Spring has sprung, the temperatures are climbing, and
everything is blooming! The last weekend in May, Memorial Day Weekend, is an
excellent time to get away from the hub bub of daily life and Escape to the Blue
Ridge Mountains to enjoy the beauty that is bursting all around us!
Extreme or Serene
There is no shortage of fun to be had around town, but if just relaxing with your favorite people (and pups) in a fabulous cabin is your idea of a good time, we totally get it. Many of our cabins are equipped with game rooms, hot tubs, fire pits, and wooded trails to explore. There is also horseback riding stables, zip lines, and whitewater rafting close by for added immersion into the wonders of Mother Nature.
Downtown Blue Ridge
In downtown Blue Ridge you’ll enjoy attending the 47th Annual Spring Arts in the Park event on Saturday and Sunday, May 27th & 28th. This Southern tradition features more than two hundred arts, crafts, and food booths for you to admire fine arts and mountain crafts. You’ll also be able to see artist’s demonstrations, hear some great music, and support the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association! The event is held rain or shine, and well-behaved leashed pets are welcome. Admission is $5 and children 12 and under are free!
Spring Arts in the Park Photo Courtesy of The Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Center
Music will be abundant in the Downtown area as well. Angry Hops Brewing, Grumpy Old Men Brewery, Copperhill Brewery, and Fannin Brewing will have live music playing. Another great spot for live music is the Boat Dock Bar & Grill, which by the way, did you know, they are a sunny spot for shady people? Check them out. They offer great views of Lake Blue Ridge, delicious food, and fantastic drinks! Last but not least, The Blue Coyote for late night music and drinks is a must stop!
Downtown Blairsville
About thirty minutes East of Blue Ridge in the town of Blairsville, you’ll encounter their annual Spring Arts, Crafts, & Music Festival. Saturday morning begins with a Memorial Day Parade and the rest of the day and all-day Sunday you can enjoy more than 200 local and regional artists. Many musicians will also be on site to entertain you and your family. There is no charge to attend, but plenty of family fun is sure to be had!
Photo Courtesy of Visit Downtown Blairsville
McCaysville/Copperhill
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Railway
If you’ve never experienced a trip on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, you should definitely consider boarding in downtown Blue Ridge and taking an enjoyable two hour ride to the revitalized cities of McCaysville, Ga and Copperhill, Tn. Yep, this is your chance to stand in two states at one time! Grab an ice cream or sweet treat at Happy Bear Ice Cream & Treats. Maybe Cuban is more your style and you prefer a Cuban coffee and empanada at the Rum Cake Lady for an afternoon treat. Pick up the latest record at Deaf Man Vinyl or a new treat for your bestfriend at Mainstreet Mutt. There is so much to explore in the Copper Basin’s twin cities!
Whatever plans you make for the holiday weekend, we hope
that you are spending it with all the ones you love creating memories and enjoying
the freedom that we get to enjoy in the great United States of America. As we
approach Memorial Day Weekend, we want to take a moment to thank all of the men
and women that have so courageously given their lives to defend this beautiful
country in which we are so fortunate to live. There is no greater sacrifice one
can make and the patriotism that these honorable souls displayed deserves our
recognition and gratitude, not just one weekend a year, but all year long. Thank
you for your service.
Hot summer days are just around the corner and adventure awaits! Blue Ridge is THE place for outdoor adventures big and small. Will you hike to the tallest mountain or splash in the rapids while whitewater river rafting? North Georgia is your oyster for outdoor activities and sports. Spend your long summer days in the great outdoors! Get an adrenaline rush and feel one with nature as you embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Check out these 9 outdoor activities to get your summer started!
Fun on Lake Blue Ridge
Photo Courtesy of Lake Blue Ridge Marina
Summers were made to spent on the lake and Lake Blue Ridge has everything you need to make it an awesome one! First stop at the Lake Blue Ridge Marinafor all kinds of boat rentals. Pontoon boats, kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards are all available to rent at the Marina. Bring up to 8 guests on the pontoon boat and jet around the lake all day long. Cool off by jumping off the boat and splashing in the water or rent a 2 person tube to ride along behind the boat and hit the wake. Put your balance to the test by spending a day paddleboarding or choose to paddle while seated in a kayak or canoe. Need a break from your long day on the lake? Also at the Marina is the Boat Dock Bar & Grill, a great place to stop for lunch and drinks, then head back to the water. Also be sure to check out Blue Ridge Boat Rentals. They offer every kind of boat imaginable along with jetskis, waterskis, and towables & accessories like tubes and pool noodles. No matter what boat or craft you choose to spend your day on you’ll have a blast on Lake Blue Ridge!
Looking for the perfect spot for a dip? Morganton Point Recreation Areaoffers easy access to the water. Here you can splash and swim in the water or relax on the beach. They even have kayak and paddleboard rentals as well. Bring a cooler and eat lunch at the picnic tables or order a snack from The Point. Lake Blue Ridge is calling you!
Hike Mountains & Waterfalls
Photo Courtesy of @nannert31
Blue Ridge and North Georgia have some of the best hiking trails in the state! You can hike to the tallest mountain peaks, hike alongside a rushing waterfall, or cross a 270 foot swinging bridge over the Toccoa. Adventure is out there on the trails waiting for you! Benton McKaye Trailis one of our all time favorite trails in the area because it connects to so many awesome spots. Just in the North Georgia area alone, you’ll hike past waterfalls like Fall Branch Falls and Long Creek Falls, cross the Toccoa River on the swinging bridge, and climb to the top of Springer Mountain. The Benton McKaye Trail goes on for 300 miles so there’s even more to explore the further you go!
Another waterfall filled hike we love is the hike to Amicalola Falls, the tallest waterfall in Georgia. Choose either the 2.1 mile uphill loop to the falls or the 10 mile trek to the top, if you’re up for the challenge. When you arrive you’ll be in awe of the huge falls that lie before you.
For a mountain hike check out the trails to the top of Brasstown Baldnear Blairsville. This 1.1 mile trail is short but steep. It’s an uphill climb to the top but it’ll be so worth it when you arrive. Brasstown Bald is the tallest peak in Georgia and from the top you can see 4 states at once!
Horseback Riding
Photo Courtesy of Appalachian Trail Rides
No matter your experience level anyone is welcome to go on a trail ride through the forests of North Georgia. If you love horses and being out in nature this is an adventure for you! One of our favorite companies is Appalachian Trail Rides. You’ll ride past mountains, creeks, lakes and more as you ride through their 250 acres of farmland. Looking to take a special ride? They offer unique experiences like a proposal ride, dinner ride, buckaroee ride and more.
Blue Ridge is known as the Trout Capital of Georgia! So grab your fishing pole and head to the water to catch yourself a trophy trout. The Toccoa River is abundant with trout and you may even be able to catch them right from your riverside cabin. Be sure to check out the Chattahoochee National Fish Hatchery and Noontootla Creek Farmsfor more great spots to fish.
Need some assistance on your fishing excursion? Cohutta Fishing Company can help you right from the shop or on the water. Stock up on your fishing gear from their shop on Mainstreet and then join them on one of their guided fishing trips or classes. Cohutta Fishing Company’s knowledgeable and friendly staff will help make your fly fishing experience a breeze.
Also check out Blue Ridge Fly Fishing School! They offer classes and guided tours for beginners all the way up to the most experienced fishermen. And pick up the most beautiful and efficient bamboo fly fishing rods in town, handcrafted by William Bill Oyster from Oyster Fine Bamboo Fly Rods. Blue Ridge is the ultimate place for fishermen or fisherwomen!
Ropes Course & Ziplining
Photo Courtesy of Zipline Canopy Tours
Get your heart pumping by flying through the air at Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge.You’ll spend the day zipping through the treetops, screaming a loud “woohoo” as you zoom all the way down. Admire the scenery as you go and you may even catch a glimpse of the mountain peaks in the distance or Fightingtown Creek below. Zipline Canopy Tours offers 1-2 hour zipline experiences for ages 10 and up. With 13 ziplines to choose from and over 1,000 feet of cable you’ll never run out of zipping fun here!
Pair ziplining with a challenging ropes course at Blue Ridge Adventure Park. They have 3 levels of obstacles ranging from 15 feet all the way up to 50 feet. Feeling like a challenge? Conquer all 35 obstacles like a champ! Then when you’re finished zip on down to the bottom on the zipline. Ages 10 and up are welcome and guests will have an hour & a half to complete the course at their own pace.
