom loves Cuban food, and they sit at the
picnic tables all sharing their menu picks, joyful and tired. When they get
back to the cabin, the fire pit is lit, the oldest son brings out his guitar,
the youngest starts to make S’mores. Mom gazes at her family in the glow of the
fire and wonders how she got to be the luckiest Mom in the whole world.
(Thirty-eight of our rentals have either fire pits or outdoor fireplaces. Which one would your family choose?)
Mom with Grown
Daughter
No matter how old you are, you’ll always be my baby.
Every Mom feels the same way once their chicks have grown and flown the coop. They yearn for one on one time with them again. When her daughter texts her to ask if she’d like to spend the weekend with her in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Mom searches to find an emoji that can express her excitement. She ends up sending 10 happy faces, and the words, “yes, yes, YES!”. Saturday it’s a quick, trouble free keyless entry into their little lakefront cabin and off to the Himalayan Salt Caves for a 45-minute session of pure bliss, relaxing in zero gravity chairs, listening to soft music in a stress-free environment. After, they head into downtown Blue Ridge and make a stop at Blue Ridge Booksellers. As different as they can be in many respects, Mom and daughter share a love for vintage bookstores. With just enough time, they make their reservation at Harvest on Main for a relaxing evening of fine dining. Back to the cottage, another glass of wine to top off the evening and a wonderful heart to heart chat on the porch overlooking the moonlit lake. They sleep in late, pack up their things, close the door behind them and take a lovely drive out to Mercier’s Orchards for brunch and then to pick strawberries together, a memory they share from a Mother’s Day trip 20 years before. Now, they head home and banter back in forth as to whether it’s biscuits or pound cake that will host these sweet, juicy berries.
We think everyday should be Mother’s Day! Thank you to all the wonderful Moms who celebrate their families with us throughout the year. We hope your Mother’s Day is a Calgon day for you!
History, architecture, and flavor combine to bring you the
most incredible Blue Ridge dining experience at The Black Sheep Restaurant. From
the moment you walk up the marble steps, taking note of the pet friendly patio,
and the door swings open to welcome you, there is no question that you are
about to have a divine experience. From the attentive staff and thoughtful menu
items, The Black Sheep is clearly not your average, ordinary run-of-the-mill
dining establishment. It is in fact, an elevated, stylish, and classy restaurant
that believes in fresh food that’s locally sourced and artfully prepared.
What to Expect
Expect your taste buds to do jumping jacks! Seriously, Executive
Chef Greg Cornelius is an absolute master with his culinary talents and
abilities. He specializes in taking your
favorite American fares and elevating them about twenty notches. For example,
you may think a hamburger or meatloaf is an odd item to find in at fine dining
restaurant, but once that first taste of meat crosses your lips, you will
become a believer because it will be like no other you have ever tasted! Of
course, you will find traditional upscale dishes like rack of lamb or duck breast
but add a gorgonzola cream or gorgonzola polenta and we’ve just crossed the
line from ordinary to extraordinary!
You know what else you can expect? A Raw Oyster Bar! That’s
right, the only one you will find in Blue Ridge. You can choose classic on the
half shell oysters or if raw is not your thing, they can be prepared
Rockefeller style. On Wednesdays and Sundays, you can select the Three Course
Dinner Special. For either $19.99 or $26.99 you can enjoy an appetizer, main
course, and dessert! Oh, and we’re not done yet. Saturdays and Sundays now
feature a decadent Brunch menu. From 12pm – 4pm you can feast on Crab Cake
Benedict or Corned Beef Hash, but the Chicken and Red Velvet Waffle is so good
it’ll make your tongue jump out and lick the eyebrows right off your head!
Dine on the Black Sheep’s Pet Friendly Patio!
Happy Hour
The Black Sheep features not one but two bars to enjoy craft
cocktails, beer, and wine. In fact, their wine cellar is so superb that they
have been recognized by Wine Spectator for their impressive selection of vino. Both
the owner, Brandon Lofton, and the General Manager, Patrick, are sommeliers and
can help you pair the perfect bottle with your menu selections.
Have you heard of the Blue Ridge Lavender Smash? Made with fresh
blueberry, lavender, lemon & Sipsmith London Dry Gin, this refreshing cocktail
is the hit of the season! You can order one at the inside bar or step out to
the patio and enjoy an adult beverage on the largest outdoor bar in Blue Ridge.
Here you can take in the sights and sounds of Downtown Blue Ridge while sampling
the Bar Bites like Truffle French Fries or Tuna Nachos, watching the game, and chatting
it up with both old friends and new.
Blue Ridge Lavender Smash!
