Rafting, tubing, paddle boarding and more make for unforgettable summer memories
Looking for a summer adventure to remember? Look no further than Blue Ridge, Georgia. Just 90-minutes north of Atlanta and right off of I-575, Blue Ridge is packed with outdoor excursions that are perfect for families to unplug, connect with nature and create the kind of memories summers are made of.
Day 1
Day:
Head straight to one of the rivers that flow through Georgia’s favorite mountain town. If the family is full of thrill-seekers, journey to Ocoee River where the waters come alive in the warmer months. Rapid lovers travel from far and wide to paddle these white waters. Choose a local guide company to help you steer the wild currents aboard a raft. If you have little ones in your crew, or if you just prefer to ease into summer vacation, set sights on the Toccoa River. Take your time with a leisurely float down the tree-studded waters by tube, kayak, canoe or stand up paddle board. For information on Ocoee and Toccoa River rentals, visit: http://www.BlueRidgeMountains.com/rafting_tubing_kayaking.html
Evening:
Check into one of the many cabins that dot the mountainous landscape. Whether looking for upscale chic or laid back and cozy, there is a cabin to fulfill every family’s desire. Cabins are located high above the gorgeous green landscape and alongside the rivers and Lake Blue Ridge. With so many options, families can rest easy knowing their perfect home away from home awaits in Blue Ridge. There are more than 30 cabin rental companies choose from; book a cabin by visiting: https://www.blueridgemountains.com/where-to-stay/cabins-rentals/
Day 2
Day:
After a restful night’s sleep in a cabin retreat, head to Lake Blue Ridge. This picturesque mountain lake has 3,290 acres of gemstone waters and 65 miles of shoreline, 80 percent of which belongs to the Chattahoochee National Forest.
Drive to Lake Blue Ridge Marina. Here, you will find the ideal vessel to rent and explore the mountain-reflecting waters. Fit up to eight people in a pontoon boat and feel the wind blow through your hair while boating by the stunning shoreline. Rent a couple of tubes to tow the kids on a spin they won’t soon forget. Or, take it slow with a kayak or paddle board rental.
Evening:
A day in the sun is sure to work up an appetite for all. Treat taste buds to lunch or dinner on the lake at the Boat Dock Bar and Grill. Enjoy scrumptious waterfront favorites like loaded nachos, juicy cheeseburgers and shrimp tacos. Adults can wash it down with libations from the extensive beer, wine and fruity cocktail list. For Lake Blue Ridge Marina information, visit: LakeBlueRidgeMarina.com
Day 3
Day:
Stretch the sea legs with an invigorating hike. The hiking trails of Fannin County include some of the most notable in the United States. Two of the greatest outdoor adventures in the world, the Appalachian Trail and the Benton MacKaye Trail, begin in Fannin County at the top of Springer Mountain. Families can select trails that range from easy to moderate to difficult to find the right hike for the whole crew. For waterfall-seekers, local trail favorites include Fall Branch Falls, Long Creek Falls and Amicalola Falls. For a waterfall and trail guide, visit: blueridgemountains.com/things-to-do/outdoors/hiking/
Evening:
After resting up from the rewarding hike, head to downtown Blue Ridge for a night on the town, known as the “Culinary Capital of the Mountains.” Explore dozens of family-friendly restaurants. From local trout and barbecue to fried apple pies and biscuits and gravy, the Blue Ridge culinary scene has so much to offer. Cucinella’s Pizzeria, a family tradition since 1932, offers traditional and specialty pizzas along with other Italian favorites and temptations like Cinnamon Knots. Nearby in McCaysville, Burra Burra on the River serves classic American food, beer and wine with the option to dine al fresco on the river. For a full list of where to eat, click here.
Day 4
Day:
Get ready for an all-day lake adventure at Morganton Point Recreation Area. For only $5 per vehicle, families get access to everything they need for an entire day of outdoor fun. Bring a lawn chair and dig toes in the sand of this beautiful beach. Rent fishing poles and buy bait to reel one in. Lake Blue Ridge is filled with bluegill, largemouth bass, white bass, smallmouth bass, walleye and even the occasional rainbow trout or yellow perch.
After all that work finding the perfect catch, rent floats and relax in the secluded aquamarine waters. Feeling hungry? Hit up the snack stand to buy drinks, chips and ice cream bars.
Evening:
Rent a kayak for a sunset paddle. Enjoy the grandiose mountain views as pink skies reflect off still waters. Head for dry land and enjoy a late afternoon hike on one of many tree-laden trails the area offers. Pack a picnic and savor dinner alfresco as the sun sets behind the mountaintops. Looking to spend a night under the stars? Morganton Point also offers 40 campsites. For more on Morganton Point, visit: https://gofindoutdoors.org/morganton-point/
Independence Day Celebrations:
Want to celebrate our country’s freedom with a bang? With multiple family-fun events, Blue Ridge is the ideal place for July 4th festivities.
July 3–Firecracker Special Train Ride
All aboard! Head to the Blue Ridge Depot for the McCaysville Fireworks. Ride the Firecracker Special to McCaysville to watch the pyrotechnic show, with no need to worry about where to park. Watch the fireworks from the comfort of your seat on the train or absorb the excitement around you by hanging out downtown. The train begins boarding at 7 p.m. and departs at 7:30 p.m. for a ride along the Toccoa River to McCaysville for the fireworks. Reservations are strongly suggested.
July 4–Fireworks at Lake Blue Ridge
Be dazzled by one of the Peach State’s finest fireworks displays on Lake Blue Ridge. Grab a picnic blanket or watch by boat. Lake Blue Ridge Marina hosts the spectacular display. The family can also enjoy the show from the top of the Dam and from Morganton Point Recreation Area.
For more on July 4th events, check out the community calendar:https://www.blueridgemountains.com/events/
With a summer vacation to Blue Ridge, Georgia, families will leave feeling connected, refreshed and fulfilled after days of both adventure and relaxation. This outdoorsy escape is complete with uptown attractions that will have families making Blue Ridge their annual summer vacation destination.