10 Unmissable Things to Do in Blue Ridge: Your Perfect Mountain Escape

1. Explore the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

One of the most iconic activities in Blue Ridge is riding the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, a historic rail journey through the beautiful Appalachian foothills. The train ride offers a peaceful, scenic tour of the surrounding countryside, complete with views of rivers, forests, and small towns.

• Duration: 4-hour round trip
• Best for: Families, nature lovers, and train enthusiasts
• What to expect: Beautiful views, narration of local history, and charming stops in McCaysville, GA, and Copperhill, TN

This Blue Ridge Scenic Railway tour is perfect for a leisurely afternoon and an excellent way to get acquainted with the area’s natural beauty.

2. Hike the Appalachian Trail

No visit to Blue Ridge would be complete without hiking a section of the famous Appalachian Trail. This world-renowned hiking trail spans 2,200 miles, and some of its most stunning segments can be found near Blue Ridge.

• Best trails: Springer Mountain (southern terminus of the trail), Three Forks, and Blood Mountain
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate, depending on the trail
• What to bring: Sturdy hiking shoes, water, and a camera for those stunning mountain vistas

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, the Appalachian Trail offers unforgettable views of Blue Ridge’s natural beauty.

3. Visit Mercier Orchards

A visit to Mercier Orchards is a must for anyone with a sweet tooth or a love for fresh, local produce. This family-owned orchard has been a staple of Blue Ridge for over 70 years and offers everything from apple picking to wine tasting.

• Top activities: Apple picking (seasonal), hard cider tasting, and bakery shopping (try their famous fried pies)
• Best for: Families, couples, and foodies
• LSI Keywords: apple picking, cider tasting, family-friendly activities

Mercier Orchards is the perfect stop for families looking to enjoy the taste of Blue Ridge’s agricultural heritage.

4. Discover Blue Ridge Lake

For a relaxing day outdoors, head to Blue Ridge Lake, a peaceful reservoir perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming.

• What to do: Rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard, enjoy a lakeside picnic, or try your hand at fishing for bass and trout.
• Best for: Water sports enthusiasts, families, and those looking for a quiet retreat.
• LSI Keywords: lake activities, water sports, fishing spots

Blue Ridge Lake offers something for everyone, whether you want to explore the water or simply relax by the shore.

5. Experience Downtown Blue Ridge

Downtown Blue Ridge is a charming area filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants, offering a mix of small-town warmth and upscale sophistication.

• Highlights: Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association, local eateries (like Harvest on Main), and unique gift shops.
• Best for: Shopping, art lovers, and those wanting to experience local culture.
• LSI Keywords: Blue Ridge shopping, art galleries, local cuisine

Take a leisurely stroll through the streets, enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants, and take home a souvenir from this vibrant small town.

6. Admire Long Creek Falls

For waterfall lovers, Long Creek Falls is one of the most accessible and scenic waterfalls in the Blue Ridge area. Located along the Appalachian Trail, the falls are a great reward after a scenic hike.

• Trail length: 2 miles round trip (moderate difficulty)
• Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, and hiking enthusiasts
• LSI Keywords: hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, nature photography

The soothing sounds of Long Creek Falls and the surrounding forest make for an idyllic nature escape.

7. Relax at Serenity in the Mountains Spa

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to some relaxation at Serenity in the Mountains Spa. This luxurious spa offers massages, facials, and body treatments, all designed to melt away stress.

• Services offered: Massages, hot stone therapy, facials, and more.
• Best for: Couples, solo travelers, and those seeking relaxation.
• LSI Keywords: luxury spa, relaxation, wellness retreat

This is the ultimate spot to unwind and recharge after your explorations in Blue Ridge.

8. Go Fishing in the Toccoa River

Blue Ridge is known for its excellent fishing, especially in the Toccoa River, where you can find trout and bass in abundance.

• Top fishing spots: Tammen Park, Horseshoe Bend Park, and Curtis Switch.
• Best for: Anglers of all skill levels.
• LSI Keywords: fishing spots, trout fishing, outdoor activities

The Toccoa River offers some of the best fly-fishing opportunities in Georgia, making it a must-visit for avid fishermen.