Distinctively Unique
The Black Sheep has been historically known as a place to go
for special occasions and while that is still true, their mission is to cater
to the every day patron while making each dining experience special. Speaking
of catering, you don’t have to be onsite to enjoy the gourmet flavors of The
Black Sheep. Treat your corporate partners or family and friends to decadent
eats for your meetings or festive celebrations. If you prefer the ambiance of
the restaurant, you may choose to make use of one of two private rooms – The
Wine Room or The Library Room for large parties, banquets or special events.
Photo courtesy of Candy Murdock-Hagerman’s Birthday Celebration!
Since we’re talking about events, The Black Sheep likes to
mix things up and keep fresh ideas flowing along with their fresh cuisine. Last
summer they premiered their Outdoor Movie Nights on the front patio under the
big oak tree. This year not only will they host Movie Nights, but they will
also add Yoga on the Patio. Just picture this: Brunch, Mimosas, Bloody Mary’s,
and Yoga. Oh yeah! Keep an eye on their Facebook and Instagram
pages for all the latest happenings and upcoming events.
Beauty, Brains &
Bayou
Deep in the bayou of Louisiana, a young chef took his
passion for Cajun cooking and restaurant management to work for a large restaurant
conglomerate in Southern Florida. By chance, Brandon Lofton found himself in an
airport in Puerto Rico making conversation with a beautiful corporate executive,
Ashlee, also from the Ft. Lauderdale area. Eventually they would marry and purchase
a vacation home in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Brandon and Ashlee love the
outdoor life – hiking, biking, and boating, but after one fateful trip, the
whole game changed. The Lofton’s went back to Florida and made the decision to
leave Corporate America, become entrepreneurs, and make the move to be full
time mountain residents. If you ask the owners of The Black Sheep if they made
the right move, you will get an unequivocal..YES! It’s the best decision they
ever made. They love being a part of the Blue Ridge community. They also love
having the great outdoors so accessible and all the great people they get to
meet along the way!
After settling into the mountain lifestyle and getting his
restaurant where it needs to be, Brandon wanted to be able to showcase his
Cajun side. In partnership with his GM, Patrick, Lulu’s Gumbo Shop can now be
seen in their branded tent around town at festivals, during special events with
partners like Grumpy Old Men Brewing, and at private events like weddings.
Lulu’s specializes in chicken & sausage Gumbo and Jambalaya – a shrimp and
crawfish combination, made from old family recipes straight out of LA.
Ashlee has also become a certified yoga instructor. Her
business, Yoga
Over Blue Ridge, is a mobile yoga studio. She offers private instruction
and lessons and destination yoga classes. These are perfect for Girlfriend
Getaways, Bachelorette parties, or any private yoga party. Recently she has
partnered with Bear Claw Vineyards for a Namaste & Cabernet class. Yoga
class + wine tasting? Yes, please! She’s also partnering with local breweries
for Bend & Brew events. That’s right, yoga and a flight of beer! Keep an
eye on her social pages to find out about future events.
If all of this wasn’t enough, the power couple recently purchased
Blue Ridge Brewery in
downtown Blue Ridge. Located less than a quarter mile from The Black Sheep,
Blue Ridge Brewery is located at 187 Depot Street. You can look forward to new
beers crafted by an expert brew master, a new menu designed to delight the taste
buds, and a stellar lineup of live music and events!
Up Next For The Sheep
A new menu was just released and includes amazing dishes like an heirloom tomato Panzanella salad and seared diver scallops with lemon risotto and smoked tomato coulis. If you haven’t yet been to The Black Sheep Restaurant, what are you waiting for? Put it on the top of your must do list. If you haven’t been in a while, you need to come back and check it out. The vibe is comfortable and not pretentious, the food is on point, and the atmosphere will make this your favorite downtown spot. If you’ve been there recently, then you know what’s up!
Heirloom Tomato Panzanella Salad topped with Ricotta Salata
As a special treat just for Escape to Blue Ridge Fans, The Black Sheep Restaurant is offering one free appetizer per table if you tell your waiter that you are the “Black Sheep of Your Family”. How cool is that? Now don’t be sheepish, make your dinner reservations today!
Spring has finally arrived and the sun’s warming rays make for the perfect time to explore the mountains that are accented with beautiful blooms! Pack up your friends and family and enjoy a mountain getaway. Check out the events below and come stay with us this month.
Upcoming Events & Activities
Art & Writer Workshops April 4 – April 22 LOCATION: The Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association and Art Center
Expand your horizons with The Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association and Art Center! They are offering a full spectrum of classes, fun events, excellent exhibits, and new programs. If you love to learn, love art, or are an artist yourself, you will be amazed at all the opportunities for all ages and of varied mediums.
