A Tradition of Trust
Welcome to the mountains of Northeast Georgia. You will find that Rabun County has more to offer than you could ever imagine. From lakeside cabins to large estates, Lake Burton, Rabun and Seed offer potential homeowners a pristine lake living experience. Boating, fishing, or just relaxing on the dock overlooking some of Georgia’s most beautiful lakes, lake life in Rabun is the finest!
Perhaps a mountain top home or log cabin set in the center of a lush valley is more what you had in mind, those are plentiful as well. Views are abundant and described as “breathtaking” and “expansive” with some offering a 360º panoramic view. Many properties include streams or are creek or riverside, we can even show you homes or land with waterfalls included.
Our agents are some of the area’s finest. You will find them to be knowledgeable, professional, determinded, and motivated. Many have decades of experience helping clients buy or sell their property. We strive to provide a seamless and easy experience and one that will ensure you think of Poss Realty when you are ready to buy or sell again.
Give us a call, we’d love to show you around the mountains!
Poss President/Broker - POSS REALTY
Laura
Rob
70 - Visit Clayton
74 - North to Discover More of Rabun County ON OUR PLATES & IN OUR GLASSES
80 - Small Town with Big Flavor
84 - Our Distillation and Fermentation Destinations
86 - Rabun Wines and Really Good Times SHOP THE MOUNTAINS
90 - Explore Shopping in Rabun County, Georgia
ARTS
96 - The Art Scene in the Mountains 98 - Magical Mountain Music
WWelcome to Rabun County!
e know you’ve come to our “little neck of the woods” to enjoy all the wonderful things we have to offer. And, we thought we’d just let you know how glad we are that you decided to come, as well as tell you a little bit about all the things we’re doing to ensure that your stay is the best that we can make it.
A few years ago (not too many), the folks here in Rabun decided there was a better way to show all the other folks out there just what a great place this is. So, we put together a new organization called Forward Rabun, whose sole purpose is to make sure everyone knows about our Mountain Treasure. Forward Rabun combines all the best we have to offer. And through Forward Rabun, we are working together to make something that is already wonderful become something that is absolutely amazing.
To start with, we created our new Welcome Center. A state-of-the art showroom, the Welcome Center is full of displays and all the information you may need to learn about and experience Rabun County to its fullest. Our center is staffed by some of the friendliest people you could hope to meet, and they are here to help you in any way they can. But we’re so much more than just a Welcome Center. We have joined together with the Rabun County Chamber of Commerce, the Development Authority, Keep Rabun Beautiful and Rabun County Tourism & Marketing, to create an organization that offers everything to make Rabun County a great place to live, work, and especially visit! (Photo of the inside of the Welcome Center)
The Rabun County Chamber of Commerce is here to assist our local businesses in being the best they can be. Helping them helps makes your experience doing business in Rabun County, from dining to shopping to staying, an even better one. One that we hope will keep you coming back.
Our Development Authority is designed to make sure that growth in Rabun County comes responsibly. Growth is inevitable. But when you have an area as lovely as ours, it is incumbent on the residents to make sure that the things which move us forward, don’t destroy what we already have. We aim to ensure that the Rabun County of tomorrow will be just as spectacular as it is today; maybe even more so. Keep Rabun Beautiful, as an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, spearheads our local efforts to keep litter and pollution in check, and we take this job very seriously. We value our environment above all. It’s what brings people here and makes our lives so much richer. Protecting it by simply “keeping it clean” only makes sense and is a small thing to do in exchange for all the joy it brings us.
And, Rabun County Tourism & Marketing is how we get the word out. What good is having something wonderful if you can’t share it? Hopefully you’re here today because of something we did, something you read, saw or heard. We love telling people all about what a wonderful place this is, and we try to do this as much as we can. At the very least, you’re here reading this travel guide, so we must be doing something right!
All of these efforts are funded and organized through our Forward Rabun initiative. By working together, we can, and are, creating a greater sense of community. And, it’s one that we hope will be just what you’re looking for, whether you’re here for the day, the weekend, a whole week, or for the rest of your life. Again, Welcome to Rabun County!
Rick Story, Director of Development, Forward Rabun
Come Leave Your Heart in Rabun
“Where spring spends the summer,” the Rabun County Chamber of Commerce once boasted about the 377 square miles of what some call “God’s Country.” The county that was named for Georgia’s eleventh governor, William Rabun, is famous for its climate and its hospitality. Follow that up with some of the most breathtaking scenery to be found anywhere, and Rabun County is where all aspects of a quality life converge. Some call the resulting collaboration equally close to heaven on earth.
Rabun County, Georgia has long been a crossroads destination.
Situated in the extreme northeastern corner of Georgia, hugged up against North Carolina and South Carolina, the region that now boasts three recreational lakes, has long sounded the siren call of a quieter and more satisfying lifestyle. For those seeking respite from all the many maladies of a rat race existence, Rabun offers a win-win prescription.