Tubing
Photo Courtesy of Toccoa Valley Campround
There’s nothing quite so peaceful as floating down the river, with your head back, soaking in sun.Take to the water and enjoy a day of tubing down the Toccoa River. Toccoa River Tubing Companywill take you and your group out for a relaxing day of floating on calm waters. You’ll tube for about a mile and a half which usually takes 1.5 hours depending on the flow of the water that day. Toccoa Valley Campgroundoffers tubing, rafting and kayaking, but if you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water, tubing is your best choice. They’ve been providing the Blue Ridge area with family fun for over 50 years! You and your group will have a blast as you venture on a private 6 mile stretch of the Toccoa. Drop on by and float, no reservations needed! Blue Ridge Tubingis also a great company to check out for a tubing adventure. Let your worries float away as you float down the river on your day of tubing!
Kayak/Canoe
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Mountain Kayaking
If you want to be out on the river but are looking for more of a challenge why not try out kayaking or canoeing? Take your boats to the water and get ready to paddle down the Toccoa. Blue Ridge Mountain Kayakingoffers both kayak and canoe excursions of the Toccoa River. You’ll journey 6 miles down river and pass by beautiful pastures, mountains, and lovely flora along the way. Before you hit the water though be sure to stop at their snack shack, for cold drinks and snacks to power you up for your day of paddling.
Toccoa Valley Campgroundalso offers a kayaking experience with both single and double kayaks available to take down the river, on their 2 hour journey. Build those muscles up and get ready for a fun day on the water!
Mountain Biking
The hiking trails in North Georgia are amazing and so are the mountain biking trails! Whip through the winding trails as fast as you can or at a leisurely pace. No matter your experience level there’s trails for everyone interested in a mountain biking adventure. The Long Branch Loopis one of the easier trails and has limited obstacles that may obstruct your path. You can even take a break and admire the falls if you’d like!
For a longer ride, at an intermediate level, check out Jackrabbit Mountain. Here you’ll circle Lake Chatuge on this 15 mile journey. You’ll come across a few simple inclines and declines which makes it a great next step from Long Branch Loop.
For a more difficult ride we’d recommend Stanley Gap. This trail is 10 miles out and back; along the way you’ll find many steady inclines as well as steep declines, perfect for flying down fast. And for those up for a real challenge Hickory Nut Trail is the most difficult of the mountain biking trails. This course is a 19 mile loop that includes 2.500 feet of steep uphill climbing, multiple obstacles, and speedy descents. It’s recommended for experienced mountain bikers only. Hop on your bike, pedal uphill, and check out some of these awesome biking trails.
Whitewater River Rafting
Photo Courtesy of Ocoee Rafting
North Georgia and Tennessee (just a few minutes away from Blue Ridge) are known for their whitewater rafting courses. Did you know that the 1996 Atlanta Olympics even had their whitewater events in the upper part of the Ocoee River in Tennessee? How cool is that!? But unless you’re a pro you need a guide to help you navigate the rapids. Lucky for you there are many wonderful and experienced teams out there ready to help you have a fun and safe adventure!Rolling Thunder River Company have been in the whitewater rafting business for over 40 years and will take you on either a half day or full day adventure through the Ocoee River, the Toccoa River, or the Nantahala River in North Carolina. 3 states to choose from and 3 rivers of fun! Each river is a different difficulty level so check their website to find the best fit for your group.
We also love Ocoee Raftingwho are the oldest rafting company in the Ocoee, guiding people since 1976. Splash through Class III and IV level rapids with experienced guides who will help make it an experience you’ll never forget!
There’s something so peaceful about listening to the sounds of rushing water. Whether you’re in a lakeside cabin relaxing on the dock, in a riverside cabin cozy by the firepit, or at a creekside cabin fishing; we have a cabin for everything. Start planning your summer getaway with these 12 new & awesome waterfront cabins!
You really do make some of your best summer memories on the lake. And that’s what Lakin’ Memoriesis all about! The cabin sleeps up to 10 guests so there’s plenty of room for your family and friends to create new & awesome summer memories on Lake Blue Ridge! You’ll find yourself spending most of your time either on the dock or in the water. Go for a swim, fish off the dock, or sunbathe by the beautiful lake.
There is even a public boat lunch nearby so be sure to bring your boat along! Head inside where the fun and the views continue. You’ll love the cozy details inside and you’ll have a view of the lake in almost every room. And one of the best parts of Lakin’ Memories(beside the lake itself of course) is its amazing kitchen! Beautiful wooden cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and everything you need to cook up an amazing meal for all of your guests. After dinner head to the game room where you can enjoy pool, darts, a bar, and a 55” flat-screen TV. Or venture outside to the firepit where you can roast s’mores and swap ghost stories. If you’re looking for an incredible lakeside cabin for the summer Lakin’ Memoriesis the place for you!
There’s plenty of room for the whole family and more at this beautiful lakeside cabin! Country Roadssleeps up to 16 guests so it’s a great cabin to bring all of your friends together or have a family reunion. You and your guests will have plenty of privacy because the cabin is nestled in the deep water part of the lake, so it’ll feel like your very own private lakeside oasis. No matter where you are in the cabin you’ll have amazing views of the lake from every window and room. Get outside to enjoy the lovely weather and admire the view some more from anywhere on the deck. Play a round of cornhole on the lawn or head to the lakeside deck to be where the action is! Practice your perfect cannonball off the dock as you splash into the waters of Lake Blue Ridge and if you have a boat be sure to bring that too!
And the fun doesn’t stop when you go inside; you’ll find an open living room with plenty of space to relax, a huge kitchen fully stocked with everything you need, smart Tvs and tabletop games scattered throughout, and 5 stunning bedrooms including an awesome bunk room suite. Country Roadseven has an electric vehicle charging station on site so you can charge up your awesome ride! Grab your friends and family and head to Country Roadsfor the vacation of a lifetime!
Are you looking for a cozy and secluded lake front cabin with excellent views of Lake Blue Ridge? You’re in luck! The Byrd House on Lake Blue Ridge is just two miles from downtown Blue Ridge and it’s the perfect place to be for enjoying all that Blue Ridge mountain life has to offer. This cabin is perfect for family vacations because of the plethora of space and great amenities. As you step inside, you’ll take note of the family room, complete with brand new sofas and a lovely fireplace. The cabin is truly a log cabin and was built for comfort with ceiling fans and beautiful rustic cabin furniture throughout. The cabin is chock full of ways to have fun. First, enjoy racking it up at the pool table. The house has six great TVs, an Amazon Alexa, and a Bose mini-link speaker for all of your entertainment fun.
Additionally, revel in the immaculate outdoor amenities at The Byrd House on Lake Blue Ridge. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit! You’ll want to spend an evening soaking in the hot tub. You will not only love the views, but you’ll enjoy the two porches and all of the outdoor seating as well. You can even catch your favorite shows on the porch TV! Enjoy the lake and experience the beauty of nature! If you have a boat, bring it along with you! The private covered floating boat dock is located just across the cove from a public boat ramp. And the manicured path that takes you to the dock provides the perfect stroll through nature.
This peaceful, wooded, waterfront cabin has everything you could possibly want! Lodge on the Lakehas amazing mountain and lake views, an awesome dock for all your lake time activities, and is close to all the fun shopping and restaurants of Downtown Blue Ridge. The cabin is custom designed with floor to ceiling windows and an open floor plan, with a bright and warm farmhouse look that will have you feeling comfortable and homey in no time. Inside you’ll find a beautiful oversized kitchen, lots of cozy seating areas, a cool game room, 4 bedrooms, and plenty of space for all of your guests to spread out.
But outside is where you’ll spend most of your summer days! Choose sun or shade at the 2 level, partially covered dock area, make a splash on Lake Blue Ridge with a ride on your boat or waverunner which you can dock here, or play round after round of cornhole. After your fun in the sun, head to the deck and cook up some hot dogs & burgers on the gas grill, take in the lake views from one of the rocking chairs or lounge seats, and then warm up by the fire table or in the four person hot tub. Call it a night and then do it all again the next day! And just when you thoughtLodge on the Lakecouldn’t get any better you can bring along your best furry friend with you to join in the fun!
