Ever wondered what draws people to the charming town of Blue Ridge, Georgia? It’s known for its history and outdoor adventures. But what makes it a top spot for travelers? Let’s explore the best activities in this beautiful area.
Key Takeaways
- Blue Ridge features over 300 miles of hiking trails for all skill levels
- The area boasts 16 stunning waterfalls within a short drive
- Fannin County is known as the Trout Capital of Georgia with over 100 miles of fishing waters
- The region is home to 5 local breweries and 2 wineries for diverse dining experiences
- Blue Ridge offers a wide range of outdoor adventures, from ziplining to horseback riding
Explore Downtown Blue Ridge
When you visit Blue Ridge, Georgia, make sure to check out downtown. This mountain town is alive with art and food, from antique stores and art galleries to breweries and wineries.
Charming Antique Stores and Art Galleries
Downtown Blue Ridge is known as one of the Top 5 art towns in Georgia and Top 100 in the country. You can walk through art galleries with works by over 100 famous artists. Don’t miss the Blue Ridge Mural for a memorable photo.
Diverse Dining Options
Downtown Blue Ridge has food for every taste, from Southern fare to global influences. Local restaurants also offer a wide range of beer, wine, and cocktails.
Breweries and Wineries
Blue Ridge has 5 breweries downtown, like Misty Mountain Hops and Grumpy Old Men Brewing. They offer tastings and tours. The town is also known for its local wine scene, with several wineries to visit.
Downtown Blue Ridge has something for everyone, whether you like antique shopping, art, great food, or craft drinks.
Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
For a unique and memorable time in Blue Ridge, Georgia, take the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. This scenic railway takes you on a four-hour, 26-mile trip through the beautiful Chattahoochee National Forest. You’ll follow the peaceful Toccoa River along the way.
The train cars are restored and offer a cozy, nostalgic feel. You’ll have a two-hour break in the twin towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee. Here, you can wander around the charming downtown, shop, and eat.
Every year, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway welcomes over 100,000 passengers. This shows how much people love this unique journey. To make sure you get a spot, book your tickets early. The train often sells out weeks before because it has limited seats.
If you need special accommodations, the railway has an ADA-compliant car, Car 405. It has an open-air setup and lift access. The concession car accepts cash and card for snacks and drinks. But, feel free to bring your own non-alcoholic drinks in a cooler no bigger than a seat.
“Riding the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is a must-do for anyone visiting Blue Ridge. The views are stunning, and it feels like stepping back in time to the old days of rail travel.”
Outdoor Adventures Galore
The Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia are perfect for outdoor lovers. They offer endless chances to explore and see the area’s beauty. Whether you love hiking, seeking thrills, or just want to enjoy nature, there’s something here for you.
Hiking and Waterfall Trails
For those who love to hike, the Appalachian Trail and Benton MacKaye Trail are great choices. They start at Springer Mountain. If you prefer easier trails, there are many that lead to beautiful waterfalls. You can see the stunning Fall Branch Falls and Long Creek Falls.
Kayaking, Tubing, and Rafting
For water lovers, the Blue Ridge Mountains have a lot to offer. You can kayak, tube, or raft on the rivers and streams. These activities are a fun way to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Mountain Biking and Ziplining
If you like biking, the Blue Ridge is a great place to ride. You can also try ziplining through the trees. This lets you see the area from a new perspective.
The Blue Ridge Mountains in Georgia are perfect for anyone who loves nature. You can find peaceful hikes, exciting water activities, or thrilling adventures. This place is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
“The Blue Ridge Mountains offer a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and adventure, making it a premier destination for anyone seeking to reconnect with the great outdoors.”
| Outdoor Activity | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Blue Ridge Hiking | – Explore the Appalachian Trail and Benton MacKaye Trail – Discover scenic waterfalls like Fall Branch Falls and Long Creek Falls |
| Blue Ridge Kayaking, Tubing, and Rafting | – Experience thrilling water adventures on the region’s rivers and streams – Enjoy the natural beauty from a unique perspective on the water |
| Blue Ridge Mountain Biking and Ziplining | – Bike through the forests and scenic trails – Soar through the treetops on exhilarating zipline tours |
Visit Mercier Orchards
In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Mercier Orchards is a fourth-generation farm. It spans 300 acres and has been around for over 80 years. This place is a true gem, offering a farm-to-table experience like no other.