Even before 1776, when Georgia delegates Lyman Hall, Button Gwinnett, and George Walton signed their names to the document that declared this country free from English rule, early tourists were already documented in what is now the Rabun area. Explorer and naturalist William Bartram, one of the earliest known visitors to this beautiful but remote and isolated region, was already discovering
what so many have learned in the almost 250 years since.
Rabun County is a place to be, and for so many different reasons. So many reasons, you could almost write a book… and in fact, educator and historian Andrew Jackson Ritchie did just that. As the founder of the Rabun Gap Industrial School (now Rabun GapNacoochee School), Dr. Ritchie’s Sketches of Rabun County History, was first published in 1948. His words about the early beginnings of this land that one Rabun native has declared as part of a spiritual vortex, gave life and breath to the original settler families. Their origins and their early stories sculpted Rabun County into the destination it is today.
When Bartram visited in 1775, the Cherokee Indians were the sole inhabitants. His private journal entries that survive him, recorded his travels and his reaction to all he saw. As Bartram tells the story, he crossed into eastern Rabun County from present day South Carolina, in an area around the confluence of the Chattooga River and Warwoman Creek. Later in his journey, he traveled to a junction of Cherokee trails called Dividings. That junction today goes by the name Clayton. He then hiked north to Passover that would, in time, become Mountain City. He also climbed Rabun Bald, the second highest mountain peak in Georgia.
In fact, the county has eight peaks that are higher than 4,000 feet, and over 60 that exceed 3,000 feet in elevation. That’s a lot of lofty peaks that contribute to an even more lofty lifestyle. It’s easy to understand how the beauty spoke to Bartram’s spirit. His Rabun ramblings are memorialized by the Georgia portion of the hiking trail known in the nation’s southeast as the Bartram Trail.
Bartram was a tourist passing through. Ritchie came to Rabun Gap and stayed for a time. Both made their marks; in turn, both were marked distinctly by the spirit of all that is Rabun. Whether your stay classifies as full-time or part-time, fret not. What does matter is that you come to this country where mountain peaks caress the sky, and valley floors provide a plethora of enjoyments and pastimes. Take a gander at the menu of possibilities.
For starters, Rabun County is a place of unique venues and adventures. As the only county in Georgia with three state parks, Black Rock Mountain, Moccasin Creek, and Tallulah Gorge, the opportunities to get out there and find some of the same nature that enthralled Bartram, is literally only footsteps away. These are but three of the gateways that lead to the Rabun experience. Add to this the number of hiking trails and breathtaking vistas, some looking into the two adjacent states, and you understand why Bartram was so enthralled.
There are also three major lakes, Burton, Rabun, and Seed, that add yet another multi-faceted perspective to the menu of prospects. These three areas of watery entertainment were developed by Georgia Power in the early 1900’s to generate electric power, and cover some 3,850 acres. While the lakes’ surfaces offer opportunities for boating, skiing, swimming, and relaxing, the fishing available below the surface is par to none. What’s more, the lakes serve as backyards for many of the homes that line the 138 miles of shoreline. In the 2010 federal census, Rabun County’s population totaled 16,276. During the summer months, however, the head count nearly triples, thanks to those who maintain part-time homes in Rabun County, as well as those who pass through four distinct seasons out of the year.
The county also boasts a large number of trout streams, including the Tallulah River and its tributaries, the Coleman River, and Charlie’s Creek. Rabun’s eastern border is formed by the Chattooga River of whitewater rafting fame, and the high elevation gives the region the distinction of the snowiest county in Georgia. That same
attribute contributes to its milder, mellow summer climate. Either way, climate makes a definite contribution to the Rabun experience.
But life doesn’t begin and end on the lakes or at the campgrounds and on hiking trails. Oh, no, that’s just the beginning.
Because of its remote nature in the days past, families had to be self-sufficient. What they raised, they ate. Had it not been for those crops that grew on the mountain hillsides, they wouldn’t have eaten. Today, farmers markets, roadside food stands in season, and even supermarkets have changed the question “what’s for supper?” But in a flashback to earlier days, Rabun County is one of the state leaders in the farm-to-table cuisine campaign, where local eateries proudly prepare and serve locally grown ingredients. Rabun County is also home to several vineyard/winery operations. It doesn’t get much better than this.
But if you’ve got good eats, you’ve also got to have a great place to lay your head between meals. Motels, bed & breakfast operations, camp grounds, short-term rental cabins, golf resorts, and rooms in private homes all offer the perfect night’s sleep to complement a great meal. And there’s more.
In recent years, thanks to all these attributes, bridal couples have discovered the abundant emotional perks to saying “I do…” against a backdrop of native beauty and majesty in Rabun County.
From Tallulah Falls, Lakemont, Wiley, Tiger, Clayton, Mountain City, Rabun Gap and Dillard, all these towns lie alongside Highway 441 that snakes its way north and south throughout the county. Visual, musical, and performing arts abound, crafts and craftspeople, family activities, and specialty shopping opportunities bid welcome along major traffic corridors, and on the side roads that lead to discoveries.