Just as the name suggests you’ll find a peaceful riverside oasis at River Serenity. This wooded property set on the banks of the Toccoa River is located in the heart of the Aska Adventure Area, so you’ll be close by to all kinds of outdoor activities. You don’t even need to leave the cabin to have a fun outdoor adventure though. At River Serenityyou can trout fish right from the riverside deck or boat or tube down the river. Even go for a quick dip and splash around in the waters of the Toccoa. Then lay back in the hammock by the river and watch the water rush by. Have more fun in the great outdoors relaxing by the fire or on one of the two screened in porches.
After a long day on the river head inside for a game of pool in the game room or for a home cooked meal in the dining room. Finish the night off cozy by the fire in the family room watching a movie and then getting a good night’s rest in one of the 3 bedrooms. Come find your peace at River Serenity.
At Toccoa Lookout Cottage you’ll have everything you need to make it feel like home but all the amazing amenities of a private resort; plus the beautiful Toccoa River rushing through the property. Located in the heart of the Aska Adventure Area, you can spend the day exploring the great outdoors and then come back to your luxurious 4-bedroom cabin at the to relax and take in the views. Two huge decks overlook the river with plenty of seating, a gas grill, a hot tub, a hammock, and games like cornhole and oversized jenga are also available to keep you entertained. And if you want to get a little bit closer to the river Toccoa Lookout Cottagehas a third deck on the rivers edge where you can dine at the picnic table, roast marshmallows at the firepit, or just relax and take in the calming sounds of the rushing water. And make sure you take advantage of the Toccoa River being right out your back door with some trout fishing off your deck or splashing in the waters, even tube on down the river! A
fter a day on the water head inside where you’ll find an extraordinary game room complete with foosball, billards, a 55″ TV, and a custom wet bar. And while you play in the game room the kids will have their own special area filled with toys, books, and games. Toccoa Lookout Cottageis fun for the whole family!
Row, row, row your boat gently down the Toccoa at Row Hardercabin! Here you’ll find a tranquil riverside resort with a private guest house and room for 12 of your closest friends and family members. There’s plenty of space for everyone to gather both inside and out, and with great amenities and things to do you won’t ever be bored! Row Harder is a nature lover’s dream cabin. You can relax by the waters edge at the firepit or swing back and forth listening to the sounds of the Toccoa River flowing by. Catch dinner by trout fishing in the river or paddle your worries away kayaking down the river. Keep the outdoor fun going by playing in the fenced in yard with the dog or maybe a game of touch football. Head to the deck to stay cozy by the fire and watch your favorite movie or venture over to the gazebo where you can nap in the hammock.
If it starts to get a little chilly, head inside where you can bake some cookies in the huge, fully stocked kitchen or play some board games in the family room. And when it’s time for bed you can claim one of the 3 bedrooms in the main house or the two in the guest house. There’s plenty of space to unwind at Row Harder!
If you are looking for a true escape from reality and the hustle and bustle of your daily life, then look no further than the newly renovated Big River! Tucked away at the end of a paved road, at the convergence of 2 branches of the mighty Fightingtown Creek, you will hear nothing but Mother Nature’s soundtrack of rushing water from every location on this magnificent property. Inside, this beautifully decorated cabin offers plenty of space for your guests to gather together, as well as to enjoy relaxing in privacy. Four spacious bedrooms have king size beds. The master suite on the main level features a comfortable seating area around a gas log fireplace, a wet bar, wall mounted Smart TV, a private bath with a walk-in shower & soaking tub. It even offers deck access so you can enjoy the view and sounds of the Creek during your morning coffee!
The outdoor amenities cannot be duplicated! The main level screened porch includes a designated rocking chair area overlooking the Creek, a hanging queen size bed swing, and plenty of outdoor seating around the 30 ft stacked stone fireplace with gas logs & wall mounted heaters. There is also a dining area for you and your guests, and a gas grill. The lower level deck has a seating area, hanging swing and also houses the relaxing & private 8 person hot tub. Besides relaxation, Big River is prepared to optimize the fun factor. The separate outdoor Creekfront entertainment pavilion is equipped to make any party a huge success. This spacious area includes a large wood-burning fireplace with a mounted Smart TV, comfortable seating to watch the game, bar, hanging swing and even an outdoor kitchen with a grill, burner, refrigerator and Traeger smoker! Adjacent to the pavilion is a magnificent stone firepit with Adirondack seating and Creek access. Additionally, there is a small swing set and a fenced-in play area for the kids to play the day away, and a large patio area for relaxing by the Creek or enjoying a game of corn hole. Lastly, a small, sandy Creekside beach serves as an ideal spot to fish for trout, sunbathe or just listen to the soothing sounds of the rushing water.
Secluded in a lush canopy of tall trees on Cherry Log Mountain, the Blue Ridge cabin rental Cherokee Creek offers you the serene beauty of nature and all the comforts and modern amenities of a home away from home. Named for both the Cherokee Indians who lived in the area and for the creek that runs through a hollow below the property, the cabin is cozy and charming, like a grown-up version of the treehouse you loved as a kid. Inside, the all-wood, ceiling fan-cooled interior and comfy rustic furniture gives Cherokee Creek a warm and welcoming ambience, and the animal-themed décor represents the deer, turkeys, and bears that populate the surrounding woods. Barred owls make their nests nearby, and you can hear their calls from late afternoon into the evening.
As for the modern conveniences, you’ll find WiFi, five smart flat screen TVs with cable, Netflix and Amazon Prime (46” with DVD in the living room, 65” in the game room, and 42” in the bedrooms), and a state-of-the-art kitchen. The Amish hickory dining table seat seats six. Or fire up the gas grill and enjoy your dinner on the screened-in porch, where you’ll find a bistro table, chairs, rockers, glider and a hot tub with a great view of the woods. When it’s time to turn in for the night, you’ll slumber in comfort in one of three bedrooms. The downstairs master suite has a king log bed and private bath with tub and shower, and the two main level bedrooms have queen log beds and share an adjacent bath with tub and shower.
Colby’s Cabin
Beautifully designed and decorated in rustic style with a comfortable, cozy and inviting feel, Colby’s Cabinis spacious and has all the amenities of a home away from home and the privacy and beauty of your own private wooded oasis. Enjoy the fresh mountain air as you relax in the incredible outdoor living space, with its roomy decks, ample seating, and screened-in porch that features a wood-burning fireplace and 55” flat screen TV. There’s a gas grill, swing chairs, a hot tub with room for six, and down below, a fire pit, perfect for roasting marshmallows and making s’mores.
Inside, Colby’s Cabin is airy and open, with a nature theme (notice the bear accents) and comfy furniture that invites you to kick back and relax. You can warm yourself in front of the gas fireplaces and enormous flat screen TVs on the main and lower levels, equipped with DirecTV. The game room offers a pool table, PlayStation3 with games, Blu-ray player, and sound bar for your entertainment pleasure. But the cabin’s greatest assets are intangible: the calming, relaxing sound of the flowing creek, the sight of a glorious sunrise or sunset, the sense of peace and tranquility you feel when you’re there, and the happy memories you’ll take with you.
At Love You Deerlyyou’ll fall in love with the peaceful and beautiful setting, as well as the unique little details that can be found around the cabin. The property sits on a gentle rolling hill with a lovely little creek next to it. Sit in one of the wooden chairs beside the creek and admire the natural beauty that you see before you.
Love You Deerlytruly is a quiet and peaceful cabin tucked away in the woods, and with a large pasture behind you. You may even get the chance to see the family of deer, that call the area home, grazing grass on the rolling hills. Take a moment to get out in nature and admire the view from one of the rocking chairs or the porch swing. After a day spent outdoors head inside where you can sink into the leather couch by the fireplace in the family room or cook up dinner in the beautiful kitchen with stainless steel appliances. The kids will love Love You Deerly too; they have their very own room filled with bunk beds and a massive game room to play in! The whole family will love it here!
Looking for a place that will have you feeling at peace and that is truly off the grid (but still close enough to the excitement?) Enter The Creek Retreat, a cozy, serene, and stunning cabin. This cabin is a beautiful home-away-from-home ready for your escape to Blue Ridge. The cabin is located right next to a creek and even has a koi pond with water features on the property. In addition, the cabin is located in a private neighborhood, and there’s even a lake stocked for fishing by the neighborhood association.
