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So far Sara Noto has created 8 blog entries.

Community Spotlight: White County

White County, Georgia is nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, offering a scenic blend of natural beauty, history, and Southern charm. Visitors enjoy traveling along the rolling hills and serene landscapes and it's a must see destination for those seeking outdoor adventure and festive entertainment. One of the county's most popular attractions is Helen, a Bavarian-themed town located along the Chattahoochee River. Once a struggling lumber town, Helen was transformed into a charming replica of a Bavarian village in the 1960s. Visitors can wander through cobblestone streets, sample authentic German cuisine, or browse the many specialty shops that line the downtown area. Helen is especially known for its annual Oktoberfest, and Christmas Market and events that include a parade and lights throughout the city that attracts visitors from all over the Southeast. For those who love the great outdoors, Unicoi State Park is a natural gem located just outside of Helen. The park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating on the serene Unicoi Lake. One of the park’s most popular hikes leads to Anna Ruby Falls, a stunning double waterfall that cascades from the Tray Mountain Wilderness. The short trail to the falls is easily accessible and surrounded by lush forest, making it a favorite spot for families and nature lovers alike. Another natural wonder in White County is Yonah Mountain, a prominent peak that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. For adventurous souls, hiking to the summit of Yonah Mountain is a rewarding experience. The trail is moderately challenging, but the panoramic views at the top are well worth the effort. History enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the Hardman Farm Historic Site, located near Helen. This well-preserved 19th-century farm was once owned by James Nichols, a prominent businessman, and later by Dr. Lamartine Hardman, who served as Georgia’s governor. The Italianate mansion and surrounding buildings offer a glimpse into the agricultural history of the region. A walk along the farm's nature trails reveals more about the area's past and its connection to the Native American peoples who once lived in the region. The iconic Sautee Nacoochee Indian Mound is a famous landmark of Native American origin, set against a scenic backdrop of the Appalachian foothills. The Sautee Nacoochee Center is a centerpiece for events and housed in a restored schoolhouse to offer a mix of art galleries and theater performances. The adjacent history museum and Folk Pottery Museum showcases the region's rich pottery traditions. For wine lovers, White County is home to several vineyards that take advantage of the cool mountain air and rich soil to produce excellent wines. Many of the wineries offer tastings and live music in a picturesque setting with views of the nearby mountains. White county also has a few breweries and nearby distilleries. For a taste of small-town Southern charm, a visit to Cleveland, the county seat of White County, is a must. Cleveland is known as the birthplace of the Cabbage Patch Kids, and the BabyLand [...]

Community Spotlight: White County2024-10-24T14:30:26-04:00

Road Trip to Dahlonega

Dahlonega Georgia is a charming town rich with history of the first major U.S. Gold rush in 1828.  There is more to this town than it’s “golden history” with wineries, downtown shops and restaurants. Outdoor venues have beautiful mountain vistas, roaring waterfalls, and hiking trails.  The following are just a few of the highlights when visiting Dahlonega. Dahlonega Gold Museum -  The Historic 1836 Lumpkin County Courthouse is the home to Dahlonega Gold Museum where visitors can see rare gold coins, artifacts, and history of the area.  From huge gold nuggets, to maps of the mines, to a document signed by the 10th President of the United States- the Gold Museum features objects that brilliantly display the charm and the history of Dahlonega. Crisson Gold Mine – Home to the only working Stamp Mill in Georgia dated to the 1800’s; this has been used at several mines in the Dahlonega area and in other states. Placed on the site in the 1960’s, it has ten stamps with each one weighing 450 lbs. each. The purpose of the Stamp Mill is to crush gold bearing rock into sand so it can be processed.  See how this mine has contributed to our State Capital and how you can pan for gold plus gemstones at the mine. Wineries and Vineyards -  Home to several wine tasting rooms and over five wineries, Dahlonega offers a variety of award-winning wines to locals and visitors from all over the world.   Its fertile, mineral-rich soil produces versatile lines of European, French hybrids, and American wine grapes.  These venues offer tours, tastings, and impressive scenic views.  During seasonal times of the year, annual events like the Dahlonega Wine Trail Weekend; are held every August, to tour each venue. Historic Downtown and Special Events - Dahlonega’s historic public square is the hub of the county’s thriving tourism activity. Lined with brick sidewalks, shops, galleries, and restaurants these charming historical 19th century buildings bring a quaint feeling to any visitor. Entertainment and Festivals are an integral part of Dahlonega’s heritage and it’s not unusual to hear musicians jamming on the square or see artists with their sketch pads taking part in the  outdoor beauty. During the holiday’s, an Old Fashioned Christmas Celebration is held in December with lighting of luminaries, festivities, carolers, and Santa on the Square. The Holly Theater - built in 1946 has something to offer for entertainment to locals and tourists alike.  The relaxed informal atmosphere makes the theater a great place to enjoy a show for music, comedy or theatre performance.  Originally used as a movie house and continued through the 80’s, it was restored with community effort in the 1990’s and re-dedicated as The Holly Theatre Community Center, Inc. and placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Amicalola State Park & Lodge is an 829  acre Georgia State Park located just outside of Dahlonega on GA Highway 52.  The park’s name is derived from a Cherokee word meaning “tumbling waters”.   This  [...]