Rabun County is easily accessible from Atlanta, Asheville, North Carolina, Greenville, South Carolina, and Chattanooga, Tennessee. Unlike William Bartram, who literally hacked his way into the county, getting to the northeastern most corner of Georgia is as easy as getting in the car and asking the GPS for routing to God’s Country.
Leaving, however, is a lot more difficult. Rabun County may be a place where spring spends the summer, but it’s also a place where, once you’ve visited, your heart lives year round. The place simply grows on you.
Top 10 Bucket List of Things You Must Do in Rabun County
Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or are just up for a visit, there are things to do in Rabun County that everyone should try at least once, to really appreciate what an amazing place this is...
1. Take a thrilling whitewater rafting trip down the Wild & Scenic Chattooga River.
Take the ride of your life down the “Wild & Scenic” Chattooga River, one of the most beautiful mountain rivers in the South. Class 2 through 5 rapids offer thrills for any level, beginners through advanced.
2 . Ride horseback through a mountain stream.
If you prefer a milder adventure, then visit the Dillard House Stables. This ride takes you deep into mountain pastures and then down the middle of the Little Tennessee River for an exciting in water riding experience.
3. Go forest bathing and hike to a stunning waterfall.
With more than 34 waterfalls and the hikes to reach them, ranging from easy to challenging, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the area’s lush forests. Most hikes end with the majesty of clear mountain water cascading dramatically over rocks and outcroppings.
4. Tour and taste at a mountain top winery or craft distillery.
Rabun County’s rich mountain soil and pure water are the perfect combination to produce fabulous wines and spirits. With four wineries and two distilleries, you can sample award-winning beverages while enjoying spectacular views and small-town charm.
5. Learn how to land a beauty with a guided fishing tour.
Rabun County offers world-class fishing for both seasoned and beginner casters. With a number of highly skilled fishing guides angling in our many lakes, streams and rivers, even the novice is sure to bring home a trophy!
6. Hunt for treasure in our antique shops, art galleries and markets.
You won’t find mega-malls in Rabun County. What you will find is one-of-a-kind shops filled with lots of character and personality. You never know what you’ll find at the locally owned boutiques, galleries and markets—but whatever it is, you probably won’t find it anywhere else.
7. Climb the Tallulah Gorge.
As one of the deepest gorges east of the Mississippi, the Tallulah Gorge is just begging to be explored. Expert climbers can scale its sheer quartzite walls with special permits or casual visitors can test their endurance on the 1,000-plus
Forest Bathing
White Water Rafting at Southeastern Expeditions
Edible Plant Foraging with Wildcraft Kitchen
Hurricane Falls stairs, which take you down to the gorge floor and back up the other side for views that are more breathtaking than the climb!
8. Enjoy a true Farm-to-Table fine dining experience.
As Georgia’s Farm-to-Table Capital, Rabun County boasts many exceptional chefs and restaurants that transform just-picked, locally grown products into culinary delights. You don’t have to travel to a big city for excellent cuisine.
9. Stay in fun, historic or unique accommodations.
In Rabun County, where you stay can be a big part of the fun. Take your pick from accommodations of all sorts… campgrounds, upscale resorts, historic B&Bs and eclectic cabins surrounded by woods and streams. From rustic to elegant, there’s a place for everyone.
10. Step outside the box and reconnect with your roots.
Disconnect from your norm and try some grass roots experiences. Forage the forest for edible plants with Wildcraft Kitchen, learn how to build an indigenous musical instrument at Archaic Roots or take a class in spinning, weaving or even soap making at the Foxfire Museum. Whatever you try, your horizons are sure to expand!
If you would like more information on any of these adventures, stop by our
Small-Town Charm with Unique Shops
Mountain top views and wines at Terra Incognita Vineyard
Hurricane Falls Stairs at Tallulah Gorge State Park
River Ride with Dillard House Stables
Park it Here! In Three Parks in Rabun County
No matter the season, Rabun County is simply beautiful. There’s a lot of outdoors to see in this neck of the woods. Whether you are looking to camp, hike, sight-see, experience breathtaking views or enjoy a picnic there are three state parks where you can do all of that and more. Visit the Rabun County Welcome Center and www.explorerabun. com for more information.
Black Rock Mountain State Park
The 1,743 acres that make up Black Rock Mountain State Park are the highest state park lands in Georgia. Scenic vistas within the park offer some of the most outstanding views in Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Spectacular views often up to 80 miles, are prevalent at several overlooks. Four hiking trails lead visitors past wildflowers, streams, small waterfalls, and lush forests. The park’s 17-acre lake is a favorite of anglers, and is encircled by an easy walking trail. Self-contained cottages, tent, trailer and RV campsites offer comfortable overnight accommodations. For those who want to push the envelope, the park features walk in campsites and back country campsites, as well as a pioneer campground. Two picnic shelters, a playground, and the summit Visitor Center and Gift Shop make just a stop for a picnic or a stay of several nights a great adventure.
