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Making memories is what life is all about! North Georgia offers so many things to do regardless of the season! Book your getaway in one of our beautiful cabins, many on streams, rivers, lakes and discover nature at a whole new level. Hike one of our beautiful trails, go horseback riding, take the kids to one of the apple houses and experience picking your own apples or strawberries, visit one of our fabulous wineries, enjoy a delicious meal at one or our local restaurants, check out some of the many stores, antiques and boutiques for a unique shopping experience and don't forget to take the kids to the wellknown "Big Foot Expedition", that all ages enjoy! Take memory photos and share them with us!

Your Local Guide to the North Georgia Mountains. Let the Vacation Guide in the Mountains help you find Events, Festivals, and Recreational Activities. Find the best local places to Eat, Shop, and lodge with handy Maps to make getting around easy.

Just find the # - for the advertiser’s location on the Local City Map or Centerfold Area Map.

Every Issue we will feature a Community Spotlight and

Next Ad Copy Deadline: June 9th

Summer Edition, Volume 18, Issue 3

Need Advertising Info? Call Kathleen Painter: 706-896-2412 or office: 888.896.2412

photo by Kathleen Painter

The Enchanted Valley of Hiawassee & Young Harris, Georgia

Nestled in the picturesque North Georgia mountains, the towns of Hiawassee and Young Harris offer a perfect summer escape for those seeking outdoor adventures, breathtaking scenery, and a tranquil lakeside atmosphere. From hiking trails, water sports, vineyards, and entertainment, there’s something for everyone in this charming region.

Whether you’ve come for a weekend or want to stay longer, everyone is greeted with small town friendliness in the Enchanted Valley. With natural beauty surrounding the towns of Hiawassee and Young Harris locals are always ready to share their knowledge of the best hiking, fishing, and magnificent views from the highest mountain tops.

Surrounded by 50,000 acres of Chattahoochee National Forest, outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves with choices of hiking trails offering varying levels of difficulty. Head to Brasstown Bald, the highest peak in Georgia, for panoramic views of four states from the observation deck. The Brasstown Bald Visitors center, with museum is Located on Hwy. 180 and has a paved trail to the top or shuttle available.

For more views, take a drive up to Bell Mountain or more rugged road to High Shoal Falls. For a more leisurely stroll, explore Cupid Falls by Young Harris College, where a cascading waterfall awaits at the end of the path.

For hikers the famous Appalachian Trail crosses Unicoi Mountain at Hwy. 17 /76 west of town. This trail draws hikers nationwide to see nature at it’s finest.

Also known by many is that Towns County has another 7,000 acres of waterfront owned by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), which built Lake Chatuge in 1941. Lake Chatuge’s many activities can be found at public parks, picnic areas and beaches. A variety of swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, & canoeing awaits.

Rent a pontoon boat and cruise along the serene waters, or try your hand at fishing for bass, trout, and catfish. For adrenaline junkies, jet skiing and wakeboarding offer thrills against the backdrop of majestic mountains.

Many accommodations can also guide visitors to outdoor time at one of the many golf courses, horseback riding stables or white water rafting adventures.

For many years, Hiawassee is known to be the home of the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds that host numerous events throughout the year with Live Concerts, Shows at Anderson Music Hall, Pioneer Village & Local Craft Events. Treat the kids to a day of fun at the Georgia Mountain Fair in August, where they can enjoy carnival rides, petting zoos, and interactive exhibits. The nearby Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens are also open year round with more than 3,000 plants surrounding the shoreline of Lake Chatuge.

Enjoy summer evenings in the city of Hiawassee on the Square including First Friday Markets with live music, food, & games held the first weekend of the month May - October. Saturdays also offer Music on the Square for visitors to bring a lawn chair and listen to a variety of country, bluegrass, and easy listening for your enjoyment Memorial Day - Labor Day Weekend.

Star Gazers will appreciate Rollins Planetarium which is located in the Maxwell Center building at Young Harris College and during season public shows are offered in this 100 seat planetarium under a 40-foot-diameter dome. The college also has an observatory, located on Georgia state property near the Brasstown Valley Resort, only a short distance from campus.

Restaurants feature everything from fine cuisine to barbecue, country cooking, treats and sweets. Many surrounding wineries also offer tastings & musical entertainment.