As you enter the house, you’ll immediately be taken aback by the vaulted ceilings and the custom decor in the living room. Sit on the leather couch and unwind in front of the gas fireplace (it even comes with its own remote!) The kitchen has custom wood cabinetry and every type of appliance you’ll need to whip up a delicious meal. The kitchen has vaulted ceilings as well. With both a kitchen table and a dining room table, there’s plenty of room for everyone to spread out and unwind. Creek Retreat also has amenities specifically for kiddos (like stuffed animals, a tent, board games, and more!) You’ll love the outdoor amenities! Enjoy a wraparound deck, a lovely porch (complete with a porch swing!), a treehouse and deck made for pure enjoyment, and more. Take a seat on the outdoor loveseats overlooking the stocked koi pond and creek. Play some games at the table on the covered deck. Grill some burgers or veggie burgers on the gas grill. The choice is yours!
There is so much fun to be had in Blue Ridge all year long! Because there is always something happening in town it can be hard to narrow down when it’s the best time to Escape to Blue Ridge. We’re here to help! We’ve comprised a list of 12 seasonal activities and events for you and your family to partake in, one for each month of the year!
January: Discover Bigfoot
Photo Courtesy of @iamianjones
Head inside & stay warm during the cold month of January by paying a visit to Bigfoot himself at the Expedition: Bigfoot Museum! There you will learn all about the mysterious creature that is said to wander the forests of North Georgia. Expedition:Bigfoot holds the country’s largest display of genuine Bigfoot artifacts like photos and sketches, sighting maps, life-sized exhibits, and the World’s only Bigfoot Research and Tech Vehicle. There’s so much to see at this family-fun, quirky gem of a museum!
February: Fire & Ice Chili Cookoff & Craft Beer Festival
Photo Courtesy of Ashley Irvin
Embrace the cold at Blue Ridge’s 11th Annual Fire & Ice Chili Cookoff & Craft Beer Festival! This year’s event takes place February 19th from 12pm-4pm and will have all kinds of winter fun! There will be ice sculptures and live music, as well as chili and craft beer to keep you warm & toasty from the cold mountain air. Help determine the winner of “The Peoples Choice Award” chili by purchasing taster tickets for $10. Sample the competition and pick your favorite to win! And be sure to take some time to admire the beautiful display of award-winning ice sculptures from the National Ice Carving Champion Rock On Ice. You’ll even get a chance to see how the process works by watching ice sculpting demonstrations. You won’t want to miss out on this great winter event, so bundle up and join us for the fun!
March: Shop & Eat Local
Photo Courtesy of @Chanel Josephson
March is a great time to hit the downtown area because it’s not too busy! You’ll easily be able to visit all of your favorite shops & get in for dinner at some of the best spots in town like Chester’s, The Black Sheep, or Harvest on Main. Discover unique finds at the shops downtown and stock up on souvenirs from your Blue Ridge adventure. Check out Pezrok for cool rock formations and handcrafted furniture to bring back or pay a visit to Blue Ridge Olive Oil Company to bring some Blue Ridge flavor home with you! After a busy day of shopping and dining be sure to end your day with dessert from Mona Lisa’s Dessert House, The Sweet Shoppe, or with a Rum Cake from The Rum Cake Lady.
April: Take a Scenic Drive
Photo Courtesy of Bob Reel
As the weather warms up and spring finally arrives in the mountains there’s no better time to take a scenic drive! Bring the whole family and drive through winding mountain roads where you’ll admire the beauty all around you. Flowers will begin to pop up, the Blue Ridge Mountains will be in their full blue color, and the drive will be alive with nature. There’s no better way to celebrate the end of winter than by taking in the beautiful views. Follow our scenic drive blog for the perfect routes: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/5-scenic-north-georgia-overlooks/
May: Spring Arts in the Park
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association
Come celebrate the beautiful weather and local artists at the annual Spring Arts in the Park event! This year the popular event, hosted by the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, takes place May 28th & 29th, for the holiday weekend. Typically the family-friendly event draws almost 20,000 people to the Downtown City Park of Blue Ridge! And with over 170+ vendor booths for various artists, exhibitors, and food vendors there’s so much fun for everyone! And this 46th year of the Spring Arts in the Park will be no different! Admission is $5 and children 12 & under are free!
June: Explore the Trails
Photo Courtesy of Hike the Ridge
With summer arriving there’s no better time to hit the trails! Explore miles and miles worth of hiking trails that will take you through some of the most naturally beautiful places in the state! Discover stunning waterfalls standing at a few hundred feet tall, be brave and walk across the swinging bridge, push yourself and climb to mountain peaks, and go for peaceful hikes along rivers and lakes. There’s so much waiting for you on the trails in Blue Ridge! Learn about a few of our favorite hikes here: https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/8-blue-ridge-hiking-trails/
July: Hit the Lake
Beat the summer heat and take to the waters of Lake Blue Ridge! Whether you’re cruising on a boat, splashing in the water, or sunbathing on the sands of Morganton Point; Lake Blue Ridge is the place to be for the summer! Lake Blue Ridge Marina is a great starting point to prep for your lake day adventures. They have boat rentals and all the supplies you need to get out on the water. And after a long day on the lake be sure to drop by the marina again at The Boat Dock Bar & Grill for great food, drinks, live music, and a beautiful view of Lake Blue Ridge. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a busy summer day. The fun on Lake Blue Ridge goes on all summer long but one of our favorite times to be out on the water is the 4th of July! See fireworks light up the night sky and reflect off the lake for the annual “Fire in the Sky” fireworks display. The fireworks are shot off over the Lake Blue Ridge dam and can be viewed by boat or along the shore. It’s become many visitors and locals alike favorite annual tradition!
August: Go for a White Water Rafting Adventure
Photo Courtesy of Ocoee Rafting
The end of summer is the height of white water rafting season! Gear up for an adventure of a lifetime as you paddle your way through the rapids of the Ocoee River. The Ocoee River is located just over the border in Tennessee and is THE place to go for whitewater rafting. The upper part of the river was even used during the 1996 Olympics for their whitewater events! Check out Ocoee Rafting, the oldest outfitter on the Ocoee, Rolling Thunder River Company, or the Wildwater to start your adventure. Talented and trained staff will help guide you safely through the rapids. If you’re brave enough to give it a go, it will be an experience that you won’t soon forget!
September: Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival
Every year Downtown Blue Ridge prepares for the Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival! As the weather starts to get cooler and the leaves begin to change it’s the perfect time to come together to enjoy some great music and delicious food! The day is always filled with a great lineup of talented artists and great local food vendors. The event typically takes place mid September so stay tuned for the date!
October: Pick Apples at Mercier’s
Photo Courtesy of Mercier Orchards
There’s nothing quite like fall in Blue Ridge! The weather is perfect and the mountains are aglow with the beautiful fall leaves that cover the trees. And what says fall more than apple picking? Mercier Orchards has quickly become a favorite spot in town for not only the apples but other great aspects as well, like their winery & hard cidery, the marketplace, farm tours, and of course their amazing fried pies of every flavor imaginable! At Mercier’s come for their U-Pick events where you can pick your apples straight from the tree. Pick the best ones and then bring them home with you for a delicious and healthy snack or bake them into a scrumptious pie! Join in the fall fun at Mercier’s all season long!
November: Light Up Blue Ridge & McCaysville
Photo Courtesy of @hiddencreekcabinblueridgega
Ring in the holiday season with these two great Christmas events! On Friday after Thanksgiving Downtown Blue Ridge holds a special Blue Friday event with store discounts, food vendors, strolling entertainment, the opening of The Gingerbread Village, and lots of Christmas cheer! Then the following day Santa comes to town! There will be more vendors, a Christmas Parade, photos with Santa, and beautiful lights around town. And more holiday fun awaits you in McCaysville! They have shopping, dining, pictures with Santa, Christmas lights all along the river, and their famous tree lighting. There’s no better way to get in the holiday spirit than attending one (or both) of these great festive events!
December: Ride the Holiday Express
Photo Courtesy of the Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad
The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is a treat all year long but especially during the holiday season when it transforms into the Holiday Express! On this special, hour-long train ride you’ll sing along to holiday music, listen to the story of The Night Before Christmas, drink hot chocolate, munch on delicious goodies, and get the chance to meet Santa. Kids will also get a candy cane, jingle bell, and activity packet. This is a great family-friendly activity perfect for the holidays, but be sure to get your tickets in advance because they sell out quickly!
