THINGS TO DO NEAR
BLOOD MOUNTAIN CABINS
The stunning scenery of Northeast Georgia’s gentle peaks and mountains, rushing waters and natural beauty will sooth your soul.
HIKING
The most unique thing about our location is our proximity to the world famous Appalachian Trail and the surrounding wilderness area of the Chattahoochee National Forest. We are sandwiched between and bordered by the Blood Mountain Wilderness Area and the Raven Cliffs Wilderness Area.
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Some of our cabins are only a one hundred yard footpath from the Appalachian Trail, which extends over 2000 miles from Georgia to Maine, over the highest peaks of the Appalachian Mountains. A 2½ mile walk on the Appalachian Trail will take you to the top of Blood Mountain, the highest point on the trail in Georgia, and one of the most scenic sites in Georgia.
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Consider taking a walk on the legendary Appalachian Trail via the historic Walasi-Yi Center at Neels Gap, which is less than a quarter mile from us. It’s the only place where the 2,189- mile-long trail passes through a man-made structure. If staying in a cabin, we have a walking trail that will take you straight to the Appalachian Trail.
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For additional waterfall fun in the region download the North Georgia Waterfalls app on IOS or Android.
Brasstown Bald Mountain rising 4,784 feet above sea level, is Georgia’s tallest mountain. Its incredible 360 degree view allows you to see Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee and South Carolina on a clear day. Reach the summit via trails or shuttle bus. Enjoy hiking trails, picnicking, and a Visitor Information Center tour that focuses on Georgia history, geology, and the natural world. You can also watch a 15-minute movie about the incredible changes to the Brasstown landscape during the year. Open daily (10am-5pm) during peak season May – November. Open December – April as weather allows.
Please call to verify hours of operation. 706-745-6928.
VISIT WATERFALLS
We are in the heart of the Georgia waterfall country. Stop by our store and pick up a free map of the local waterfalls.
Cane Creek Falls
Located on the grounds of Camp Glisson, Cane Creek Falls is open to the public during daylight hours except when camp is in session. You must check into the Visitors Center prior to visiting the falls.
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Dicks Creek Falls
Dicks Creek Falls is located in the Chattahoochee National Forest just below the confluence of the Dicks and Waters Creek. This falls and the shoals above it are popular for wading and sunning in the summer, however care should be exercised when walking on the slippery rocks and under no circumstances should one dive into the pools.
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Amicalola Falls
Amicalola Falls is located in Amicalola State Park on Hwy GA52 near Dawsonville, Elijay and Dahlonega. This beautiful waterfall cascades 600 feet to a reflecting pool at the bottom. Parking is available at the bottom, at the top and near the middle of the falls so it is possible to start the walk from the middle, top or bottom.
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DeSoto Falls
The DeSoto Falls are located 3 miles south of us in the Chattahoochee National Forest DeSoto Falls Scenic Area. Trails lead to 2 different falls on Frogtown Creek. The lower falls is .3 miles downstream from the trail head, the second is .75 miles upstream. According to legend Spanish armor belonging to the Spanish explorer Hernando De Soto or one of his men was found near here which led many to believe that the expedition passed through this region in 1540 in their attempt to find gold.
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Raven Cliff Falls
The trail to Raven Cliff Falls is 5 miles round trip along Dodd Creek to the cliffs where the creek plunges through a narrow opening in the cliff. Along the trail to Raven Cliff Falls, which follows along Dodd Creek, there are several falls. This a pretty trail and is moderate walking through rhododendron and hemlock forests following the creek by numerous small waterfalls. However the trail becomes fairly steep near the end. The trail and falls are located within the Mark Trail Wilderness Area.
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Dukes Creek Falls
Dukes Creek Falls is actually on Davis Creek as it joins Dodd Creek to form Dukes Creek. For those who do not want to take the 1 mile walk to the bottom of the gorge, there is an observation deck 0.1 miles from the parking area which has a distant view of the falls.
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Helton Creek Falls
Helton Creek Falls is 4 miles north of us and is a must see while visiting the area. There are two falls on Helton Creek in the Chattahoochee National Forests. The upper falls, which has an observation deck is about 50 yards above the lower falls.