The park is a special favorite of professional and amateur photographers, and geocaching enthusiasts will be right at home.
Black Rock Mountain State Park Visitor Information
3085 Black Rock Mountain Parkway Mountain City, GA 30562
706-746-2141 / Reservations 800864-7275
Web site: gastateparks.org/BlackRockMountain
GPS Coordinates: N 34.9069220 / W 83.4083750
Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
7 days a week March 16 through December 17, weather permitting $5.00 parking, Annual Georgia Park Pass honored
Tallulah Gorge State Park
Tallulah Gorge, one of the most spectacular canyons in the eastern United States, runs some two miles long and is 1,000 feet deep. Visitors have the option of hiking rim trails to several overlooks, or a limited number of permits allow hikers to descend to the gorge floor at selected times and days. For those who aren’t that ambitious but still want see the gorge, a suspension bridge hanging some 80 feet over the bottom is the way to go.
A paved walking trail and a challenging 10-mile mountain bike trail offer still more options for outdoor enjoyment. Other highlights of this 2,739 acre property are a 63-acre lake, tent, trailer and RV campsites, pioneer and back country camping spaces, a picnic shelter, a sand beach open during the summer months, and playgrounds.
Inside the gift shop and the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center, visitors can learn about the rich history of the former resort town, as well as geophysical exhibits about the area, snacks and souvenirs.
Tallulah Gorge State Park Visitor Information
338 Jane Hurt Yarn Drive
Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
706-754-7981 / Campground 706-754-7979 / Reservations 800-864-7275
Web site: gastateparks.org/TallulahGorge
GPS Coordinates: N 34.739750 / W 83.395233
Hours: 8:00 a.m. – Dark 7 days a week
$5.00 parking, Annual Georgia Park Pass honored
Moccasin Creek State Park
Moccasin Creek, from its location on the shores of Lake Burton, is a place where visitors can relax in the cozy, family-friendly campground, cast a hook in a clear mountain stream, or enjoy a boating excursion within the Chattahoochee National Forest.
With 32 acres, the park offers shore-front access to 2,775-acre Lake Burton, where a fully-accessible fishing pier sits above a trout-filled creek open only to seniors age 65 and over and children age 11 and younger, as well as all ages with a Georgia Disability fishing license. Visitors will find tent, trailer, and RV campsites, a picnic shelter, boat dock and ramp, wildlife observation tower, hiking, geocaching, and ample accessibility for wheelchairs and large RV’s. Wi-Fi is available in the campground.
The camp’s central location makes it the perfect base for exploring the area waterfalls, mountain bike trails, art galleries, shops, restaurants. On the other hand, there’s also plenty of peace and tranquility, so take a nap or read a good book.
Moccasin Creek State Park Visitor Information
3655 Highway 197 Clarkesville, GA 30523
706-947-3194 / Reservations 800-864-7275
Web site: gastateparks.org/MoccasinCreek
GPS Coordinates: N 34.844916 / W 83.588087
Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
7 days a week March 16 through December 17
$5.00 parking, Annual Georgia Park Pass honored
Rabun County’s Tallulah Gorge State Park
It’s obvious that Rabun County’s Tallulah Gorge State Park celebrates the splendor of nature, with its stunning views of sheer quartzite cliffs towering over the torrents of water falling over the rocks below. Also clear is the fact that hundreds of thousands of visitors flock to the park each year to avail themselves of these spectacular views, unparalleled hiking trails, and world class white-water sports and climbing opportunities. And it’s generally known that the Tallulah Gorge and its waterfalls have been a tourist attraction since at least 1882 when the Tallulah Falls Railway was built, increasing the accessibility of the area to people traveling up from Atlanta and South Georgia. But it may not be as well-known that the park is also a testament to two Georgia women pioneers in environmental conservation, Helen Dortch Longstreet and Jane Hurt Yarn.
Known as the “Fighting Lady”, Helen Dortch Longstreet was an American social advocate who earned her nickname for being a champion of causes such as the preservation of the environment and civil rights. The second wife of Confederate general James Longstreet, she was the proprietor and editor of two weekly new publications, Vice-President of the Georgia Weekly Press Association, Secretary of the Woman’s Press Club of Georgia, and Assistant Librarian of the State of Georgia. She was also the leader of the movement to have the University of Georgia opened to women and was an advocate of modern industrial education. In 1911, Dortch Longstreet took up the cause of creating a state park at Tallulah Gorge to protect the area from the potential impact of Georgia Power’s plan to build a series of hydroelectric dams along the Tallulah River. Although unsuccessful, her campaign was one of the first conservation movements in Georgia. When the Tallulah Gorge State Park was finally created in 1993, it was done in her honor and the trails in the park were named the Helen Dortch Longstreet Trail System in 1999.