You’ll feel relaxed with the wide variety of accommodations. Stay overlooking a mountain or lake view in our many hotels, resorts, cabins, B&B’s, or campgrounds. No matter where you stay, you will feel welcomed by a friendly community who enjoys all the beauty this area has to offer.

“Come and stay where Georgia meets the Mountains”

For more information on Hiawassee & Young Harris visit: GoLakeChatuge.com

Road Trip To

The Backroads & Quite Communities of Blue Ridge, GAin Fannin County

Come experience the slower, more peaceful world. Nestled in the Appalachian foothills.these charming towns offer cozy country roads, friendly faces, and a deep connection to nature.

McCayesville / Copperhill

The area offers a delightful blend of history, nature, and adventure. The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway provides a nostalgic 26-mile round trip along the Toccoa/Ocoee River, with a stop in McCaysville, GA, & Copperhill, TN where visitors can stroll the historic steel truss bridge connecting the two states. The Riverwalk Shops in McCaysville offer riverside dining, shopping, & entertainment to enjoy the scenic surroundings.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Ocoee River near Copperhill is renowned for its whitewater rafting, featuring over 20 Class III and IV rapids, attracting adventurers from around the country. Horseshoe Bend Park in McCaysville is a popular spot for anglers and features the “Blue Line,” a painted line on the ground marking the GA-TN state border.

Mineral Bluff

Enjoy this charming mountain town known for its rich history and scenic beauty. The historic Mineral Bluff Depot, built in 1887 by the Marietta and North Georgia Railroad, served as a vital transportation hub until the late 1950s. Today, it houses the Tri-State Model Railroaders Club and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Epworth

The area is renowned for its natural beauty, offering access to the Toccoa River, which is popular for fishing and canoeing. Nearby, the Jacks River and Penitentiary Branch Loop Trail provides a challenging 13.5-mile hike through the Cohutta Wilderness, featuring river crossings and scenic views.

Morganton

The Morganton Point Recreation Area, located on Lake Blue Ridge, provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails and picnic areas within the Chattahoochee National Forest . Lake Blue Ridge also has Marina located on Old Highway 76, that has a launching ramp. Pontoon boat rentals, canoes, kayaks and paddleboards are also available to help provide recreation for your day at the lake.

Aska Rd. / Dial

The Aska Adventure Area features a 17-mile trail system ideal for hiking and mountain biking, with routes ranging from 1 to 5.5 miles . These trails wind through mature hardwood forests, ascend to panoramic mountain vistas, and descend to the serene shores of Lake Blue Ridge .

For water-based fun, the Toccoa River is a popular destination for a hot summer day for tubing and kayaking. Family-friendly gem mining & fishing experiences provide fun activities. Dining can also be experienced beside the river to offer relaxation and great food.

Visitors also enjoy scenic drives along Dial Road to ride by historic sites like the Van Zandt House, built in 1834, and the Cochran-Davenport House, constructed in 1885, both reflecting the rich heritage of the region.

Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, these backroads blend natural beauty and outdoor recreation.

Visit: www.blueridgemountains.com or Call 1-800-899-MTNS (6867)

Terri’s Treasure Trove

Morganton’s Cutest Gift Shop

Shop for soaps, local honey, jewelry, vintage items, antiques, home decor, and many gift items. Our creative gift items include socks, candles, Myra bags, locally made jams, sauces, salad dressings, plus so much more!

Picture yourself on a wooded riverbank with sweeping mountain vistas on the horizon and wildlife frolicking just out of reach. Picture yourself at Coosawattee River Resort: a private, gated community nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains

C 12 Miles of River Frontage

C Home Sites Available

C RV Lot Sales

C Meeting Facilities for up to 200

C Vacation Rentals (1, 2, & 3 Bedroom)

C Nightly Tent & RV Camping Available

C Year Round Indoor Heated Pool

C Two Outdoor Pools & Tennis Courts

C Fitness Center & Game Room

C Riverfront Parks & Playgrounds

C Vineyards, Hiking & Waterfalls Nearby

C Summer/Fall Concert Series

Welcome Boaters & Outdoor Enthusiasts, to Carters Lake

Nestled in the foothills of North Georgia, Carters Lake is a breathtaking destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its deep, clear waters and abundant fish population, the lake provides an ideal setting for recreational boating, fishing and cooling off on a hot day. Whether you’re chasing trophy-sized spotted bass, walleye, or crappie, it’s a good fishing opportunity.