No matter the season there’s fun for everyone in Blue Ridge! We hope you’ll choose us for your next mountain adventure & Escape to Blue Ridge!
Your Blue Ridge Mountain escape deserves to be a unique and special experience that you won’t soon forget. We pride ourselves on offering the most remarkable and luxurious cabins and making them feel like a home away from home for you. Whether you are searching for a cabin with incredible mountain views, a riverside lodge, or a retreat with amenities to entertain the family, we’ll help you find your perfect Escape to Blue Ridge. Let’s take a look at 7 of our most remarkable cabins.
Themed Cabin
Have you been looking for a wonderful and cozy place to stay during your upcoming vacation? Then, let us introduce you to the beautiful Bearfoot Retreat cabin at Black Rock Ridge. You will surely love the cabin as it makes you feel like you are in a cozy treetop and has seasonal long-range views. This beautiful cabin was named Bearfoot Retreat, as there is bear-themed decor throughout. Enjoy peace and serenity at this private log wood cabin with all the comforts of home. From the ceiling fans in all rooms to the beautiful furnishings and cozy fireplace, it will be somewhere you’ll want to come back to year after year.
You won’t believe the excellent outdoor amenities! Enjoy swinging life away on the twin wooden rockers on the wrap-around porch or playing an intense game of cornhole. The kids will love their own outdoor dining area, and the adults will love the hot tub. Make some burgers on the gas grill and enjoy one another’s company. It’s the perfect spot. When it comes to entertainment, the cabin media room won’t disappoint you! With Smart TVs throughout, a great game room complete with a 412-cocktail arcade game table, and a billiards table, there’s something for everyone. Board games, card games, and puzzles galore await you, too. You’ll have the most comfortable and peaceful rest you’ve had in a while during your stay. The cabin bedrooms are complete with comfortable, lovely furnishings. From the king master suite (complete with an ensuite bathroom), to the loft area with twin bunk beds, everyone will feel at ease and welcome.
Amazing View
Why do so many people vacation in the mountains? For the views of course! High Five Lodgewill provide you with the best mountain views and then some! Perched 2,300 ft. high on Watson Mountain, you’ll have a birds eye view of Blue Ridge. It’s stunning views were even featured in Southern Living October 2015 “Take to the Mountains – Best of the South” article.
High Five Lodge has a couple of great spots to take in the views. Admire the sights from the pavilion style deck curled up next to the wood-burning fireplace, or take it in from your bedroom’s own private deck, or even from the 6 seat hot tub with a glass of wine! The possibilities are as endless as the views. We know you’ll likely want to spend most of your time outside admiring the mountains but the cabin’s interior and amenities do not disappoint! 5 huge bedrooms, a spacious kitchen, a cozy downstairs game room and more! If you’re looking for a spacious cabin with amazing views for your next family getaway then High Five Lodge is the place to be!
Riverside
Find yourself in a wooded oasis, where you can relax by listening to the calming sounds of the flowing Toccoa River. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Row Harder. Fish or kayak on the river or settle into a swing, rocker or hammock on the porch and instantly feel your daily stresses disappear. This beautiful cabin is truly a nature lover’s dream!
Row Harderis unique in that it has not only the main house but a guest house as well; so there’s plenty of space for the whole family to gather both indoors and out. Inside the main house you’ll find a fully stocked kitchen equipped with stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops, a beautiful living room with it’s wood-burning fireplace and large windows that overlook the river, and 5 bedrooms between the two houses.
The screened-in living room on the porch is likely where you’ll spend most of your time. It has a TV, comfortable seating, a wood burning fireplace and a spectacular view. Enjoy all this while Dad grills up burgers for everyone on either the charcoal or gas grill on the back deck. After dinner take advantage of the fenced in backyard and play a pick up game or let the dogs run free at this pet friendly cabin. And finish the night off by the rivers edge, roasting marshmallows and swapping stories at the firepit. You’ll leave feeling completely relaxed from your wonderful riverside escape.
Lakeview
Want to be situated right on the water for those hot summer days? Eagles Landingis directly on Lake Blue Ridge and is your ultimate lakeside cabin! You’ll have spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. You’ll find yourself spending most of your time in the water or on the 2-story dock that accommodates up to 16 people. Fish, swim, or relax as you listen to the water lap on the side of the dock. There are also 2 ramps for watercraft as well as accommodations for a motorboat, so you can have everything you need for a day on the water.
Inside you’ll love all the beautiful little details in the living room with a stone gas fireplace that stretches up 18 feet, or the hand-carved spiral staircase that spans four floors, and the unique loft down to the terrace level where you will find the fully equipped game room. Eagles Landingis truly a one-of-a-kind lakeside cabin that’s the perfect place for large groups of friends and family!
Best of Both Worlds
Bearway to Heavenhas a little bit of everything. You’ll have an incredible view of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains but will also be able to see Lake Blue Ridge shimmering in the distance. It’s also close to all the outdoor activities in the Aska Adventure Area while not being far from the shops and restaurants of Downtown Blue Ridge. And it can accommodate up to 12 guests so there’s room for everyone!
This spacious mountain showplace offers everything you crave, with room for everyone you love. It’s tastefully decorated with comfortable furniture that invites you to kick back and relax and has a warm and cozy ambiance that makes you feel at home from the moment you enter. A cozy living room, a fully equipped game room, plenty of outdoor spaces, 5 bedrooms, a hot tub, and a fire pit!? What more could you ask for from this cabin that seems to have everything!
Log Cabin
https://youtu.be/Hw8usCwvK0E
If privacy, peace and quiet, and a spectacular view top your vacation wish list, you’ll find that and so much more at the North Georgia mountain cabin rental Bear Hug. It’s the kind of place that envelops you like a huge hug from a loved one, surrounding you in an atmosphere of fun, love and laughter.
Constructed of knotty pine floor to ceiling, the spacious tri-level lodge is warm, welcoming and inviting, just ten miles from downtown Blue Ridge but worlds away from civilization. So private you can see only two neighboring homes, Bear Hug overlooks the land-protected Chattahoochee National Forest to the west, ensuring you a breathtaking sunset view every evening. You can take the kids into the backyard to play while you break out the wine glasses for a relaxing happy hour. Bear Hug is ideal for families, with one bedroom outfitted with two custom log bunk beds and kids’ amenities like a strap-on highchair seat, Pack N’ Play, monitor, and a child safety lock on the basement door. The cabin is pet-friendly too, so you can bring your small dog.
All Around Fabulous
Nestled in the Rich Mountain Wilderness at over 2,000 ft. elevation, Top of the Ridge Chalet combines elegant, modern-rustic comfort with jaw-dropping mountain views. Truly a one-of-a-kind property, you will be in awe of the spectacular, unobstructed views once you reach it (yes, it’s a little bit of a drive up the mountain but well worth it!). Just take a moment to take in the spectacular view and the 1,300 sf. of outdoor decks. Explore the hot tub and outdoor shower area, envision making smores at the outdoor fireplace, and start enjoying the soothing sounds of the man-made waterfall.
When you step inside, you’ll see this is not your ordinary cabin! While it’s a true-log cabin, Top of the Ridge Chalet was professionally redesigned, renovated, and redecorated to provide understated luxury within today’s modern-rustic style, with all of the comforts of home. The many decorator touches include crystal chandeliers, a custom wood-burning fireplace, and panoramic windows that frame the breathtaking views!
As the days grow longer and the temperatures begin to sore, it’s finally time for our favorite season of all – Sweet Summertime!
It’s a perfect time to come enjoy the Blue Ridge Georgia mountains and get on the water. If you’re looking for some exceptional Lake Blue Ridge cabin rentals, Lake Nottely cabins, or a great Blue Ridge riverside cabin to getaway and enjoy some mountain streams, we’ve got you covered.
Take some time out to relax on the patio with a cold glass of freshly squeezed lemonade while you take in the magnificent mountain and lake views of the North Georgia mountains. Once you get hot enough, splash into the lake and cool off or take a boat ride to explore all the coves of Lake Blue Ridge or Lake Nottely. As the sun begins to set, finish off your perfect day roasting s’mores around the fire or catch lighting bugs in a jar. Just because you’re grown up, doesn’t mean like you shouldn’t feel like a kid again while you’re on vacation! Slow down, savor summer, and soak up the Lake Life at one of these nine lakeside cabins!