9. Explore Aska Adventure Area

The Aska Adventure Area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from mountain biking to hiking to kayaking.

• Top activities: Mountain biking on Aska Trails, kayaking on the Toccoa River, and hiking to waterfalls.
• Best for: Adventure seekers, families, and nature lovers.
• LSI Keywords: adventure sports, mountain biking, kayaking

If you’re seeking thrills and outdoor fun, the Aska Adventure Area is a top destination in Blue Ridge.

10. Attend a Local Art Festival

Blue Ridge has a vibrant arts scene, and throughout the year, there are various art festivals that showcase local talent.

• Top festivals: Arts in the Park (May and October), Blue Ridge Writers Conference, and Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival.
• Best for: Art lovers, foodies, and music fans.
• LSI Keywords: local festivals, arts and culture, live music

Immerse yourself in the creative energy of Blue Ridge by attending one of these lively festivals.

Where to Stay in Blue Ridge

When visiting Blue Ridge, choosing the right accommodation is essential for enhancing your mountain experience. Blue Ridge offers a range of options, from cozy cabins nestled in the woods to luxurious boutique hotels downtown. Here are some of the best places to stay in Blue Ridge, catering to different travel styles and budgets:

1. Cabins in Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge is famous for its rustic cabins that provide a peaceful and immersive nature experience. Staying in a cabin allows you to enjoy the serenity of the forest, often accompanied by breathtaking mountain views.

• Types of Cabins:
  • Luxury cabins with hot tubs and fireplaces
  • Pet-friendly cabins
  • Family-sized cabins with multiple bedrooms
• Best for: Nature lovers, families, and couples looking for a private escape.

LSI Keywords: rustic cabins, mountain views, luxury accommodation

2. Downtown Blue Ridge Boutique Hotels

For travelers who prefer to stay closer to shops, restaurants, and galleries, downtown Blue Ridge offers charming boutique hotels. These hotels combine Southern hospitality with modern amenities, making for a comfortable stay.

• Top choices:
  • The Blue Ridge Inn Bed & Breakfast
  • Hampton Inn Blue Ridge
• Best for: Couples, solo travelers, and those who want to explore downtown on foot.

LSI Keywords: boutique hotels, Blue Ridge accommodation, central location

3. Camping in the Blue Ridge Mountains

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, consider camping in one of the scenic campgrounds in and around Blue Ridge. These campgrounds offer an authentic wilderness experience, complete with opportunities for stargazing, campfires, and wildlife sightings.

• Popular campgrounds:
  • Morganton Point Recreation Area (on Blue Ridge Lake)
  • Deep Hole Recreation Area (near the Toccoa River)
• Best for: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those on a budget.

LSI Keywords: camping spots, outdoor accommodation, wilderness camping

Enjoy Blue Ridge’s Culinary Delights

Blue Ridge’s culinary scene is as rich and diverse as its landscapes. The town is home to a wide variety of dining options, from casual cafes and Southern comfort food to fine dining and farm-to-table restaurants. Here are some culinary experiences you shouldn’t miss:

1. Farm-to-Table Restaurants

Blue Ridge takes pride in its farm-to-table dining, where local ingredients shine in every dish. Restaurants like Harvest on Main and The Black Sheep are known for their creative use of fresh, local produce.

• Best dishes to try: Fresh mountain trout, local cheeses, and seasonal vegetables.
• Best for: Foodies, couples, and groups looking for a high-quality dining experience.

LSI Keywords: farm-to-table, local cuisine, fine dining

2. Southern Comfort Food

Nothing says Blue Ridge like a hearty plate of Southern comfort food. Restaurants like Southern Charm and Pete’s Place offer traditional Southern dishes such as fried chicken, collard greens, and biscuits with gravy.

• Must-try dishes: Chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and homemade pie.
• Best for: Families, casual diners, and anyone craving down-home Southern flavors.

LSI Keywords: Southern cuisine, comfort food, local diners

3. Craft Breweries and Wineries

For those who enjoy craft drinks, Blue Ridge is home to several breweries and wineries that showcase the region’s best beverages. Stop by Grumpy Old Men Brewing or Blue Ridge Cellars to sample local beers, wines, and ciders.

