Discover North Georgia 2019

DISCOVER FUN Check out these annual festivals

ADVENTURE Taste what North Georgia has to offer

DISCOVERY Explore three of our favorite hidden gems

LEISURE Get in touch with nature at these area parks

A publication of Metro Market Media

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The Schoolbus Graveyard; an artists haven AUSTIN STEELE | The Times

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Check out these festivals Explore three of our favorite hidden gems

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Get in touch with nature at these area parks

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Grab a bite at someplace local

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Visit these farmers market

Cover by NICK BOWMAN | The Times Kyle Garrett, left, and Alexis Ransom take in the view from Yonah Mountain.

WELCOME TO DISCOVER NORTH GEORGIA The annual leisure and information guide produced by the staff of Metro Market Media offers tips on places to go and things to do in and around Lake Lanier and Northeast Georgia. We hope you find it fun and useful. If you have ideas to include in future editions, email us at life@gainesvilletimes.com.

A new brewery comes to Forsyth . . . . . . 18 North Georgia map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Wineries and distilleries . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Lake Lanier marinas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Lake Lanier campsites . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 The perfect places to zipline . . . . . . . . . 38 Discover North Georgia is a publication of The Times, 345 Green St., Gainesville, Ga. A Metro Market Media Inc. property.

Norman Baggs

Leah Nelson

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Discover North Georgia 2019 | 3

FESTIVALS

AUSTIN STEELE | The Times Attendees make their way through the Spring Chicken Festival trying a variety of chicken from various groups in April at Longwood Park.

Feeling festive? Check out these seasonal favorites

By Layne Saliba lsaliba@gainesvilletimes.com

T

here’s always something going on in North Georgia. If you’re looking to get out and meander your way through crowds of locals and visitors alike, you’ve come to the right place. No matter the season and no matter the weather, North Georgia has a festival or event to suit you.

SUMMER

Georgia Mountain Fair

The 69th annual Georgia Mountain Fair will bring thousands of visitors from all over the state and the Southeast. The weeklong festivities feature live music courtesy of bands and artists from all over, arts and crafts, carnival rides, North Georgia history demonstrations, a photography show and even a worship service on Sunday.

When: July 19 - 27 Where: Georgia Mountain Fair Grounds, 1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawassee More info:www. georgiamountainfairgrounds.com/events/ georgia-mountain-fair

Butternut Creek Festival 4 | Discover North Georgia 2019

This annual festival at the picturesque Meeks Park along the Butternut Creek brings out the work of 70-75 artists and craftsmen each year. You’ll be able to find candles and soap, fine art, fabric art, decorative painting, glass and jewelry along with demonstrations of metal working, pottery, basketry and woodturning.

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m July 20 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 21 Where: Meeks Park, 490 Meeks Park Road, Blairsville More info: www.butternutcreekfestival.com

Atlanta Dragon Boat Festival The annual festival brings teams from all over the state to Lake Lanier to compete against each other in this iconic Hong Kong-born race on the water. The boats — fitted with ornate dragon heads on the front and tails on the back — are packed with competitors who then paddle their way down the course, hoping to beat the others. On top of the races, you’ll be able to learn about Chinese culture through traditions in the opening ceremonies as well as taste food from around the world from vendors on site.

When: Noon to 5 p.m. Sept. 8

Where: Lake Lanier Olympic Park, 3105 Clarks Bridge Road, Gainesville More info: www.dragonboatatlanta.com

Lavender Fest

If you want to have your senses tingled, this is the place to be. The eighthannual Lavender Fest offers a chance to walk through fields of lavender in the Appalachian foothills while picking some to take home. There will be lavenderbased foods and products for you to purchase, too.

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 22 Where: The Lavender Cottage & Garden, 53 GA-255, Sautee Nacoochee More info: shop.thelavendercottageandgarden.com

Dahlonega 4th of July Celebration

There’s something special about watching fireworks in the mountains and Dahlonega has some of the best. With plenty of things to do around the historic downtown square before the sun goes down and plenty of room to spread a blanket in the grass once it does, you’re sure to have a good time. There’s almost

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no bad place to see the show from. And if you get to Dahlonega early, you’ll be able to catch the parade at 11 a.m. and a car show until 4 p.m.

When: 8 a.m. to dark Thursday, July 4 Where: Dahlonega More info: www.dahlonega4thofjuly.com

brings out the best of the little mountain town. You’ll find over 300 art and craft exhibitors along with food vendors, live music and activities for the whole family.

When: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Oct. 19-20 Where: Historic Dahlonega Square More info: goldrushdaysfestival.com

FALL

Chattahoochee Mountain Fair

Mule Camp Market

tube down a snowy hill and roast s’mores around bonfires. You don’t want to miss this 25-plus year tradition.

When: Nov. 16 through the beginning of January Where: 7650 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford More info: www.lanierislands.com/ margaritaville

Mule Camp Market is one of Gainesville’s largest festivals and draws crowds from all over. Guests walk up and down the streets surrounding the downtown square, looking at handmade goods and other items for sale. You won’t be able to walk far without smelling some of that good fried festival food, and good luck pulling the kids away from the carnival rides.

When: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 11-12 and noon to 5 p.m. Oct. 13 Where: Gainesville square More info: www.gainesvillejaycees.org/ about/projects/mule-camp/

The Clarkesville Mountain Fair has been around since 1975 and it is a true mountain festival. There are classic festival events like carnival rides, a petting zoo and a cake walk. There’s even livestock judging, a tractor exhibit and a rodeo. If you make your way to Clarkesville for this festival, you’re sure to find something that excites everyone in your family and you may even find a new interest.

When: Sept. 6-14 Where: 182 Highway 17, Clarkesville How much: $5 for adults; $3 for ages 5-12; free for children 4 and younger More info: www.chattahoocheemountainfair.org

WINTER

Oktoberfest

Big Red Apple Festival

Have you ever wanted to tube down the Chattahoochee river in the cold?

Well, that’s exactly what you can do at the Fasching River Parade and Party, an annual festival based on carnivals in Germany. After the parade in Helen, with participants dressed in Bavarian garb, everyone hops in a tube and floats down the river — drinks in hand — before heading to a party to close out the day.

When: February 2020 Where: Helen

If you can’t make it to Germany, try the next best thing: Helen. The Bavarian town will transport you to the streets of Germany and during Oktoberfest you’ll feel like you’re truly there. The 49th year will bring German music, dancing, food and plenty of beer, of course.

When: Sept. 5-8, Sept. 12-15, Sept. 19-22, Sept. 26 - Oct. 27 Where: Helen Festhalle, 1074 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen How much: $8 Monday through Friday; $10 Saturdays; free Sundays More info: www.helenchamber.com

Cumming Country Fair and Festival

Celebrating its 25th year, the Cumming Country Fair offers live music, festival food and carnival rides along with a bit of history. The Cumming Fairgrounds is a location not to miss as Lady Houdini, a human cannonball, puppet shows and a petting zoo will all make an appearance.

When: Oct. 3-13 Where: Cumming Fairground, 235 Castleberry Road, Cumming More info: cummingfair.squarespace.com/ cumming-country-fair-festival

Gold Rush Days

Celebrate Dahlonega’s discovery of gold at the city’s annual Gold Rush Days. As the leaves are turning their best shades, the festival — and the drive to it — 6 | Discover North Georgia 2019

Cornelia’s Big Red Apple Festival always pleases with its arts and crafts as well as hayrides. There’s plenty of live entertainment, food vendors, a kids’ zone, corn hole tournament and a classic car show, too, at the festival’s 32nd event. The biggest draw, though, is that big red apple monument. Be sure to snap a photo in front of it for all your friends to see.

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 28 Where: Downtown Cornelia, 181 Larkin St., Cornelia More info: www.corneliageorgia.org

Mountain Moonshine Festival

The Mountain Moonshine Festival is in its 52nd year and is one not to be missed.

The festival features a car show, live music, food, arts, crafts and everything else you could want from a fall festival.

