The Bounties of North Georgia

North Georgia offers a large and diverse selection of outdoor adventures. Many people come here to experience the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, swim in lakes and rivers, or hike the trails surrounding it all. From hiking the nearby Mount Yonah to exploring the Chattahoochee National Forest, there’s so much to do here.

The Southern Appalachian’s scenic beauty and charms draw many people to North Georgia. But it’s not just about its natural beauty. You can visit many historical sites and see some great activities to make your trip more fun. Perhaps the vast range of activities that can cater to the many moods of people is what makes North Georgia a special place. Whether you are a thrill seeker, a searcher for tranquility, or a history geek, the region will ensure that it entertains you with the best.

Upon visiting North Georgia, you can witness the perfect combination of nature with city life. People of the Appalachian mountains share a deep connection to the place as the state’s roots grow back thousands of years. The earliest settlers of the site were known to be the Cherokee in the early 1800s. Their removal in the 1830s was subjected to the gold discovery in Lumpkin County, which prompted the increased settlement of Native Americans.

Historic Goldmining

The gold rush in Lumpkin County dates back to 1820. It is the first gold rush of the state and one of the earliest gold rushes in the nation’s history. The discovery point is located near the mountain towns of Dahlonega and Helen. And thus, the shine of gold invited the Americans to the place where the Cherokees were settled. The quest to collect as much gold as possible continued for a decade, where an estimated 10,000 miners worked at a time between Etowah and Chestatee rivers alone.

Tensions started to build up as more and more people, for the lust of gold, began settling in the hometown of the Native Americans (Cherokee and Muskogee). Eventually, the Natives were forced out of their homes by mining industries and US authorities due to the buying interest shown by the European immigrants. The brutal eviction of the Cherokees was named the trails of tears, the Cherokees gave the name to themselves as they were forced to walk barefooted in bad weather, and many people died due to suffering and other diseases.

Today, the trails of tears is a historic site in remembrance of the brutality that they went through. The trail passes through different North Georgian towns, including Dalton, Canton, and Cedar.

As for the historic gold rush, the Dahlonega Gold Museum State offers visitors to witness the remains from the era, including gold coins, mining equipment, etc.

The state’s richness doesn’t end here as the Tate family also found precious marble in the 1900s, which they used to build schools and residentials for the neighbors. Monuments and pillars are still intact for visitors to see and relive the history.

Apart from historical tales, the wildlife journey of North Georgia is also noteworthy. With magnificent forests, majestic trees, valleys, and an abundance of lakes and waterfalls, the North Georgian region hold the perfect environment for wildlife to thrive.

Flora and Fauna of North Georgia

Deer herds roaming around is a common sight in the lush valleys of the place. On the other hand, American Black Bears and their cubs are also a prominent part of the scenic region. If you look up, you will see a variety of bird species flying and chirping through and above, their uniqueness amazing. You won’t have to wait long on the lakes to spot a turtle floating in its typical lazy style. The lakes are also filled with trout and other freshwater fish you can try catching.

The flora of North Georgia is an essential part of making wildlife thrive with skyscraping trees, vegetation, vast foliage, and blooming flowers. Not only a source of life, but the plantation is also a great contributor to the jaw-dropping natural serenity of the place. Some of the native plants you will find on the Blur Ridge trails include pine, hardwood trees, and hickory. Marsh bellflower, Smith’s sunflower, and mountain maple are among the rare flora species of the region.

You can find the splendid biodiversity of North Georgia at the following places.

• Chattahoochee National Forest

• Aska Adventure Area

• North Georgia Wildlife Park

Now that you have the information about the wildlife and their whereabouts, let’s get a bit adventurous. With so many options, such as horseriding, jeep cruising, and hiking for outdoor activities in the Blueridge, mountain biking is the most famous among thrill seekers.

Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is another great way to experience the relishing beauty of North Georgia. Whether skilled or not, you can still hop on a bike and wheel past the magnificent waterfalls, streams, creekbeds, and rocky and bumpy trails. We are listing some of the places you can explore through mountain biking.

Stanley Gap Ultra Loop, BlueRidge

Let’s start off with a challenging trail, the Stanley Gap Ultra Loop, where you are only advised to try biking if well-skilled. The bikers will be tested on a 20-mile rocky and bumpy ride and come across roots, flat sections, and steep climbs to reach the mountain summit. Again, this biking trail is only for the experts.

The 4×4, BlueRidge

This gets its name after its four exciting climbs and descents. The 4×4 biking trail thoroughly entertains intermediate bikers. Mountain vistas, lust trees, and a moderately challenging 11-mile ride await as you make your way up and down the track.

Long Branch Loop, BlueRidge

Not leaving the beginners behind, the long brach loop offers a friendly and well-shaded ride on a 2.5-mile trail. The riders will see the glorious views of Long Branch Valley and don’t have to paddle hard.

Tallulah Falls Shortline Trail, Tallulah Falls

Don’t get lost gazing at the Appalachian mountains while biking in the Tallulah Gorge State Park. The hallmark of the place is the suspension bridge hanging over the river, and you can also witness the waterfalls. The path is paved, so you don’t have to go through any trouble while riding.

