Vacation Guide in the Mountains - Spring 2026 - 19.1
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!
The Enchanted Valley of Hiawassee & Young Harris, Georgia
The Appalachian Mountains come alive with the changing of the seasons from winter to spring and blooms with new growth appear. After so many months indoors, people flock outdoors to enjoy nature and the beauty of the mountains.
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.
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. Many accommodations can guide
visitors to spend time hiking with waterfalls in our surrounding National Forest Land.
Also known by many is that Towns County has many other outdoor recreational activities like biking or horseback areas since the Chattahoochee National Forest covers over 50,000 acres in Towns County and another 7,000 is owned by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), which built Lake Chatuge in 1941. Lake Chatuge’s many activities range from fishing, boating, swimming, sailing, tubing, water skiing, wake boarding, jet ski and canoeing.
Towns County has Georgia’s highest mountain that is Brasstown Bald at 4,784 ft., it has views of 4 states on a clear day. The Brasstown Bald Visitors center, with museum is Located on Hwy. 180 and has a paved trail to the top or shuttle available. Additionally there are other public
parks areas including Bell Mountain Park that offers 360 degree views of Hiawassee & Lake Chatuge with an observation platform.
For many years, Hiawassee was known to be the home of the Annual Georgia Mountain Fair that was held in Summer. Today this facility hosts numerous events throughout the year with Live Concerts, Shows at Anderson Music Hall, Pioneer Village & Local Craft Events. The campground has picnic areas, playground and public beach for outdoor enjoyment. Plus the nearby Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens are also open year round with more than 3,000 plants in bloom.
The city of Hiawassee holds events 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 DayLabor Day Weekend.
The City of Young Harris has events at Young Harris Park including the Annual Seafood Festival. 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, just a short distance from campus.
The entire region surrounding Lake Chatuge is famous for year round trout fishing in numerous streams and rivers. Another great way to have fun exploring Lake Chatuge is to enjoy a leisurely cruise on a pontoon boat or rent a jet ski, canoe, or kayak from one of the marina’s.
You’ll feel relaxed with the wide variety of accommodations. Stay overlooking a mountain or lake view in our many hotels, resorts, cabins, cottages, B & B’s, or campgrounds.
Shoppers enjoy the variety of Antique stores, apparel and gifts. Towns County restaurants feature everything from fine cuisine to country cooking, deli treats, and bakery sweets. Many surrounding wineries also offer tasting and tours for an afternoon of activities.
No matter where you stay, you will feel welcomed by a friendly community who enjoys sharing all the best places for you to stay, dine, shop, and enjoy 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
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 point you in the right direction of Hiking Trails, Waterfalls, or Scenic Road Trips in our area.
View our website at www.MountainLakeGuide.com
to find everything Online & Links to find more about our Restaurants, Shopping, Lodging, and Area Recreation.
And remember to like us /MountainVacationGuide /Mtnvacationguide
Tell them you “Found them in the Vacation Guide”
April 6th
Spring/Summer Edition, Volume 19, Issue 2
Need Advertising Info? Call Kathleen Painter: 706-896-2412 or office: 888.896.2412
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Spring calendar of Events
Please verify Event Dates in case of Rescheduling
Hiawassee
March 7
Electric Avenue -
The 80’s MTV Experience
GA Mountain Fairgrounds
March 21
Chris Janson
GA Mountain Fairgrounds
April 2 – 4
GA Mtn Ford Nationals
GA Mountain Fairgrounds
April 11 – May 10
The Rhododendron Festival
Hamilton Gardens
April 11
Lake Chatuge Fishing Tournament #8 of 9
Lake Chatuge
April 25
Run for the Rhodo’s 5k
Hamilton Gardens
Hiawassee Highlands Wine Festival
GA Mountain Fairgrounds
May 1 – 3
BMW Georgia Mountain Rally
GA Mountain Fairgrounds
May 7
Acoustic Sunsets at Hamilton Gardens - Spring Series
Hamilton Gardens
May 16
Georgia Mountain Fire & Smoke Cooking Festival
Hamilton Gardens
Young Harris
March 2
YHC Concert Band
Glenn-McGinnis Hall
March 3
Spring Choir Concert
Glenn-McGinnis Hall
March 5
YHC Jazz Band Concert
Glenn-McGinnis Hall
March 13 – April 2
Student Juried Art + Design Exhibition
Campus Gate Art Gallery
March 14
The Big Dance
The Harp Center
March 20
Perfect Little Planet
Rollins Planetarium and YHC
Observatory
Skies Over Georgia
Rollins Planetarium and YHC
Observatory
March 26
Faculty Artist Lecture Recital
American DNA
Dr. Hayes Burch, Percussion
Suber Banquet Hall
April 10 & 11
GA Mtn Storytelling Festival
The Ridges Resort
April 17
Pink Flloyd Dark Side of the Moon
Rollins Planetarium and YHC Observatory
April 19
Acapalooza
Glenn-McGinnis Hall
April 22 – 25
Working
Dobbs Theatre
April 27
YHC Concert Band
Glenn-McGinnis Hall
April 28
YHC Jazz Band Concert
Glenn-McGinnis Hall
April 29
Senior Capstone
Dobbs Theatre
road trip to
Beautiful Views and Towns in North Carolina
Just to the north of Georgia the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains continue across the border to North Carolina where the views seem to never end. Our neighbors to the north are just a short drive to visit the quaint towns of Hayesville, Murphy, Andrews, Robbinsville & Franklin in North Carolina.