When: Friday Oct. 25 - Sunday Oct. 27 Where: Downtown Dawsonville, 415 Highway 53 E., Dawsonville More info: business.dawson.org/events/ details/mountain-moonshine-festival-15021

Magical Nights of Lights

When it comes to fun for the whole family, there’s no shortage at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands. The seven-mile Christmas lights display you’ll drive through at the park will lead you right to the fun at License to Chill Snow Island where you can ride carnival rides,

Jingle Mingle

The downtown Gainesville square turns into a winter wonderland each and every year at this festival. The festival culminates at dark when a giant chicken — Gainesville is the Poultry Capital of the World, after all — is lit like a tree on top of one of the downtown buildings.

When: 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23 Where: Downtown Gainesville square, 301 Main St., Gainesville More info: www.gainesville.org/fm/events/ detail/id/2256

Fasching Festival

Christmas on Green Street

Historic houses line Green Street in Gainesville and during this Christmas festival, you’ll have the chance to stop by them all. A parade of antique cars, floats and marching bands will take over the street to start things off, and afterward, more music can be enjoyed at the homes.

There will be magicians, face painting, balloon artists, Santa Claus and of course, a tree lighting, so be sure to let the kids tag along to this one.

When: 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8 Where: 830 Green St., Gainesville More info: www.gainesville.org/fm/events/ detail/id/2257

Polar Bear Plunge

Jumping into the lake during the winter may not sound like much fun, but when you’re helping raise money for a local sporting program, the water doesn’t seem as cold. This annual event at the Lanier

Canoe and Kayak Club’s boat house raises money for the club to be able to participate in different events. It’s a popular event with many dressed in fun outfits trying to make the biggest splash in the frigid waters.

When: 10:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 1 Where: Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club, 3105 Clarks Bridge Road, Gainesville

Secret Santa Car Show and Festival

The Secret Santa Car Show is a non-profit event created to raise funds in support of the Secret Santa Project bringing holiday cheer and winter clothing to children and their families in need. Now in its ninth year, The Secret Santa Car Show has grown into a fall festival with families enjoying fun activities and good food on the campus of the University of North Georgia in Oakwood.

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 19, 2019 University of North Georgia Where 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood More info: www.secretsantacarshow.com

SPRING

Bear on the Square

Musicians from all across the region make their way to the Bear on the

Square festival each year to join in on the Appalachian fun. The weekend includes performances by up-and-coming bands in the bluegrass genre and has an art market with local, handmade items for sale.

When: April 18-19 Where: Dahlonega square More info: www.bearonthesquare.org

first. Whoever bought that duck wins $10,000 cash and the runners-up win other pretty nice prizes. All proceeds go to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Lanier.

When: 3 to 9 p.m. Saturday, May 9 Where: Lake Lanier Olympic Park, 3105 Clarks Bridge Road, Gainesville More info: www.duckrace.com/gainesville

Spring Chicken Festival

Strawberry U-pick Day at Jaemor Farms

Get your fill of chicken for just $6 at the Spring Chicken Festival. After you purchase a “cluck card,” you’ll have access to 10 samples of chicken from 21 teams competing for the top prize. Grab your samples — which are much larger than you’d expect — find a spot in the shade near the lake and enjoy whatever flavors the teams came up with.

When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 25 Where: Longwood Park, 20 Pearl Nix Parkway, Gainesville More info: www.gainesville.org/springchicken-festival

Rubber Duck Derby

Thousands of rubber ducks are dumped into Lake Lanier from a barge, each one with a number written on the bottom.

As the ducks float along a roped-off lane in the lake, spectators watch, hoping the duck they bought reaches the finish line

At this U-Pick event at Jaemor Farms, families come together to walk through the strawberry fields and pick a gallon of fresh strawberries. Get there early, because you don’t want them all picked before you arrive.

When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 2 Where: Jaemor Farms, 5340 Cornelia Highway, Alto More info: www.jaemorfarms.com/ strawberry-festival

Lula Railroad Days

Lula has always claimed to be a railroad town. So, to celebrate its heritage, it hosts the Railroad Days festival. Don’t forget the parade that kicks things off in the morning.

When: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 9 Where: 5959 Athens St., Lula More info: www.cityoflula.com/event/

Discover North Georgia 2019 | 7

Explore three of our favorite hidden gems

By Nick Bowman

North Georgia has a real surplus of fun stops and exciting towns, from tubing in Helen to sipping wine in Dahlonega, from picking apples in Blue Ridge to seeing the glory of Tallulah Gorge.

But let us tell you about a few of our less-traveled favorites — three towns where reporters at The Times have traveled, taken in the sights and learned a bit about the culture that makes each one unique.

Let’s talk a bit about Clayton in Rabun County, Gillsville in Hall County and Blairsville in Union County.

8 | Discover North Georgia 2019

Photos by NICK BOWMAN | The Times Fortify Pie is serving wood-fired brick oven pizza in downtown Clayton — a far cry from the greasy pies to which small-town Georgia might be accustomed.

Epicurious in Clayton

A

s the leaves turn and the heat abates, Clayton is not to be missed for the Georgia family looking to get into the mountains. But budget a weekend for this trip — you can’t eat, shop and walk your way through this town in a day without putting your life in danger.

And now that you know how to get there and how much time you’ll need, let’s dig in.

Clayton’s downtown blooms from the intersection of Main and Savannah streets, forming an old-town strip dotted with restaurants, antique shops, boutiques and the goliath retail operation that is the series of Reeves stores, which act as the community’s traditional general store selling everything from scented candles to farm seed — putting up a mighty fight against the big-box stores that have sprung up on the way into town.

Main Street is where the action is on restaurants, bookended

by Clayton Pharmacy in the south and Rumor Hazit, a seafood place with a funny name, in the north.

Between them are Fortify Kitchen and Bar and Fortify Pi — the two restaurants that kicked off the culinary revival in downtown Clayton and which led the charge on Rabun County’s designation in 2015 as the farm-to-table capital of Georgia — Clark’s on Main, The Farm House (a doughnut and furniture shop, a combination that is as beautiful as it is nonsensical), the Clayton Cafe, The Wicked Pig, Universal Joint and probably some others.

Downtown Clayton’s also within striking distance of the Georgia Mountain Market, Tiger Mountain Vineyards or Stonewall Creek Vineyards just south of Clayton.

In other words, it’s worth a weekend. Check out the hotels around Clayton or flip through the endless cottages, cabins and homes available on websites like AirBnb. Maybe the next time you’re thinking about a trip to Atlanta, head for the hills instead.

Walking among them up and down Main Street, one is struck by another thought: Clayton is cool.

Nick Bowman

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The potters of Gillsville Driving through Gillsville, pottery shops dominate the roadsides, greeting people with folk face jugs, pitchers, crocks and other clay creations.

While many of the stores are equipped with signs and small, gravel parking lots, others are tucked away from the highway behind homes in hand-built shacks with dirt or concrete floors.

The hum of the potter’s wheel, quiet smoothing of moist clay and heat from the kilns suffuse these shops, each similar in their craft, but different in style.

Angry devils, smiling characters surrealist monsters, each potter in Gillsville incorporates a range of expressions and inspiration into their face jugs.

Pottery is more than an artform embraced by the people of Gillsville, it has sustained the livelihood of residents for more than a century.

Local potters credit the earth underneath the community on the Hall-Banks line to the east of Gainesville for the existence of Gillsville’s pottery industry.

“There was a good vein of clay in this area,”

said Mike Craven, owner of Craven Family Pottery. “At the time when you had to haul clay on horse and wagon, you had to be close.”

At a quick glance, the potter can figure out the creator behind each piece of pottery, or at least its family origins. One example of his signature work includes a fish-shaped clay pitcher. Craven carefully lifts each scale of the fish with a straw, to create a 3D effect.

Wayne Hewell, who has blood ties to Hewell’s Pottery Inc., said his family has generations of potters dating back to 1850, but it wasn’t until around 1900 that the Hewells settled in Gillsville.

“It was just a way of life,” he said. “It was just what we’d done; it was a job.”

Hewell has been making pottery for 50 years.

He remembers turning pots as a kid with his dad, Carl, and uncle, Harold.

Hewell started working full-time for his uncle Harold, who owned Hewell’s Pottery at the time, once he graduated from high school.

He said the shop is now run by his uncle’s grandsons, Matthew and Nathaniel.

