blue ridge

From Atlanta, GA 93 mi From Chattanooga, TN 83 mi From Asheville, NC 135 mi From Greenville, SC 153 mi The town of Blue Ridge was once considered an elite health resort because of its pure mineral waters. Blue Ridge was founded in 1886 as a result of the arrival of the Marietta and North Georgia Railroad. Because of the railroad, Blue Ridge developed as a center of business and in 1895 the county seat was moved from Morganton to Blue Ridge. The historical Main Street now features shops and small eateries where visitors can sit a spell on the benches along the way. Spend a day exploring the many unique shops, and galleries that line the town. Taste local homemade pies and jams from the areas many orchard farms. The weather in Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains is simply stunning. Blooming flowers in Spring & Summer and cool days and crisp nights in the Fall. During the winter days are highs 50’s, can be freezing at night. Snow usually blankets the mountains 3 or 4 times a year. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, peace of mind, or a little excitement, Blue Ridge has history, scenic beauty, and a small town atmosphere with many activities. The Blue Ridge Depot & Scenic Railway- This historic railroad depot remains the central focus in downtown Blue Ridge and although the first depot burned, the present station was built in 1906. Enjoy a train ride from Blue Ridge to McCaysville and experience gorgeous foliage in the fall and a ride with Santa and his elves for Christmas. The train route consists of a 26-mile round trip through historic Murphy Junction along the beautiful Toccoa River. Baugh House- is owned by the Fannin County Heritage Foundation located at 411 West First Street. It is open to the public on Friday and Saturday from 10:00 to 3:00. The home was built by James Baugh in 1890. The Art Center / Historic Fannin County Courthouse- built in 1937 and is now the home of the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association’s Arts Center where visitors can view the galleries see rotating exhibits. Lake Blue Ridge- The crystal clear aquamarine waters of Lake Blue Ridge make it one of Georgia’s most picturesque mountain lakes. The 3,290-acre lake and surrounding area offers boating, swimming, hiking camping, picnicking, water skiing and fishing. 80 percent of the shoreline on Lake Blue Ridge is in the Chattahoochee National Forest, managed by the USDA Forest Service. Toccoa River- The north-flowing river feeds Lake Blue Ridge. The river flows soothingly for about 15 miles north of the dam. The dam-runoff from the reservoir provides great trout fishing; fishermen should only wade-fish the Toccoa River below the dam when TVA is not generating electricity. The Toccoa River becomes hazardous quickly when they release, so be sure to check the dam release schedule before planning your trip. Morganton Point Recreation Area is the place to take the kids to the “beach” on Lake Blue Ridge. [...]