April 4 – Steve Martin Art Exhibit
April 5 – Margo Locke Exhibit
April 5 – 22nd Annual Blue Ridge Writers Conference
April 16 – Leatherworking
Southern Fried Funeral is a big-hearted comedy about family. In the show, Dewey Frye is dead and the rest of his family is left to pick up the pieces. Funerals bring out the worst, the best, and the funniest in people – that is if they don’t kill each other first.
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!
April 5 – Apollo Band
April 6 – Bone Daddy’s
April 12 – Topper/Voices of Rock
April 13 – Mind the Stepchildren
April 19 – Owl Creek Band
April 20 – Gregg Erwin
April 26 – Justin Long
April 27 – Breaking Point
Live At The Fillmore is the ultimate Allman Brothers Tribute Band. They believe in the original Allman Brother sound, not as a jam band, but as a “band that jams”!
Visit Grumpy Old Men Brewing for great live music and delicious beer! Eighteen beers are currently on tap, and new brews are added frequently! Open Tuesday through Saturday. Dogs are welcome and people are tolerated!
April 5 – Josh Purgason
April 12 – Travis Bowlin
April 19 – Highbeams
April 26 – Gregg Erwin Live
At 10:45am start your Saturday off right with Namaste & Cabernet. Join in on a one hour yoga class from Yoga Over Blue Ridge and then enjoy a wine tasting. Then from 1:30pm-5:30pm Hunter Flanagan will entertain you with his musical talent.
Gain inspiration for your dream home! Meet builders and tour homes that range from 1,600-square feet to 9,000-squre feet. Purchase your ticket and take a self-guided tour through twenty stunning properties!
A picturesque venue, live music, and wine. What better way to spend an afternoon with your family or friends?
April 6 – Dom Weir
April 7 – Timothy O’Donovan
April 13 – Tommy Joe Conner
April 14 – April Rooks
April 20 – Scott Stambaugh
A well-paid executive of a high-end Manhattan firm, Mel Edison, gets the ax. His wife Edna takes a job to hold them over, but she gets canned too. The world is crumbling down around him, even his plants are being killed by air pollution, he gets robbed, his psychiatrist dies with $23,000 of his money. The only thing left for him to do is have a nervous breakdown and that ends up being the best thing that ever happened to him!
You can’t get a better venue or greater acoustics than right on the lake. With delicious food and jamming tunes, you’ll love the atmosphere and entertainment at the Boat Dock Bar & Grill at the Lake Blue Ridge Marina.
April 12 – Gopher Broke Band
April 13 – Lindsay Beth Harper
April 14 – Travis Bowlin
April 19 – Danny Rhea
April 20 – Trevor J. Pattillo
April 21 – Buck & Oz
April 26 – Danny Rhea Returns
April 27 – Buck & Oz Return
April 28 – Gopher Broke Band
Photo Courtesy of Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival
The Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival showcases the art of Southern storytelling with an emphasis on Appalachian stories, both traditional and contemporary. The Festival’s events include two days of outstanding storytelling performances. Workshops will be available for students and visitors to learn storytelling, speaking, and performance skills.
Raise a glass of Apple Lager made with Mercier Orchard apple cider benefiting Project Chimps – an organization founded to provide lifetime care to former research chimpanzees at a 236-acre forested sanctuary in North Georgia. For $25 you get a limited edition Project Chimp glass, a 16-oz lager and a bowl of the Fire & Ice-winning chili!
Murder Mystery. Dinner. Wine. Disco dancing. Any of those alone would be cool – but jamming them all together under one roof, on the same day at the same time. Wowzer! Must you dress like John Travolta? No. Should you? Yes. And yes, there will be a disco ball!
Photo Courtesy of Georgia Mountain Needle Arts Festival & Retreat
An absolute treat for knit, crochet, weaving, and rug hooking enthusiasts! Attendees of this event will gain access to a variety of vendors and educational resources. Needle artists will enjoy shopping for yarn, beads, hand dyed materials, artisan fiber, felted rug supplies, wood turning products, and more!
Chimps Rock April 26 – 27 LOCATION: Project Chimps
Photo Courtesy of Project Chimp
Kids and kids at heart will enjoy this special day of art and discovery at the Project Chimps sanctuary for former research chimpanzees. Spend a few hours with the chimps to see their forever home. Each guest will receive a rock to paint and while it dries, tour the sanctuary and learn about the lives of the chimps!
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Trout Fest & Outdoor Adventures
Fly-fishing is great fun! It’s outdoorsy, challenging, technical and rewarding especially in Blue Ridge, the Trout Capital of Georgia. The Trout Fest will feature free fly-fishing seminars, fly-tying, fly-casting, and a casting pond will be available. Learn about trout fishing locations around Fannin County from local experts and visit your favorite craft vendors. There will also be food, music, and lots of fun!