After 10 years working under his uncle, Wayne Hewell left to make pottery for Billy Joe Craven, the founder of Craven Pottery Inc. He worked there for 20 years before building his own kiln to make pottery from home. He now mixes his own glazes and works in a studio along a dirt path leading to a chicken house in Gillsville.

Hewell’s Pottery Inc. 6035 Ga. 52, Gillsville

Bobby Ferguson Traditional Pottery 6468 Old Gillsville Road, Gillsville

Craven Pottery Inc. 6640 Ga. 52, Gillsville

Craven Family Pottery 6616 Ga. 52, Gillsville

Crocker Folk Pottery 6717 Diamond Hill Road, Gillsville

Sims Pottery 2057 Ga. 323, Gillsville

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“As far as pottery in Gillsville, Wayne is probably the only one you can actually say is a true folk potter because he turns his stuff and he fires it in a wood-burning kiln,” said Stanley Ferguson, potter at Bobby Ferguson Traditional Pottery.

Stanley, who is now 62 years old, said he grew up learning to make clay from his dad, Bobby. His pottery roots run six generations to Charles H. Ferguson, who was the first documented potter in his family.

For a deep dive into the history of folk pottery in Gillsville and other parts of Northeast Georgia, Stanley recommends reading “Brothers in Clay” or “From Mud to Jug,” both by John A. Burrison.

Kelsey Richardson

Photos by SCOTT ROGERS | The Times Above: Dwayne L. Crocker has been throwing pottery almost his entire life. His specialty is his detailed face jugs. Left: Jordan Wilmoth adds color to a cup she made at Craven Pottery in Gillsville. Wilmoth learned how to make pottery through classes taught by Mike Craven.

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A blast in Blairsville The winding roads and stops along the way to Blairsville are beautiful, so take the trip slow and enjoy the view and, if you’re on your way in fall, the color of the leaves as they change. Also, take it slow because there are cyclists around every turn.

The first stop you’ll want to make is at Vogel State Park. It’s about 10 miles before you get to downtown Blairsville and has everything you and the kids could ask for. Now, you could spend all day here and be perfectly happy with the camping, swimming, paddle boards and boats, hiking and putt-putt.

But there’s so much more to see, so don’t wrap up after a few holes of mini-golf.

With 17 miles of hiking trails, some of which lead to beautiful waterfalls, Vogel State Park is the place to be if you love the outdoors. It’s open daily 7 a.m to 10 p.m and costs $5 for parking.

If you can pull the family away after a few hours at the park, you’ll have to refuel.

That’s where The Griddle Cafe & Deli comes in. A 15-minute drive from Vogel, this joint is tucked in the corner of an unassuming strip of stores up on a hill at 19C Cobalt St. You’ll have to pass through downtown to get to it, but don’t worry, you’ll be going back there later.

It’s reminiscent of the ’50s diner with red-andwhite striped tables, retro bar stools and a busy atmosphere.

Breakfast is served all day, and The Griddle Cafe is known for pancakes as big as your plate.

“They’re just great pancakes,” said William Mercer, a Blairsville resident who was at the restaurant with his wife, Cindy. “A lot better than the other places in town, that’s for sure.”

“His mom is the best cook I’ve ever known,” Cindy chimed in. “So if he thinks a place has good food, it has good food, because he’s got high standards.”

One of the more unusual shops is The Shabby Peacock. You could spend all day with the clothing alone, but there are plenty of knick-knacks to check out, too. Need a wind chime? How about a tiara?

The Peacock has you covered.

Now it’s decision time: Take a 10-minute drive west to one of Blairsville’s wineries, Odom Springs Vineyards, or stay where you are on the town square and relax with coffee and dessert before heading home.

If you’re the wine-drinking type, Odom Springs is where you’ll want to head. Keep an eye out for the sign or you’ll miss the long, gravel driveway that leads to the winery and its iron arch.

The peaceful vineyard centers around a pond with a gazebo and pavilion on the bank. The porch on the back of the winery has tables and chairs for you to enjoy a taste of any of their wines for $1.

Layne Saliba

12 | Discover North Georgia 2019

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NICK BOWMAN | The Times Alexis Ransom, left, and Kyle Garrett lounge in a hammock near the summit of Yonah Mountain north of Cleveland in White County in summer 2017.

Catch a campspot, take a hike at these scenic parks

By Kelsey Richardson krichardson@gainesvilletimes.com

W

ith its mountain landscapes, hidden waterfalls and abundance of hiking trails, it’s no secret why millions of naturelovers travel to North Georgia.

Whether you seek adventure or a quiet family outing, these area state parks offer an immersive look at North Georgia’s natural beauty.

Unicoi State Park No need to wander far from the alpine village of Helen because Unicoi State Park’s breathtaking views lie only a couple of miles away.

Soak up the crisp air near Unicoi Lake, the headwaters for the Chattahoochee River. This park offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, zip-lining, camping, hiking and picnicking.

It borders the Chattahoochee National Forest, which is home to Anna Ruby Falls — one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Georgia.

People can travel through the main portion of park by taking either Ga. 356 or Unicoi Campground Road.

Unicoi State Park and Lodge provides a place for visitors to kick back and relax.

Where: 1788 Ga. 356, Helen More info: gastateparks.org/unicoi or 706-878-2201.

14 | Discover North Georgia 2019

Don Carter State Park Nestled at the north end of Lake Lanier, Don Carter State Park offers an abundance of water recreational options like swimming, boating, paddleboarding, fishing and kayaking. Those itching to hike have the choice among five trails including the 1-mile Woodland Loop, 1-mile Terrapin Cove Trail and half-mile Lakeview Loop.

Wanting to travel via water? Don Carter State Park provides four paddle trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. It’s Lake Lanier’s only state park.

Visitors are also welcome to spend the night at the park in one of its RV campsites, two-bedroom cabins or primitive tent campsites.

Where: 5000 N. Browning Bridge Road, Gainesville More info: gastateparks.org/doncarter or 678-450-7726.

Amicalola Falls State Park On the west side of the Chattahoochee National Forest just north of Dawsonville lies Amicalola Falls State Park. Bask in the glory of the 729-foot waterfalls and discover why the park was named after the Cherokee Indian word for “tumbling waters.”

The park connects to Springer Mountain, the southern end of the Appalachian Trail.

The entire park encompasses 829 acres of wilderness, filled with trails spanning just a quarter mile to as long as 7.5 miles. Furry friends are welcome to visit the park — though the staircase leading to the front of

the falls is not at all dog friendly — just as long as they’re kept on a short leash.

Enjoy a bit of bird watching? Catch a glimpse of owls, hawks and falcons from 1-2 p.m. every Saturday. The park’s lodge staff help create these close encounters with native birds of prey.

If a day trip isn’t enough, the lodge provides accommodations including a private cabin or room.

Where: 280 Amicalola Falls State Park Road, Dawsonville More info: gastateparks.org/ amicalolafalls or 706-265-4703

Tallulah Gorge State Park Witness why crowds flock every year to see a giant 2-mile long 1,000-foot deep gash along Georgia’s forested terrain.

People can hike to different overlooks or obtain a permit to hike to the gorge’s floor.

Only 100 people are allowed per day when water isn’t being released from the dam at Tallulah Falls Lake.

Brave the suspension bridge, which sways high above the gorge and provides views of its six waterfalls. For a closer view of the Hurricane Falls waterfall, travel to the park’s observation deck within the gorge.

Bike, run or walk along the former rail trail by taking the Shortline Trail. This path encompasses a 2.8-mile roundtrip on the shores of the Tallulah River.

Where: 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Road, Tallulah Falls More info: gastateparks.org/tallulahgorge or 706-754-7981

SCOTT ROGERS | The Times Tallulah Gorge State Park in Habersham and Rabun counties surrounds Tallulah Gorge, a 1,000-foot deep gorge formed by the Tallulah River.

The gorge has six waterfalls known as the Tallulah Falls, which cause the river to drop 500 feet over one mile.

Vogel State Park Arrive during the fall and watch the Blue Ridge Mountains transform into an autumn fire of reds, oranges and yellows.

The park lies in the Chattahoochee National Forest and sits at the base of Blood Mountain, which is the highest summit on the Appalachian Trail in Georgia.

It offers an abundance of trails for people to immerse themselves in the mountainous landscape.

