Winter Hiking in Blue Ridge



There are few better places to hike than on the hundreds and hundreds of miles of trails that crisscross the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Georgia. Not only is this an area that speaks to the hiker in familiar terms – Appalachian Trail, Benton MacKaye Trail, Hike Inn, Amicalola Falls – but it’s the wide variety of experiences, from the casual to the challenging, that make these hikes some of the most popular in America. You can come prepared and packed to the hilt or just carry a water bottle and be perfectly pleased with the result.

Every year thousands of hikers start the Appalachian Trail journey – north–to-south, south-to-north, or a split blend of both – and roughly one-quarter of those who start with intentions of a thru-hike manage to complete the 2,000-mile plus trek. Those are usually serious hikers with high aspirations, deep determination, and a lot of time.

Many, many more hikers take a day (or two), or just a morning or an afternoon to enjoy the beauty of nature, 50-mile views, and the peace and solitude of a recreational hike. For those, and the more determined and dedicated both, there’s no better place to start than Blue Ridge, Georgia and Fannin County.

What draws hikers to Blue Ridge in the first place is the variety of terrain and the landscape that surrounds it. This region has been called the “hinge of botany” for its unique ability to sustain the widest variety of plant life on the East Coast – a robust mixture of northern and southern species.

Constant surprises greet those who look for unusual trees, shrubs and ground cover. You may end up in the midst of mountain laurel, rhododendron and hemlock trees all at the same time – an experience not at all common in any other part of the country.

So, where to go to discover all this?  Well, it doesn’t take more than 10-20 miles, and 30 minutes or less to get you to where you want to go.  You can avail yourself of guide services like Blue Ridge Mountain Outfitters, ready willing and able to chime in on suggestions, or to lead the hike itself.

Springer Mountain

Just minutes from downtown Blue Ridge, Springer Mountain is best known as the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. It’s the southern equivalent of Maine’s Katahdin Mountain – where hundreds per year start or finish their AT thru-hike adventures. A thru-hike isn’t a necessity to enjoy the beauty, tranquility and sense of camaraderie on the country’s most famous hiking trail. Sections of the 2,181-mile AT starting at Springer are at times both challenging and peaceful, so it’s best to consult the proper guide to determine a section of trail that suits your level of ability.

 

The Benton MacKaye Trail

Named for Benton MacKaye, the originator of the Appalachian Trail, crosses the AT about 15 miles south of Blue Ridge and features a 260-foot suspension bridge across the Toccoa River known as the Swinging Bridge. The Benton MacKaye is great option for day hikers, or you can warm up for a thru hike by doing the entire 300 miles ending in the Great Smokey Mountains National Park.

 

Grassy Mountain Tower Trail at Lake Conasauga

A couple of special things are going on here with this 4-mile trail – all at once. 1) The location of Grassy Mountain Tower Trail begins and ends with gorgeous views of Fort Mountain and the Cohutta Wilderness.  2) Lake Conasauga is a small, crystal clear mountaintop lake with remarkable beauty; and 3) The historic Grassy Mountain fire tower provides a perch from which to view the length and breadth of this shimmering mountain lake.

 

Emery Creek Falls Trail

This trail follows lushly forested creek banks to a pair of stunning, beautiful, remote waterfalls. The trail is refreshing, and especially fun in the summer months.  The Emery Creek Falls Trail splashes through 20 creek crossings to the pinnacle, cascading Emery Creek Falls.

 

The Jacks River Trail

If you are looking for and adventure, Jacks River ia a 14.8 mile trail located within the Cohutta Wilderness Area. This trail is slightly more advanced and parts of it crosses moving water. Forest service guidance is strongly recommended. However, if a crystal-clear river and a series of waterfalls gets you excited, then you really need to add this hike to your list.

 

The Hemp Top Trail

About 10 miles from Blue Ridge, The Hemp Top Trail is a hike of about 30 minutes, but well worth the trek. This hike accesses peaks that are among the tallest in Georgia — and the views are breathtaking.

