North Vs. South: The Two Sides of Blue Ridge, GA

For all you history buffs out there, no, we're not writing an article about the Civil War. But! Did you know that our quaint town has two distinct personalities depending on which side you visit? Separated by Hwy 515 and the Blue Ridge Dam, the northern side of Blue Ridge is characterized by activities such as horseback riding, zip lining, whitewater rafting, and apple picking while the southern side (otherwise known as the Aska Adventure Area) is full of hiking trails, fishing opportunities, gem mining, and more! Downtown Blue Ridge rests right in the middle, acting as the epicenter of this gorgeous area. Our luxury cabins are situated on both sides so you can be close to whatever activities suit your fancy!

The North: A Variety of Blue Ridge Activities

The northern region off of Hwy 5 is known for its many options for North Georgia activities. If a variety pack of adventure is calling your name, then reserve a luxury cabin in this Blue Ridge area! Our Toccoa River luxury cabin rentals—Outlaw Ridge, Riverview Lodge, Fallen Timber Lodge, The Rivers Edge, Rolling River, The Great Getaway, and High Hopes—are perfect for a family reunion, corporate retreat, or couples retreat! These properties are all within close proximity to one another, making a combination of them perfect for your next Blue Ridge getaway! Further, located off of Hwy 2, Cohutta Sunset and Creekside Green also reside in this area, and are particularly close to trail riding!

Exciting Outdoor Activities

If you search for a variety of family-friendly activities to keep your group having a blast, this side of Blue Ridge offers a myriad of opportunities for fishing, horseback riding, zip lining, and whitewater rafting. The Blue Ridge Mountains are home to some of the best trout fishing in the country, and the nearby Ocoee River (home to the 1996 Olympics) is a popular spot for whitewater rafting. Use North Georgia Trout Fishing for your fishing needs and Rolling Thunder River Company to experience tubing the Toccoa River or whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River!

To unleash your inner cowboy/cowgirl and live your Western dreams, check out Cowgirl Up Stables and experience a tranquil ride through the mountains. No matter your skill level, this activity is made for everyone!

Should you desire to unleash your inner adrenaline junkie, check out Blue Ridge Zip Line Canopy Tours to soar over the North Georgia mountains and feel that crisp air envelop you!

If a more leisurely activity suits your pace, there are plenty of hiking trails in this area, such as the walking trails around the Ocoee Whitewater Center or Turtletown Creek Falls! This double waterfall is truly breathtaking, and the 5-mile loop is the perfect opportunity to get outside and explore!

North Georgia Attractions

In case you thought that the Northern area of Blue Ridge could not be more appealing, plenty of attractions and sights await you!

Founded in 1943, Mercier Orchards is a long-standing establishment that bakes the absolute best fried apple pies! Boasting a wide variety of baked goods, cider, kitchen supplies, and gifts, get lost in the sights and smells of this beloved orchard. Depending on when you visit, check their U-Pick schedule and take a piece of Mercier's home with you!

Just 7 minutes from Mercier Orchards, visit Bear Claw Vineyards for a taste of North Georgia wine! Catch up with old friends at their gorgeous outdoor pavilion while sipping on some vino.

Just north of Blue Ridge lies the Georgia/Tennessee state line in the little town of McCaysville, GA/Copperhill, TN. Nicknamed the "Twin Cities," a variety of shops, restaurants, and breweries abound! Enjoy a walk by the river, savor a wood-fired pizza at Twisted Tomato, or sip on a craft cocktail at Bar 21! Check out our blog for more details on this area!

The South: The Aska Adventure Area

The southern region, deemed the "Aska Adventure Area," covers the 13 miles of Aska Rd. and it's surrounding area. If more rugged outdoor activities and proximity to day trips are calling your name, staying in this region is a must! Particularly popular with kids and families, this locale is the perfect place for one of your mountain retreats. Reserve Aska Escape Lodge, Above the Timberline, Cherokee Sunrise, Blue Ridge Lake Sanctuary, or Serendipity to experience the Aska area!

Hiking Trails Galore

Given that the Appalachian Trail and Benton-MacKaye Trail begin in our backyard, waterfalls and hikes abound in Blue Ridge! A few of our favorites include the Aska Trails, Fall Branch Falls, Sea Creek Falls, and The Swinging Bridge. All of these trails are an easy length and perfect for families.

Family-Friendly Activities

To experience more of the outdoors during your getaway, maximize your Blue Ridge trip with the many excursions the Aska Area provides. Tube the Toccoa River with Toccoa Valley Campground Tubing (Home of the Pink Tubes), unearth precious stones with Aska Gem Mining Company or Lily Pad Village, or fish for trout with North GA Trout Fishing on the Toccoa River or Noontootla Creek! No matter your vision for your North Georgia getaway, the Aska Area has bountiful options available, no matter the season.

Day Trip Proximity

In case you want to explore further, our luxury cabins in this area are only an hour away from Helen or Dahlonega! Enjoy the gorgeous, scenic drive on your way to either of these two special towns. Helen is known for its annual Oktoberfest celebration, Unicoi State Park, and quaint shops and restaurants! Think of it as a German version of Blue Ridge. Just down the road lies Dahlonega, which is bursting with vineyards and is home to the Consolidated Gold Mine! Explore the town square and its variety of boutique shops! Visiting either of these towns is a must if your itinerary allows for it.

Why You Should Explore Both Sides of Blue Ridge

While the North and South regions of Blue Ridge, GA, offer slightly differing experiences, both are worth a visit! Here's why:

Regardless of where you stay in the area, experiencing a variety of North Georgia activities is extremely manageable, given that all the options rest approximately 10-45 minutes away from any given luxury cabin. Neither side is mutually exclusive, so you are welcome and encouraged to mix and match areas!

By visiting both sides of Blue Ridge, you'll get a well-rounded experience that showcases the diversity of the area. From reveling in rugged outdoor adventures to shopping in downtown Blue Ridge, you'll get a taste of everything North Georgia has to offer.

Planning Your Trip to Blue Ridge, GA

If you're planning a trip to North Georgia, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience!

With so much to see and do in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it is essential to research and plan ahead to ensure you don't miss out on any must-see destinations. Whether you are visiting with your family, girlfriends, guy friends, or your work team, North Georgia has plenty of options that will not leave you wanting. Consider creating a rough itinerary based on our recommendations and sketching a few must-see attractions during your trip!

To ensure you secure the perfect luxury cabin for your needs, make sure to call our reservation specialists at (706) 432-2140 or reserve online and lock in your Blue Ridge vacation rental! Our properties boast a variety of amenities, ensuring there is something for everyone.

Blue Ridge, GA, offers a unique experience depending on which activities you prioritize. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or a peaceful getaway, both the North and South sides of Blue Ridge are worth exploring. By planning ahead and combining both sides into one trip, you'll achieve a well-rounded experience that showcases the beauty and charm of the North Georgia Mountains. So pack your bags, and your camera, and get ready to experience Blue Ridge!