Trekking on land not your thing? Enjoy the park’s 22-acre lake in a non-motorized boat or visit during the summer when the mountain-view beach opens.

Check out the park’s rich history at the CCC Museum built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Where: 405 Vogel State Park Road, Blairsville More info: gastateparks.org/vogel or 706-745-2628

Smithgall Woods State Park The fisherman can’t afford to miss Smithgall Woods, with the trout-fishing haven of Dukes Creek running through the mountain park named for donor and Times founder Charles Smithgall.

The park has five miles of trails,18 miles of road and six cottages ready for hikers, day-trippers and anglers.

However, fishing is tightly controlled in the 5,664 acre park — so be sure to call ahead and schedule your trip to the park well in advance.

“Smithgall Woods is also an elegant mountain retreat, perfect for romantic getaways, small weddings or outings with friends. Six beautifully decorated cottages — Creekside Cottage, Smithgall Cottage, Dover Cottage, Parkside Cottage, Garden Cottage and Laurel Cottage — provide 17 bedrooms with telephones and television,” states the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

Where: 61 Tsalaki Trail, Helen More info: www.gastateparks.org/SmithgallWoods or 706-878-3087 Discover North Georgia 2019 | 15

Fort Yargo State Park Stroll through history by visiting Fort Yargo State Park’s log fort built in 1792 by settlers for protection against the Creek and Cherokee Natives.

People have the option of staying overnight at one of the park’s cottages, cabins or campsites.

Feeling something more glamorous? Try “glamping” in one of the park’s lakeside yurts, which are tents made of wood and canvas.

Test your dexterity at the park’s wooded disc golf course or try mountain biking along the 20.5 miles of trails. The park additionally offers a 260-acre lake for swimming, fishing and boating.

Where: 210 S. Broad St., Winder More info: gastateparks.org/fortyargo or 770-867-3489

Courtesy of Georgia Department of Natural Resources Yurts are available for the glamping experience at six Georgia State Parks including Fort Yargo in Winder. Many are located near the lake with a deck.

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16 | Discover North Georgia 2019

Other North Georgia parks to visit: Black Rock Mountain State Park Where: 3085 Black Mountain Parkway, Mountain City More info: gastateparks.org/blackrockmountain or 706-746-2141

Moccasin Creek State Park Where: 3655 Highway 197, Clarkesville More info: gastateparks.org/moccasincreek or 706-947-3194

Smithgall Woods State Park Where: 61 Tsalaki Trail, Helen More info: gastateparks.org/smithgallwoods or 706-878-3087

Victoria Bryant State Park Where: 1105 Bryant Park Road, Royston More info: gastateparks.org/victoriabryant or 706-245-6270

Yonah Mountain Where: 1900 Chambers Road, Cleveland More info: U.S. Forest Service, fs.usda.gov

Photo courtesy of Georgia State Parks A lodge at Unicoi State Park.

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Discover North Georgia 2019 | 17

Meet the owners behind NoFo Brew Co., the new brewery coming to Forsyth County late summer

By Brian Paglia bpaglia@forsythnews.com

I

n 2018, Joe Garcia, a marketer, and Bryan and Shannon Miles, co-CEOs of a virtual assistant company, started talking about opening a brewery. The longtime friends love everything about them: the friendly business model, the sense of fellowship of the space and, of course, the beer. The obvious next question was where to put it.

The answer soon became just as obvious.

“This should be in the community that we all live and work and raise our kids,” Garcia said.

A year later, the trio is closer than ever to seeing their vision manifested with NoFo Brew Co., a brewery slated to open in north Forsyth County in late summer 2019.

The 6,000-square-foot brewery will be open Wednesday through Sunday and serve a variety of beers — IPAs, lagers, sours, goses, pale ales, stouts, porters and more — in a family- and dogfriendly environment at 6150 Ga. Highway 400.

“We’re trying to create something … where people can’t wait to go back and they can’t wait to tell their friends about it and make it a part of their daily lives,” Shannon said.

Renderings of NoFo Brew Co. are complete with a lawn for customers to bring their dogs and a fire pit.

For all three, their roots in Forsyth County were paramount to the project. Bryan and Shannon moved to Forsyth County in

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2000 from Alpharetta after graduating from college in Ohio and “love living here,” Shannon said. They bounced around homes in Cumming until settling on their current location off Dahlonega Highway a few years ago. They’ve raised their two kids here (both go to Silver City Elementary School) and started Belay Solutions, one of the top virtual assistant companies, in 2010.

Garcia grew up in Alpharetta and moved with his family to the area in 2014. Soon after, he joined Mark Spain Real Estate, the ubiquitous metro Atlanta firm, to lead its marketing department.

Now, Garcia is a private investor and consultant.

“We’re really for this county,” Bryan said. “Sometimes the history of this county gets a black eye, especially when people know about the story of Oprah or whatever.

“There’s just so many great things about this county and its people, and we’re just really for it. We want to create an environment that really kind of says, ‘Hey, we’re proud of this place.’”

As they began the creative process for the brewery, they landed on the name NoFo Brew Co. to reflect their affection for the area. In doing so, they hope the brewery could lead a wave of development expected to hit north Forsyth County in the coming years and offer nearby residents a destination gathering place, much like Cherry Street Brewing has become in Vickery Village.

“Those people could really consider this their local brewery,” Garcia said, “their place to enjoy beer on the way home or hanging out on the weekends. We just felt that hyper-locality was really important.”

Bryan, Shannon and Garcia are deep into the work of getting NoFo Brew Co. ready.

They’re working with an interior design firm to create an environment that reflects their affinity for the western part of the country.

“We’ve sort of dubbed it ‘Wyoming luxury,’” Garcia said.

“There’s an element of adventure, there’s an element of luxury and a nice masculine, rich feel.”

They are also in the early stages of hiring a head brewmaster and taproom manager, and they’re working to build a founder’s membership base to participate in a soft launch to work out the kinks before the big opening.

With every step, the three friends are holding on to a core mission of creating something distinct and familial for the place they call home.

“We wanted to create an anchor of a common space where people could connect and everybody feels welcome,” Shannon said.

‘There’s just so many great things about this county and its people, and we’re just really for it. We want to create an environment that really kind of says, “Hey, we’re proud of this place.”’

Courtesy of Andy Brophy, One Nine Images Shannon Miles, from left, Joe Garcia and Bryan Miles stand in front of the space where their new brewery, NoFo Brew Co., is expected to open in late summer.

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Discover North Georgia 2019 | 19

2019 Wine Highway Week Map #1 12 Spies Vineyards 550 Black Branch Road Rabun Gap, GA 30568

27

23

Hiawassee

4

1

19

www.12spiesvineyards.com 706-490-0890

20

Blue Ridge

9

16

Young Harris

7

Clayton 14

76 18

#2 Cartecay Vineyards

76

12

23

5704 Clear Creek Road Ellijay, GA 30536

356

E

www.cartecayvineyards.com 706-698-9463

Helen

Ellijay

76

6 ALT 75

2

5

#3 Chateau Meichtry Family

52

23

515

F 25

3 8

Vineyards & Winery 1862 Orchard Lane • Talking Rock, GA 30175

Jasper 11

136

A

15

75

19

26 10

13

17

D

B

17

28

Cleveland

115

22

Clarkesville

123

C 21

Dahlonega 19

129 23

www.chateaumeichtry.com 706-502-1608

108 283

#4 Crane Creek Vineyards Inc.