 

Hiking anywhere in close proximity to Blue Ridge, Blairsville, Ellijay and Dahlonega in the North Georgia Mountains is an experience not to be forgotten. The exercise, exhilaration and discovery of true companionship along the way always makes for memorable moments. Most of these trails are pet friendly as well, so don’t leave Roscoe at home. 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!

Blue Ridge Area Waterfalls



It’s hard to imagine anything more tranquil, peaceful, powerful and appealing than a waterfall. And if one is good, many are better. Fortunately, in Blue Ridge and Fannin County, there is an abundance of rushing water, and impressive elevations – and, thanks to gravity, it all inevitably leads to waterfalls in various forms or fashion – all about 30 minutes’ drive from town.

Long Creek Falls

Starting with waterfalls closest to downtown Blue Ridge, Long Creek Falls provides easy access and an impressive view of a 50-foot drop in two sections. The bonus here is that the falls are at the intersection of the Appalachian and the Benton MacKaye trails, both of which offer a reasonable, but not daunting hike in.

Fall Branch Falls

Also nearby, is the upper part of Fall Branch Falls, which is a series of cascading waterfalls leading to a single drop of about 30 feet into a deep pool at the base of the falls. Fall Branch is a slightly less dramatic drop, but the hike is more challenging and the sound of cascading falls along the trail can be heard before it’s seen.

Sea Creek Falls

Just north of Blue Ridge, close to Morganton, Sea Creek Falls rewards a hiker’s driving indulgence with a short walk to a series of steep cascades. Like Long Falls, Sea Creek drops in two sections, and at high water times of the year (usually later winter and early spring) these cascading waterfalls are enormously impressive.

Amicalola Falls

It’s not a well-known fact that the Blue Ridge Mountains are older than the Rockies, but it explains the softer and relatively less severe ridge lines, thanks to centuries of weather wearing away the rough edges. Still, there are areas in these mountains that feature geological fissures affording deep drops and in the case of Amicalola Falls, just south of Ellijay, the result is a 729-foot cascading waterfall, the steepest east of the Mississippi.

Amicalola can be accessed by way an arduous hike from Springer Mountain, the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, or by car through Amicalola State Park. If you choose the State Park route, there are a few viewing options – 1) drive to the top of the falls and look down; 2) walk up the meandering staircase, which features switchbacks and landing platforms; or 3) hike up the backside of the falls to the top and have drinks or lunch at Amicalola Falls Resort. Any and all are good options.

Whatever you choice in waterfall hunting, you can’t go wrong. From pastoral to pounding waterfalls, they are a great destination and a rich reward after a drive, hike, walk or run. Additionally, they are a great way to experience family fun together, build camaraderie among buddies, or add a bit of romance to a relationship. Get out and explore. You’ll be glad you did.

We love to see your Blue Ridge adventures! Please share your favorite waterfall photos with us on our Facebook page or tag us on Instagram @escapetobr. We can’t wait to see!

The Colin Family Takes on Blue Ridge



We have some of the coolest guests that adventure up into the Blue Ridge Mountains for some good quality R&R. Earlier this fall, a beautiful family from the Southwest region of Florida knew they wanted to come up the mountains and experience the spectacular fall season. Fortunately for them, the 2018 season proved to be one of the most colorful seasons we’ve enjoyed in a while! Fortunately for us, they made this awesome vlog about their journey.

The Players

The Patriarch, Andres Colin, is a talented singer-songwriter in and around the Sarasota area. His lovely wife, Kristen, is an equally talented photographer. Together they have one beautiful little girl, Aria, and another bundle of joy on the way. So, needless to say, life is pretty busy for the Colin family, but that wasn’t going to stop them from getting away. A local Sarasota artist, Jay Tyler of Steel View Art, recommend the family Escape to Blue Ridge and stay in a cabin called Woolly Bugger.