If you enjoy beautiful overlook views and pristine rivers that flow beside the winding roads, then this road trip is your FREE ticket for a wonderful day trip of exploring. The Chattahoochee & Nantahala National Forest stretches from northern Georgia to the Smoky's and has vast areas of Ranger districts.
To see some of the best views, just pack a picnic lunch and fill up the tank to ride around some of these incredible Mountain Overlooks and picturesque winding highways to view flowing rivers in the National Forests of North Carolina.
Hayesville, N.C.
Located just north of Hiawassee, GA this charming small community shares Lake Chatuge and has many recreational areas like Jack Rabbit & Fires Creek. The old courthouse & downtown square offers shopping and dining plus host visitors to many weekend activities and Festivals.
Shooting Creek Scenic Overlook
Hwy. 64 East from Hayesville towards Franklin, N.C.
Perfect overlook area with tons of space to park and take in the scenery.
Murphy, N.C.
Blending historic preservation with friendly home-town atmosphere helps this town continue to be a popular destination for tourists. Historical courthouse, museum, churches, and theater mix with wonderful restaurants plus shopping. Stay & play at Harrah's Cherokee Valley River Casino or enjoy numerous hiking, lake and nearby recreational activities.
Murphy River Walk
Located in downtown Murphy off Valley River Avenue the 3 mile walk beside the river starts or ends behind the Hackney
Warehouse / Downtown Train Depot and Koneheta Park. A beautiful walk provides a mixture of shade and sun as it passes the trees along the river. Enjoy the park with playground for seating and picnic tables.
Franklin, N.C.
You must see the “Gem Capital of the World” as mining is at the top of this geo-graphical “Rich” town. Enjoy walking in downtown Franklin that is filled with shopping, galleries, antiques + more.
Home to the Scottish Festival, airing of the Quilts and numerous entertainment events located at the Smoky Mountain Center for Performing Arts, you'll love staying to be a part of the show.
Sky Valley & Blue Valley Overlook
Hwy. 441 North of Dillard, GA take 246 for the overlook at top of Mtn. on right. Same road turns into 106 as it continues in NC to pass Scaly Mtn. & pass Highlands to Osage, then Blue Valley Overlook. Just view the skyline for a breathtaking view of Georgia or further for North Carolina.
Andrews, Nantahala, & Robbinsville N.C.
Highlights of this region are separated but joined by nearby National Forest Land. Andrews shares Nantahala which is home to this small unincorporated area that has wildlife abound. Nantahala Lake is gorgeous and there are numerous recreational opportunities including boating and fishing.
Robbinsville shares the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest that is in the Nantahala & Cheoah Ranger District and has remained untouched by logging since 1936. Lake Santeetlah located just north of Robbinsville is a separate lake where visitors enjoy fishing and boating.
Nantahala River
From Murphy go East on Hwy. 74 to travel past Andrews where the 4-lane Hwy. narrows to a 2-lane and winds through the Nantahala Mtns. & NFS. Enjoy the beautiful Nantahala River that winds along side this 10 mile stretch with roads that lead to waterfalls and whitewater rafting.
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!
Google 5-Star Review from Amy R: “This was the cutest little shop in Blue Ridge. The ladies were very sweet and helpful! There is something here for everyone!”