916 Crane Creek Road Young Harris, GA 30582 www.cranecreekvineyards.com 706-379-1236

#5 Engelheim Vineyards

127 Lakeview Road Ellijay, GA 30540 www.engelheim.com 706-635-9463

#6 Habersham Vineyards & Winery 7025 S. Main Street Helen, GA 30545

www.habershamwinery.com 706-878-9463

#7 Hightower Creek Vineyards 7150 Canaan Drive Hiawassee, GA 30546

www.hightowercreekvineyards.com 706-896-8963

#8 Fainting Goat Vineyards & Winery 201 Vineyard Way Jasper, GA 30143

www.faintinggoatvineyards.com 706-692-9463

#9 Serenberry Vineyards

450 Tipton Trail Morganton, GA 30560 www.serenberry.com 706-623-8463

#10 Serenity Cellars 265 Laurel Ridge Rd Cleveland, GA 30528

20 | Discover North Georgia 2019

24

www.serenitycellars.com 706-348-1277

www.odomspringsvineyards.com 706-745-3094

#11 Sharp Mountain Vineyards

#17 CeNita Vineyards

110 Rathgeb Trail Jasper, GA 30143

www.sharpmountainvineyards.com 770-735-1210

#12 Stonewall Creek Vineyards 323 Standing Deer Lane Tiger, GA 30576 www.stonewallcreek.com 706-212-0584

#13 The Cottage Vineyard & Winery 5050 Hwy 129 N Cleveland, GA 30528

www.cottagevineyardwinery.com 706-865-0053

#14 Tiger Mountain Vineyards 2592 Old Highway 441 Tiger, GA 30576 www.tigerwine.com 706-782-4777

#15 Yonah Mountain Vineyards 1717 Hwy 255 S Cleveland, GA 30528

www.yonahmountainvineyards.com 706-878-5522

#16 Odom Springs Vineyards 637 Odom Road Blairsville, GA 30512

591 Dock Dorsey Road Cleveland, GA 30528

#23 Ott Farms and Vineyard 230 Henry Evans Road Ellijay, GA 30536

www.cenitawinery.com 706-865-7478

www.ottfarmsandvineyard.com 706-273-1891

#18 Paradise Hills

#24 Big Door Vineyards

Winery Resort & Spa 366 Paradise Rd. Blairsville, GA 30512 www.ParadiseHillsGA.com 706-745-7483

#19 Kaya Vineyard & Winery 5400 Town Creek Road Dahlonega, GA 30533 www.kayavineyards.com 706-219-3514

#20 Bear Claw Vineyards

2281 Tennis Court Road Blue Ridge, GA 30513 www.bearclawvineyards.com 706-223-3750

#21 Sweet Acre Farms Winery 7584 Bill Wilson Road Alto , GA 30510 www.sweetacrefarms.com 678-769-5335

125 Clearwater Trail NE White, GA 30814 www.bigdoorvineyards.com 844-692-4436

#25 Etowah Meadery 3003 Morrison Moore Pkwy E Dahlonega , GA 30533 www.etowahmeadery.com 706-864-6323

#26 Creekstone Winery 295 Hardman Farm Road Sautee, GA 30571 www.creekstonewinery.com 706-878-0004

#27 Mercier Orchards 8660 Blue Ridge Drive Blue Ridge, GA www.mercierorchards.com 706-632-3411

#28 Cavender Creek

#22 Currahee Vineyards

Vineyards & Winery 3610 Cavender Creek Road Dahlonega, GA 30533

www.curraheevineyards.com 706-768-5383

www.cavendercreekvineyards.com 706-451-9084

3301 West Currahee Toccoa, GA 30577

Can’t-miss wine, beer made in Northeast Georgia

By Nick Bowman nbowman@gainesvilletimes.com

W

ine and beer culture is surging back in Northeast Georgia, as craftsmen and -women rediscover the region’s pre-Prohibition roots.

Whether you’re headed to a tasting room in Dahlonega (it’s the wine tasting room capital of Georgia, if you didn’t know) or you’re on a long drive to Blue Ridge looking for a brew, there’s plenty to taste around the state’s piedmont and Appalachian regions.

“People have been growing grapes in Georgia for a long, long time, and they’ve been growing grapes in North

Georgia for a long time, but there’s been a surge in the last 25 years,” said Stephen Smith, manager of the Wolf Mountain Vineyards tasting room.

If you’re looking for something new this year, Tantrum Brewing Co. opened in late March. And keep an eye on NoFo Brew Co., which is set to open in late summer 2019 in Forsyth County.

Stopping through Helen? Hall County’s own Sweet Acre Farms has a new tasting room in Helen called the Helen Wine Company on South Main Street.

Also keep an eye on Lumpkin and White county wineries that in late mid2018 created the Dahlonega Viticultural Area, a federal designation recognizing

the unique quality of the wine grown in the area.

Lumpkin County wineries in the designation include Accent Cellars, Cavender Creek Vineyards, Frogtown Cellars Vineyards, Montaluce Winery and Restaurant, Three Sisters Vineyards and Wolf Mountain Vineyards, and the White County vineyards of Cottage Vineyard and Winery and Kaya Vineyard and Winery.

Beyond being a handy marketing label, in order to qualify for the viticultural area label a bottle of wine must contain only grapes grown in the area, which means that someday soon more of these wineries will have wholly local bottles.

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DRINK Breweries: LEFT NUT BREWING

2100 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville www.leftnutbrewing.com

TANTRUM BREWING

1939 Helen Highway, Cornelia www.tantrumbeer.com 770-519-1900

FANNIN BREWING CO.

3758 E. 1st St., Blue Ridge www.fanninbrewingcompany.com 706-258-2762

NOFO BREW CO.

6150 Ga. Highway 400 www.nofobrew.co Coming soon 22 | Discover North Georgia 2019

AUSTIN STEELE | The Times Ciara Forthun, a bartender at Tantrum Brewing Company in Cleveland, hands a customer a beer on Saturday, April 6, 2019. Tantrum Brewing Company is the state’s first agritourism brewery.

GRUMPY OLD MEN BREWING

BEAR CLAW VINEYARDS

1315 E. Main St., Blue Ridge www.grumpyoldmenbrewing.com

2281 Tennis Court Road, Blue Ridge www.bearclawvineyards.com 706-223-3750

HIAWASEE BREW

BEECRAFT MEAD CO.

616 S. Main St., Hiawasee www.hiawasseebrew.com 706-896-2739

30 Industrial Park Road No. 114, Dawsonville www.beecraftmead.com 855-438-6323

WHISTLE TOP BREW COMPANY

BIG DOOR VINEYARDS

248 N. Main St., Cornelia www.facebook.com/whistletopbrewco

Wineries: 12 SPIES VINEYARDS

550 Black Branch Road, Rabun Gap www.12spiesvineyards.com 706-490-0890

125 Clearwater Trail NE, White www.bigdoorvineyards.com 844-692-4436

CARTECAY VINEYARDS 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay www.cartecayvineyards.com 706-698-9463

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City of Hiawassee FREE Concerts in the Park 2019 Every Saturday night 7:00 - 8:30pm on the Hiawassee Town Square Sponsored by: Audience donations and City of Hiawassee May 25 June 1 June 8 June 15 June 22 June 29 July 6 July 13

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AUSTIN STEELE | The Times Tantrum Brewing Co. is open in Cleveland and is the state’s first agritourism brewery.

CAVENDER CREEK VINEYARD & WINERY

3610 Cavender Creek Road, Dahlonega www.cavendercreekvineyards.com 706-451-9084

CENITA VINEYARDS

591 Dock Dorsey Road, Cleveland www.cenitawinery.com 706-865-7478

CHATEAU ELAN

100 Rue Charlemagne Drive, Braselton www.chateauelan.com 678-425-0900

CHATEAU MEICHTRY VINEYARDS

1862 Orchard Lane, Talking Rock www.chateaumeichtry.com 706-502-1608

CRANE CREEK VINEYARDS

916 Crane Creek Road, Young Harris www.cranecreekvineyards.com 706-379-1236

CREEKSTONE WINERY

295 Hardman Farm Road, Sautee www.creekstonewinery.com 706-878-0004

CURRAHEE VINEYARDS & WINERY 372 Cawthon Road, Toccoa www.curraheevineyards.com 706-768-5383 24 | Discover North Georgia 2019

ENGELHEIM VINEYARDS 127 Lakeview Road, Ellijay www.engelheim.com 706-635-9463

ETOWAH MEADERY

ODOM SPRINGS VINEYARD 637 Odom Road, Blairsville www.odomspringsvineyards.com 706-745-3094

3003 Morrison Moore Parkway E, Dahlonega www.etowahmeadery.com 706-864-6323

OTT FARMS AND VINEYARD

HABERSHAM WINERY

PARADISE HILLS WINERY RESORT AND SPA

7025 S. Main St. P.O.Box 808, Helen www.habershamwinery.com 706-878-9463

HIGHTOWER CREEK VINEYARDS, LLC

7150 Canaan Drive, Hiawassee www.hightowercreekvineyards.com 706-896-8963

KAYA VINEYARD AND WINERY

5400 Town Creek Road, Dahlonega www.kayavineyards.com 706-219-3514

230 Henry Evans Road, Ellijay www.ottfarmsandvineyard.com 706-273-1891

366 Paradise Road, Blairsville www.paradisehillsga.com 877-745-7483

SERENBERRY VINEYARDS 450 Tipton Trail, Morganton www.serenberryvineyards.com 706-623-8463