Pick Your Own Fruits
At Mercier Orchards, you can pick your own fresh fruits. You can choose from over 40 types of apples, peaches, cherries, and strawberries. The farm is a playground for families, where you can fill your baskets with fresh produce.
Cider and Baked Goods
Mercier Orchards is more than just a place to pick fruits. It’s the only apple orchard in Georgia that makes its own hard cider. You can try both alcoholic and non-alcoholic ciders made from their apples. For dessert lovers, the farm’s bakery has delicious baked goods, like famous fried apple pies.
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Years of Farming Experience | Over 80 years |
| Apple Varieties Available | More than 40 |
| Farm Size | 300 acres |
| Cider Production | Only apple orchard in Georgia to grow, press, ferment, and can their own hard cider |
| Annual Event | Customer Appreciation Day in February |
Mercier Orchards is perfect for a day of apple picking, enjoying cider, or experiencing a family-owned farm. With its rich history, diverse offerings, and commitment to quality, it’s a must-visit in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This orchard is a gem for anyone exploring Blue Ridge, Georgia.
Trout Fishing Capital of Georgia
Blue Ridge, Georgia, is in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. It’s known as the Trout Fishing Capital of Georgia. The town has many rivers, streams, and creeks full of trout. This makes it a top spot for fly fishing.
Fannin County, where Blue Ridge is, has over 100 miles of rivers, streams, and creeks. It’s a great place for trout fishing. You can fish in the Toccoa River, Rock Creek, Cooper Creek, and Noontootla Creek. Here, you can catch wild rainbow, brown, and brook trout in beautiful nature.
The Noontootla Creek is a famous spot in Blue Ridge. It’s in the Blue Ridge Wildlife Management Area. This stream is full of big brook, rainbow, and brown trout. It offers a real wilderness fishing adventure.
The Toccoa River is another top spot for Blue Ridge trout fishing. It has many places to fish and different trout species to catch all year.
| Fishing Spot | Trout Species | Recommended Gear |
|---|---|---|
| Toccoa River | Rainbow, Brown, Brook | 2-4 wt rod |
| Noontootla Creek | Brook, Rainbow, Brown | 2-4 wt rod |
| Rock Creek | Rainbow, Brown | 3-5 wt rod |
| Cooper Creek | Rainbow, Brown | 3-5 wt rod |
Whether you’re experienced or new to fly fishing, Blue Ridge, Georgia is a top spot. It has expert guides, many places to fish, and lots of trout. This town is known as the Trout Fishing Capital of Georgia for good reason.
Blue Ridge, Georgia: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Blue Ridge, Georgia, is a charming town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It has lots of attractions and activities for visitors. You can explore the vibrant downtown or enjoy the great outdoors.
The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is a must-see. It takes you on a scenic four-hour, 26-mile journey through the Chattahoochee National Forest. It’s perfect for families and nature lovers.
Blue Ridge is great for outdoor adventures. You can hike and see beautiful waterfalls like Long Creek Falls. Or try kayaking, tubing, or rafting on the rivers and lakes.
The downtown Blue Ridge area is lively. It has antique stores, art galleries, and many places to eat. You can find unique souvenirs and try local foods, including breweries and wineries.
Don’t miss Mercier Orchards for a taste of local farming. It’s been family-owned for over 80 years. You can pick your own fruits, try cider, and enjoy tasty baked goods.
Blue Ridge has many festivals and events all year. These events let you experience the town’s culture and community. You can enjoy music festivals and craft fairs.
Blue Ridge has something for everyone. It offers outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and a relaxing mountain getaway. With its beauty, charm, and activities, it’s a memorable destination.
Parks and Recreation Areas
Blue Ridge, Georgia, is a beautiful place with many parks and places for fun. Lake Blue Ridge is a peaceful lake made by a dam. It’s perfect for boating, fishing, and water sports. You can rent boats, paddleboards, and kayaks at the Lake Blue Ridge Marina.