The Adventure

Have you driven eight hours with a toddler before? Well, lets just say the eight hour drive from Sarasota took more like twelve hours, but their reward was coming! Alas, they arrived in the mountains along a quiet dirt road and stepped out of the car to experience the crisp mountain air and check out their home away from home.

You will delight when you watch the family explore the lakes and mountains of the Appalachian region, your heart will melt when you hear Andres sing Happy Birthday to Kristen, and you will thoroughly enjoy Andres singing Una Guitarra by Gerardo Pena.

With any good road trip, food is a critical factor. Luckily for the Colin Family, there are no shortage of good restaurants in the Blue Ridge area. You may think a little mountain town only survives on bbq, cornbread, biscuits, and sweet tea. While that is absolutely 100% true, but we also have a taste for the finer things in life including healthy options offering gluten free and vegan selections.

With memory cards filled with pictures and hearts full of family memories, the Colin Family has to begin their journey back to their regular lives.  One last stop in Georgia finds the family in Valdosta at the most delightful downtown market and café, Birdie’s. That’s when the Colin’s knew. They’ve been bitten by the Travel Bug and they will make a point to get out and travel more. There is just too much in life to experience.

Take about six minutes and enjoy this very well done and beautiful vlog by Andres Colin and his family’s Escape to Blue Ridge!

Thankful in Blue Ridge



As we approach the commencement of the holiday season, we want to take a minute and reflect on the things that we are most thankful for not just this week, but every week. It is our absolute pleasure and privilege to provide our guests with the most outstanding vacation properties in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you are seeking relaxation or adventure, we have cabins that will suit your needs and feel like your home away from home.

Thank you, Guests

There is always a great reason to escape to Blue Ridge. Spring is delightful with all the budding flowers, sparkling lakes in the summertime, changing leaves in the fall, and snow in the wintertime. However, there is something special about that time between Thanksgiving and the New Year that makes a Blue Ridge escape extra special. Maybe it’s the cheerful joy of the season. Maybe it’s the time for extended families to come together. Maybe it’s the opportunity to unplug from our chaotic lives and get back to the simple things. Whatever your reason may be, we are so grateful that you choose us as your go to vacation rental company.

Thank you, Team

We are certainly grateful for the entire team that works tirelessly to make Escape to Blue Ridge the leading provider of North Georgia vacation rentals.

To our reservation planners, maintenance personnel, housekeepers and many other hospitality professionals, you go above and beyond your call of duty on a daily basis. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

Thank you, Partners

We are most thankful for the property owners that entrust us with their real estate investments. We take pride in cleaning and caring for each and every home that is enrolled in our program like it is our very own. We are so fortunate for the opportunity to promote and represent your beautiful properties.

Thank you, Blue Ridge

Lastly, the love we have for this community is second to none. The beauty of the area, the kindness of the people, and the quaintness of the downtown area make Blue Ridge the most amazing community to live in and visit. Adventures abound and tranquility awaits almost everywhere you look in this wonderful little mountain town! We truly hope, wherever in the world you may be, that you and yours gather together, eat some delicious food, and enjoy each other’s company.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Das Kaffee Haus



If you’ve never stepped foot in the cutest coffee shop in North Georgia, you are truly missing out. Das Kaffee Haus is the definition of gourmet chic. Not only will you find aromatic coffees and knowledgeable baristas, but the quaintness of this Blue Ridge coffee shop will make it a fast favorite every time you are in town.

During the week, you can mingle with the locals. Das Kaffee Haus is a popular space for friends and business acquaintances to meet up and begin the day with a high-octane espresso or their favorite cup of joe. During the day you can plug into their Wi-Fi and keep working while you get your afternoon pick-me-up. On the weekends, the tourists discover the magic of this shop and enjoy the friendly service and inviting atmosphere.

What’s Inside

For the last two and a half years, Das Kaffee Haus has been building their reputation with providing their customers with the most flavorful and delicious coffee selections. Quality and consistency along with the friendliest people is what makes this coffee shop so special. Utilizing only the highest quality of beans roasted from Batdorf & Bronson out of Marietta, Georgia, you will think that you have been transported to a little café in Italy when you taste your first sip.