SERENITY CELLARS

265 Laurel Ridge Road, Cleveland www.serenitycellars.com 706-348-1277

MERCIER ORCHARDS

WOLF MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS

MONTALUCE WINERY

YONAH MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS

8660 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge www.mercierorchards.com 706-632-3411

946 Via Montaluce, Dahlonega www.montaluce.com 706-867-4060

180 Wolf Mountain Trail, Dahlonega www.wolfmountainvineyards.com

1717 Highway 255 S, Cleveland www.yonahmountainvineyards.com 706-878-5522

SHARP MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS

110 Rathgeb Trail, Jasper www.sharpmountainvineyards.com 770-735-1210

STONEWALL CREEK VINEYARDS

323 Standing Deer Lane, Tiger stonewallcreek.com 706-212-0584

SWEET ACRE FARMS WINERY 7584 Bill Wilson Road, Alto www.sweetacrefarms.com 678-769-5355

THE COTTAGE VINEYARD & WINERY

5050 U.S. Highway 129 N, Cleveland www.cottagevineyardwinery.com 706-865-0053

TIGER MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS

2592 Old Highway 441, Tiger www.tigerwine.com 706-782-4777

NICK BOWMAN | The Times Wolf Mountain Vineyards in Dahlonega.

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SCOTT ROGERS | The Times Vicheth Prom makes doughnuts at the new Danny’s Donuts location in Oakwood.

It’s the local doughnut chain’s third location in Hall County.

Catch a bite at these local favorites

By Layne Saliba lsaliba@gainesvilletimes.com This year brought a lot of new restaurants with it. So if you’re traveling in North Georgia, there is no shortage of good stops. Whether you’re looking for one of those new places or a long-time staple, we’ve got you covered.

BRASELTON BREWING CO. This new brewpub in the heart of Braselton focuses on creative Southern pub food — think fried green tomatoes, flat breads and mac and cheese and build-your-own burgers — including a few daily specials and a rotating list of beers brewed in-house.

Led by Chip Dale and his team of chefs, brewers and staff, Braselton Brewing is the latest local spot to open in Braselton and the first of its kind in the town’s downtown.

The restaurant revived a shuttered cotton gin while maintaining much of the exterior of the historic metal structure.

Braselton Brewing Co. Where: 9859 Davis St., Braselton When: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday Contact: 706-684-0686 26 | Discover North Georgia 2019

AUSTIN STEELE | The Times The bar at Braselton Brewing Co.

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Shopping

SCOTT’S DOWNTOWN Make a stop at Gainesville’s tried-and-true white tablecloth restaurant near the town’s historic square.

A classic working lunch spot, Scott’s is a favorite of Gainesville’s business community. The restaurant boasts polished lunch and dinner menus and a wide range of premium steak and seafood dishes and a few Southern classics like low-country shrimp and grits and fried oysters.

Scott’s Downtown Where: 131 Bradford St NE, Gainesville When: 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5-10 p.m. Friday, 5-10 p.m.

Saturday.

Contact: 770-536-1111

DANNY’S DONUTS Danny’s Donuts has three locations around here and you might as well hit them all. The doughnut shop, which offers fresh doughnuts daily, stays open until 5 p.m. or until it sells out of doughnuts — whichever comes first.

They have a variety of doughnuts. There are regular, filled and there’s even a maple bacon flavor. This is a place you don’t want to miss if you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Danny’s Donuts Where: 417 Main St. SW, Gainesville; 975 Dawsonville Highway Suite 19, Gainesville; 4037 Winder Highway, Flowery Branch When: 5 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily Contact: 470-892-6511

THE INKED PIG The Inked Pig is the barbecue joint you want and need in your life.

The restaurant recently opened, serving its barbacoa brisket with chimichurri sauce and sweet tea-smoked chicken.

Along with the pulled pork and selection of sauces and sides at the restaurant, The Inked Pig seems to be a hit with those who’ve visited so far. Whenever you stop by, make sure to ask about any specials they may have that day because these chefs know what they’re doing and they might have something delicious cooked up.

Zen Ramen & Sushi Burrito Where: 115 Washington St. NE, Gainesville When: 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday; 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday; Contact: 678-696-5739

THE BLUE BICYCLE Dawsonville might not be the first town to come to mind when you think of French cuisine, which makes The Blue Bicycle a nice surprise on your trip north on Ga. 400.

Located near North Georgia Premium Outlets, The Blue Bicycle offers a range of small and large plates for both lunch and dinner.

The menu includes a few French favorites with a Southern twist: chicken liver mousse, smoked trout rillettes and pimento cheese tartine.

Make sure to check out this spot’s expansive wine menu.

The Blue Bicycle Where: 30 Industrial Park Boulevard, Dawsonville When: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday-Saturday Contact: 706-265-2153

THE COLLEGIATE GRILL Travel back in time to this old-time diner that serves up one of the best hamburgers around. Cooked on the flattop in front of you, with fries being cooked in oil nearby, a burger at The Collegiate is hard to pass up. Order one with a patty or two, add some cheese and ketchup — lettuce, tomato and onion if you like — and you’ll be on your way to happiness in one bite.

The Collegiate Grill Where: 220 Main St. SW, Gainesville When: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday; Closed on Sunday Contact: 678-989-2280

AMANDA’S FARM TO FORK This restaurant has been so popular that it’s continued to expand its hours to accommodate all of its guests. Amanda Browning will greet you with a smile and you’ll instantly feel part of the family when you show up to her restaurant. And between her and her husband Rooster, they’ll feed you like it, too.

It’s another home cooking-style restaurant, famous for its fried chicken.

The Inked Pig Where: 893 Main St. SW, Gainesville When: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.Thursday-Sunday Contact: 678-696-5611 SCOTT ROGERS | The Times

ZEN RAMEN & SUSHI BURRITO The newest player on the scene in Gainesville serves exactly what you might think: ramen and sushi burritos. The sushi burritos are delicious and filling while the ramen is smooth and flavorful. You can’t really go wrong with anything on the menu if you’re looking to branch out and try something new.

28 | Discover North Georgia 2019

Amanda’s Farm to Fork Where: 5951 Main St., Lula When: 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday; 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3 to 9 p.m. Friday Contact: 770-540-1035

BRATZEIT This unpretentious, authentic German restaurant in Dahlonega serves up a mix of Bavarian and Swiss dishes like schnitzel, sausages and fondue.

Off the Dahlonega square, and therefore with much better parking, Bratzeit is run by husband and wife team Doris and Gion Giossi. Doris hails from Stutgart, Germany, while Gion is from southwest Switzerland.

The couple have been a low-key favorite of Germans and military veterans who put in time overseas now living around the University of North Georgia. The restaurant has also attracted a fair bit of business from Germans working in Atlanta.

If you want to brush up on your Deutsche or get a taste of your old Army days, check out the hearty menu at Bratzeit.

Bratzeit Where: 77 Memorial Drive, Dahlonega When: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday, noon to 3 p.m. Sunday Contact: 706-867-7741

HAPPY BELLY KITCHEN If you’re looking for farm-to-table far not far from Ga. 400, look to Happy Belly Kitchen in Forsyth County.

Happy Belly focuses on fresh foods, local meats and lots and lots of green vegetables — including a paleo option for the low-carb sort. The restaurant also runs a food truck and offers lunch, dinner, happy hour and a Sunday brunch.

Happy Belly Kitchen Where: 5863 South Vickery St., Cumming When: 11 am to 8 pm Tuesday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sunday Contact: 470-253-7718

NICK BOWMAN | The Times Doris, left, and Gion Giossi own and operate Bratzeit.

Discover North Georgia 2019 | 29

DAVID BARNES | The Times Shoppers browse booths filled with homegrown produce Tuesday, June 19, 2018, at the Hall County Farmers Market.