New Homes Added to Our Program
https://youtu.be/FosF01afrMQ
What do you want most in a vacation? If it’s a magnificent mountain hideaway on a lakefront, with all the comforts of home but none of the pressures and stresses, you’ll find it at the Blue Ridge cabin rental Happy Place. Located on the north end of Lake Nottely just 12 miles from downtown Blue Ridge, this beautiful, bright and cheery home is the epitome of happiness. It’s a peaceful, welcoming place where you can rest and relax with loved ones, with breathtaking views from the wraparound decks providing the perfect backdrop from sunrise to sunset.You’re welcome to bring up to two small flea-controlled dogs with you to enjoy the fun, relaxation and contentment of your stay at Happy Place, where the name really does say it all.
Recently Upgraded Cabins
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 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.
If you’re looking for a scenic trail with beautiful falls at the end, and to check off a couple high profile hiking trails while you’re at it, Long Creek Falls in the Chattahoochee National Forest in Blue Ridge, Georgia should make it to the top of your list. An easy to moderate difficulty rating, Long Creek Falls is a two-mile round trip “out-and-back trail” that sits directly on the Appalachian Trail (AT), with access to both the Benton McKaye Trail and the Duncan Ridge Trail. Uniquely, the Appalachian Trail and Benton McKaye Trail run together as one route during this particular section of the footpath. Keep Reading.
Thank you again for giving us the privilege of serving you. If we can ever be of assistance, please visit us online at www.escapetoblueridge.com email us at reservations@escapetoblueridge.com or give us a call at 1-866-618-2521. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Many happy returns, From all of us at Escape to Blue Ridge
This is often the toughest chore on any vacation. There will be someone who was left at home that wishes they had been able to escape to the mountains with you. Bringing them home a little something special might just take the sting out of having been left behind. Here are a few downtown shops that make this task a pleasure, though they can’t be held responsible if you should purchase trinkets for yourself, as well!
Shopping for the Outdoor Enthusiast?
If a river runs through the heart of your special someone, then they might be (or wish they were) a fly fisherman. Fly Shop Co. of Blue Ridge has a sizeable collection of locally tied flies, as well as all the enviable apparel and gear. This shop knows how to bait you, now it is up to you to decide what you want to net. Visit their retail shop at 11 Mountain St. #4.
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Knife Company
The art of bladesmithing was developed thousands of centuries ago. The Egyptians used wrought iron in the production of swords and knife blades as early as 3000 BC. Blue Ridge Knife Company has one of the largest and finest selections of artisan and utility knives that can be found in the southeastern United States. Whether you are shopping for a hunter or fisherman, a steak lover, a bread baker or a savvy collector, you must not miss a visit to this shop located at 497 East Main St.
What to Buy the Artist or Art Connoisseur….
There are art galleries that display breathtaking works that go far beyond your souvenir budget, but Multitudes Gallery is not one of them. This eclectic shop, at 723 E. Main St., retails the works of many local and regional award-winning and collectible artists, yet everything you begin to covet is actually affordable. A hand-blown wine glass, a mosaic serving plate, a fabric covered lamp, a giant metal sculptured red ant or an antique jeweled photo frame are part of an incredible collection of works that will have you asking what their shipping policy might be, for you may not have enough trunk space to take all these works of art back home with you.
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association
So many of the artists featured in the local galleries are members and contributors to the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, located at 420 W. Main St. The Arts Center has a wonderful collection of original works for sale, as well as prints, cards, and an art book library. If you are shopping for an aspiring artist, the center also has a wonderful selection of fine art supplies, the ideal gift to encourage someone to pursue their talents.
Shopping for the Porch Sitters can be a challenge.
Not everyone in your life wants to paint like Monet or fish for Moby Dick. Some of them just like to sit on the porch and observe Mother Nature at her finest, or read about the wonders of the world and the people who have evolved around it.
Blue Ridge Booksellers is what book stores should always be about. Allow yourself plenty of time to peruse this remarkable inventory of collectible, rare and antiquarian books for sale. In addition, there are great books that kids will love. The Booksellers, at 691 E. Main St., also has a unique inventory of militaria and maps.
And for the “just bring me a t-shirt” person on your list…
Well, not just any t-shirt will do, right? If you want it to say, Blue Ridge, you want to make a trip to The Blue Ridge Cotton Co. There you will be surrounded by high-quality cotton items including sweatshirts, hats, home accessories, and unique gifts. They also donate 1% of every purchase, every day, to a local charity. They are conveniently located at 550 East Main Street.
