36 | ACTIVITIES DIRECTIONSGA.COM
Civilization, too
If shopping is more your style, historic
downtown Blairsville offers a
variety of unique shops and boutiques
carrying one-of-a-kind finds
and treasures (most stores are even
pet friendly!). And after a day full of
adventure, you’ll be ready to sample
all the great dining options — from
good ol’ Southern cooking to exquisitely
presented plates. For breakfast,
lunch or dessert, be sure to make
time for Dixie Confexions Bakery
& Café (see article at right).
Top of Georgia
Brasstown Bald — Rising 4,784
feet above sea level, Brasstown Bald
is the highest peak in Georgia. On a
clear day, you can see four states
plus the Atlanta skyline. Explore the
museum, watch a video, and learn
about early Georgia history. You can
take a shuttle to the top, or enjoy a
short but strenuous hike on the
paved Summit Trail. (cfaia.org)
Bell Mountain — This hidden gem
looks out over scenic Lake Chatuge.
While the drive up is steep and
curvy, it’s all paved with parking at
the top, so no hiking is required. A
lookout deck with wooden stairs
leads to elevated points of interest.
(facebook.com/BellMtn).
Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds —
Located along the shores of Lake
Chatuge, the Fairgrounds plays host
to several popular events, including
the annual Georgia Mountain Fair
(August) and the Georgia Mountain
Fall Festival (October). At other times,
you can enjoy world-class bluegrass,
country, gospel and rock ‘n’ roll concerts;
a rodeo; a classic car show; a
craft beer and barbecue festival; holiday
lights; and more. There’s even
on-site camping. (georgiamountainfairgrounds.
com)
Cross the Border
WagonMaster Adventure Ranch
— Just across the border in Murphy,
NC, lies this popular destination for
family fun. There’s something for
everyone here, including gem mining,
gold panning, paintball, skeet shooting,
mini golf, wagon rides, bounce
house and more. You can rent a boat
for a tour of Lake Apalachia and
waterfalls, or rent a cabin or RV site
and spend the whole weekend.
(wagonmasterranchresort.com)
For detailed area information
including dining, lodging and events,
visit the Blairsville-Union County
Chamber at visitblairsvillega.com.
Bell Mountain
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/BellMtn)
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