Another “trail-blazing” woman, Jane Hurt Yarn was a pioneering conservationist and environmentalist who single-handedly helped save thousands of acres of wild land in Georgia and around the nation. Among her many accomplishments, she founded Save Our Vital Environment (SAVE), the first full-time environmental lobbying organization in the state, she received the American Motors Conservation Tallulah Gorge Suspension Bridge by Peter McIntosh
Helen Dortch Longstreet
Tallulah Gorge circa 1894
Kayakers on a Water Release Day by Peter McIntosh
Gorge Visitors at an Overlook by Peter McIntosh
Tallulah Gorge State Park
Award in 1971, and was inducted in to the Georgia Women of Achievement in 2009.
As a tribute to her efforts, Ms. Yarn was posthumously honored in 1995 with the dedication of Tallulah Gorge State Park’s 16,000 square foot environmental education and visitors center by Governor Zell Miller. According to Governor Miller, “No other single individual has done as much for conservation in Georgia as Jane Yarn.”
Today, as you marvel at the gorge’s splendor while hiking the rim trails or watching the kayakers brave the torrents from the swaying suspension bridge, remember that the everlasting beauty of the park is also a tribute to the vision of these two women, whose passion for environmental preservation helped ensure that the treasures of our mountains will always be here for us to enjoy. And we would remiss if we didn’t also express our appreciation to Peter and his students for doing such a great job capturing that beauty in their wonderful photographs so that others can marvel as well. There are so many treasures to be found in the mountains of Rabun County… come explore them all!
Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center by Sydney Poore
The suspension bridge in the bottom of Tallulah Gorge by Peter McIntosh
Waterfalling
By Mark Ozboyd
Suppose I asked you to recall a few outdoor activities. What comes to mind? Rock climbing, kayaking, perhaps just plain hiking. But in Georgia, a new outdoor pursuit is rapidly taking hold: waterfalling. Waterfallers are a unique sub segment of the outdoors community. They love spending time in nature just like the rest of us, but what sets waterfallers apart is they hike to waterfall after waterfall, and nowhere else. Traditionally, Georgia has not been known for grandiose waterfalls in the same sense as its neighbors, Tennessee and North Carolina. Nevertheless, an amazing 700 waterfalls are now documented in Georgia – including over 120 in just Rabun County alone. And of course, the waterfall obsession is not limited to waterfallers. Georgia’s waterfalls are excellent destinations for anyone ranging from veteran hikers to Atlanta families who have never been exposed to the treasures of nature.
People can seldom point a finger to precisely what singles out waterfalls as such attractive destinations. Waterfalls are located in exquisite natural settings, often surrounded by unique and rare plants, wildlife, and geology. The dramatic energy of waterfalls is one of the best showings of nature’s majestic forces, similar to the magnificent music of Beethoven’s symphonies and piano sonatas. When I stand at a waterfall, I forget about all my everyday worries and always leave with a mind refreshed by the spray, breeze, and flowing water. It doesn’t matter whether the waterfall is a thunderous free-fall or a subtle stairstep cascade. There’s always something to see.
The first time I ever laid eyes upon a waterfall, I had the advantage of a birds-eye vantage point: my father’s back. It was Amicalola Falls, and that is how I became enamored with waterfalls from the age of one. Ask any kid about how they spend their play time – most will tell you about see-saws and merry-go-rounds, or worse yet, about their favorite video game. I’m thankful that my version of the toddler playground consisted largely of Georgia State Parks, because they changed my life forever. The lessons and memories that children can make from nature are invaluable and lifelong.
Photos by Mark Ozboyd
Ten years ago, when I was 13, I established my first website, www.hikingtheappalachians.com. I wanted to share descriptions of my weekly nature explanations and help prevent others from getting lost on little-used trails. In the summer of 2018, I founded the Southeast Nature Society to coordinate a broader range of resources, as well as encourage people from all backgrounds and ages to connect with and conserve nature. Over the last few years, I learned about dozens of Georgia waterfalls missing from print books and hiking websites. An important caveat: it would be silly to suggest that any Georgia waterfalls were left unnoticed by fishermen, hunters, and loggers from ages past. Nevertheless, even in the digital age, many waterfalls have become lost in time due to their remote wilderness locations or lack of established access points. Thus, as the Southeast Nature Society’s major debut project, I felt compelled to establish Georgia’s first comprehensive waterfall database at www.gawaterfalls.com to bring the state’s countless little-known waterfalls back to life. How long could people keep blindly flocking to Raven Cliff Falls and Panther Creek Falls when there’s so much more to see?
No person has single-handedly inspired me more than Bernie Boyer. Five years ago, I stumbled upon Bernie’s inconspicuous SmugMug webpage on the eighth page of Google’s search results, and my jaw dropped at all the Georgia waterfalls I had no idea about. Given his age of 85, I’m now proud to call Bernie my oldest friend. A retired physicist, Bernie has amazingly been rediscovering waterfalls every week since he moved to Georgia in 2015. My database would have been twice smaller if not for the work of Bernie, as well as Georgia’s other top waterfaller, pastor Greg Ford. Greg appears to spend every minute of his free time scouring maps for the next new waterfall, and I’m convinced he can stare at maps for ten hours straight. Together, these two men have uncovered Georgia’s newest gold mine: a gold mine filled with dozens of undocumented waterfalls.