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Cotton Company
When you get home with your souvenir stash, we are sure you’ll be greeted with hugs of appreciation. They may also suggest you plan to bring them with you on your next visit. Here is a link to our larger cabins!
For Americans visiting Europe, an integral part of the adventure is partaking of the local cuisine and libations. When Europeans immigrate to our country they too enjoy our regional cuisine, at least for a little while. Eventually, they begin to miss a fine Irish whiskey or a delicately seasoned Polish sausage. Fortunately for Blue Ridge, some of these traditional European fares have established themselves here in the mountains. On your next stay with us, consider visiting one of these fine establishments.
Over 4,500 miles separate the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Bavarian Alps, but only a few miles come between our cabins and the genuine vibes of a German beer garden. If you are looking to have a non-American food experience, then try a sampling of sausages with choices that include Boar, Venison, Buffalo, Pheasant, and Elk. If you want to experience something on draft besides Miller Lite, then cozy up to the bar and start asking about their outstanding hops selections. And if you don’t want to take your husband shopping with you, the sign on the door at the Black Bear acknowledges that they have free husband daycare! Meet him later for a brew and a large German soft pretzel. You won’t be disappointed.
The curb impression is very deceiving as you drive up to the Boro Inn. From the outside, there is nothing authentic about it. As you open the door, you enter a pub in the County Wexford, with Father Brendan Doyle (retired) officiating behind the bar. With 177 different handcrafted libations including whiskeys and brews whose recipes span 1,300 years, there is nothing that isn’t authentic at the Boro. Part pub, part museum, you will be as captivated by historical artifacts as you will be by the bartender’s brogue. The music, the stories, the potations and the grub will land you smack in the middle of The Emerald Isle while you vacation in the North Georgia Mountains.
Chef Danny Mellman takes Italian fare to a new level at this fine-dining ristorante located in Morganton, GA, just a few miles east of Blue Ridge. This is the perfect place to spend an evening with friends. Start out with a plate of Frito Misto- flash fried calamari and fish with artichokes and lemon and charred tomato-lemon aioli. The salads are shareable in size. The Treviso is a patron favorite – with bacon, balsamic, fresh pear, walnuts, and Gorgonzola. A myriad of pasta, risottos, and polentas, with fresh roasted vegetables, compliment delectable fresh sauces, meat entrees, and the finest of seafood. This is Old World Italian cuisine served mountainside. Reservations are recommended.
Do you often crave your Babciu’s pierogi? Maybe you always
preferred her meat pies even though everyone else fought over the potato and
cheese filled pockets. Has it been years since you dove into a dish of your grandmother’s cabbage rolls? Margo wants to satisfy those memories. She is in her kitchen
preparing all of her menu by hand daily
to assure the best quality taste. When the weather cooperates, you can enjoy amazing
Polish sausages, krauts, goulash, soups, and
baked goods served on the kawiarnia na dworze
(outdoor patio). Whether seated indoors or out, having a chair in
Margo’s kitchen means a visit from Margo, too. You will love the food, the
experience, and the chef.
Hiking with your dog can be fun for both you and your furry friend. Not only does it provide a great source of exercise for you and your dog, but it’s also one of the best ways to have amazing adventures while creating memories that will last a lifetime. It’s a win-win for everyone!
While we’d all love to be able to take our dogs with us on every trail we venture down, we can’t always do that. Sometimes the trails are too steep or the terrain is too rough for our four-legged friends to maneuver, or sometimes they simply aren’t allowed in that area because of other critters that may be dangerous for our dogs to encounter.
To make things a little easier for you and your furry companion, here’s a list of a few trails around the Blue Ridge area that are sure to bring tons of fun for both you and your favorite adventure buddy!
Duncan Ridge Trail
Easily accessible by both the Appalachian Trail and the Benton MacKaye Trail, the Duncan Ridge Trail is one of the more difficult trails in the Northeast Georgia Mountains, spanning a total of around 30.1 miles. While the trail is labeled as moderate to strenuous by most experienced hikers and backpackers out there (mainly because of the low usage and steep climbs), don’t let that discourage you from taking on this gorgeous trek back into the Chattahoochee National Forest! You don’t have to hike the whole 30.1 miles and for those with pups that aren’t too keen on making friends with other hikers/dogs, this trail will let you have the outdoor experience you always wanted without the anxiety of other dogs and hikers.
Lupa on the Duncan Ridge Trail
The Duncan Ridge Trail begins at Three Forks on the Appalachian Trail/Benton MacKaye Trail. Beginning at Three Forks, you’ll hop on the AT and walk the beautiful mile stretch out toward Long Creek Falls, following the soft sounds of the creek that runs alongside the trail. Hiking toward the falls, the Benton MacKaye Trail (BMT) and the Duncan Ridge Trail veer off to the right less than 0.1 miles after the short path down to the falls begins. There will be markers present that identifies which trail is the BMT and which is the Duncan Ridge Trail but just in case, follow the blue vertical blazes (marks on the trees) for the Duncan Ridge and the white diamond blazes for the BMT.