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Anna Ruby Falls
Two falls, one on Curtis Creek and the other on York Creek together are called Anna Ruby Falls. A paved walkway leaves the Visitors Center and follows Smith Creek on a beautiful interpretive walk to the observation platforms at the base of the two falls. There is a cost of $3/person age 16 and over.​
For additional waterfall fun in the region download the North Georgia Waterfalls app on IOS or Android.
FISHING & HUNTING
Lake, River and Trout Stream Fishing in the North Georgia Mountains
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FISHING
With over 1,300 miles of trout streams on the forest, there are plenty opportunities to catch Trout, Walleye, Bluegill, and Bass. Lake Blue Ridge is the only place in Georgia where anglers can catch Muskellunge as well as Trout and Bass. This 3,290-acre lake is bordered by two Forest Service campgrounds. Nottely Lake, Lake Chatuge, Lake Burton, and Lake Rabun also provide good Trout and Bass fishing.
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A valid Georgia Fishing License with a trout stamp is required. Holders of an honorary fishing license do not require trout stamps. Certain streams are open only during fishing season which is from the last Saturday in March until October 31. Rivers, lakes and reservoirs in the Dahlonega/Blairsville area:
Etowah River
Fishing above Jay Bridge and the Etowah tributaries upstream from the Castleberry Bridge to Jay Bridge is limited to the fishing season. The best fishing is probably in the Wildlife Management Area (WMA).
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West Fork of the Montgomery Creek
Montgomery Creek is in the Blue Ridge WMA. Open only during fishing season.
Jones Creek
Jones Creek is not stocked and contains native brown trout almost exclusively. Anglers are restricted to using artificial lure on Jones Creek and its tributaries in the Blue Ridge WMA. Open only during fishing season.
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Nimblewill Creek
Open only during fishing season.
Waters Creek
Waters Creek, located just 10.5 miles from Dahlonega, is a trophy trout stream and only fishing with artificial lures with a single barbless hook size 6 or smaller is allowed. Fishermen will find a variety of fish including brown trout, rainbow trout and brook trout here. Whether you’re baitcasting, fly fishing or spinning your chances of getting a bite here are good. So grab your favorite fly fishing rod and reel, and head out to Waters Creek. Waters Creek is in the Chestatee WMA and is open during the trout season on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. In addition to a fishing license and a trout stamp, a Wildlife Management Area (WMA) stamp is required when fishing on Waters Creek. Size limits are 22 inches for brown and rainbow and 18 inches for brook trout. Smaller trout must be returned to the water immediately. Only one trout these sizes or larger may be kept each day and a maximum of 3 for the season. Waters creek flows into Dicks Creek.
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Dicks Creek
Dicks Creek is in the Chestatee WMA and is open only during the fishing season. This creek has a number of pretty falls and is easily accessible.
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Noontootla Creek
Noontootla Creek is in the Blue Ridge WMA and is formed by the confluence of Stover Creek, Chester Creek and Long Creek known as the The Three Forks Area. Noontootla Creek and its tributaries are not stocked and are managed to imitate a natural stream with an unharvested trout population. Noontootla Creek and its tributaries are open throughout the year. Only fish 16 inches in length or greater may be kept and only artificial lures are allowed.
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Cooper Creek
Cooper Creek is open only during the fishing season. Cooper Creek flows through Cooper Creek Scenic Area.
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Rock Creek
Open year round. Also, 2miles past is Rock Creek Lake, a small man-made lake which is also stocked with trout.
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Dockery Lake
This lake which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service is a great lake for kids. Hiking and fishing platforms are available. Fishing Rodeos are held occasionally in the summer.
Lake Winfield Scott
This pretty mountain lake is stocked with rainbow trout and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Hiking and fishing platform are available. Boats with motors are not allowed.
Lake Zwerner
Lake Zwerner is located north of downtown along Morrison Moore Parkway East. This lake (also known as the Yahoola Creek Reservoir) provides most of the City of Dahlonega's water supply along with a great recreational area. The lake offers fishing, mountain and lake side walking trails, and picnic areas. The types of fish found in the lake are bream and bass.