• Top picks: Apple cider, seasonal brews, and locally produced wines.
• Best for: Couples, groups of friends, and craft beer enthusiasts.

LSI Keywords: craft breweries, wineries, local beverages

Seasonal Activities in Blue Ridge

The charm of Blue Ridge extends beyond any one season. Depending on when you visit, you’ll find a range of activities tailored to the changing landscapes and weather conditions. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Blue Ridge based on the season:

1. Fall Foliage (September to November)

Fall is arguably the most beautiful time to visit Blue Ridge. The mountains come alive with vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, scenic drives, and photography.

• Top fall activities:
  • Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway to see the autumn colors.
  • Attend the annual Apple Festival at Mercier Orchards.
  • Take a fall foliage train ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway.

LSI Keywords: fall foliage, autumn colors, leaf-peeping

2. Winter Adventures (December to February)

Winter in Blue Ridge brings crisp air, snowy peaks, and cozy cabin stays. While the temperature drops, the area still offers plenty of winter-themed activities.

• Top winter activities:
  • Visit the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association for winter art exhibits.
  • Enjoy Christmas lights and holiday shopping in downtown Blue Ridge.
  • Go snow tubing or explore the scenic trails with winter hiking.

LSI Keywords: winter activities, holiday events, snow sports

3. Spring Blooms (March to May)

Springtime in Blue Ridge is a season of renewal, with blooming wildflowers, lush greenery, and temperate weather. It’s a great time to hit the hiking trails, visit local farms, or go for a boat ride on Blue Ridge Lake.

• Top spring activities:
  • Hike to Fall Branch Falls to see the cascading water and blooming wildflowers.
  • Visit the Chattahoochee National Forest for spring picnics and nature walks.
  • Attend the Blue Ridge Trout Fest & Outdoor Adventures.

LSI Keywords: spring blooms, outdoor festivals, wildflower hikes

4. Summer Fun (June to August)

Summer is perfect for water activities, camping, and outdoor festivals. The long days and warm weather make Blue Ridge a prime spot for adventures on land and water.

• Top summer activities:
  • Go whitewater rafting or tubing on the Toccoa River.
  • Attend Fourth of July celebrations and fireworks.
  • Explore the trails in the Cohutta Wilderness for a summer hike.

LSI Keywords: summer activities, water sports, whitewater rafting

FAQs about Things to Do in Blue Ridge

Q: When is the best time to visit Blue Ridge, GA?
A: The best time to visit is during the fall (September to November) for the beautiful foliage and pleasant weather, or spring (March to May) for blooming flowers and milder temperatures.

Q: What is the most popular hiking trail in Blue Ridge?
A: The Appalachian Trail, specifically the Springer Mountain section, is one of the most popular hikes in Blue Ridge.

Q: Can you take children on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway?
A: Yes, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is family-friendly and perfect for children of all ages.

Q: Is Blue Ridge a good destination for a romantic getaway?
A: Absolutely! Blue Ridge offers scenic spots like Blue Ridge Lake and luxury spas, making it ideal for couples.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Blue Ridge?
A: Blue Ridge is a year-round destination, but fall is particularly popular for its stunning foliage and pleasant weather. Spring and summer are great for outdoor activities, while winter offers a cozy, quiet retreat.

Q: Can you swim in Blue Ridge Lake?
A: Yes, swimming is allowed in designated areas of Blue Ridge Lake, and you can also enjoy boating, kayaking, and fishing.

Q: Are there pet-friendly activities in Blue Ridge?
A: Absolutely! Many hiking trails, parks, and even some accommodations are pet-friendly, making Blue Ridge a great destination for travelers with pets.

Q: How far is Blue Ridge from Atlanta?
A: Blue Ridge is approximately 90 miles north of Atlanta, about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive, making it a convenient getaway for city dwellers.

Conclusion

With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural scene, and variety of activities, Blue Ridge is an unmissable destination for anyone looking to explore Georgia’s mountain regions. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures like hiking and fishing or a relaxing day at the spa, Blue Ridge has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the things to do in Blue Ridge to make your trip unforgettable.

External Link: For more information on Blue Ridge attractions, visit Explore Georgia’s Blue Ridge.

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