Article | Your North Georgia Vacation Guide

Community Spotlight: Dahlonega, GA

A Rich Experience Dahlonega, Georgia is a charming town rich with history, art and adventure. Originally Dahlonega was known for the Cherokee word meaning “yellow money” and was the site of the first major U.S. Gold rush in 1828, which was 21 years before California’s rush and is home today to the artifact-rich Dahlonega Gold Museum. The Historic 1836 Lumpkin County Courthouse is the home to the Dahlonega Gold Museum where visitors can see rare gold coins, artifacts, and history of the area. There is more to this town than it’s “golden history”, as Dahlonega has the greatest concentration of wineries in all of Georgia. Its fertile, mineral-rich soil produces amazingly versatile lines of European, French hybrids, and American wine grapes used in the making of many award-winning wines. Dahlonega’s restaurants range from cozy bistros to friendly cafés to metropolitan-chic delights. The downtown square also offers plenty of shopping including one of a kind boutiques, art galleries, historic tours & attractions, concerts in the park, and local wine tasting rooms. Festivals are an integral part of Dahlonega’s heritage and are perfect ways to take in the beauty of the outdoors. During the holiday’s, an Old Fashioned Christmas Celebration is held in December with lighting of luminaries, festivities, carolers, and Santa on the Square. Surrounding the area are a host of outdoor activities including Amicola State Park which is located just outside of Dahlonega on GA Hwy 52. The park was named “Amicalola” which means ‘tumbling waters’ by the Cherokee Indians for its spectacular waterfall, that is the highest waterfall in the Eastern U.S. at an awe-inspiring 729 feet. Dahlonega is home to the beginning of the Appalachian Trail, a 2,100 plus mile hiking trail that extends up the eastern United States from Georgia to Maine. The famous trail starts on Springer Mountain which is located just a few miles from the in Amicalola State Park & Lodge. The resort offers a variety of activities including hiking, camping, picnic, trout fishing, geocaching, conference center, lodging, and restaurant facility. Weather you like to fish, kayak, or hike, there are many places for outdoor adventures. Horseback riding is also a popular activity with many visitors with several locations to ride within the Chattahoochee National Forest area. Golfing just outside the Dahlonega area provides a relaxing day with spectacular views of the mountains and the Chestatee River. Voted Georgia's Best Small Town in 2022 by Southern Living, visitors are welcomed to lodge in a variety of accommodations including Cabins, Resorts, Historic B & B's, hotels or camping in the surrounding area. Just pack your bags, schedule some time and let Dahlonega's home town hospitality take care of the rest! Plan your visit today today and discover why “It's Pure Gold”. Stop in or call the Dahlonega Visitor’s Bureau at 13 Park Street. Call 1-800-231-5543 or go to www.dahlonega.org for more information.

Community Spotlight: Dahlonega, GASara Noto2025-10-23T10:35:44-04:00

Road Trip to Helen

From Atlanta, GA 88 mi From Chattanooga, TN 133mi From Asheville, NC 121 mi From Greenville, SC 98 mi Come visit the beautiful Alpine town of Helen in the heart of the Northeast Georgia Mountains. Experience walking through a fairytale of dreams from the villages of Germany with Bavarian style food, and fun for everyone. Many businesses go beyond the German brews, bratwurst, schnitzel and goulash to greet you in lederhosen and dirndl dress to welcome you with hospitality. Lighting of the Village kicking the festivities off is in late November. The charming, colorful pitched roofs drip with twinkling Christmas lights, and when lucky enough to get a rare touch of snow, the town looks like a Bavarian winter wonderland. Throughout the first two weekends of December, a traditional German market, Christkindlmarkt, has booths where visitors can shop for gifts, decorations, and sweet treats. Explore all Helen has to offer including some of these highlighted attractions in town or visit www.HelenChamber.com FESTHALLE Year Round Festivals held to celebrate seasonal events. Longest Oktoberfest in the South with authentic German music, dancing, costumes, food, & Beergarten! Trout Tournament in March, Springbierfest in April, Bavarianfest in May and Bingo March - September. CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER Headwaters of this historic 430 mile river that brings water to Georgia, Alabama, & Florida. Tubing, kayaking, and fishing is popular for visitors that come to Helen. Picnic by the river in City Park, walking trails along the river, or enjoy the views from many restaurants and lodging facilities. UNICOI STATE PARK & LODGE Facilities in the park include a Conference Center and Lodge, which can accommodate up to 200 people; cottages & campsites are also available. Enjoy the mountain views, large stone fireplace, and dine at the Unicoi Restaurant for fresh mountain trout. Many activities include concerts, art & craft shows, Festival of Trees, plus other events. ANNA RUBY FALLS & SMITH LAKE This short hike leads to water cascading over the drop offs is created by two creeks. The Curtis Creek falls drop 153 feet and the York Creek falls are much shorter but still spectacular 50 feet. Enjoy Hiking, Mountain Biking, Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Picnic, & Bird watching. Hikers can also walk the 4.6 mile Smith Creek Trail. NORA MILL GRANARY & GRIST MILL Established in 1870, this Historic Mill overlooks the Chattahoochee River and produces corn and wheat based products such as grits, cornmeal, pancake mixes, flours, biscuit & bread mixes. THE HARDMAN FARM Built in 1876 this Historic Farm is directly located across from the Nacoochee Indian Mound. House & Farm tours with History about the region and Hardman Heritage Trail walk along the Chattahoochee River to downtown Helen.

