blues – Escape to Blue Ridge Blog | North Georgia Cabin Rentals

September 1, 2021September 8, 2021

September 2021

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, 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

Picnic in the Apple Orchard
September 1^st – 30^th
Location: Deep Roots Orchard

Picnic beneath the apple trees spring through fall at Deep Roots Orchard! Bring your closest friends and family to relax under the trees. Deep Root’s will provide you with everything you need; the picnic basket, blanket, and food. All you need to bring is your wonderful self! Be sure to check out Deep Roots other group experiences like the “Special Occasion Picnic” and “Food, Folic, and Flow”. Prices start at $27 per person; call 706-492-7753 to book your picnic today!

U-Pick Apples
September 1^st – 30^th
Location: Deep Roots Orchard

It’s apple season! Pick your own fresh apples right off the tree at Deep Roots Orchard now through October 31st!

Sandy Toes & Salty Kisses
September 2^nd – 19^th
Location: Blue Ridge Community Theater

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Community Theater

This comedic play takes place at The Lover’s Landing Beach Hotel, now know as the home of Sandy Toes and Salty Kisses. What was once a hot wedding venue has now turned to illegal activities thanks to hotel manager, Uncle Bubba. When mother and daughter duo Beatrice and Traci come to check out the hotel for Traci’s wedding, Uncle Bubba is forced to take over since the wedding planner has eloped. Throughout the play Uncle Bubba has to be himself and pretend to be the missing wedding planner, Madame Coco to please Traci and her mother. Antics and hilarity of course ensue! Shows are Thursdays – Saturdays at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2pm. The show runs August 26th – September 19th, call the box office at 706-632-9191 for tickets!

Riverwalk Run Club
September 2^nd– 30^th
Location: Riverwalk

Partake in a fun run every Thursday night at 6pm from now till November. You’ll leave from the Burra Burra, and the 3.1 mile run will take you by the Toccoa river and through town. You’ll get to run through 2 states and cross the famous steel bridge! After the run stay for drinks at the Burra Burra overlooking the Toccoa River. Don’t walk, RUN to this great event!

Pickin’ In The Park
September 2^nd-30^th
Location: Horseshoe Bend Park

Every Thursday night at 6:00pm, May-September visit Horseshoe Bend Park in McCaysville, GA for live music and picnicking by the Toccoa River. Picnic tables are available but feel free to bring a picnic blanket and lawn chair as well. Admission is free so bring the whole family to enjoy!

Live Music at Grumpy Old Men Brewing
September 3^rd – 24^th
Location: Grumpy Old Men Brewing

Photo Courtesy of Grumpy Old Men Brewing

Stop by Grumpy Old Men Brewery select Fridays from 3pm – 6pm for great drinks, great music, and a great time. With indoor and outdoor seating available you can even bring your dog to join in the fun! Enjoy a delicious hotdog from Jeff’s Hotdog’s while you listen to some fantastic local artists!

September 3^rd: Highbeams
September 12^th: David Welch
September 17^th: Ryan LittleEagle
September 24^th: Trailer Hippies

Live Music at Bin 322 Wine & Tapas Bar
September 3^rd– 25^th
Location: Bin 322 Wine & Tapas Bar

Where else can you find regional wines from all over the world, tapas and other delicious international platters, and live music!? At Bin 322 Wine & Tapas Bar! Drop by select Fridays and Saturdays from 6pm – 9pm to enjoy live music from local artists and choose from their great wine selection. And on Monday nights from 6pm – 8pm join in on SINGO, music style bingo! There’s always fun to be had at Bin 322!

September 3^rd: Surrender Hill
September 10^th: Gwen Hughes & Tom Ladow
Sept. 11^th: Loose Shoes
September 17^th: 7 Licks Band
September 24^th: Steve Vaclavik
Sept. 25^th: Gypsy Mountain Music

Live Music at Bear Claw Vineyards & Winery
September 3^rd – 26^th
Location: Bear Claw Vineyards

For award winning wine, live music, and food truck Bear Claw Vineyards is the place for you! Join them every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for live music and food trucks. Kids and dogs are welcome too! The live music schedule for each weekend is shared on their website each Thursday so be sure to check back!