Carters Lake Marina & Resort offers both lakeview and lakefront cabin rentals in addition to boat rentals to make it easy to enjoy the lake!

Beyond fishing, Carters Lake is a paradise for recreational activities and people are welcome to bring thier Kayaks and paddle boards to explore its serene coves, while hikers can take in the stunning mountain scenery along the trails surrounding the lake. With picnic areas, campgrounds, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s an excellent spot for families looking to escape into nature. Unlike some of Georgia’s busier lakes, Carters Lake offers a more peaceful, less crowded experience, making it a favorite for those seeking solitude and adventure alike.

For those looking to enjoy a weekend getaway, Carters Lake Marina & Resort provides all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. Whether you’re docking your own boat or renting one from the marina, the convenience and hospitality make the experience even better. If you’re searching for a beautiful, well-maintained outdoor retreat with world-class fishing and scenic recreation, Carters Lake is undoubtedly worth a visit.

Dahlonega

The Cherokee Homestead Exhibit, located in downtown Hayesville, is an outdoor exhibit which includes replicas of a 17th century winter house, summer house, corn crib, summer shelter, mound gardens, dugout canoe, and public art depicting elements of the Cherokee culture. The elements of the

HAYESVILLE

See centerfold map for more business locations.

Cherokee Homestead Exhibit

exhibit were researched and are as authentic and accurate as possible. Informational kiosks at the exhibit enable free self-guided tours at any time.

The winter house and summer house were constructed with upright locust poles which

support the rivercane woven sides and thatched roofs. Mud and straw daub create the plaster which was added to the woven sides of the winter house in order to enclose it against the cold winter weather. The circular fire pit would have been used for cooking, heat and light throughout the winter. The corn crib was constructed similar to the summer house and raised off the ground to prevent pilfering by animals. A shelter, located near the mound gardens, would have been used for a multitude of activities during warm weather, including basket making, flint knapping, and pounding corn kernels into corn meal. A dugout canoe constructed from the straight trunk of a poplar tree was placed under the summer house to shelter it from the elements.

Forged metal masks placed throughout the exhibit represent the seven Cherokee clans: bird, blue, deer, long hair, paint, wild potato, and wolf. A two-story wall mural shows representative elements of the Cherokee culture including petroglyphs, pottery, projectile points, tools, weapons, and woven baskets. The wall also contains plaques with Cherokee philosophical thoughts written in English and Cherokee Syllabary. Hand-forged metal disks have been placed on both sides of the fence atop the wall and contain iconic figures of Cherokee culture and legends.

Tours and workshops are provided by volunteers for public and private schools, colleges, adult classes and tour groups at the Cherokee Homestead Exhibit.

The Cherokee Homestead Exhibit is the site of the Cherokee Heritage Festival held from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on the third Saturday in September.

Sponsored by the Clay County Communities Revitalization Association, a non-profit 501C3 organization.

Please visit cccra-nc.org or write to PO Box 1533, Hayesville, NC 28904 for more information.

of North CaroliNa

Waterfalls

Fires Creek Falls aka Leatherwood Falls

This area has plenty of hiking trails, including a 25-mile Rim Trail. Fires Creek Falls is an absolutely beautiful waterfall with a sizable drop. It’s a must-see for waterfall enthusiasts.

From Hayesville, Hwy. 64 take Fires Creek Rd. to Fires Creek Wildlife Road. Follow road along Hiwassee River until you see the signs.

Branch Falls

The 20 foot Becky Branch Falls is easily observed from a wooden bridge which crosses the stream. Becky Branch Falls is accessed via the Bartram Trail.

Directions: From Clayton, Georgia go east on Warwoman Road (County Rd. 5) for just less than 3 mile to Poll Creek Road. Park on left side of road by a small branch. Follow the trail on the right side of the branch for about 200 yards to a bridge at the base of the falls.

Becky

Waterfalls

Anna Ruby Falls

Curtis Creek falls 153 feet and York Creek drops 50 feet down the slopes of Tray Mountain in twin waterfalls. The very steep 4/10 mile Anna Ruby Falls Trail is paved and has benches along the trail for sitting or resting while enjoying the beauty of the area.