Consider the Lake Russell Wildlife Management Area (LRWMA) in Rabun’s next-door neighbor, Habersham County. Until 2017, most people in the outdoors community, myself included, knew about just one waterfall in LRWMA: Nancytown Falls, a 25-foot low-flow cascade hardly visible behind a rock jumble. You could wallow through a monsoon to Nancytown Falls and still leave so underwhelmed that you might reconsider the notion of “a bad day in the woods is better than a good day in the office”. So why had this been the only
Upper Moccasin Creek Falls
‘known’ waterfall in LRWMA? Today, we’re aware of over twenty significant waterfalls in LRWMA. The region now attracts numerous waterfall seekers from metro Atlanta who don’t wish to drive so far as Clayton.
If that isn’t enough inspiration yet, I want everyone reading this piece to know that you have all the tools at your disposal to “discover” your own waterfall. The most primitive method might be to just scramble up random creeks and wait until you finally come across a waterfall. Fortunately, technology has granted us less trial-and-error alternatives. First off, one can often find a waterfall at areas of tightlypinched elevation contours along creeks on topographic maps. But with the advent of the “Google Earth” software, discovering waterfalls became much easier. Any area of vibrant whitewater you see in the woods on Google Earth satellite imagery is likely to be a waterfall. Finally, the granddaddy of waterfall hunting tools is LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), an innovating remote sensing technique that measures distances via laser lights pointed down from aircraft. Thanks to LiDAR, we now have access to remarkable 1-meter topo maps that highlight the tiniest elevation changes and reveal any waterfall, whether it’s 100 feet high or 5 feet high. See my article at the link below if you would like to learn more about how to discover waterfalls: https://www.gawaterfalls.com/discovering-waterfalls.html
One day, I sat down at my desk and opened Google Earth for a routine satellite imagery scan, when I abruptly stumbled upon an area of vibrant whitewater on Plum Orchard Creek about 10 miles northwest of Clayton. I had not heard of a waterfall on this creek, so I suggested to Bernie that he check it out. This was early 2017. My prior experience with bushwhacking was still meager. The few off-trail waterfalls I did visit before involved closely following the footsteps of those who came before me. However, for once, Bernie was unconvinced that Plum Orchard Creek really contained a waterfall. I was left with no choice but to take matters into my own hands.
On a frosty March morning, I armed myself with a map, compass, and GPS. Cautiously yet eagerly, I took on the challenge of exploring the trackless Plum Orchard Creek valley despite no prior intel. The journey first involved an hour of scrambling up and down steep slopes and through dense rhododendron thickets to reach the creek. Once there, I waded upstream through the creek for another quarter-mile to the potential waterfall location. My starkest memory from this part of the adventure was repeatedly seeking dry sandbars and rocks to
Denton Branch Falls
stop my toes from going entirely numb in the cold water! My efforts all paid off when I rounded a corner and gazed upon a monster 65foot waterfall that I had never seen any photos of. The music of Tchaikovsky’s mesmerizing Piano Concerto No. 1 resounded in my head. March 4th, 2017 was the day I discovered my first undocumented waterfall.
After failing to uncover a historical name for the waterfall, I decided to christen it Angelica Falls as a tribute to my mother, who singlehandedly instilled a love for both nature and music in me. A concert pianist, my mother had repeatedly emphasized from an early age that both nature and music enrich our spirits and must be a part of everyone’s lives. After finding Angelica Falls, I have since rediscovered eight more undocumented waterfalls in Georgia, a number that pales in the shadows of Bernie’s and Greg’s waterfall discoveries. Yet to date, Angelica Falls remains one of my favorites in Rabun County, accessible only to seasoned outdoor adventurers with enough experience to attempt the rugged cross-country trek.
So what about the rest of us who aren’t avid cross-country bushwhackers? Thankfully, there is no shortage of outstanding waterfalls around Clayton with easier access. Here are a few of my favorites:
• Mud Creek Falls (80 feet). Roadside in Sky Valley, no hike.
• Dicks Creek Falls (50 feet). Easy 0.6-mile trail near Chattooga River.
• Denton Creek Falls. Easy 0.3-mile trail to lower falls (40 feet). Moderate 0.8-mile unofficial path to upper falls (50 feet).
• Haven Falls aka His’n’Her Falls (50 feet). Easy 0.5-mile unofficial trail.
• Moccasin Creek State Park. Easy 1.0-mile trail to Hemlock Falls (15 feet). Moderate unofficial path with stream crossing continues another 0.7 mile to Upper Moccasin Falls (40 feet).
• Three Forks four-waterfall hike: Thunder Dome Falls, Horsetail Falls, Singley’s Falls, and Holcomb Canyon Falls. Moderate to very difficult depending on route. One of the most scenic and pristine watersheds in the state.