HUNTING
​Dahlonega hunting land options include the Lumpkin County Chestatee WMA with 25,000 Acres and the Blue Ridge WMA including Lumpkin, Dawson, and Fannin with 38,900 Acres. Species include deer and bear, turkey, small game, raccoon, opossum, fox, bobcat, and feral hogs. For planning your Dahlonega area hunting or hunting outing while visiting Dahlonega please visit www.georgiawildlife.com/hunting. Here you will find hunting information covering a variety of subjects, such as where and when to hunt a specific type of game, hunting license information, hunter education requirements, and important regulations. A valid Georgia Hunting License is required.
HISTORICAL SITES
There are many natural history and Cherokee Indian historical sites in Northeast Georgia.
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Blood Mountain - Elevation 4458 ft. - Chattahoochee National Forest
In Cherokee mythology the mountain was one of the homes of the Nunnehi or Immortals, the "People Who Live Anywhere," a race of Spirit People who lived in great townhouses in the highlands of Old Cherokee County. One of these mythical townhouses stood near Lake Trahlyta. As a friendly people, they often brought lost hunters and wanderers to their townhouses for rest and care before guiding them back to their homes. Before the coming of white settlers, the Creeks and Cherokees fought a disastrous and bloody battle in Slaughter Gap between Slaughter and Blood Mountain. (Georgia Historical Commission)
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The Chattahoochee National Forest takes its name from the Chattahoochee River whose headwaters begin in the North Georgia mountains.[2] The River and the area were given the name by the English settlers who took the name from the Indians living here. The Cherokee and Creek Indians inhabited North Georgia. In one dialect of the Muskogean languages, Chatta means stone; ho chee, marked or flowered. These marked or flowered stones were in the Chattahoochee River at a settlement near Columbus, Georgia.
Byron Herbert Reece Farm & Heritage Center
Visit the birthplace and land of inspiration of the renowned Appalachian poet and novelist, Byron Herbert Reece. Born in 1917, Reece produced an enduring body of poetry and fiction from the sounds and spirits of his north Georgia homeland. The Farm and Heritage Center allows you to step back in time to a simpler way of life. Tour the farm with the help of a self-guided brochure, walk around the farm in Hub Reece's footsteps, wander through the museum and browse the gift shop.
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Love architecture? Love history? Both elements come alive for you when you visit this Romanesque brick and granite courthouse built in 1899 on the square in downtown Blairsville. Placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980, and recently restored, it's now a local history museum, cultural center, and summertime concert hall. 706-745-5493.
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Explore the local history Mountain Life Museum, consisting of the Historic 1899 Courthouse, the 1906 Butt/Mock Home, the 1861 John Payne Cabin, the c. 1830 Duncan Cabin and a late 1800s Corn Crib.
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Walk a mile in the moccasins of Native Americans within this two-acre area. View preserved petroglyphs of ancient native origin that were carved or pecked into soapstone boulders. You'll marvel at the variety of symbols made by hunters that represent Native American beliefs. Brasstown District Ranger Station - 706-745-6928.
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Cherokee for "Frog Town", at the Walasi Yi Center you can immerse yourself in history at this historical stone structure built by 1937 and located in the Blood Mountain Archeological area. It is the only place where the 2,175-mile-long Appalachian Trail passes through a man-made structure. It is currently the first mail-drop available to northbound hikers that does not require one to leave the trail. Mountain Crossings at the Walasi-Yi Center, Inc.
LAKES, SPORTS & PARKS
Whether relaxing in the shade near the water, swimming, boating or fishing, there are many beautiful lakes in the area.
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Activities abound, from mountain biking, horseback riding, or zip lines, to kayaking, canoeing, tubing or white water rafting.
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LAKES
Lake Winfield Scott
Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area is a destination recreation location situated high in a mountain valley. The recreation area offers year-round recreation opportunities including picnicking, boating, fishing, swimming and hiking centered around the beautiful 18-acre lake.
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Lake Nottely
The 4,180-acre TVA-controlled Lake Nottely is a fisherman’s paradise, offering ample opportunities to land largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappie and striped bass, among others. With 106 miles of pristine shoreline nestled in the mountains just northwest of Blairsville. This unspoiled lake offers a breathtaking alpine experience for residents and visitors.