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 Meeting Facilities for up to 200
C Vacation Rentals (1, 2, & 3 Bedroom)
C Year Round Indoor Heated Pool
C Two Outdoor Pools & Tennis Courts
C Fitness Center & Game Room
C Pickleball Court
C Catch & Release Fish Pond
C Riverfront Parks & Playgrounds
C Vineyards, Hiking & Waterfalls Nearby
C Summer/Fall Concert Series
Dahlonega
Dahlonega’s newest, luxury bed and breakfast located in the heart of wine country. Enjoy a romantic stay in a picturesque setting with modern farmhouse accommodations and gourmet breakfast.
Spring calendar of Events
Please verify Event Dates in case of Rescheduling
Blairsville
March 28
Live Music at Paradise Hills
Paradise Hills Winery Resort & Spa
Spring in the Mtns Mrktplace
Agriscience Center
Banff Mountain Centre
World Tour Screening
Union Co Schools Fine Arts Center
April 18
Spring Downtown Market
Downtown Blairsville
April 24 – 26
Better Health Retreat
Paradise Hills Winery Resort & Spa
Seafood & Music Fest
Union County Heritage Center
Dahlonega
March 5
Crime & Punishment
Historical Walking Tour
Dahlonega Gold Museum
State Historic Site
March 7
Dahlonega Literary Festival
Holly Theater
March 13
Bloodkin
Holly Theater
March 14
Peyton Porter
Holly Theater
April 4
Spring Art in the Park
Hancock Park
April 4, 11, 18, & 25
Appalachian Jam
Public Square
April 17 – 19
Bear on the Square
Public Square
April 24 – May 10
The Drowsy Chaperone
Holly Theater
May 1
First Friday Night Concert
Series
Hancock Park
May 2
Appalachian Jam
Public Square
Ellijay
March 7 & 8, 12 – 15
Noel Coward’s Blithe Spirit
Gilmer Arts Playhouse
March 14
North Georgia Ag Expo
Gilmer County Agricultural Center
March 21
Wyatt Espalin & the Riverstones
Gilmer Arts Playhouse
March 26
Storytellers
Gilmer Arts - Gallery
April 4
Lee Hardin
Gilmer Arts Playhouse
April 18
2026 Woofstock
Downtown Ellijauy
April 24 – 26
2026 GA Mtn Needle Arts Fest
Gilmer County Civic Center
April 24
Storytellers
Gilmer Arts - Gallery
April 25
Wasted Potential Brass Band
Gilmer Arts Playhouse
Cirque Du Roo
Roo Mountain Vineyards
May 2
Run for The Son 5K
Gilmer Scout Hut
May 8 – 10
Ellijay Music Festival
Various Locations in Downtown Ellijay
Adventure Awaits
Relax. Indulge. Explore.
Rabun County, Georgia is home to thrilling outdoor adventure, state parks, rivers, lakes & waterfalls, farm-to-table dining, wineries & distilleries, Appalachian art & culture, eclectic shops & markets, resorts, spa, golfing, and so much more!
helen / Sautee Nacoochee
THE LODGE
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
March
BINGO
Tuesday
April
$1,500
BAVARIANFEST
May 23, 2026
Live
BBQ grills, fire pits, picnic tables, and swings. Hotel rooms, cabins, + 8 person cottage. Pet friendly.
Mention this ad for 5% OFF your stay, or book online with code MLP2025 134 River St, Helen Georgia 30545
May 1
Farmers Market
Old A&P Parking Lot
Blue Ridge
February 26 – March 22
Smoke on the Mountain
Blue Ridge Comm. Theater
March 14
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Downtown Blue Ridge
March 28
Mercier Orchards Spiked
Apple 5K Run/Walk
Mercier Orchards
Adventures Fest
Downtown Blue Ridge
May 2
Soap Box Derby
Fannin Co. Middle School
May 2 & 3
Adventure Race
Downtown Pavilion
Brasstown
March 16
Red-Haired Mary (St. Patrick’s Pre-Party)
John C. Campbell
Folk School
May 2
30th Annual Maypole Parade & Dance
John C. Campbell Folk School
Clarkesville
March 7
Mardi Gras
North Georgia Tech
Technology Event Center
April 9 – 19
Rope
Directed by Lisa Smith Habersham Comm. Theater
1st Annual Auggie Soapbox Derby Downtown Clayton
May 1 – 10
Northeast Georgia’s Battle of the Burgers Clayton, GA (Online)