Mud Creek Falls
Going beyond a concise database, I have just completed a guidebook titled “Waterfalls of Georgia - A Comprehensive Guide” featuring over 700 waterfalls. The book contains detailed, step-bystep directions with maps and full-color photos to many waterfalls across the state, plus brief descriptions of several hundred others. Nearly one-third of the waterfalls will be in Rabun County & vicinity, including many lesser-known waterfalls not found in any other books. The book is available on my website, www.gawaterfalls.com, and happy waterfalling!
Scan this code for ordering information.
Angelica Falls
His & Her Falls
Some of our Most Popular Waterfall Hikes
Bad Branch and Crow Creek
From Lake Rabun Road, take Low Gap Road across the bridge between L:akes Rabun and Seed. Keep right to stay on Low Gap Road. At 0.3 miles, you reach Crow Creek Road. Go right and follow the road 2.8 miles to a pull-off on the right. Trailhead is on the left across the road. Bad Branch is a five-minute hike. To get to Crow Creek Falls, stay on Crow Creek Road for another mile. Pull off to the right at telephone pole No. 41-72. Trail is across the road.
Becky Branch Falls
Easily accessible 20-foot cascade located just five minutes from downtown Clayton. From Clayton, drive east on Warwoman Road for 2.8 miles and park on the left side of the road by the branch. Walk up the right side of the branch on the trail for about 200 yards to a bridge at base of falls.
Darnell Creek Falls
Easy to get to and not far off the main road. From Clayton, drive north on U.S. 441 to the Rabun Gap Post Office. Turn right on Kelly’s Creek Road. Go 1 mile and turn right on Darnell’s Creek Road. Continue 0.4 mile, bear left at the fork with the private Chestnut Mountain Road. Drive across the bridge and bear right for another 0.3 mile. Park at the fork and take the right fork onto the old wood road. Hike is about 0.25 mile to the falls.
Denton Branch Falls
From Clayton, take U.S. Highway 76 west for 8 miles to Persimmon Valley Road. Turn right and continue 4 miles to Forest Service Road 70, to the left. Look for Coleman River WMA signs. Continue down this road for 6.6 miles. Denton Branch Road is off this road to the right, just past the “Tate City Mall” and Chapple Road. This road is rough, rocky and single-lane. The trailhead is a couple hundred feet down this road.
Dicks Creek Falls
60 foot high falls over a granite mound into the Chattooga River. From Clayton, drive 6 miles east on Warwoman Road. Turn right onto Dicks Creek Road or Sand Ford Road. Go 0.5 mile, then take a left across the creek. Go 3.5 miles. Cross second ford and park at Bartram Trail sign. Follow trail north to Dicks Creek. Follow creek to viewing area at top of falls.
Hemlock Falls
Across from Moccasin Creek State Park, this 15-foot falls is on an moderate 2 mile round trip scenic trail. From Cayton, take Highway 76 West to Highway 197 South. Follow Highway 197 for approximately 5 miles to Moccasin Creek State Park and the Burton Fish Hatchery. Park at the pull-off area on the west side of the road and follow the trail markers.
Holcomb Creek Falls
The 1.3 mile Holcomb Creek Trail begins at the intersection of
Hale Ridge Road and Overflow Road and follows a short loop to its end on Hale Ridge Road. The trail passes Holcomb Creek Falls, which drops and flows over shoals for approximately 150 feet, and Ammons Creek Falls, where there is an observation deck. Take Warwoman Road east from Clayton for 10 miles. Turn left on Hale Ridge Road and drive 9 miles. Park to the east of intersection with Overflow Creek Road.
Kilby Mill Falls
From Clayton, take U.S. Highway 76 west for 8 miles to Persimmon Valley Road. Go 3.2 miles past the turn for Tallulah River Road and Tate City. Park just before the bridge to the right. From the parking area, follow the trail into the woods and up the creek. You’ll pass a 20-foot fall before reaching Kilby Mills Falls.
Martin
Creek Falls
This two-tier waterfall is 35-feet high and is only .5 mile hike. It follows the Bartram Trail along the west side of the creek. From Clayton, go east on Warwoman Road for 3 miles. Turn left onto FS Road 152 and drive past the Game Checking Station. Park in the small cleared camping area on the left at a sharp left bend in the road. Walk west from the camping area. Cross Martin Creek, then travel uphill about 0.4 mile to the top of the falls.
Minnehaha Falls
This easy .4 mile hike follows Fall Branch until it dead ends at Minnehaha Falls. This waterfall is approximately 100 feet high. Take Old Highway 441 South from downtown Clayton to Lake Rabun Road. Continue on Lake Rabun Road for 6.2 miles. Take a left on Low Gap Road. Bear left onto Bear Gap Road for 1.6 miles to a small pullout on the left. The trail starts on some wooden steps to the right, which lead to the falls.
Mud Creek Falls
These falls have a vertical drop of 100 feet and flow into Estatoah Falls in Dillard. Take U.S. 441 North to Dillard. Turn right onto state Route 246 and follow signs to Sky Valley. At Sky Valley’s entrance gate, stay left. Turn right on Tahoe Road and follow to the falls.