From there, hikers will follow the trail through a tunnel of laurels and rhododendrons during the spring and summer months deep into the Chattahoochee National Forest before reaching the swinging bridge over the Toccoa River. Hikers can choose to push on and make the climb up Tooni Mountain, or call it a day a hike back toward Three Forks. Regardless of what you decide, just remember to have fun and hike your own hike!
Appalachian Approach Trail
Roughly 75 percent of Appalachian Trail hikers, thru-hikers and sectioners alike, decide to take the Appalachian Approach Trail to begin the trail while the other 25 percent simply take off at the base of Springer Mountain as they start the 2,192 mile (or less) journey. But for those who want to join the majority, the 8-mile trail starts off from Amicalola Falls State Park, beginning the 78-mile Georgia portion of this famous hiking trail to Maine. Not planning on walking to Maine? Then just hop on the Appalachian Approach Trail with your favorite furry pal and enjoy one of the best day hikes in the North Georgia Mountains.
Princess Lupa on the AT Approach
Just above the top of Amicalola Falls (you can hike up the falls or just enjoy the view from the parking lot at the top), the trailhead begins. For the first ⅓ mile, the trail will coincide with the Len Foote Hike Inn. When the trail forks, follow the blue blazes, veer left, and head toward Springer Mountain.
Soon enough the trail will leave Amicalola State Park, climbing its way through the Chattahoochee National Forest and onward toward the Appalachian Trail. Though not strenuous, this trail is rated at moderate, so this might prove a challenge for some at certain parts of the trail. Elevation gain is steady over the eight miles, climbing gradually through the thick Chattahoochee Forest. During the spring and summer months, the trail beams with lush greenery and vibrant native wildflowers. In the fall, the trail is a technicolor of bright orange, yellow, and red. Regardless of the time of year, the trail promises spectacular scenery.
While much of the eight-mile stretch is shaded and covered with thicket, the last 1.5 miles will provide close to 500-ft elevation gain and thinning treeline as you make the final climb up Springer. And once you get to the summit, the blue blazes will fade to white, marking the Southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail and a gorgeous view of the rolling mountains and valleys of the Blue Ridge.
Stanley Gap Trail
If you’re looking for the typical North Georgia hiking experience for you and your furry friend, look no further than the Stanley Gap Trail. Full of bright red Georgia clay and plenty of white mountain granite and large roots, you’re in for an adventurous afternoon out in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Now, be forewarned, this trail doesn’t offer up any waterfalls or stunning summit views, but it’s great for those who just want to get out and enjoy the beauty of the North Georgia Mountains. Plus, you’ll have plenty of protection from the sun on hot, humid days.
Lupa ready to take on Stanley Gap Trail
Coming in at just under 5 miles — around 4.8 mi — the Stanley Gap Trail is rated at moderated, but those used to hiking easier trails shouldn’t find this one too difficult either. It’s fairly forgiving, with breaks in the upward climb every 50- 100 ft along the way. The main thing hikers should watch out for are large upturned roots and rocks that can be a bit tricky to manage if you’re not careful. But as long as you are being mindful of them, the hike shouldn’t pose any problems whatsoever.
The highest point on the trail comes around Rocky Mountain, just below the summit, near the trail’s halfway point. After reaching that point, you’ll have to scamper up one last incline before winding back down for 1,000 ft descent toward Deep Gap. If you’re not wanting to hike all the way back to the trailhead, you can always make arrangements ahead of time for someone to pick you up at the Deep Gap parking lot or even catch a ride with a trail system shuttle driver back to you (and your dog!) back to your car.
Where are your favorite places to hike with your favorite 4-legged family member? Be sure to share your pictures of your journeys with us on Facebook or Instagram. We’d love to see where your Escape to Blue Ridge takes you!
Some of us just don’t “vacation” well. Swinging in a hammock, listening to the birdies go “tweet, tweet, tweet” is a might too boring. Nor does the quest to hike to the top of a waterfall hold any allure. We need a more constructive reason to leave home and head to the mountains. For those who need an educational prospect before booking a cabin, here are some awesome Blue Ridge conferences, workshops, and day trips available this spring.