Get a look at all of our Blue Ridge waterfront cabin rentals and book your time to getaway. Get a taste of what Blue Ridge Lake and other great Blue Ridge waterfront cabins we offer below that you can vacation in when you’re ready for adventure.
Away to the Lake
A relaxed and cozy place that is ready to welcome you for your dream vacation – it’s Away to the Lake! Away to the Lake is a wonderful cabin about 3 miles off Aska Road situated on a secluded cove across from the Lake Blue Ridge Recreation Area on Dry Branch Road, perfect for your escape to Blue Ridge. Make your way to the lake down the hillside, staired pathway, equipped with a handrail and solar lights, to the dock on deep water. Your hike is rewarded with beautiful lake view and a place for sunning, swimming, or taking a short paddle to several small islands or to a new fishing spot. You can conveniently launch your boat and water recreational vehicles mid-March through mid-September from the Dry Branch Road launch located at the end of the cove. Being on the lake will truly make you feel like you’re worlds away, but you’re still close enough to the fun of Downtown Blue Ridge!
Country Roads
When you need a break from it all, it’s time to escape to Blue Ridge! Country Roads is the perfect lake house to relax, enjoy, unwind, find peace of mind, and escape from the everyday grind. Bring the entire family! Country Roads sleeps 14 with its 5 beautifully prepared bedrooms. One of the hallmarks of this beautiful place? Country Roads offers views of the lake from every room. Nestled in the deep-water part of the lake, Country Roads is a private lake oasis. You’ll love these views and love getting on the lake, too! There are plenty of ways for fun and excitement or peaceful retreat and quiet.
Eagles Landing
Take in the breathtaking beauty of natural surroundings and the serenity of a lodge situated against the National Forrest and directly on Lake Blue Ridge. Eagles Landing is a spectacular showplace that has incomparable views of the surrounding mountains and will capture your attention and your heart before you even step through the front door. The epitome of rustic elegance, there are seven bedrooms to accommodate 19 guests, making it ideal for large families, reunions, couples’ weekends or getaways with all your friends. By day, enjoy boating and swimming at the lake and all the activities the nearby Aska Adventure Area has to offer. Unwind afterward with good food, conversation, and entertainment indoors or under the stars. Whether inside or out, enjoy views and privacy that cannot be found anywhere else!
Lodge On The Lake
In real estate location is everything, and you won’t find a better one than this wooded waterfront property on Lake Blue Ridge, with spectacular lake and mountain views, the best dock on the lake, and proximity to downtown and all the vacation activities you crave. Lodge on the Lake is perfectly situated on the very desirable Horse Pointe Road just four miles from Blue Ridge’s shops and restaurants and custom designed, built and decorated and with floor-to-ceiling windows to maximize the view, Lodge on the Lake truly has the wow factor!
Lakeshore Lodge
Open, free, majestic, and tranquil. The water views are mesmerizing here at the Lakeshore Lodge. Located in Morganton, this family-friendly cabin is perfect for your upcoming vacation. Named after the lakefront location that makes this beauty special, this cozy cabin is made of all-natural materials and is a true testament to the area surrounding it. There are plenty of ways to have fun here! From the shuffleboard to the hot tub outside to the boat dock, there’s a place for everyone to stretch out and enjoy the beauty of this place. There is a plethora of seating areas, all set for soaking in some beautiful lakefront views. Lake time at its best.
Magnolia Bay
If you’re looking for a lake house getaway with beautiful sunrise and sunset views, then you’ve found it. Magnolia Bay is the perfect place to enjoy a day of fun on Lake Blue Ridge, exploring all it has to offer. One of the most unique features of this cabin is a motorized gondola that can take you down to the lake! Once you get to the water, you’ll enjoy a double-decker boat dock with patio seating. Everything here is about the water and the views! Once you have finished your day at the lake, the gondola will be waiting to take you back up to the cabin! The outdoor amenities are perfection. Enjoy the dock right on the water with an upper party patio, a patio table with plenty of seating, and more. Additionally, this cabin is the perfect place to relax and unwind whether you are enjoying the brand new eight-person hot tub or just enjoying the view of the pristine Aska National Forest.
Pure Pleasure on the Lake
This magnificent North Georgia
cabin rental is located on Lake Nottely and has one of the best lake views the
area has to offer. This pet friendly retreat sits just over the shoreline with
tiered steps down to its private dock with a ladder. Year-long deep water makes
it a great property if you’d like to bring your own boat or rent one from the
nearby marina. Double your pleasure at Pure
Pleasure on the Lake, because when it comes to this home, it seems to have
two (or more) of everything you really want. There are two top-of-the-line
kitchens, one located on the main and the other in the game room. Two
indoor dining tables, adjacent to each of the kitchens and another table out on
the deck provide plenty of spots to share and take pride over the fresh fish
that was caught earlier in the day. When its time to turn in for
the day you can choose from four bedrooms that all have plush king-sized beds.
This home has been thoughtfully designed all for its guests’ pleasure and
you’ll find that it fulfills all of your family’s vacation needs from endless
fun to never-ending tranquility!
Southern Comfort
Standing tall on the lakeshore, the
three-bedroom Blue Ridge mountain cabin rental Southern
Comfort offers you two vacation destinations in one: a magnificent mountain
retreat and an aquatic playground that boating, fishing and swimming
enthusiasts will love. Located
on Lake Blue Ridge near Morganton boat launch, this lovely lakefront property
comes with its own double-decker dock with a boat slip below and a lounging
area above with umbrella-shaded table, chairs and lounges. If you settle in
there or on the cabin’s double deck, you’ll be treated to a magnificent
year-round view. Sunsets are especially incredible, with the sun shining on the
lake as it dips behind the mountains!
The Byrd House on Lake Blue Ridge
https://youtu.be/rwsiEoCP7A0
Are you looking for a cozy and secluded lake front cabin with excellent views of Lake Blue Ridge? You’re in luck! The Byrd House on Lake Blue Ridge is just two miles from downtown Blue Ridge and it’s the perfect place to be for enjoying all that Blue Ridge mountain life has to offer. Bring your family and friends and get ready to venture through the beauty of nature, explore the lake with a private boat and breathe nature’s fresh air. Experience a vacation like never before. The cabin is chock full of ways to have fun. First, enjoy racking it up at the pool table. The house has six great TVs, an Amazon Alexa, and a Bose mini-link speaker for all of your entertainment fun. Additionally, revel in the immaculate outdoor amenities. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit! You’ll want to spend an evening soaking in the hot tub. You will not only love the views, but you’ll enjoy the two porches and all of the outdoor seating as well. You can even catch your favorite shows on the porch TV!
It’s time to kick back and relax river-style! Tubing and kayaking are two activities that need to be at the top of your “Mountain Fun Bucket List”. While on the water, you can enjoy the stunning scenery and let the flowing waterways of North Georgia work their magic! Kayaking requires some arm strength and a bit of determination, but there are definite moments of downtime. Tubing on the other hand involves a whole bunch of sitting and relaxing! If you’re looking for an adventure that makes you feel at ease and involves kicking your feet up, tubing is the type of trip for you.
These activities are enjoyed by all ages and allow you to see an entirely new side of the Blue Ridge nature. You may experience a rush of excitement navigating through low-class rapids, but that’s what helps you move along! Whether you’re on a kayak paddling with an oar or using your palms to guide your tube, a day on the waters is never wasted! The businesses listed below attribute to why Blue Ridge continues to have visitors explore the great outdoors year after year!
Toccoa Valley Campground
11481 Aska Rd, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 | (706) 838-4317 | Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 10am-6pm
Photo Courtesy of Toccoa Valley Campground
Located only a few miles from downtown Blue Ridge, the Toccoa Valley Campground has everything you could need for an outing in the mountains. Tubing, kayaking, and rafting are all available. Their water route takes you on a private 6-mile stretch of the Toccoa River. It has been one of North Georgia’s most popular attractions for over 50 years!
This tubing trip will take you through parts of the beautiful Toccoa River in less than an hour and a half. Shallowford Bridge Tube Rental is one of the oldest, family-owned companies for tubing in the Aska Adventure Area. Visitors are launched into the river at Sandy Bottoms and are sent off on their breezy cruise. At the end of your adventure, you’ll get an up-close view of the historic steel truss Shallowford Bridge!