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Lake Trahlyta
Lake Trahlyta offers a view of the esthetic beauty of the mountains and is situated next to Trahlyta Falls, a stunning north Georgia waterfall. Visitors can enjoy a swimming beach, fishing, and pedal boats on the water in addition to mini golf, interpretive programs, music programs, hiking, fishing, bird watching and CCC museum on site at Vogel State Park.
​BICYCLING
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Long regarded by professional riders such as Lance Armstrong as some of America's most challenging bicycling, this area provides enjoyment for riders of all skills.
Mountain Biking
The Chattahoochee National Forest near Dahlonega offers some of the best mountain biking to be found in Georgia. The trails originating in the Chattahoochee National Forest in the Nimblewill area offer a range of difficulty and beautiful scenery.​
HORSEBACK RIDING, ZIPLINING, ATV'S​
A Step Above Stables
696 Mauney Circle, Blairsville, Ga (706) 745-9051
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Trackrock Stables
202 Trackrock Camp Road, Blairsville, Ga (706) 745-5252
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Sunburst Stables
Located only 40 miles away, Sunburst Stables offers Horseback Trail Rides, ATV Trail Rides, Ziplining, and more. People of all ages love their adventures, so book one for you and your family today. You can book online by visiting https://www.zerve.com/SunburstAdv or by calling 706-389-9544. Be sure to let them know we sent you!!
KAYAK, CANOE, AND TUBE RENTALS
Appalachian Outfitters River Outpost
(706) 864-7117 2084 South Chestatee Street, Hwy 60, Dahlonega, GA 30533.
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(770) 540-9950 2718 South Chestatee, Dahlonega, GA 30533
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WHITEWATER RAFTING
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Experience the thrill of nature's roller coaster on one of several rivers approximately 1-1 ½ hours away including the Ocoee (site of the 1996 Olympic Whitewater competition), Nantahala and Chattooga. A variety of water sports and a world of fun awaits. With the variety of providers, it is best to research online the area you want to raft prior to your visit.
PARKS
Vogel State Park
One of Georgia’s oldest and most beloved state parks, Vogel is located at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Enjoy hiking, picnicking, non-motorized water sports, putt putt golf, Wolf Creek waterfall, and more!
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Meeks Park
Everyone goes to play in the park! Bring your family and meet your friends for a game in our beautiful park with 4 baseball fields, 2 softball fields and 4 batting cages, T-ball field, utility field. You may also enjoy a new splash pad for the youngsters, a new playground with swings, a community pool, 4 covered pavilions for picnicking, walking trails, skate park, and 4 tennis courts. Disc golf and pet walking trail are nearby. One (1) mile west of Blairsville on Highway 515.
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Nottely Reservoir Trail
A 2.6 mile trail on the banks of Lake Nottely. Perfect for moderate hiking or biking. This is an easy to use trail that you can even push a stroller or just enjoy a picnic. Opportunities abound for wildlife observation and photography along the trail. Nottely Reservoir Trail can be accessed from two parking about ½ mile from Nottely Dam.
MARINAS
Nottely Marina
The Nottely Marina has a general store with a fuel dock, live bait & tackle, boating supplies, clean restroom facilities, a safe boat launch, pontoon rentals, covered and uncovered slip rentals. Located at 86 Doucette Circle, Blairsville. You can reach them by phone at (706) 745-3638.
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North Georgia Watersports
Providing all of your rental, sales, and service needs. Pontoon, wakeboard, ski boats, Jet Skis, Waverunner, kayaks, and jetovator rentals. Located at 2132 Murphy Hwy, Blairsville. You can reach them by phone at (706) 835-1222.
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Boundary Waters Resort & Marina
Escape to the shores of beautiful Lake Chatuge with Boundary Waters Resort & Marina. Pontoon, wakeboard, ski boats, Jet Skis, Waverunner and kayak rentals. Located at 107 Boundary Waters Dr., Hiawassee, GA 30546. https://boundarywatersresort.com/
OUTDOOR OUTFITTERS & GUIDE SERVICES
With an abundance of natural resources in our backyard, Blairsville-Union County offers a variety of outdoor outfitters and guide services for your next hiking, fishing, biking, or camping trip.