From Shabby To Chic
Outlaws Workshop – Stay with us while you venture into town for this 3-day hands-on workshop being offered by an incredibly talented group of home décor specialists. This workshop focuses on refurbishing that old piece of furniture and painting it with the latest techniques. This would be a great Mother-Daughter Weekend retreat – an early celebration of Mother’s Day. May 3-5, 2019
The Center
The 22nd Annual Blue Ridge Writer’s Conference – For more than two decades this writer’s conference has brought together would be authors with leaders in the publishing industry, offering instruction on both sides of the trade. This is a jam-packed conference in an amazingly comfortable atmosphere, aiding in the fostering of new friendships and maximizing business networking. April 5 and 6, 2019.
Leather Working Workshop – The Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Center is the regions premier facility for arts education. Have you wanted a taste of leatherworking without investing lots of time and money? During this one day class students will make something beautiful and learn a new skill. Each student will take home their creative leather bag including a strap and tassel. April 16, 2019
Rock On!
Chimps Rock – This is the perfect event for kids and kids at heart. Project Chimps provides lifelong care to former research chimpanzees at its 236-acre forested sanctuary in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This is an opportunity to visit the sanctuary, receive a guided walking tour, see chimps behind glass and even participate in a Chimp Rock painting craft project. April 26 and April 27, 2019
Rock the Dome – The O. Wayne Rollins Planetarium at Young Harris College features more than 30 Friday-evening public shows. Guests are encouraged to arrive early for the best seats. No late seating is permitted. These public planetarium shows include a live-narrated “seasonal stargazing” segment in addition to the featured full-dome program. If you love classic rock, don’t miss the performances in late April/early May which will have that Dome rocking to Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, and Peter Frampton, to name a few. April 26, 2019, May 3, 2019
An Apple A Day
Mercier’s Blossom Tours – Visitors from all over the world flock to Mercier Orchards every year to purchase goods produced from the fruits of the orchards. Few know that in the spring, they can take advantage of guided tours during the blossom season, learning about the cultivation of the many varieties of fruit the Orchard harvests each year. Bring your camera on these tours, because the visual spectacle of the blossoms is almost as captivating as the marvelous fragrant bouquets. Because Mother Nature doesn’t care to keep a tight schedule, you can call the Orchard at 800-361-7731 to find out when the blossom tours will be offered this Spring.
If you’re looking for a scenic
trail with beautiful falls at the end, and to check off a couple high profile hiking
trails while you’re at it, Long
Creek Falls in the Chattahoochee National Forest in Blue Ridge, Georgia
should make it to the top of your list.
An easy to moderate difficulty
rating, Long Creek Falls is a two-mile round trip “out-and-back trail” that
sits directly on the Appalachian
Trail (AT), with access to both the Benton
McKaye Trail and the Duncan Ridge Trail. Uniquely, the Appalachian Trail
and Benton McKaye Trail run together as one route during this particular
section of the footpath.
With full falls, even in the
middle of summer, Long Creek Falls is one of the first attractions along the
Appalachian Trail and one of the prettiest you’ll find not only in Fannin
County, but also throughout all of the North Georgia Mountains! Exposed rock
frames the cascading water, allowing for optimum sitting spots along the bank
of the falls and the creek that it feeds. Before tumbling over one large rock
face, Long Creek runs over smaller rocks, making the final drop into a shallow
pool at the base of the falls even that much more impressive. Since the falls
are only a short walk off of the AT, it’s a hot spot for thru-hikers who want a
quiet place to rest their feet, take a nap alongside the river, or simply sit
and take in the beauty of the falls.
Family & Pet Friendly
Over the years, Long Creek Falls
has also become a destination for day hikers, particularly families and those
with dogs who want a decent trail to visit on the weekends. In fact, it’s grown
so much in popularity that the parking lot at Three Forks (the area you’ll
drive to the start of the trail) is always packed, sprawling out down the dirt
service road, especially on the weekends. So, if you’re wanting a less crowded
view of the falls, going on the weekdays would give you more privacy to enjoy
the trail and the falls once you get there.
For those with kids or grandkids,
the falls are a huge hit since the shallow pool serves as the best spot to take
a refreshing dip in the cool water, especially on those particularly sticky,
southern summer days!
Take It Up a Notch
If you’re feeling especially
ambitious after hiking Long Creek Falls, you can extend your hike another 8.6
miles and head toward Springer Mountain, the southern terminus for the Appalachian
Trail. Though more difficult than Long Creek, the “out-and-back” from the
trailhead at Long Creek to the peak of Springer Mountain offers one of the most
diverse terrains on all of the Georgia section of the AT. Just follow the 2 x
6-inch white blaze north!
Are We There Yet?
You can hear that soft rustle of
water from the start of the trail all the way through.