Blue Ridge Mountain Kayaking
56 North River Rd. Morganton, GA 30560 | (706) 258-2411 | Hours: Monday-Sunday 9am-6pm
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Mountain Kayaking
You can choose your journey while at Blue Ridge Mountain Kayaking! This kayak-only business is located just 2 miles away from downtown Blue Ridge. They offer 2 thrilling expeditions on the Toccoa River including a 6-mile and 12-mile trip. The 6-mile kayak trip takes travelers an estimated 2 hours to complete and the 12-mile trip takes an estimated 4 hours to complete. While kayaking, adventurers can enjoy fishing, swimming, and breathtaking sights of mountains along the route!
Toccoa Wilderness Tubing
8436 B Aska Rd. Blue Ridge, GA 30513 | (706) 455-6496 | Hours: Monday-Sunday 10am-3pm
Photo Courtesy of Toccoa Wilderness Company
All you have to do is bring your crew and the fun will follow! The Toccoa Wilderness Company makes river tubing easy and enjoyable. With a shuttle to the Sandy Bottoms launch area, your toes will be in the water in a matter of minutes. Sit back and let the water carry you away! The 2-mile float finishes its course at the Shallowford Bridge.
Lakewood Landing Boat Launch
Boat Ramp Rd 30560, Morganton, GA 30560
Photo Courtesy of Lake Blue Ridge Civic Association
If you are already a lucky owner of a kayak or a boat, then this is the spot for you! This boat launch is located on the north side of Lake Blue Ridge. You can spend the day as you please on the 3,000+ acres of the lake. The lake offers unbeatable views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
Jon Ron Toccoa River Outfitters
15 Black Ankle Creek Rd. Cherry Log, GA 30522 | (706) 838-0200 | Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 10am-2pm
Photo Courtesy of Jon Ron Toccoa River Outfitters
At Jon Ron Toccoa River Outfitters, there are plenty of options for you to hit the water! There are half-day and full-day solo or guided kayak trips that take you through the upper Toccoa River. They also have trips that can shuttle guests to kayak or canoe at Lake Blue Ridge. If you’re a beginner or pro, Jon Ron Toccoa River Outfitters can satisfy your need to explore the great outdoors!
Toccoa River Tubing Company
340 Toccoa Ave. McCaysville, GA 30555 | (706) 492-5280 | Call for Seasonal Hours
Photo Courtesy of Toccoa River Tubing Company
Grab your family and get ready to go! The Toccoa River Tubing Company, located on the border of Georgia and Tennessee, offers a variety of canoeing, kayaking, and tubing trips. Tubing at this spot of the Toccoa River involves a 1.5-mile and 3-mile float. If you are looking to kayak, there are 1.5-mile and 6-mile trips available. With small rapids, clean water, and picturesque scenery, this is an activity that you’ll have to experience for yourself!
I’ve spent the last 28 years cruising the shoreline of Lake Blue Ridge. I’ve seen and heard it all, I suppose. My friends call me Captain Katz, pretty much for my expertise on steering them into the areas safe for spawning, and away from the fish hunting sapiens. But to the naked human eye, I’m just a big old channel catfish, not good for much of anything except a great selfie if they are lucky enough to snag me. I’m happy to say that hasn’t been my destiny to date.
Today, I’ve been asked to share with you warm-blooded, gill-less persons many of the amazing amenities of the 3,300 acres of pristine clean clear waters of Lake Blue Ridge. I’ve observed your enthusiasm for our lagoons for nearly three decades. Yes, if you can see your toes in the water, I can see up at you, as well as hear you. And you are quite the vocal species, aren’t you? Especially when you manage to hook one of my fellow aquatic compadres.
Fishing
Photo Courtesy of @Keepinitreelblueridge
My grandfather spoke often about the rudiments of this human sport. It is essential for those of us who have no intention of being caught just how to avoid the situation. That means that I happen to know where I shall stay clear, but where you will enjoy hooking a few of those less savvy fish for your dinner.
When deciding on your bait as well as your choice of hook, you might want to consider which one of us you hope to snag. You’ll mostly find small and largemouth bass, white bass, spotted bass, bluegill, walleye, rainbow trout, and yellow perch at the end of your pole if luck is on your side.
If dropping a line from shore the best places to fish are amid the rocky flats around the marina, Star Creek Cove, and the docks around the main body of the lake. There’s also some serious consideration given to the base of the Blue Ridge Dam.
Family-Friendly Recreational Spots
The U.S. Forest Service manages two recreational areas where one can exhibit their angling skills. But I suggest these to further emphasize that there is more to a great family lake experience than getting sunburned while dunking a worm in hopes of enticing the likes of me to nip at it.
Lake Blue Ridge Recreational Area is located on the west side of the lake. This is a passive recreation area with a beautiful view of the lake and mountains. The boat ramp is free. This park is also a good place for quiet walks and relaxing bike rides. There is a short, easy hike along the shoreline, and also a one-mile paved loop road that is popular for walking. Kayak and paddleboards are available for rent.
Morganton Point Recreational Area is the ideal place for swimming and beaching it with the family. Open April through October, the summer months will find the waters warm and crystal clear. I don’t enjoy watching you all stumble around while attempting to have fun, so please consider water shoes for the pebble base in this area, especially for the young ones. Why you all have toes instead of webbed feet, I will never understand! There are also covered pavilions for picnicking and there are lavatories (a place with a porcelain water hole of which I cannot comprehend the need).
Ahoy, Matey!
For those of you who want to tour the lake by vessel, there are numerous means to explore our more than 60 miles of shoreline, of which only twenty-five percent is developed.
There are wonderful coves to explore all along the banks of the Chattahoochee National Forest. Star Creek Cove is the largest, located just off the channel (around the corner from Star Creek Rd.). Its expanse is about a mile long and nearly 1,000 feet across at its widest point. This allows for all kinds of recreational pursuits from canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, and motor boating, with plenty of room for all.
You don’t have your own vessel? At the Blue Ridge Marina, you can rent pontoon boats, kayaks, and paddleboards, as well as stock up on all the boating essentials supplies. A day on the lake is bound to find you hungry. The Boat Dock Bar and Grill is a great place to grab a bite to eat. On many weekends you’ll find the Marina hosting live music and events.
Lake Blue Ridge Outfitters is located inside the Morganton Point Recreational Area. Here you can rent kayaks, SUP boards (paddleboard-kayak hybrid), fishing kayaks, paddleboards, and party paddleboards.
Sunrise to Sunset
There are spectacular views of the mountains from every angle of the Lake, and we sea bearers, much like you, often marvel at their reflection above us. But there seem to be two different times of the day that you humans are most captivated by the views along the lake, and that would be at sunrise and sunset.
For breathtaking sunrises I highly recommend perching atop the Lake Blue Ridge Dam, looking north and south. There is also a new overlook on the lake in the park area next to the dam, for you shutterflys who want to capture the moment with your cameras.
Sunsets on Lake Blue Ridge are Mother Nature’s means of showing off. One of the favorite spots to observe her color palette’s slide show bouncing off the water is at the Morgantown Point Recreational Area.
Lakeside Cabins
I have seen the happiest land dwellers are the ones that are lucky enough to book a cabin right on the lake. There’s just something about stepping out of the house right onto the dock of the lake or ending the day soaking your cares away in a hot tub overlooking the shimmering waters of my home. Even if you aren’t big into water activities you can appreciate the beauty of your surroundings as you settle into a rocking chair with a book, a beer or a glass of wine, and simply enjoy a spectacular sunset from the porch from one of these Lakeside Cabin Rentals.
A Big Splash
That about wraps up my lake tips. For those of you who walk on land, but envy those of us blessed to inhabit the tranquil waters of Lake Blue Ridge, I encourage you to come spend time with us. We don’t mind sharing our liquid homestead, but we do ask that along with your memories and your photos that you take home from your day on the lake, also take your trash to dispose of in appropriate containers. We look forward to your next visit!
Even though you love the fresh air, starlit nights, breathtaking scenery and u-pick-em apples, like many luxury vacationers, you can only imagine visiting the mountains of North Georgia for no more than a long weekend. The idea of dining out on cornbread, fried okra, country ham and banana pudding more than once doesn’t appeal at all to your taste buds. You most likely see the shopping opportunities limited to a multitude of fudge emporiums and tourist trap museum shops that sell brown bears painted on black velvet and handmade Davy Crockett raccoon caps in adult sizes. You envision a cabin shared with three blind mice and one badly chipped Teflon pan to cook the trout you caught with a bamboo pole at a stocked trout pond the size of your kid’s wading pool. All this while foreseeing the issues with trying to keep contact with the office all week without state of the art cellular service and high-speed internet. It’s enough to send you packing the suntan lotion and heading for a week or more to your favorite pampering luxury beach resort once again.