Nothing Like Fishing

After catching a live fish all by yourself, there is something about the ensuing pride. Isn’t it? Fishing is considered a family activity where you can reconnect with your kids or family members. Even if you are with your friends, fishing is a great way to share a laugh while showboating your fishing tricks. Fishing in North Georgia is an experience like no other. Imagine fishing in a trout-filled stream or river while catching a glance of the dear herd along the river bed, and suddenly you hear the splashing in the river. Sounds too good to be true!

With Georgia Wild Trout—a local fishing guide serving people for almost two decades, the experience is yours. The experienced guides will take you to the best spots for fishing regardless of the season and takes care of the streams and river waters as per the regulations of Georgia (DNR). Following are a few spots you can visit with Georgia Wild Trout.

• Tallulah + Chattooga River, Clayton

• Cartecay + Etowah River, Dawsonville

• Cartecay + Toccoa River, Ellijay

• Chattahoochee + Hiwassee River, Helen

Music

If you thought for one second that the enchanting natural beauty of North Georgia does not have a musical touch, then you are incorrecto, amigo! Music has a powerful influence on the Appalachian as the early natives (Paleo, Cherokee, and African American) brought their own musical touch to the land, which has carried on and still echoes in the Appalachian atmosphere. Banjo and fiddle were the significant instruments used in almost all the sounds and melodies. From there on, the musical culture picked different directions, which we now know as old-time music, country music, and perhaps the most recognized genre, Bluegrass.

If you don’t know what Bluegrass is, here is a little overview.

With its roots connected with the African American string with hints of Scothish-Irish traditions, Bluegrass music’s early development stages were in the 18th century. Primarily considered hillbilly or mountain music, Bluegrass melodies were mainly based on string instruments. Fiddlers and banjo were the traditional instruments mostly present in the music sounds, while guitars and mandolins also caught up later. Notice that all the major instruments are string-based. Bluegrass got its peak popularity when the singer Bill Monroe and his band called “The Bluegrass Boys” adopted the genre in an iconic appearance at the Grand Ole Opry. Other fiddlers who made it to the popularity charts were Bobby Hicks, Micheal Cleaveland, Mark O’Conner, and others.

By now, you must be wondering where you will find Bluegrass music while on your vacation to North Georgia. Don’t worry; we got you covered.

The Crimson Moon

With lively events happening all year long, this bar, patio, and its music can be found in the classic mountain setting of Dahlonega. Grab a brew and enjoy the local artist playing Bluegrass, pop grass, swing, gypsy jazz, and whatnot. You can also enjoy live shows and theatre at The Crimson Moon.

Bear Claw Vineyards

Local wine, a cozy vineyard view, and live folk music. Isn’t that the exact definition of relaxation? Musical talent shows, karaoke, and local soulful performances are the essence of Bear Claw Vineyards.

BlueRidge Community Theatre

Mostly sold out due to the action-packed performances by local and international talents, the BlueRidge Community Theatre welcomes you to a classical venue with a relatively intimate setting. Music concerts, national acts, and live shows keep the place alive all year long.

The Highest Peaks

Let’s get back to the mountains. Shall we? North Georgia’s top three mountain peaks are Mt Micthell, Mt Craig, and Clingmans Dome, respectively.

Mt. Mitchell

Standing at a tremendous height of 6,684 feet above sea level, Mt Mitchell is North Carolina’s highest peak. Located at a brief 10-minute distance from Blue Ridge Parkway, Mt. Michell State park is the place to be if you want to catch the feeling of being at the top of the world. The exquisite vistas and the breeze will make you feel a little lighter while you stare deep into the vastness of the scenic mountains. The state park also offers other fun activities, including hiking, biking, etc.

Mt. Craig

With merely a 37 feet difference, Mount Craig is the second-highest peak next to Mount Mitchell. Named after the NC governor Locke Craig, surrounded by the Pisgah State Park, Mt Craig will let you witness the rare species of plants and animals you may not have seen or heard of before. You can also camp at the Deep Gap trails, which connect the mount to other NC mountain peaks like Big Tom and Balsam Cone.

Clingmans Dome

Clingmans Dome is located in Great Smoky Mountains National Park – you’ll have to visit the park to learn where it gets its name from. With a height reaching 6,643 feet, Clingmans is probably the busiest site compared to the other two mounts. Why? It is because of the observation tower at the summit that has unmatchable views, especially when the fall is boasting with colors.

Flowers, wildfires, mountain peaks, fly fishing, and music are about half what North Georgia offers. Imagine the combination of misty lakes, plush green valleys, and cascading waterfalls. If all this can be experienced in a single state, then a visit is due upon all the traveling geeks and fun seekers.

In addition to all that spectacles, North Georgia is also home to a superb gated community named Big Canoe. The community has made sure that nature is preserved and kept alive for the visitors to have a lifetime experience along with families and friends. Rental homes nestled with mountains, manmade lakes, a 27-hole champion golf course, and countless other activities are all part of a land formerly named by the Cherokee as the enchanted land we now know as Big Canoe. The Appalachian sky vacation rental is one of the rental homes in Big Canoe that caters to up to eight people and is loaded with various amenities at your disposal.