Blairsville Bikes & Hikes
49 Blue Ridge Street, Blairsville, GA 706-745-8141
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Mountain Crossings
12471 Gainesville Hwy, Blairsville, GA 706-745-6095
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North GA Mountain Premier Fishing Guide Service
1775 Murphy Hwy, Blairsville, GA 706-897-3292
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Southern Highroads Outfitters
253 Hwy 515 Building 1-C, Blairsville, GA 706-781-1414
MOTORCYCLING
Dahlonega offers a collection of scenic attractions such as mountains, lush forests, and many freshwater bodies that will provide a picturesque backdrop for some wonderful motorcycle rides. The North Georgia mountains are rich in Historical Southern culture defined by its people, its music, its history & festivals and will provide motorcyclists with some distinctive amenities.
Georgia's Dragon
The Suches Loop (42 miles) -The route is in the midst of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Chattahoochee National Forest and drives around the base of Georgia's Blood Mountain. This is an exceptionally beautiful area in the fall as the foliage turns into a picturesque tapestry of red, gold, and green. And you'll have some incredible views up there as you pass through three mountain passes along the way: Neel's Gap, Hester Gap, and Stonepile Gap.
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The Extended Suches Loop
(106 miles) Plenty of picture opportunities on this trip! The first half of the trip allows for National Parks and 'Gaps' to pull off and see the mountains. This makes for a great fall ride during late October or early November. Lake Burton will get you taking group photos with the lake in the background. The water is clear and fish are usually feeding right off the dock. The second part of the trip is more flat lands and a chance to wind down from the excitement of the ride.
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Talking Rock to Dahlonega
Route 136 (48 miles) - Breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge region. In the winter, Amicalola Falls may be seen briefly from about 10 miles away.
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Chattahoochee National Forest Tour
(83 miles) -This route in deep in the mountains crossing small rivers and streams. The fall colors are beautiful!
FAMILY FUN
Georgia Mountain Research and Education Center
Guided tours are available for the Ethnobotanic Gardens, Woodland Medicine Trail, and the Cannery Interpretive Center on Mondays from 9am-1pm, May through September. For more information please call 706-745-2655 or online at www.gmrec.uga.edu
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Logan Turnpike Mill
800-84-GRITS or online at www.loganturnpikemill.com
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Sleepy Hollow Enterprises
Free Admission. For more information please call 706-379-9622 or online at www.whimsicalfairygarden.com
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Lardworks Studio at Lasso The Moon Alpaca Farm
Free Admission. Schedule an appointment by calling 706-835-1837 or online at www.alpacamoon.com
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Dahlonega Gold Museum
(706) 864-2257 1 Public Square, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533
www.gastateparks.org/DahlonegaGoldMuseum Open Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm; Sunday 10am-5pm. Closed certain holidays.
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Consolidated Gold Mines
(706) 864-8473 185 Consolidated Gold Mine Road, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533
www.consolidatedgoldmine.com Open Mon - Fri 10am-4pm; Sat & Sun 10am-5pm. Closed some holidays.
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Crisson Gold Mine
(706) 864-6363 2736 Morrison Moore Parkway East, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533
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Chestatee River Diving Bell Hancock Park
North Meaders Street & Warwick Street, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533 "Possibly the only remaining example of a 19th Century diving bell in existence.” - Wreck Diving Magazine
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Gold Mine Shaft at The Smith House
(706) 867-7000 84 South Chestatee Street, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533
WINERIES & VINEYARDS
Dahlonega: Best Wine Town, Runner Up" - Garden & Gun Magazine
Cavender Creek Vineyards & Winery
(706) 867-7700 3610 Cavender Creek Road, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533
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(706) 865-0687 700 Ridge Point Drive, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533 www.frogtownwine.com
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(706) 867-4060 501 Hightower Church Road, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533
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Three Sisters Vineyards & Winery
(706) 865-9463 439 Vineyard Way, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533
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Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery
(706) 867-9862 180 Wolf Mountain Trail, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533
GHOST TOURS
Historic Hauntings Tour (706) 482-879 19 East Main Street (Upstairs), Dahlonega, Georgia 30533
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Spirits, Legends & Lore (706) 864-2257 1 Public Square, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533 Saturdays at 7 p.m.