STOP! You have been misled by the media that overexposes Bavarian town wannabees, the virtues of “meat and three dining” and the Bob Ross painting shows you watch on the nights when your Ambien isn’t working. We’re here to tell you that luxury abounds in the high hills. Allow us to elaborate.
Accommodations
Bear Claw Cabin
With each of our over 200 rentals, we strive for the Escape to Blue Ridge difference. This includes complimentary concierge services to help you plan the perfect vacation. With every rental home we provide hotel-style linens with spa-quality bath towels for each guest and exquisite bath soaps and shampoos from William Roam.
You will appreciate the convenience of our keyless entry system and express check-in for all arrivals. And just to get your visit to the Mountains started, our exclusive Escape to Blue Ridge welcome basket is waiting for you when you arrive at your rental.
We know that you’ve come to escape to the mountains, but sometimes we still need to be connected to the world and to assure you that connection, high-speed internet is also included with every one of our homes.
Let’s Get Pampered
There are many opportunities to have that spa experience you are used to at the elegant resorts. You can relax, restore and renew with an incredible hour in the Himilayan Salt Caves at Serenity In the Mountains Spa. The Couple’s massage in the Salt Cave is worthy of your consideration. There’s also the magical experience of getting a massage in one of their exquisitely decorated treehouses at the top of the Serenity In The Mountains grounds.
TeaTrees Boutique Spa in Downtown Blue Ridge caters to a more individualized approach to your spa and massage needs. And though we highly recommend a visit to their boutique, if you would like to stay in, enjoying your rental cabin while being pampered by professionals, TeaTree’s therapists are available to make cabin calls so you can relax in the privacy of your elegant cabin while enjoying the beautiful mountain views.
Indulgent Adventure
Photo Courtesy of Outback Guide Service
If you are in anticipation of hiking the trails, visiting the area’s many spectacular waterfalls or finding the most impressive views for your photography you can peruse the many brochures and maps available at Blue Ridge’s Visitor’s Center to help you on your way. Or you can also contact Outback Guide Service to have a personized itinerary with a private guide and even transportation on those point to point hikes. Outback Guide Services designs your hike based on your time, interests, skillset and from easy to challenging trips. Besides vista and hike tours, they also will create tours of waterfalls, historic trails and tours, and even photo safaris. Your experienced tour guide and naturalist is a life long resident of the area and well versed in North Georgia’s wildlife, birds, flowers, geology, local history, and so much more.
Photo Courtesy of Noontootla Creek Farm
If the sportsman in you needs to be released, then there is no one better to enlist than the folks at Noontootla Creek Farms to give you the optimal mountain hunting and fishing adventure. There’s no need to schlep all your gear, for this Blue Ridge 1,000 acre sportsman’s paradise has everything you need. Noontootla Creek Farms (NCF) offers guided fly fishing on the most picturesque private trophy trout waters in North Georgia. Because of the cooler temperatures on the side of the mountains, there’s usually good trout fishing at NCF year-round. Rainbow and Brown trout fishing has catches averaging 20 inches but often upwards of 30 inches. If you would like to bird hunt, then join your guide and their Brittanny or Setter and head out to capture Bob White Quail and Red- Neck Pheasant with wing shooting season open from November 1st until the last day of March. NCF also boasts a challenging 12 station clay shooting course, complete with golf carts.
By Sea
Photo Courtesy of Visit Blue Ridge
Visitors year-round enjoy the many recreational opportunities around the 3,290 acres of the crystal blue waters of Lake Blue Ridge. Capt’n Joe’s Lake Adventures offers private charters to guests looking to fish, swim or just enjoy an evening cruise. Their motto is to “relax, enjoy, and be happy”, which is much easier to do when you have Captian Joe at the helm. Private charters are an amazing way to experience Lake Blue Ridge in style.
There’s so much more to share with you about our ideas for a resort style experience here in these magnificent mountains. We haven’t begun to talk about the fine dining and exceptional outdoor entertainment opportunities. Please be sure to visit our Part II blog on “High Class in the High Hills” posting soon.
As we ring in not just a New Year, but a new Decade, 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 2020 Escape to Blue Ridge!
1. EAT BLACK-EYED PEAS & COLLARD GREENS
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. WALK THE LINE
Take a walk on the state line between the twin
cities of McCaysville, Ga and Copperhill, Tn! This newly revitalized town
features great shopping, delicious restaurants, and plenty of photographic
opportunities.
3. HIT THE LINKS
Old Toccoa
Farm is the seven-course meal of golf courses in North Georgia. It took a
few years to fill out the full complement of 18 holes, but the first nine,
which has been open since 2015, was enough to garner stupendous compliments and
comparisons to the likes of Augusta National. Now with the back nine open, and
the layout reconfigured, Old Toccoa is by far the best of the best in this neck
of the North Georgia woods!
4. ENJOY LIFE ON THE LAKE
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.
5. SADDLE UP & RIDE
There is nothing more enjoyable than unplugging form the
digital world, saddling
up on horseback, and heading out into the countryside. In Blue Ridge, forty
percent of the county’s land is located within the Chattahoochee National
Forest and has countless miles of trails to explore and enjoy.
6. 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. Blue Ridge festivals are family friendly, pet friendly, and
extraordinarily fun!
7. 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 Andy Bowen at the Cohutta Fishing Company 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.
8. WALK IN THE WOODS
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, 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.
9. GET IN THE “SPIRIT”
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.
10. HUNT FOR BIG FOOT
Plan to visit EXPEDITION:
BIGFOOT! The Sasquatch Museum. You may be 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 Big Footers from around the globe
make the pilgrimage to Blue Ridge just to explore this museum and its many
relics.
11. SWING INTO THE NEW YEAR
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!
12. CHASE WATERFALLS
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.
13. CHOO CHOO
The iconic Blue Ridge Scenic
Railway is a must do when in town. Enjoy the scenery every season of the
year as the train departs from Downtown Blue Ridge and travels the countryside
to the revitalized towns of Copperhill, TN and McCaysville, GA
14. DRIVE IN
If you haven’t been to a drive-in movie since you were a
kid, we encourage you to make plans to go to the Swan Drive In Theater
and take in a show or a double feature! A throwback to yesteryears, there is
just something so fun about watching a movie outdoors.
15. FAIRY CROSS & TRAIL TREES
Legend has it that as the Native Americans embarked on the
Trail of Tears, they shed tears of sorrow that fell to the ground and formed
tiny crosses of stone known as Fairy
Crosses. Commonly known as staurolite crystals, these minerals are abundant
in Fannin County.
16. HIT THE RAPIDS
The Southeastern United States is known for having some of
the best whitewater
around. Here in Blue Ridge we are within 1 hour of 3 action packed, exciting
rivers and 2 hours away from one of the most challenging rivers in the state!
17. RELAX
If you are looking for a new hair style, a total manicure
and pedicure, body scrub, massage, or a special facial treatment/peel, you will
find an amazing staff of creative and accomplished cosmeticians, estheticians
and stylists, the caliber you would only expect to find in a metropolitan area,
at Serenity
in the Mountains.
18. TAKE IN A SHOW
Immerse yourself in the culture of the area at Blue Ridge Community Theater.
This cozy community theater offers quality productions, live music, and a
robust children’s program. The 2020 line-up includes the first ever Blue Ridge
Film Festival, surprisingly saucy comedies, musicals, and even a sweet summer
farce!
19. SCENIC DRIVES
Mother Nature’s landscape specialist (shall we call her
Flora?) takes a particular interest in altering our mountainscape on a quarterly
basis, cloaking it in very different hues, depths of foliage, and fragrances.
Drive the 41 miles of Georgia’s only national scenic
drive, The Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway as it circles around the
Chattahoochee National Forest.
There is just something about these mountains that is so
good for the soul. Whether you want to come for a romantic getaway, to
reconnect with friends and family, or to enjoy the abundant outdoor adventures,
we have the
perfect cabin for you!
We wish each of you and yours a prosperous year ahead filled
with lots of love, exciting adventures, and many opportunities to make
heartfelt memories. Happy New Year!