Road Trip to Dahlonega2024-10-24T12:33:48-04:00

Warwoman Dell

Warwoman Dell was named to honor a Cherokee Warwoman. Some believe it could have been named for Nancy Hart, the Revolutionary War era woman who may have fought at the Battle of Kettle Creek with her husband and sons. Most likely, though, it was named to honor Nancy Ward, a highly-respected “beloved woman” of the Cherokee Nation who frequented the dell and advised the Cherokee tribal council on war and peace. She was very powerful in the Cherokee clan rule, for she was the last Warwoman in the East. When the Cherokee chiefs voted to go to war, it could only happen if the Warwoman approved. Nancy Ward was born circa 1738 and was called Nanyehi in her native Cherokee language. She was no stranger to war. At the Battle of Taliwa in Ball Ground, Georgia, she helped her husband, Kingfisher, in battle by laying behind a log and chewing his bullets so that the resulting jagged edges might create more damage. When her husband was killed, Nancy picked up his rifle and continued the fight leading her people to victory. She was only 17. At the age of 18, she was awarded with the Cherokee title of “Ghigau”, a prestigious title meaning “beloved woman” or “war woman”, making her a member of the tribal council of chiefs. She was also named the leader of the Women’s Council of Clan Representatives and took over the role of ambassador and negotiator for her people. Through the difficult, war raved years of the Revolutionary War era, Nancy Ward continued promoting alliance and mutual friendship between the Cherokees and the colonists. She led the Cherokee in the implementation of farming, dairy production, and new loom weaving techniques that forever changed traditional roles in Cherokee society. She died in 1822, or possibly 1824, before the Cherokee were removed from their remaining lands during the Trail of Tears. In the 1930’s, after decades of logging had nearly destroyed the area, the Civilian Conservation Corps arrived to reforest and restore the natural beauty of the dell. There is small Forest Service park located at the site of the CCC camp of the 1930’s. No remains of the camp buildings exist. A series of stone structures, identified as trout hatcheries by a sign in the park, are the only remnants of the CCC at Warwoman Dell. Thanks to the hard work of the Civilian Conservation Corps, the area’s natural beauty can be appreciated today. Two moderately easy, family-friendly trails lead through this beautiful pocket of wilderness showcasing tall trees, dense vegetation, mosses, wildflowers, and three waterfalls. The hike visits the popular Becky Branch Falls, historic areas of Warwoman Dell and several smaller waterfalls on a 1.4 mile loop. While it’s not a long hike, it’s an exceptionally beautiful one. This is a fairly moderate, short trail, with parking and a roadside picnic spot. Directions: Traveling north US Hwy 441 in downtown Clayton, one block after US 76 comes in from the left, go east on Warwoman Dell [...]

Warwoman Dell2024-10-24T13:35:37-04:00

Outdoor Sites in Cornelia, GA

Cornelia City Park and the nearby Lake Russell Recreation Area are must-see destinations. Cornelia City Park features a picturesque walking trail, playgrounds, and picnic areas, making it a great spot for families and nature lovers. A short drive from town, Lake Russell offers scenic hiking trails, fishing, and boating opportunities within a peaceful forested setting. Visitors can also enjoy the stunning views from Chenocetah Tower, a historic stone tower located atop Chenocetah Mountain. The tower, built in the 1930s, provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, especially beautiful during the fall when the leaves change color. Cornelia’s mix of historic landmarks and natural beauty makes it a delightful stop for those exploring North Georgia.

Outdoor Sites in Cornelia, GA2024-10-24T13:09:32-04:00

Aska Road

Aska Road, located in the scenic Blue Ridge area of North Georgia, is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The area is well-known for its breathtaking landscapes, offering picturesque views of the Appalachian Mountains, pristine rivers, and lush forests. Aska Road winds through this stunning region, providing access to numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and the Toccoa River, which is a favorite spot for fishing, kayaking, and tubing. The road itself is a scenic drive, drawing visitors who want to take in the natural beauty while traveling deeper into the Blue Ridge Mountains. One of the key attractions along Aska Road is the Aska Adventure Area, a 17-mile long system of hiking and mountain biking trails that range from easy to more challenging routes. These trails wind through dense forests, open meadows, and along mountain ridges, offering stunning vistas and an immersive experience in nature. Popular trails include the Stanley Gap Trail, known for its moderate difficulty and rewarding views, and the Benton MacKaye Trail, which crosses the area as part of a longer journey through the Appalachian Mountains. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, the Aska Road area offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm

Aska Road2024-10-24T13:07:32-04:00

Welcome to the top of Georgia: Brasstown Bald

Brasstown Bald is 4,784 feet above sea level and is the highest point in North Georgia. Those who have visited have marveled at the unsurpassed views! Now you can view Brasstown Bald's Scenic vista in a whole new light - or dark? Coming in September & October, Astronomer, Alex Langoussis will guide you through the night atop Brasstown Bald's 360 degree veiew observation deck, where visitors will engage with wonders of the universe through galactic stories, expertise, and the use of a professional telescope. You could spend the evening being a "Gaurdian of the Galaxy" in learning about the magic of deep space and northern Georgia's incredible nightscape! Pre-registration is required for Friday night star gazing and there is a cost of $20.00 for 13 & up or $10.00 for ages 6-12. Events are subject to weather conditions, no pets, and people are encouraged to bring a flashlight and extra layer of clothers due to the cooler tempatures at night from higher elevation During the day there are several trails that lead up to Brasstown Bald, including Wagon Train Trail, Jack’s Knob Trail, where there is an access path to the Appalachian Trail. Arkaquah Trail follows high ridges to the Track Rock Archaeological area and Brasstown Bald Trail climbs 500 ft. in a half mile. Visitors can travel to Brasstown by car from State Rd. Hwy. 180 that can be accessed either coming from Helen or Hiawassee on 17/75 or by Blairsville on Hwy. 129. Once to the parking facility there is a steep, paved trail to the Visitor Information Center at the summit. Although difficult, this is an excellent hike for most people. Frequent stopping places along the path make it achievable for even the most out-of-shape hikers. A shuttle in the visitor parking provides access to the summit in addition to a picnic area for the public. The Visitors Center provides an unencumbered 360 view of the surrounding mountains and four states of North Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, and South Carolina. A museum and exhibit entitled “Man and the Mountain" shows rural mountain life, forestry in North Georgia and the diversifed wildlife in the area. For more info contact: Blairsville Ranger Office: 706-745-6928 or Brasstown Bald Visitors Information Center: 706-896-2556

Welcome to the top of Georgia: Brasstown Bald2024-10-24T12:38:29-04:00

Explore North Georgia State Parks

North Georgia State Parks include a variety of recreational activities besides camping and welcome travelers to explore “Our Neck of the Woods”. Enjoy your passion to see a waterfall, go horseback riding, canoeing, fishing, hiking, biking, or just have a picnic. The great State Parks of North Georgia are waiting for you to watch nature at it’s best! Moccasin Creek State Park Park (706) 947-3194 Reservations (800) 864-7275 Known as the park “where spring spends the summer,” Moccasin Creek is located on the shores of lovely 2,800-acre Lake Burton. Accessibility offers easy navigation for large RVs, children’s bicycles and wheelchairs. This also includes a fishing pier that sits above a trout-filled creek open only to physically challenged visitors, senior citizens and children. Smithgall Woods State Park Park (706) 878-3087 Reservations (800) 864-7275 Dukes Creek, one of North Georgia’s premier trout stream, runs through this spectacular mountain property and has become known for it’s catch-and-release fishing. Eighteen miles of roads and five miles of trails allow hikers and bicyclists to explore hardwoods, streams and wildlife. Dukes Creek Falls has a direct trail for cottage guests to view. Unicoi State Park Park (706) 878-2201 Reservations (800) 864-7275 Lodge (800) 573-9659 Unicoi State Park, named from the turnpike that was the early means of transportation, is over 1,050 acres of beautiful nature trails. It includes a 53 acre lake for non-motorized boats and a swimming beach. Enjoy flora, fauna and abundant wildlife as you picnic or hike a trail. Campsites and Cottages provide campers with many accommodations, including a 100 Room Lodge and Conference Center with a restaurant.

Explore North Georgia State Parks2024-10-24T12:34:13-04:00

Stovall Mill Covered Bridge

The Stovall Mill Covered Bridge, the smallest covered bridge in Georgia at one span wide and 36.8 feet long with queen-post truss, was built in 1895 by Will Pardue to span the Chickamauga Creek. An earlier covered bridge at this location, built by Fred Dover, who owned the water turbine powered grist mill, saw mill, shingle mill, and other businesses, was washed away after a storm in the early 1890’s. In 1917, Fred Stovall, Sr. purchased Dover’s enterprise and the bridge became known as Stovall Bridge. The mills are gone now, washed away in 1964, and only the remains of the dam are evident a few feet from the bridge. The Stovall Mill Covered Bridge was featured in the 1951 movie, “I’d Climb The Highest Mountain” starring Rory Calhoun, William Lundigan and Susan Haywood. The bridge has a variety of names including the Helen Bridge, Sautee Bridge, Nacoochee Bridge and Chickamauga Bridge. Only a short drive from the numerous attractions in the area and worth the trip, Stovall Mill Covered Bridge has a parking area, picnic area and historic marker. Location On the Old Clayton Highway, east of Sautee Directions From Helen, take State Road 75 south to State Road 17 (turn left). Turn left at the Old Sautee Store on State Road 255. The bridge is on the right.

Stovall Mill Covered Bridge2024-10-24T13:00:57-04:00
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