Directions: from Helen, take GA 75 North one mile. Right on GA 356 for 1.5 miles, left on the entrance road to the falls.

Dukes Creek Falls

A well-designed trail winds its way into Dukes Creek Gorge, ending at the base of the falls which drop about 150 feet down sheer granite canyon into Dukes Creek.

Directions: Take GA 75 north from Helen for 1.5 miles. Turn left on GA 356 (75 Alternate) for 2.3 miles to the Richard Russell Scenic Highway. Turn right, go 2 miles to Dukes Creek Falls Recreation Area.

Dukes Creek Falls

BAVARIANFEST

May 24, 2025

Live Music and dancing all night. Food and beverages available for purchase. All Military (Active, retired and veterans) and a guest get in free with military ID. 6:00pm-11:00pm

BINGO

Tuesday and Friday Nights

April 4th until August 29th

$1,500 in cash prizes per night! Gates open at 6pm, games start at 7pm

Oktoberfest begins Sept. 4th, 2025

Sheltered, Private Hot Tub & Pool Table

3500 sq. ft / 5 BR / 4 BA

Mountain Views / Electric Fireplace

Grand Porch Flat Top Griddle / Fire Pit

4 Kings / 1 Queen / 1 Twin / Sleeps 13 GOLD MINERS CABIN

Private Hot Tub Behind the Cabin

Mountain Views / Electric Fireplace

Flat Top Griddle / Fire Pit

1 King / 1 Queen 5 Twins / Sleeps 9

HIDEAWAY CABIN

Private Hot Tub

3 BR / 2 BA / Mountain Views

Electric Fireplace / Large Deck

Flat Top Griddle / Fire Pit

3 Kings / Sleeps 6

FISHERMAN’S CABIN

Private Hot Tub Under Cabin

Overlooks River / Small Deck

Lofted A-frame / Flat Top Griddle

1 King / 1 Queen / 2 Twins

Sleeps 6

HILLTOP LOFT

Private Hot Tub on Deck

Mountain Views / Small Lofted A-frame

Flat Top Griddle / Fire Pit

1 Queen / 3 Twins Sleeps 5 (2 Adults, 3 Kids)

THE TREEHOUSE

Private Hot Tub Under Cabin

Overlooks Waterfall / Grand Porch

Flat Top Griddle

2 Queens / 1 Twin Sleeps 5

RIVERVIEW CABIN

Private Hot Tub on Deck

Mountain & River Views

Lofted A-frame / Spiral Staircase

Flat Top Griddle / Fire Pit

1 King / 1 Queen / 1 Twin / Sleeps 5

THE LOG CABIN

Built in 1928 / Hand Hewn Beams

No Hot Tub / Overlooks River

Electric Fireplace / Flat Top Griddle

1 King / 1 Queen Sleeps 4

COZY COTTAGE

Private Hot Tub on Porch

Over Natural Spring

Mountain Views / Parking Near Waterfall

Walking Trail to Cabin 1 Queen / Sleeps 2

The Minnehaha Trail, .4-mile in length, follows Fall Branch until it dead ends at Minnehaha Falls. This waterfall is approximately 100 feet high (falling and shoaling).

Clayton/Rabun County Area: Take U.S. 23/441 north from Tallulah Falls for three miles to the Rabun Beach Recreation Area sign. Turn left onto Old 441. Go 2.5 miles and take a left on Lake Rabun Road. Go 1 mile past Recreation area. Take a left on Low Gap Road. Follow Bear Gap road which forks to the left. Go 1.5 miles to the sign marking the trail on the right side of the road.

Minnehaha Falls

Blairsville

Three falls along a 3 mile section of the DeSoto Falls Trail are maintained for the hiker’s viewing convenience, and are designated as the lower (cascading 20 feet), the middle (falls about 80 feet) and the upper (about 200 feet) DeSoto Falls.

Directions: From Dahlonega travel north on US 19 for 13.5 miles to Turners Corner. At this intersection, turn left and proceed on US 129 for 4.2 miles. Shortly after the Walasi-yi Center is a left turn for the park.