Eating local doesn’t get easier

By Layne Saliba lsaliba@gainesvilletimes.com Hitting the road for a trip this summer? Why not eat local while you’re traveling through North Georgia?

Summer is the perfect time to get out with those canvas bags and shop for locally grown vegetables and fruits, and there’s no shortage of farmers markets in North Georgia to do just that.

If you’re visiting for a while and don’t want to eat out for every meal, there are plenty of markets for you to check out for some fresh, local produce to add to your meal.

SCOTT ROGERS | The Times Sage is displayed at a Hall County farmers market.

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Courtesy BRASELTON FARMERS MARKET The Braselton Farmers Market is returning Friday, Jan. 18, 2019, to kick off its winter season.

Your area farmers markets: Braselton Farmers Market When: 4 to 7 p.m. on the third Friday of every month; Every Friday in June and July Where: 9924 Davis St., Braselton

Clarksville Farmers Market

When: 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays in May through September Where: 583 Grant St., Clarkesville

Cornelia Farmers Market When: 6 a.m. to noon Wednesdays and Saturdays Where: United Community Bank, 1472 Highway 441 Bypass, Cornelia

Dahlonega Farmers Market When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, Starting May 4 Where: 52 N. Park St., Dahlonega

Flowery Branch Farmers Market When: 3 to 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, starting May 2 Where: 5305 Railroad Ave., Flowery Branch

Gainesville Farmers Market

NORTH GEORGIA

Worship Out of Town?

New to the Area?

Just Visiting?

Find a sanctuary, house of worship or spiritual center near you no matter your North Georgia destination.

When: 2:30 to 6:30 Fridays, May 24 - Oct. 4 Where: Downtown Gainesville square

Hall County Farmers Market When: 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, starting May 7; 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays, starting May 11 Where: 734 E. Crescent Drive, Gainesville

Stephens County Farmers Market When: 3-7 p.m. Tuesdays, 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays, June through October Where: 25 N. Broad St., Toccoa

Union County Farmers Market When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, 2-6 p.m. Tuesdays May 25 to Oct. 26 Where: 148 Old Smokey Road, Blairsville

White County Farmers Market When: 7:30 a.m. to noon Saturdays, June 15 to Sept. 21 Where: 66 E. Kytle St., Cleveland

Sundays at 11:00 AM 3415 Stancil Road • Gainesville, GA 30506 www.UnityofGainesville.org A Positive Path to Spiritual Living

experience a thrill

Lake Living, Camping and Ziplining ahead ERIN O. SMITH | The Times

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Georgia State Senator Steve Gooch rides on a zip line Wednesday, April 26, 2017, at the Unicoi Aerial Adventure Park in Helen. The new course opened April 26 and provides stunning views of the park from eight new ziplines, ranging in length from 500 to 2,000-feet long and are 50- to 100- feet high.

Create your own

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Mountains · Waterfalls · Sporting Clays · Moonshine · Motorsports Lake Lanier · Premium Outlets · Great Outdoors · Folk Art Get your FREE visitor's guide at dawson.org or call 1-877-302-9271 #Dawsonville

Where to put in Lake Lanier marinas:

SCOTT ROGERS | The Times Sean Lynch pulls away from the gas dock at Gainesville Marina Monday, Sept.3, 2018, to spend a morning on lake Lanier for the long Labor Day holiday weekend.

Aqualand Marina

Holiday Marina on Lake Lanier

Gainesville Marina

Port of Indecision Marina

6800 Lights Ferry Road, Flowery Branch aqualandmarina.com

6900 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford www.holidaylakelanier.com

2145 Dawsonville Highway, Gainesville www.gainesvillemarina.com

7650 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford www.lanierislands.com/margaritaville/ port-indecision-marina

Port Royale Marina

8800 Port Royale Drive,Dawson Gainesville Co. News Ad 4.5 x 4.pdf 1 4/19/2019 www.bestinboating.com/boat-repair/lake-lanier

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Where to camp out Lake Lanier campgrounds:

NICK BOWMAN | The Times Lake Lanier in the summer.

Don Carter State Park:

Belton Bridge Park

Bolding Mill Campground

Bald Ridge Campground

Bethel Park

Buford Dam Park

Balus Creek Park

Big Creek

Burton Mill Park

5000 N. Browning Bridge Road, Gainesville

4100 Bald Ridge Road, Cumming

4756 Mountain View Road, Gainesville

7600 Belton Bridge Road, Lula

8595 Swiss Air Road, Gainesville

4000 Big Creek Road, Buford

4055 Chestatee Road, Gainesville

1200 Buford Dam Road, Buford

6555 Yacht Club Road, Flowery Branch

Discover North Georgia 2019 | 35

DAVID BARNES | The Times Tjah P., from Fayetteville, runs in the high water at Lake Lanier Olympic Park during the 4th annual John Jarrard Foundation Lake Show in Gainesville, on Saturday.

Duckett Mill Campground

3720 Duckett Mill Road, Gainesville

East Bank Park

1250 Buford Dam Road, Buford

Keiths Bridge Park 9270 Old Keith Bridge Road, Gainesville

Lanier Park

1360 Buford Dam Road, Buford

Little Hall

3501 Dawsonville Highway, Gainesville

Little Ridge Park

3295 Lanier Beach South Road, Cumming

Little River Park

Lower Overlook Park 1060 Buford Dam Road Buford

Lower Pool Park 3600 Buford Dam Road, Cumming

Lula Park 6600 Lula Road, Lula

Mountain View Park 5450 Old 141 Road, Gainesville

Sardis Creek

2991 Antioch Church Road, Gainesville

Sawnee Campground 3200 Buford Dam Road, Cumming

Shoal Creek Day Use

6295 Shadburn Ferry Road Buford,

Simpson Park

3235 Simpson Park Road Gainesville,

Six Mile Creek Park

Nix Bridge Park

5910 Browns Bridge Road Cumming,

2367 Nix Bridge Road, Dawsonville

Tidwell

Old Federal Campground 6219 Old Federal Road, Flowery Branch

Old Federal Day Use

4900 Pilgrim Mill Road Cumming,

Thompson Bridge Park 372 Dunlap Landing Road Gainesville,

Thompson Creek Park

2665 Little River Park Road Gainesville

6175 Jim Crow Road, Flowery Branch

600 Thompson Creek Park Road Dawsonville,

Long Hollow Park

Robinson Park

Toto Creek Park

8525 Bryant Road Gainesville

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3555 Robinson Road, Gainesville

154 Toto Creek Park Road Dawsonville,

Two Mile Creek Park 9200 Bethel Road, Gainesville

Upper Overlook Park 1025 Buford Dam Road, Buford

Vann’s Tavern 9300 Vann’s Tavern Road, Cumming

Van Pugh North 6838 Gaines Ferry Road, Flowery Branch

Van Pugh South 6749 Gaines Ferry Road, Flowery Branch

Wahoo Creek 3956 Mount Vernon Road, Gainesville

West Bank 3500 Buford Dam Road, Cumming

West Pank Overlook Park 3400 Buford Dam Road, Cumming

WE HAVE IT

IN HALL

Cool off at the Laurel Park Sprayground or find out about any of the other Hall County Parks & Leisure locations online.

hallcounty.org

FlyAreaabove the trees zipline companies: North Georgia Canopy Tours

Where: 5290 Harris Road, Lula Contact:770-869-7272

Unicoi Zipline & Aerial Adventure Park Where: 1788 Highway 356, Helen Contact: 706-878-4740

Nacoochee Adventures Where: 7019 S. Main St., Helen Contact: 706-878-9477

Photos by SCOTT ROGERS | The Times

38 | Discover North Georgia 2019

Left: Claude Schneider gets some last-second pointers from North Georgia Canopy Tours’ Amber Padgett.

Top: Chris Baxter cruises through the treetops on a zip line.

Right: Amber Padgett takes a turn on the zip line at North Georgia Canopy Tours in Lula.

Robin Roberts Promotions LLC The City of Young Harris, Ga. Great Variety of Seafood Vendors from the North Georgia Mountains to Savannah!