Road Trip to HelenSara Noto2025-10-23T10:35:17-04:00

Vogel State Park

Nestled in the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest, Vogel State Park is one of Georgia’s favorite destinations. Established in 1931, Vogel, is the second oldest state park in Georgia and rises 2,500 feet above sea level. The entire area around Vogel was once linked to the Native Americans and the State Park sits at the base of Blood Mountain, the highest summit on the Appalachian Trail in Georgia. Driving from the south, visitors pass through Neel Gap, a beautiful mountain pass near Brasstown Bald, which is the highest point in Georgia. The history of the “Vogel” name starts in the 20th century when Augustus Vogel and Fred Vogel Jr. began a lumber mill in Union County. The mill employed many of the men in the county to cut and process lumber from the 65,000 acres of land owned by the Pfister Vogel Leather Company. They were the second generation of Vogels to run a leather company in Milwaukee with Charles Frederick Pfister, and the lumber in the North Georgia mountains was an excellent source for tannin (or tannic acid), an important raw material in the tanning process. Oak trees are a major source tannic acid, although most trees have at least some tannin in them. Since this required harvesting a large number of oak, the Vogels also set up a lumber mill on the site of present-day Vogel State Park. Unfortunately, the state of Georgia entered an economic downturn in the mid-1920’s and the lumber mill was no longer economically feasible. In 1929 the Vogels donated nearly 259 acres to the state, much of it still encompassed within the 233-acres within Vogel State Park. This park shares a timeless connection with its Civilian Conservation Corps builders that dammed Wolf Creek to form Lake Trahlyta and built housing around the lake for the CCC boys. The 22-acre Lake Trahlyta is named for the Cherokee maiden whose grave sits at the center of Stonepile Gap. Georgia’s poet laureate, Bryon Herbert Reece, was born in a cabin on the land where Lake Trahlyta now sits. The rest of the land donated by the Vogels is under the Chattahoochee National Forest and includes the stone building now known as Mountain Crossings at Walasi-yi and Nottla or Nottely Falls, east of the Byron Herbert Reese Trail parking lot. Originally, Walasi-yi was a restaurant run by the state. Directly by Vogel is the Byron Herbert Reece Farm and Heritage Center that celebrates the life of this famous poet who received numerous awards for his writing. The center has wonderful displays, restoration of the Reece writing studio, authentic farm buildings and equipment, plus self-guided tours. Vogel State Park offers a variety of hiking, swimming, fishing and enjoying family time in a diverse mountain landscape. An easy 1.0 mile hiking trail circles the lake, allowing access to fishing docks and the boathouse. A 0.1 miles side trail takes hikers down to Trahlyta Falls, also know as Spillway Falls. A spur trail off the Trahlyta Lake Loop [...]