As far as getting to the trailhead
goes, it isn’t a hard one to find. In fact, you can even plug the location into
your GPS and it’ll take you right to the parking lot. From Blue Ridge, you’ll
take Old Highway 76 and hop on Aska Road until it dead-ends into Newport Road.
Take Newport Road until it ends and turn left onto Doublehead Gap Road.
Doublehead Gap will turn into a dirt road, which you’ll follow until the
three-way split. On the split, follow Forest Service Road 58 until you reach
Three Forks, which is just over five miles.
Once you’ve made it, park your car, follow the trail across the road from the footbridge, and take in all the wonder and beauty of Long Creek Falls!
It has been said that if you are fishing to catch fish, you
are fishing for the wrong reason. Now, don’t get me wrong, catching fish is a
whole lot of fun and definitely the reward for all the effort you put forth,
but what I’m talking about is the spiritual part of fishing. There is just
something about being in the middle of the river, just you and your rod. The
motion and the movement of your rod and line is like an artist painting a
masterpiece. The subtlety of the line whipping back and forth until the fly
ever so gently rests on the water just waiting for a trout to come take a taste.
The quietness and the solitude of the rippling waters make you feel like you
are one with nature. This is what fishing is all about.
Supple Waters
Blue Ridge, Georgia was designated the Fly Fishing Capital of Georgia because of the nature of our rivers, creeks, and streams. Here you can find large wild rainbow, brown and brook trout. Additionally, the Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery stocks our creeks with thousands of fish between March and July. Right now, in the coldest months of the year, is when you can put both your skill and knowledge to the test and fish for the native trout. They thrive in the most frigid of waters and are experts at hiding in eddie lines and behind rocks. If you are interested in fishing these plentiful waters, there are a multitude of outfitters in and around town that can provide instruction, equipment, and guiding services.
Meet Will Taylor
While the Toccoa River, Rock Creek, and Cooper’s Creek are popular fishing destinations, Will Taylor and his expert guides will take you to private locations where you can catch trout that you’ll want to write home about. At the very least, all of your friends will be jealous when they see the beauties you pull in and then of course release. Taylor and his family are longtime residents of Blue Ridge, Georgia. He has created a name for himself along with his wife, Lesa, with their native trout photography. Their shop, Fly Shop Co, specializes in locally tied flies, apparel, gear, and a large selection of made in the USA items. Conservation of our waters and the inhabitants of our creeks and streams are very important to the Taylors and they are taking steps to ensure that measures ahre set in place to not only protect the trout, but also the riverbanks themselves. Book a trip with Will and you will see for yourself. His passion and excitement for fly fishing is contagious and the fish you will catch will create special memories to last a lifetime.
Trout Festival
On Saturday, April 27th the Blue Ridge Mountain
Trout Unlimited #696 and the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce will host the 4th Annual Blue Ridge Trout Festival & Outdoor
Adventures event. Located in downtown Blue Ridge, you will have the opportunity
to meet with local adventure outfitters and fishing guides. There will also be conservation
information, clothing and fishing gear, home décor and gifts, along with fly
making demonstrations. You don’t have to worry about being hungry or thirsty while
at the festival. A food truck alley and beer garden will be available for you
to enjoy if you don’t want to check out one of our wonderful downtown Blue
Ridge restaurants. Admission is $5 per person and leashed dogs are welcome to join
you as you learn more about the Blue Ridge fly fishing culture.
Hooked on Toccoa is
uniquely located with step-in entry directly into the river, giving you private
access to world-class fly fishing and is also the perfect spot for tubing,
kayaking or just splashing around in the refreshingly clear tailwaters of the
Toccoa. With an expansive grassy waterfront, you can take your pick of places
to unwind outdoors- on the sprawling screened-in porch, next to the fireplace
under the pavilion or suspended right above the river on the large wooden dock.
The cabin is located only minutes from the beautifully manicured Old Toccoa
Farm golf course and a 10-minute drive directly into historic downtown Blue
Ridge, which offers delicious dining and chic shopping options.
Noontootla Creek in the
North Georgia Mountains is world-renowned for trophy trout
fishing. Located in the highly desirable Aska Adventure area, Noontootla
Cottage is a prize in and of itself. Noontootla Cottage is like
stepping into a scene from classic American literature, but updated for this
century. Sitting amongst the corn field with its sharp roofline angles,
stacked stone chimney and open, front deck, the white farmhouse immediately
sparks child-like enthusiasm. It sleeps seven and is perfect for a leisurely,
fun-filled family getaway or for a couple of parents treating their kids’ to
their first fishing excursion. This is the finest farmhouse in an
anglers’ most prized location. Let Noontootla Cottage reward you, not just
through great fishing, but through an entire experience that will reconnect you
and your loved ones for a most memorable mountain vacation.