There are also many scenic picnic spots around Blue Ridge. Places like the Lake Blue Ridge Dam Recreation Area and Tammen Park on the Toccoa River are great for picnics. They offer beautiful views and easy access to the water.
“The parks and recreation areas in Blue Ridge, Georgia offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with ample opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors and create lasting memories.” – Local Resident
If you want a quiet day by the lake or to enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll find something here. These parks and places are great for people of all ages and interests.
Festivals and Events
The Blue Ridge area is alive with festivals and events all year. Visitors can dive into the town’s arts, outdoor fun, and tasty food and drinks. From the Fire & Ice Chili Cook-off to the Blue Ridge Mountains Wine and Jazz Festival, there’s something for everyone.
The Blue Ridge Troutfest & Outdoor Adventures is a big event. It celebrates the area’s fame as the “Trout Fishing Capital of Georgia.” The festival has fly-fishing demos, casting contests, and gear for outdoor lovers.
Music fans will love the Blue Ridge Blues and BBQ Music Festival. It features great music and delicious barbecue. The Spring & Fall Arts in the Park events are also popular. Local and regional artists display their work outside.
| Event | Description | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Fire & Ice Chili Cook-off | Celebrating Blue Ridge’s culinary prowess with a chili cook-off competition | January |
| Blue Ridge Troutfest & Outdoor Adventures | Festival highlighting the area’s reputation as the “Trout Fishing Capital of Georgia” | April |
| Blue Ridge Mountains Wine and Jazz Festival | Showcasing the region’s vibrant arts scene and local vineyards | May |
| Spring & Fall Arts in the Park | Open-air art festival featuring local and regional artists | Spring and Fall |
| Blue Ridge Blues and BBQ Music Festival | Celebration of music and mouthwatering barbecue | September |
These Blue Ridge festivals and Blue Ridge events let visitors experience the town’s unique vibe and culture. It’s a top spot to visit all year.
Family-Friendly Activities
Blue Ridge, Georgia, is a charming town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It has many activities for families to enjoy. You can have fun outdoors or learn something new in this beautiful place.
Gem Mining and Geocaching
Try gem mining and geocaching for a fun treasure hunt. You can find hidden gems at local sites. Geocaching is a modern twist where you use technology to find hidden caches in nature.
Horseback Riding
Go on a horseback ride through Blue Ridge’s beautiful trails. Stables offer tours where families can enjoy nature and make memories together.
Blue Ridge also has more activities for families. You can ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, pick fruits at Mercier Orchards, or visit parks and recreation areas. There’s something fun for everyone in the family.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Gem Mining | Uncover hidden gems and minerals at local mining sites |
| Geocaching | Embark on a high-tech outdoor scavenger hunt to find cleverly hidden caches |
| Horseback Riding | Explore the scenic mountain trails on guided tours |
| Blue Ridge Scenic Railway | Enjoy a relaxing train ride through the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains |
| Mercier Orchards | Pick your own fresh fruits and enjoy cider and baked goods |
| Parks and Recreation Areas | Discover picturesque picnic spots, hiking trails, and outdoor activities |
Blue Ridge, Georgia, has many activities for families. Whether you want excitement or a peaceful time, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Conclusion
Blue Ridge, Georgia, is a special mountain town. It has a mix of small-town charm, outdoor fun, and cultural activities. You can explore the historic Blue Ridge downtown or try exciting Blue Ridge outdoor activities. There’s something for everyone in this North Georgia spot.
The town is known for its beautiful nature, like Blue Ridge hiking trails and Blue Ridge waterfalls. It also has a variety of Blue Ridge dining and Blue Ridge shopping spots. Blue Ridge is perfect for anyone wanting to experience Georgia’s mountain beauty.
From the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway to the lively Blue Ridge festivals, there’s a lot to do. This town suits many interests and tastes. It’s ideal for a romantic trip, a family outing, or a solo journey.
Blue Ridge is great for relaxing, enjoying nature, and making memories. With lots of Blue Ridge attractions and Blue Ridge cabins, it’s a place you’ll want to visit again and again.