Vogel State ParkSara Noto2025-10-23T12:29:14-04:00

Black Rock Mountain State Park

Black Rock Mountain State Park is named after its sheer cliffs of dark-colored biotite gneiss. The dark granite wall of the mountain, which is visible and easily identifiable from long distances, makes it a notable feature of the park. It straddles the Eastern Continental Divide at an elevation of 3,640 feet and includes four other peaks over 3,000 feet in elevation, making it the highest state park in Georgia. Within Black Rock Mountain State Park, there are four scenic overlooks. The Cowee Overlook sits almost directly above the Ada-Hi Falls, park here and a short 0.2 mile walk will take you to the 35’ high falls. The Nantahala Overlook is in the Tent and RV parking circle. The Blue Ridge Overlook is on the road to the Visitor Center and the Black Rock Overlook is adjacent to the Visitors Center. These overlooks offer 80 mile vistas of the southern Appalachian Mountains as well as Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Plentiful flora and fauna and impressive views make it one of the best state parks for the outdoors enthusiast in the state. Four hiking trails lead visitors past wildflowers, streams, small waterfalls and lush forests. The shortest hike is Ada-Hi Falls Nature Trail at only 2/10 of a mile. It takes visitors to the beautiful Ada-Hi Falls. The Black Rock Lake trail is an easy half mile loop around the lake and is mostly used by fishermen to access the water. The Tennessee Rock Trail is a bit longer than the previous trails, but it is still only 2.2 miles. This trail explores the northwest slope of Black Rock Mountain. A moderate climb ascends to the ridge, crosses the mountain’s highpoint on the Eastern Continental Divide and reaches Tennessee Rock with excellent valley views. The longest trail in Black Rock Mountain State park is the 6.7 mile James E. Edmonds Backcountry Loop Trail that winds over Scruggs Knob and Lookoff Mountain. QUICK FACTS 1,743 Acres 44 Campsites 12 Walk-in Campsites 4 Backcountry Campsites 10 Cottages 2 Picnic Shelters 17-Acre Lake Summit Visitor Center & Gift Shop 5 Hiking Trails covering 11 miles Turtle Rock Fishing Pier (wheelchair-accessible) Marie Mellinger Center Children’s playground Season: March 16–November 30 Park Hours: 7 am–10 pm Office Hours: 8 am–5 pm $5 parking Black Rock Mountain State Park P.O Drawer A, Mountain City, GA 30562 (706) 746-2141

Black Rock Mountain State ParkSara Noto2025-10-23T12:24:30-04:00

Biking in the North Georgia Mountains

Mountain cycling in North Georgia offers the best views overlooking lakes, lush forests, streams, and rivers, in pristine State Parks/Wildlife Management areas. Starting from rolling hills to steep mountain grades many trail rides offer a variety of degrees from the novice to experienced to go through the backcountry of these beautiful mountains. It is highly recommended that all levels of skill be prepared for your trail ride.Â Complete information about the trail, which includes distance, terrain, weather conditions, plus good equipment and supplies for your excursion, will help to make the trip enjoyable. Organizations such as IMBA, SORBA, SABA, NGCA, and NGBDA can tell you specifics about trails, races, and other group ride events. Visit a local bicycle shop, listed in our area directory for further information. Websites we like include www.trails.com and www.dirtworld.com Listed below are just a few of the numerous biking trails over a broad range of North Georgia”™s eight counties to explore. Happy Trails! Ladyslipper - Cornelia - 7.2 miles Jasus Creek Loop - Helen - 12 miles Tallulah Gorge State Park - Shortline Rail Trail - 2.4 miles Tallulah Gorge State Park - Tallulah Gorge Trail - 20 miles White Twister - Clayton - 4 miles Cooper Creek - Blairsville - 12.4 miles Davenport Mountain - Blairsville - 5 miles Sosbee Cove Suches - 7.8 - miles Duncan Ridge - Suches - 20.5 miles Flat Creek Loop - Blue Ridge - 6 miles Hickey Knob - Blue Ridge - 4.6 miles Long Branch Loop - Blue Ridge - 2.3 miles Bear Creek - Ellijay - 8 miles Mountaintown Creek - Ellijay - 19 miles Ridgeway Bike Trail - Ellijay - 5.6 miles Rich Mtn Wildlife Mgmnt Area - Ellijay - 6 miles Bull Mtn / Moss Creek - Dahlonega - 11.3 miles Montgomery Creek Loop - Dahlonega - 8.5 miles Turner Creek Loop - Dahlonega - 4.4 miles

Biking in the North Georgia Mountainsmtnlakepub2025-10-23T10:34:28-04:00

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 DellSara Noto2025-10-23T10:33:16-04:00

Take a Walk on the Appalachian Trail

Every year, between March 15 and May 1, two to three thousand hikers begin a 2,184 mile long journey on the Appalachian Trail. They will hike from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. Their trek will take five to six months and cross fourteen states. Only about ten percent of all who begin will finish the entire length of the trail. But everyone who attempts this journey will leave the trail a changed person. The Appalachian Trail does not care about one’s physical qualities, it is truly a test of mental fortitude. If you can, you will be rewarded with spectacular vistas, amazing wildlife encounters, and deep, genuine friendships with people you would never have met in your normal life. You will find waterfalls, caves, and rock formations that most people never get to see. You will get a glimpse of the vastness of creation and the tiny miracles that keep it all running. You will develop the soul of a poet, the eye of an artist, and the determination of… well, of a hiker. You will develop a quiet confidence that comes from knowing that you have already done the most difficult thing you will ever have to do in your life. It's all down hill from there. Easy trail access from several points in North Georgia. Springer Mtn. at Amicalolah Falls Hwy. 129 at Blood Mtn. Hwy. 75 at Unicoi Mtn. Hwy. 76 between Towns/Rabun Counties

Take a Walk on the Appalachian TrailSara Noto2025-10-23T10:32:36-04:00

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