Live Music at Paradise Hills
September 3^rd – Sepetmber 25^th
Location: Paradise Hills, Cabins-Spa-Farm Winery

Visit the winery at the beautiful Paradise Hills hidden in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The tasting room offers Paradise Hills wine, a selection of craft beers, hard cider, and wine slushies as well as cheese and charcuterie boards, tapas, and shared platters. You can enjoy your drinks and snacks as you listen to local artists perform select Fridays from 4pm – 8pm and select Saturdays from 1pm – 5pm. Check their facebook page for an updated list of musicians.

Live Music at Lake Blue Ridge Marina
September 3^rd– 4^th
Location: Boat Dock Bar & Grill at Lake Blue Ridge Marina

Photo Courtesy of Lake Blue Ridge Boat Dock Bar & Grill

Relax on the shores of Lake Blue Ridge from the Boat Dock Bar & Grill at Lake Blue Ridge Marina. There you’ll have a beautiful view of the lake, delicious entrees and cocktails, and live music on the weekends! Live music is 6pm – 9pm Fridays and Saturdays! You’ll feel relaxed and renewed in no time!

September 3^rd: Danny Rhea
September 4^th: Gregg Erwin

Live Music at Misty Mountain Hops
September 3^rd – September 25^th
Location: Misty Mountain Hops

Misty Mountain Hops is a music-centric restaurant and pub so it’s only fitting that they bring in live music. Stop on by Fridays and Saturdays from 6pm – 9pm for great food and great live music from local artists!

September 3^rd: Andrew Chastain
September 4^th: Quinn Leach
September 10^th: Highbeams Band
September 11^th: Frankie Sparks
September 17^th: Jess Goggans
September 18^th: Rusted Melody
September 24^th: The Orange Walls Duo
September 25^th: Steve Baskin

Labor Day Barbecue
September 4^th – 6^th
Location: Downtown Blue Ridge City Park

This great event runs all of Labor Day weekend! Saturday drop by for Pic-Nic-Nac yard sale and classic car show. Sunday there will be a community worship service followed by an ice cream social. And the big event is Labor Day itself! Enjoy great barbecue and the sounds of bluegrass and gospel music. This is a FREE event you won’t want to miss!

Gene Watson, Janie Fricke & Marty Haggard concert
September 4^th
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Photo Courtesy of the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

See Gene Watson, Marty Haggard, and Janie Fricke live in concert at Anderson Music Hall at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds! These 3 country legends will pay tribute to the legendary Merle Haggard while also singing some of their biggest hits! It’s sure to be a great night of country music! Tickets are $35-$45 + handling.

Contemporary Southern & Folk Art Exhibit
September 4^th – 30^th
Location: Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association

Check out various artists work in both folk and southern art at Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association exhibit! The exhibit is up from September 4^th – October 10^th

Apple Picking Jubilee
September 4^th – 30^th
Location: Hillcrest Orchard

Join in the fall festivities September 4^th – October 31^st! Your $15 entry fee includes all kinds of fun activities like; cow milking, wagon rides, cow train, new Jump Pad and Ball Zone, Live entertainment, pedal karts, big and little kid trike tracks, petting farm, apple tree maze, mini-golf, moonshine and apple museums, big slides and playgrounds, Fall photo spots, swimming pig races and duck races! PLUS there will be all kinds of great foods and of course apple ciders & slushies! The Apple Picking Jubilee is sure to be a blast for the whole family!

Grape Stomp Festival
September 4^th
Location: Paradise Hills, Cabins-Spa-Farm Winery

Get ready to get your stomp on at the 8^th Annual Grape Stomping Festival! There will be live music, bbq, craft vendors, plenty of wine, and of course grape stomping! Admission is $25 a person and includes a souvenir wine glass!

Farmer’s Market
September 4^th – 25^th
Location: Deep Roots Orchard

Stop on by and enjoy a selection of Appalachian grown or made fresh vegetables and goods! Every Saturday from 8:30am-1:00pm now till September 25th!

Downtown Market Blue Ridge
September 4^th– 25^th
Location: 400 West Main Street

Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Farmers Market

Enjoy this wonderful market every Saturday from 8:00am – 12:00pm now till November (weather permitting) right in the heart of Downtown Blue Ridge! There will be all kinds of vendors offering food, artisan goods, arts & crafts, furniture, and more!