What sets apart this java from any other coffee shop, besides the quality of beans and the friendliness of the staff, is both the water and the Astoria espresso machine. Heads and shoulders above other espresso machines, the Astoria is Italian made and when used correctly can produce hundreds of porta filter espresso shots, a specific barista tool of the trade. In fact, a traditional espresso shot is actually a double shot. This is the base of all their drinks and they can custom make any requests. The coolest part is they are true to the brew and don’t use super sugary and fake sweeteners. Most of their sauces and syrups are completely natural and organic. Staying true to their organic profile and the true flavor of the bean is why people rave about this place and it keeps people coming back time and again.

The Science

Manager, Anthony Vitters, and his head barista, Alex Cruz have undergone extensive training to ensure the perfect nectar of the gods. After all, the coffee industry is not strictly about latte art. There is a science that goes into the perfect espresso shot. The roast, the grind-off, the timing, and the water all make a difference. Speaking of water, Das Kaffee Haus invested in a special filtration system to take the already refreshing Blue Ridge mountain water and remove all the chlorine and chemicals from it while leaving all the healthy minerals in place.

Besides perfect espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes, Das Kaffee Haus is supplied by its own bakery / full kitchen offsite, (which is the Fudge Shop owned by the company as well) . There they bake up tantalizing treats like freshly baked muffins, cookies, and cakes. Recently added to their repertoire, you can now find savory treats like spinach and egg puff pastries. You never know what type of sweet or savory treat they will create, so be sure to stop by often and see what’s new! Need something Vegetarian or Gluten Free? It can be done per request.

Meet the owner

Das Kaffee Haus is the brain child of owner Michael Fuerst and wife Cherie Fuerst. Mr. Fuerst is originally from Bavaria, Germany and didn’t come to America until he was 31 years old. While in California, he fell in love with a Georgia girl, Cherie. Together they vacationed back east, and Michael realized that this is where he belonged. The mountain landscape reminded him so much of the geography back home, that he knew this is where he wanted to take his next step in life.

With a background in business and marketing, Michael has vast experience in the food and beverage world. Getting his start in the industry back in Germany, he transferred his knowledge and opened up a restaurant here in the states. When the opportunity came up in Blue Ridge, Michael didn’t think twice and jumped on the chance to blend his business knowledge, restaurant experience, and passion for coffee.

No stranger to working hard, this ambitious man also owns the previously mentioned fudge shop (Fudge & Company) in Ellijay and is working on another business opportunity right here in Blue Ridge. About ten months ago, Michael and his wife opened a local art and home décor store called Down to Urth Provisions which is adjacent and just below the coffee shop. Stay tuned to see what’s next for this dynamic entrepreneur couple!

Here We Grow Again

The story is not complete with this amazing little coffee house. There are certainly more great things to come in the future. It was important to Michael and his team to not grow too fast and compromise the quality of their product. Now that they are established and have a strong base, they are ready to add events to their repertoire. You can look forward to acoustic musical performances, poetry readings, and other live music on their outdoor deck. Now complete with electricity, lights, fans and heaters, you can sit out on the deck soon and watch the passersby below warming up from the inside out with a nice café au lait.

Escape To Blue Ridge

We’ve just shared with you yet another reason to leave the concrete jungle and escape to the adorable town of Blue Ridge. Book one of our cozy cabins or grand lodges and enjoy the slower pace of life in the mountains. When you venture into downtown, be sure to stop and have a cuppa at Das Kaffee Haus. From now until December 31st, if you say “Hansel & Gretel” you will get a free cookie to go with your coffee selection! Because at Das Kaffee, when you have the right roast, the right equipment, and the right barista, you know you are at just the right spot!