Live Music • Arts & Crafts

4TH ANNUAL

ENJOY, FIRST HAND, THE MOST ENCHANTED VALLEY IN NORTH GEORGIA ... YOUNG HARRIS

GET READY TO:

• Eat some serious seafood and sweet treats • Tap your toes to live music • Stroll through more than 50 arts and crafts exhibitors

These are just a few of the highlights of the North Georgia Seafood Festival.

Presented by Robin Roberts Promotions and the City of Young Harris, this Festival features tons of delicious food, outstanding music and affordable homespun arts & crafts. Stroll the park with our stilt walker.

BEER & WINE GARDENS We ID

May 31 - June 2, 2019

Mayors Park • Hwy 76 • Young Harris, Ga.

Friday 1pm-9pm • Saturday 10am-9pm • Sunday 10am-5pm

Sit back, have a beer and crack some peanuts from a barrel. Or enjoy 6 different Free Parking • Admission $5 • Children Under 12 Free (Handicap parking available adjacent to the Festival) wineries and old fashion market with fresh Bring a chair or blanket to sit back and enjoy the music! NO COOLERS PLEASE sausage and cheeses.

NORTH GEORGIA HIGHLANDS CAR SHOW

FRIDAY NIGHT Open Events: Collector Cars & Motorcycles Welcome All Makes & Models 5pm-8pm SATURDAY NIGHT 11am- 4pm All European Vehicles Welcome

Take part in our “BOOTIE” AUCTION

Musical Guests Include: Carolina Soul Band • Gold Standard Band • Men in Blues Rollin’ Bones • Sons of Sailors Band • Tom Floyd • Split Shot Band • Time Around Band

FREE admission to Veterans on Friday, May 31st from 1-5 with proper ID. Music salute to the veterans at 4:30!

Presented By

Leon Farmer & Company | Lake Chatuge Lodge Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa Sponsors

on Saturday

to benefit the Towns County Food Pantry

Visit www.northgeorgiahighlandsseafoodfestival.com for a schedule of Music, Artists, Craft Demonstrations and Food Menus,Tickets & More! 706-897-6179

Photos by AUSTIN STEELE | The Times Bennett Bryan walks past the school bus painting he contributed to during the annual painting at the School Bus Graveyard in Alto on Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2018.

A junkyard, a graveyard, an artist’s mural — check out the School Bus Graveyard

By Layne Saliba lsaliba@gainesvilletimes.com

E

very time Nick Morris rode down U.S. 23 in Alto with his family, he’d see a line of old, broken down school buses — a graveyard, you might say — just off the road that intrigued him.

Morris eventually moved away from Habersham County and traveled from city to city as an artist painting murals and creating other commissioned works.

But something always brought his mind back to Habersham County and the line of busted buses seen from the blacktop of U.S. 23. Eight years ago, it finally got the better of him — Morris went back to those buses and asked the owner of the junkyard they surrounded if he could paint them.

“I just asked if they’d like to try and experiment with some kind of really weird project where I bring in friends and help give them a place to paint, but also help make something look nice in the area,” Morris said. “Around here, you have to 40 | Discover North Georgia 2019

make your own fun … I just want young people to realize, you don’t have to live in a city to participate in art or whatever.

“There’s really cool stuff happening right here out in the country.”

Luckily for Morris, the owner of the junkyard was up for it. And just like that, Alonzo Wade Auto Parts Service became the home of what is now known as the School Bus Graveyard, and artists have been coming out once a year to display their art on the sides of buses along the highway ever since.

“I thought it’d be cool, and it’s escalated from there,” said Walter Wade. He inherited the junkyard with his brother from their father, who died three years ago. “It’s fantastic. People come from all over to see this.”

And artists travel to paint there, too, some who know the place through Morris and others who have discovered it on their own. There were about 20 artists at the School Bus Graveyard in November 2018 painting the buses as early as 6 a.m.

Morris said that’s when he and his wife,

Amanda, who drove from Denver where they now live, got there to start painting.

“I’m just really into it,” Nick Morris said.

“It’s just kind of having fun and meeting some other artists, watching how other people work, and getting to know people.”

Painting has always been a part of Morris’ life. For as long as he can remember, he’s been painting something — starting with the walls in his bedroom.

Morris said his father had bad knees, so he wasn't able to make it up the stairs to Morris’ room on the second level of their home when he was young.

“I just started painting the walls for fun, and before I knew it, I had painted my whole room into a mural,” Morris said.

“I ended up repainting my room like 10 times as a child, just from wall to wall, from the ceiling to the floor, I just did it all.”

He said from there, it “snowballed.”

He kept finding walls, kept painting and eventually started painting murals on private walls at homes, on backyard fences and even on city walls at festivals like

Photos by AUSTIN STEELE | The Times Artists repaint school buses during the annual painting at the School Bus Graveyard in Alto on Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2018.

CRUSH WALLS in Denver.

Like the School Bus Graveyard, Morris’ art is always changing. It’s never the same but always carries his personality.

“It’s fine lines and big teeth,” Morris said of his mural art. “I’ve got this little character I do, I’ve been doing him since I was like 10, so he’s been around a while … and then I do these really thin lines to make up an image, but that stuff is always changing. What I’m doing now is not what I was doing 10 years ago.”

Peter Loose was there for his third time, adding claws to an alligator inspired by Clyde, a “good friend” of Loose’s who lives near his home in Hull.

Clyde also happens to be a 13-foot-2inch alligator, who has inhabited a pond in Hull for more than 20 years.

So now, Clyde is on the side of one of those buses, with skeletons surrounding him.

Although he said he doesn’t plan much when he paints, he plans on making it out to the School Bus Graveyard every year as long as he’s welcome.

“It's such a stupid thing to do, paint a bus,” said Loose, a full-time artist out of Hull. “But it’s really a way to just clear your head and not think too hard. And it 42 | Discover North Georgia 2019

makes everybody laugh, too. There's a lot of people who enjoy this place.”

Kristin Davis uses art in the same way: To clear her mind.

“I’ve suffered from depression,” said Davis, an artist and dog groomer from Demorest. “It’s just something I’ve always struggled with, and art has always been a way for me to get out those emotions and thoughts and translate it to something useful and beautiful.”

Even though she’s seen the School Bus Graveyard for years, she said she’s always been intimidated at the thought of painting a mural and felt like she’d mess it up.

But this year, Davis decided to take it on.

She turned up at 8:30 a.m. to paint a version of the Blue Ridge Mountains that’s unique to her.

Painting scenes like her mountains — with a sun in the middle, and circles radiating from it as rays of light — has “been therapy for me more than anything, for years.”

A few buses down from Davis, slowly covering black snakes with yellow stripes and yellow eyes that had been painted

by Loose last year, was Amanda Morris, perched on a step ladder to reach the

colorful neck of her hummingbird. The bus, unlike many others in the School Bus Graveyard, was painted yellow — offering a sharp contrast to the green, red and blue of the hummingbird and the pink of the flower in which it had buried its beak.

She said the focus of her paintings has evolved from huge bugs and giant insects to large birds.

“There is nothing like painting on a school bus,” Morris said. “You just get so involved, and there’s so much texture. And I feel like it’s really exciting to transform things that are junk or mundane into something really exciting.”

And that’s why Nick Morris continues to do it, too: The School Bus Graveyard is something for everyone to enjoy. The school buses, originally meant to keep people out of the junkyard, have turned into something much more.

“It’s super cool because everybody gets to do what they want,” Morris said. “And it’s kind of like a proving ground, to see what everybody likes. It’s my favorite place to paint and I've painted all over the country all up and down the West Coast … The whole mission is to paint, paint and paint every day.”

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An outdoor adventure every day Anna Ruby Falls Archery & Air Rifle Ranges Canoeing & Kayaking Gold & Gem Stone Panning Golfing Hiking, Biking & Backpacking Over 20 Waterfalls Paddle Boarding Smithgall Woods State Park Tubing & Swimming Unicoi State Park & Adventure Lodge Unicoi Wine Trail & Wine Tours Year Round Trout Fishing Yonah Mountain Zip Lining & Challenge Courses

Alpine Helen white county

Convention & Visitors Bureau Regional Visitors Information Center

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726 BRUCKENSTRASSE HELEN, GA 30545

122 N. MAIN STREET C L E V E L A N D, G A 30533

800.858.8027 HelenGA.org

706.865.5356

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HELEN • CLEVELAND SAUTEE NACOOCHEE