Harvest Hoopla
September 5^th
Location: Serenberry Vineyards

Get the chance to learn about the wine-making process at Serenberry Vineyards with vineyard chats from the winemaker. Then from 2-5pm enjoy live music from Amy Andrews! Take in the beautiful weather with a glass of wine at Serenberry’s open air barn, enjoy some live music, and learn a little bit more about wine.

TobyMac concert
September 11^th
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Come see Christian hip-hop artist TobyMac at Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds! It’ll be a beautiful night of fellowship and praise. Tickets are $40 – $60 + fees.

Gazers of the Galaxy
September 11^th
Location: Brasstown Bald Mountain

Get the chance to visit Brasstown Bald in the dark! The Atlanta Astronomy Club will be there to guide you through the night, interpreting the wonders of the universe through galactic stories and expertise, with the opportunity to use a high-powered telescope. Learn more about the stars from the highest point in Georgia!

Plein Air International Paint Out Exhibit
September 14^th – September 30^th
Location: Blue Ridge Mountains Art Association

Take in the art created during the 4-day Plein Air International Paint-Out. You’ll enjoy admiring the images of local scenery and landscapes. This exhibit runs September 14^th – October 10^th.

Landfest 2021
September 16^th– 18^th
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Get ready for Dailey & Vincent’s LANDFEST! A 3-day music festival bringing together the very best in American music; from country to bluegrass, to gospel music! They’ve got a great line-up of talented artists ready to put on an incredible show for you! Single day pass is $50 & 3-day pass is $140.

Blues Train
September 17^th
Location: Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Photo Courtesy of the Kiwanis Club of Blue Ridge

Kick off Blues Weekend with a ride on the “Blues Train”! Take a scenic ride through Blue Ridge with beer, wine and appetizers. Then when you return to Blue Ridge enjoy live music, dancing, and a picnic style dinner.

Blue Ridge Blues and BBQ Festival
September 18^th
Location: Downtown Blue Ridge

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival

Downtown Blue Ridge is your backdrop for a wonderful event! Your ears will be filed with the sounds of incredible Blues Music and your stomach filled with delicious BBQ! Bring your friends and family for a great time! Admission is $10 a person and children 12 & under are free!

12 p.m. Breaking Point Band
2 p.m. The Shufflejunkies Band
4 p.m. The Crossroads Band
6 p.m. Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers
8 p.m. The Georgia Blues Brothers

Old Times
September 24^th – 26^th
Location: Blue Ridge Community Theater

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Community Theater

Husband and wife Deeley and Kate meet up with Kate’s old friend Anna. The three recall old memories from their time spent together; until Kate’s memories stir up some shocking truths. Check out the play Friday & Saturday in the black box theater at 7:30pm and Sunday at 2pm!

Georgia Mountain Classics Cruise Ins
September 24^th
Location: Dairy Queen / DQ Grill & Chill, Blue Ridge

Photo Courtesy of the Georgia Mountain Classics Car Club

Admire a selection of classic cars at this free event on September 24^th at 6pm! Bring your own classic car to register and get $4 off Dairy Queen certificate when you register! Ice cream, classic cars, and a good time!

Blue Ridge Soap Box Derby Fall Classic 2021
September 25^th
Location: Fannin County Middle School

Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Soap Box Derby

Get ready for the fall classic derby! Gates open at 9am and the big race starts at 10am! Be on the lookout for a big twist to be revealed on the day of the race!!

Discovery Days
September 25^th – 26^th
Location: Project Chimps

Get the chance to go behind the scenes at Project Chimps! You’ll take a 60 – 90 minutes guided tour of the chimp sanctuary where you’ll like spot some of the chimps!

September 1, 2019June 21, 2021

September 2019

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!

3rd Annual Labor Day River Run
August 31
LOCATION: Horseshoe Bend Park

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!

Mountain Heritage Festival
August 31 – September 1
LOCATION: Mountain Life Museum, Blairsville

Photo Courtesy of Visit Downtown Blairsville

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

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.

Low Country Boil at The Cooks Farm
September 1
LOCATION: Cooks Farm in Morganton

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

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!

39th Annual Labor Day BBQ & Gospel Music Show
September 1 – 2
LOCATION: Downtown Blue Ridge City Park

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.

