Visitors find Blue Ridge irresistible, especially for its food, hiking, family-friendly activities, and romance.
In Blue Ridge, Georgia the main attractions are the mountains. The town is well within the vicinity of the Chattahoochee National Forest, which makes for acres upon acres of unspoiled mountain woodland beauty. The Blue Ridge Lake and the Toccoa River also make for good examples of the region's natural assets. From the mountaintops you can look over sweeping valleys and follow pristine ridges. One of the best ways to see the sights perhaps is to take a ride along the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. Passengers have the options for vintage climate control or open air cars that take a 26 mile journey, winding along the scenic Toccoa River for a 2-hour layover to enjoy the quaint sister towns of McCaysville, Georgia and Copperhill, Tennessee. The entire journey takes about 4 hours-one hour there, one back, and two in between to enjoy the sights of the McCaysville/Copperhill area.
While the natural features surrounding Blue Ridge do steal the show, Blue Ridge itself is a charming town lined with historic buildings, shops, galleries, restaurants, and places to stay. On the outskirts you might come across one of the county's many orchards, vineyards, or riding stables. Mercier Orchards is one of the more popular destinations, featuring fresh fruit every day, baked goods, homegrown products, wine tastings, and a full calendar of events.
Most people come to Blue Ridge as a home base for all of the outdoor activities that the mountain landscape has to offer. Hiking, backpacking, camping, and horseback riding are popular along many of the mountain trails, while activities like kayaking, tubing, and whitewater rafting are choice options along the Toccoa River. With the Blue Ridge Lake nearby as well, this too, has become a well-traveled spot for trout fishing, pontoon renting, and many other water sports.
Aside from the unbeatable outdoor adventures, Blue Ridge has much to offer in shopping and entertainment, with plenty of downtown shops, a live theater, as well as a drive-in movie theater. And if that isn't enough, the region is full of local breweries and wineries worth a visit. Some of which include Grumpy Old Men Brewing, Fannin Brewing Company, Mercier Orchards, Habersham Winery and Vineyard, Serenberry Vineyard, and Crane Creek Vineyards, amongst others.
Hiking:
The hiking trails near Blue Ridge are amazing. There are miles of hiking trails in the area that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints. The starting point of the Appalachian Trail is also nearby, and another popular trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail. Options range from beginner to expert with everything in between.
Shopping:
Don't pass up the chance to shop here, as it's fun and enjoyable. You'll find artisan shops, art galleries, and boutique clothing vendors. Many places are concentrated in the charming downtown area, which is fun to explore for a day or two.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Blue Ridge. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- 2 Hour Culture Tour in Helen for $29 details
- 2-Hour Helen Haunts and History Walk Tour for $29 details
- Helen Ghosts, Voodoo & Haunted Trails Tour for $25 details