DeSoto Falls

Spring / Summer calendar of Events

Please verify Event Dates in case of Rescheduling

Andrews

May 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30

Andrews Farmers Market

Old A&P Parking Lot

June 6, 13, 20, & 27

Andrews Farmers Market

Old A&P Parking Lot

Blairsville

July 4

May 2 – 3, 9 – 10, 23 – 24 & 30 – 31

4th of July

Meeks Park

Exclusive Winery VIP Tours

Paradise Hills, Winery Resort and Spa

May 2 & 3

North Georgia Hot Rod

Reunion & GM Truck Invasion

Meeks Park

May 24 – 25

Spring Arts, Crafts & Music Festival

Downtown Blairsville

May 24

Memorial Day Parade

Downtown Blairsville

June 6 – 7, 13 – 14, 20 – 21, & 27 – 28

Exclusive Winery VIP Tours

Paradise Hills, Winery Resort and Spa

June 7, 14, 21, & 28

Union County

Farmers Market

Union County Farmers Market

Annual Boat Parade

Lake Nottely

July 5

Union County

Farmers Market

Union County Farmers Market

Blue Ridge

May 2

Sugar Creek Races

Sugar Creek Raceway

May 8 – 25

Ripcord

Blue Ridge Community Theater

May 10

Georgia Mountain Classics

Annual Car Show

Downtown Blue Ridge City Park

May 24

Spring Arts in the Park

Downtown Park

June 7, 14, 21, & 28

Downtown Market Blue

Ridge

Downtown Park

July 4

Lake Blue Ridge Fireworks

Lake Blue Ridge Dam

Old Timers’ Parade

Downtown Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge Freedom 5K

Downtown Blue Ridge

Brasstown

June 6 – 8

Arts Tour

Various Locations

Cherry Log

May 2

5th Annual Clay Shoot

Noontootla Creek Farms

Clarkesville

May 6

PickleSham Palooza

Ruby C Fullbright Aquatic Center

May 10

Classic Belles Car Show

Habersham County Fairgrounds

May 18

Mountain Laurel Festival

Downtown Clarkesville

June 6 – 8

Arts Tour

Various Locations

June 18

9th Annual Car Show

Miles Through Time

July 5

Lake Burton Fun Run 2025

Laprade’s Marina

Clayton

May 3

Clayton Farmers Market

Covered Bridge Plaza

Spring / Summer calendar of Events

Please verify Event Dates in case of Rescheduling

May 10

Of These Mountains

Spring Marketplace

Rabun County Civic Center

Clayton Farmers Market

Covered Bridge Plaza

May 17

Armed Forces Day 5k

Currahee Brewing Company

May 17, 24, & 31

Clayton Farmers Market

Covered Bridge Plaza

June 6 – 8

Arts Tour

Various Locations

June 7

Ramshackle Street Festival

Cornelia

May 17

Cornelia Music Festival

Amphitheater

Dahlonega

May 3, 10, 17, 14, & 31

Downtown Farmers Market

Hancock Park

May 17 – 18

June 6 – 8

The Cottage - A Comedy Behind Closed Doors

Dillard Playhouse

Ellijay

May 2 – 4

Bearhoti Bike Fest

Mulberry Gap Adventures Base Camp

May 3

Downtown Clayton

June 7, 14, 21, & 28

Clayton Farmers Market

Covered Bridge Plaza

July 12 – 13

Painted Fern Festival

Rabun Civic Center

Copperhill / McCaysville

July 4 – 5

Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival

Public Square

May 31

Day in the Life of a Miner

Dahlonega Gold Museum

State Historic Site

June 6 – 8

Arts Tour

Various Locations

June 7, 14, 21, & 28

2025 Run for the Son 5k

Gilmer Scout Hut

May 3, 10, 17, 14, & 31

Ellijay Farmers & Artisans

Market

Downtown Ellijay

May 8 – 11

2025 Ellijay Songwriters

Festival

Downtown Ellijay

May 30 – 31

Mountain Mayhem

Pickleball Tournament

River Park

June 7, 14, 21, & 28

Ellijay Farmers & Artisans

Market

Downtown Ellijay

Hayesville

Annual Great American Rodeo

On the River

Downtown Farmers Market

Hancock Park

Dillard

May 30 – June 1

The Cottage - A Comedy Behind Closed Doors

Dillard Playhouse

June 6 – 8

Arts Tour

Various Locations

May 9 – 18