Cartecay Vineyards
September 1 – 29
LOCATION: Cartecay Vineyards

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

Plein Air International Paint Out
September 5 – 8
LOCATION: Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association

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.

Grumpy Old Men Brewery
September 6 – 27
LOCATION: Grumpy Old Men Brewery

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

Namaste and Cabernet
September 7
LOCATION: Bear Claw Vineyards

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

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!

Ocoee River Championships
September 13 – 15
LOCATION: Ocoee Whitewater Center

Photo Courtesy of Ocoee River Championships

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.

Herbalist Medicine Making
September 14
LOCATION: The Folk Apothic

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

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.

Blue Ridge Blues and BBQ Music Festival
September 21
LOCATION: Downtown Blue Ridge City Park

Photo Courtesy of the Blues & BBQ Festival

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!

Boat Dock Bar and Grill
September 27
LOCATION: Lake Blue Ridge Marina

Photo Courtesy of the Boat Dock Bar & Grill

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

Music at The Blue Coyote
September 27
LOCATION: The Blue Coyote

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

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

Dancing Goats FolkFest
September 28 – 29
LOCATION: Downtown Ellijay

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.

Ride the Rails Festival
September 28-29
LOCATION: Mineral Bluff Depot

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!

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

8 CABINS WITH INCREDIBLE LAKE & MOUNTAIN VIEWS

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.

December 29, 2018September 8, 2023

Blue Ridge Bucket List

Top 10 Things To Do In Blue Ridge For 2019

As we ring in the New Year, 365 opportunities await you to get out and explore the beautiful North Georgia Mountains. Here are a few of our favorite ideas to enjoy your 2019 Escape to Blue Ridge!

1. Eat Collard Greens & Black-Eyed Peas

After all, it’s a southern tradition. Eat these as your first meal for the New Year and you will increase your luck and prosperity for the year ahead. The Village Restaurant will be open and ready to serve you the very best in Southern Cuisine

2. Experience the Lake Life

Beautiful Lake Blue Ridge offers 3,290-acres of crystal-clear water to explore. Bring your own water craft, rent a pontoon boat, or take a guided tour with Capt’n Joe. Whether you are kayaking, tubing, fishing, or just floating along, there is no prettier place in the world than where the mountains meet the water.

3. Take in a Festival or 5

There is always something happening in these here mountains. Festival season begins in February and ends in October, plus holiday activities are abundant in November and December. You will be blown away with the ice sculpting that takes place at the annual Fire and Ice Chili Cookoff. If music is more your style, you can shake your groove thing at both the Blue Ridge Wine & Jazz Festival and Blue Ridge Blues & Barbeque Festival. Blue Ridge festivals are family friendly, pet friendly, and extraordinarily fun!

4. Fly fish in the Trout Capital of Georgia

Brown trout, rainbow trout, and native trout are abundant in our freshwater mountain streams. Stop by and see Will Taylor at the Fly Shop Co. for some flies and a pole. Then head out to the headwaters of the Toccoa River, Noontootla Creek, or Rock Creek for premier trout fishing.

5. Wine, Beer and Hard Cider, Oh My!

You can’t visit the mountains without trying the refreshing flavors of Hard Cider at Mercier Orchards. While you are there, pick up a peck of apples and some of their fruit infused wines as well. If you are more of a purist, both Bear Claw Vineyards and Serenberry Vineyards have classic Chardonnays, Sauvignons, and more. If Craft beer is more your style, don’t fret, there are many options to choose from like Grumpy Old Men Brewing and Fannin Brewing Company.

6. Jump on the Swinging Bridge

Pack up a picnic and hit either the Benton MacKaye Trail or the Duncan Ridge National Recreation Trail to the Swinging Bridge. This 270-foot-long suspension bridge is the longest swinging bride east of the Mississippi River! If you do decide to jump in the middle, make sure you are faster than your travel buddies or you might get thrown off!

7. Get wet at Fall Branch Falls

A short, family friendly hike makes Fall Branch Falls a must do activity for the young and young at heart. Explore both the upper and lower area of the falls and take time to relax on the rocks and enjoy the views. Don’t forget to bring your best friend. Dogs will enjoy the trail as much as their humans.

Tag: blues

Blue Ridge Bucket List