Top 5 Blue Ridge Adventure Cabins



Sometimes it’s challenging to motivate for outdoor fun when it is so chilly outside. However, being active outdoors is a great way to enjoy the mountains in a whole new way. Not only is it less crowded, but there are no bugs to contend with! To make the most of your outdoor adventure and not be cold and uncomfortable, layer your clothing so you don’t wimp out and head back for the cabin. Here are a few inspiring North Georgia cabin rentals to keep you active in and around Blue Ridge.

A River Runs Through It

The Aska Adventure Lodge is located in the much sought after Aska Adventure area. Did you know Aska is the Cherokee Native American word for “winter retreat”? However, this cabin is perfect in every season. The Lodge has three bedrooms and three bathrooms and can easily accommodate ten people with king beds in the two master suits, a queen bed in the guest room, and two futons in the loft and game room.

This retreat is conveniently located less than five minutes from the quaint town of Blue Ridge, Georgia. Nearby access to the Toccoa River and Lake Blue Ridge is easily accessible. Our friend, Dell Neighbors, at Fly Fishing North Georgia would be happy to take you on a guided fly-fishing trip to the area’s many cold-water streams and rivers. When you return from a great day of fishing, you can throw your freshly caught trout on the grill of your expansive deck and reflect on the successes of the day. Cap off your evening by lighting the outdoor fireplace and relax on the deck as the sun sets behind the expansive Blue Ridge Mountains.

A Gallop and a Trot

Vista Ridge is a distinctive Georgia mountain cabin rental that offers the peaceful get away from your everyday life that you are craving. Named for the spectacular view that overlooks the Toccoa River and stretches all the way to Tennessee and North Carolina, this four-bedroom, three bath home is your perfect base camp to explore the Blue Ridge area.  To get a better feel for the view, saddle up a horse with our friends at Blanche Manor and go on an adventure through the unspoiled beauty of the mountain wilderness.

After a long day on the trails, soothe your sore muscles in the hot tub and watch the sun set behind the mountains. Back inside, turn on the gas fireplace and snuggle into the leather couches. Before your weekend is over, challenge your partner to a game of pool in the game room and make the looser take you out to a fabulous dinner at Harvest on Main.

Fly Like an Eagle

Eagles Landing is as bold, majestic and unique lodge that is the epitome of rustic elegance. This spacious custom home has seven bedrooms to accommodate nineteen guests. Situated directly on Lake Blue Ridge, this spectacular showplace has incomparable views of the surrounding mountains. The hand-carved spiral staircase spans four floors, from the unique loft down to the terrace level where you will find the “grown-ups’ game room”. There are three decks spanning the length of the home, a hot tub, swings, and a picnic table to enjoy views and privacy that cannot be found anywhere else.

Close by you can channel your inner eagle and zip through 165 acres of beautiful North Georgia mountain property with our friends at Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge. Here, you’ll experience the mountains from the treetops, you’ll zip into the valley, soar over pastures, and cross over Fighting Town Creek. From 75’ in the air you can squeal with delight take off on 6,000 feet of cable, crossing thirteen platforms and three walking bridges.

A Walk in the Woods

It’s impossible to walk in the woods and be in a bad mood at the same time. Fortunately, the mountains are rich with hiking trails to explore and Take a Hike cabin is the perfect home base. Beautifully situated on Mt. Pisgah, this cabin overlooks absolutely fantastic mountain views. It also has three massive decks to enjoy them and from where you’ll be inspired to plan the many and nearby open-air activities that surround you. This home has great sleeping accommodations for up to 7 people and is a perfect set up for two families vacationing together or a good-sized group.

Explore the Cohutta Wilderness just off of your back porch where you can pick from delicious blueberry and blackberry bushes for snacking along your easy hike to a waterfall, cave or to Colonel Magnum’s memorial. A quick ten-minute drive will get you to major hiking trailheads including Dally Gap, Jacks River, Benton Mackaye and Hemptop.  Whichever route you choose, you will find peace and tranquility both in the woods and back at the cabin.

Fightingtown, but the good Kind

High up on the mountain crest, located in the clouds is a spectacular cabin called Almost Heaven. This real log exterior home has graceful windows, an affable front porch and happy hunter green roofing. Almost Heaven is snug in the treetops of an enchanting forest that makes for natural framework around layered panoramic mountain views. The interior of the home includes a smartly laid out, open first level with everything you’d need in cozy reach. In this home, you are steps away from a fully stocked kitchen, dining area and rock breakfast bar.

Here, most guests live on the decks overlooking amazing mountain views. On the main level, there is a stainless gas grill and a covered dining / lounging area. If that isn’t enough, the lower level offers a full array of recreation with a pool table, ping pong and air hockey. Additionally, the lower level has a large covered outdoor living and dining area with a wood burning fireplace and a 6 person hot tub with spectacular long range mountain views. Here, are also steps that lead down to a beautifully crafted outdoor fire pit area with built-in seating. This is a perfect spot to catch up with one another while roasting marshmallows and gazing out toward the spectacular North Georgia Mountains.

Fightingtown Creek Nature Park is now open and is just steps from Almost Heaven! Phase One of the 190-acre park includes 3.6 miles of biking/hiking trails. Coming soon will be an additional 7 +/- miles of trails in addition to a disc golf course, apiary, picnic areas, nature based interpretive signage, native plants and wildlife supportive items.

Blue Ridge Winery Spotlight – Bear Claw Vineyards



Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains you will find the most delightful winery to check out – Bear Claw Vineyards. Owned by Kevin & Michelle Swim, these Atlanta natives moved up to the mountains six years ago for a slower paced life. Little did they know that a whole new adventure was about to begin.

Interestingly enough, the temperate climate and the rich soil quality in the North Georgia Mountains are ideal for grape vines to prosper. So what better idea for the Swim’s than to begin planting a vineyard and prepare to open a tasting room. With the help of family and some close friends, Bear Claw Vineyards was born! Open seven days a week, you can sit back, relax, and drink wine Sunday through Thursday from 12-6pm and Friday & Saturday from 12-8pm.

Wines

Kevin heads up the winemaking and boy does he have a talent for producing quality blends. In fact, just recently, five Bear Claw wines were entered into a Georgia Wine competition. Each wine received a medal, and two of them were gold – the Vidal Blanc and Chardonnay (stainless). While these options are fabulous, we highly recommend you try the Dreamcatcher. This Cayuga White is a blend of Schuyler and Seyval Blanc. It is light and refreshing with fruity notes. If red wine is more your style try their Cabernet Sauvignon. As we type this, a new red is about to be bottled out of the barrel, so you will have to come try their new yield.

Family Friendly

Bear Claw Vineyards is welcoming for every member of the family, both two legged and four. Well behaved pets are welcome and there are plenty of games to keep the kids busy while you catch up with your friends and family. Soon, the kiddos will delight with the addition of gypsy vanner horses. The majestic animals will remind you of Clydesdales with their beauty but are much smaller in size. If you or your littles get hungry while enjoying the winery, light snacks like cheese, crackers, and chocolates are always available to purchase. On Fridays you can check out a food truck that they bring up for your dining pleasure.

Live Music

Every Saturday and Sunday you can enjoy live music on the patio. Local talents like Chip McCain and Jeannie Caryn will add to your afternoon ambiance. Larger names like the Indigo Girls and the Marty Ray Project have also performed at the vineyard. Coming up on Saturday, October 27th you’ll be in for a real treat with Confederate Railroad. Opening for the CR are Steven Phillips & The Midnight Express and local favorite, the Gregg Erwin Band. Tickets are still available and are only $19!

Weddings & Events

There is not a much more stunning venue than a vineyard wedding. Small or large, Bear Claw can accommodate your weddings, birthdays, and anniversary celebrations. Intimate ceremonies can be held at the winery and elaborate ceremonies can take place at their newest venue – The Club at Bear Claw. Formerly known as the Blue Ridge Swim & Tennis Club, the property consists of a swimming pool, four tennis courts, and a large reception hall. Onsite event planner, Tonya Ross, is available to help you with all of your event coordination.