Panther Falls/Angel Falls
These falls are close to the Rabun Beach Recreational Area. Turn right into Area 2 of the recreation area. Drive back along the loop road to the sign designating the trailhead. This is an easy trail that follows Joe Branch north of the recreation area to the two waterfalls. Panther Falls is located about a half-mile up the trail, while Angel Falls is another 600 yards farther down the trail.
Stonewall Creek Falls
From Clayton, take U.S. 441 south for 2.7 miles, turn right onto Tiger Road. Go 1.1 miles, and turn left onto Old 441 S. Go 2.3 miles and turn right at Stonewall Falls Mountain bike trail sign. Continue on this road for 1.3 miles. Parking area is uphill to the left.
Photo by Mark Oleg Ozboyd, www.gawaterfalls.com
Chattooga River
Many of the folks who “aren’t from around here,” and even many that are, may not be aware of all the truly amazing things that can be found in Rabun County. And quite honestly, knowing about something doesn’t always mean fully understanding and appreciating it. Sometimes we don’t really stop and take a look at the things that are right in front of us every day. It isn’t surprising as we are all just trying our best, doing what we need to do and getting caught up in our own priorities. But if you are able to take the time to look, explore, learn and experience, you will find wonders all around you, especially if you’re here in Rabun County! These mountains hold so much more than just amazing views, although they are very good for that, too. From their natural environment, to their history and culture, to the people who are inspired by them, there are so many things that truly make this place “Our Mountain Treasure,” and something to be cherished. So, let’s take the time right now and explore something right here in these mountains that you may not already know much about.
How ‘bout the Chattooga River? It defines our eastern border with South Carolina and means so much more than just a dotted line on a map. The Chattooga first came to prominence in 1971 with the filming of the movie “Deliverance,” starring Burt Reynolds and Jon Voight. Several area expert river runners actually worked as advisors and stunt doubles for the movie. Two of whom, Payson Kennedy and conservationist Claude Terry, founder of American Rivers, a non-profit that works to preserve and protect many of the nation’s most beautiful rivers, then started their own rafting companies on the river – Nantahala Outdoor Center and Southeastern Expeditions. In 1974, Mr. Terry, with the help of friend, Georgia Governor and future President, Jimmy Carter, as well as Wildwater Chattooga co-founders Jim and Jeannette Greiner, were able to get the Chattooga River officially designated a National Wild and Scenic River, just six years after Congress established the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act in 1968. The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act states that “certain selected rivers of the Nation which, with their immediate environments, possess outstandingly remarkable scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and wildlife, historic, cultural, or other similar values, shall be preserved in free-flowing condition, and that they and their immediate environments shall be protected for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.” Designated rivers offer many benefits to their communities. They are home to some of the best fishing, boating, hiking and scenery anywhere, naturally filter and store clean water, preserve some of the most important ecosystems on the planet, enable native plants and animals to thrive, and provide amazing adventures and recreation, just to name a few.
The Chattooga River is one of the longest and most spectacular free-flowing mountain rivers in the Southeast. Over a distance of 50 miles, the river descends an average of 49 feet per mile from its headwaters in North Carolina along the state line
between South Carolina and Georgia. It’s beauty and magnificence are unparalleled. And, as a designated Wild and Scenic River, not only is the river itself protected, but a quarter mile buffer zone on either side of the river is legally protected from any activities that would harm the river’s character or benefits as well.
Speaking of benefits… Besides its natural beauty, our Chattooga River is overflowing with world class adventure and recreation. A rafting trip down the Chattooga makes an amusement park roller coaster ride seem like the swing on your grandma’s back porch! Southeastern Expeditions, Nantahala Outdoor Center and Wildwater Chattooga are the only rafting companies commercially licensed to operate on the Lower Segment of the Chattooga River by the U.S. Forest Service, and offer guided rafting trips through rapids class 1 through 5, beginner to expert. And, not only is the Chattooga River home to the best whitewater in the region, it also boasts some of the best trout fishing. Rated by Trout Unlimited as one of the top 100 trout streams in the nation, the Chattooga is best known for its big brown trout, most ranging from 9 to 14 inches. However, the river does yield some large rainbow and brook trout as well. Put in near Burrells Ford Bridge to try your luck and skill. North of the bridge, the fish are native and wild – bigger, spookier, harder to catch, and way more fun to fight when you hook one. At the end of the day, we expect you’ll be the one who’s hooked!
If you haven’t seen it for yourself, you really must. The Chattooga River is definitely one of our most amazing Mountain Treasures, right here in our own backyard. And there are many more. Let’s explore them all. For more information visit ExploreRabun.com or stop by our new Rabun County Welcome Center and let us tell you ourselves. We hope to see you soon!
Bartram Trail
Hiking through history is as real as it gets in Rabun County. Most people know that our area is rich with trails and hiking opportunities of all sorts. Whether you prefer an easy hike to a spectacular waterfall, a challenging hike to an amazing mountain-top view, or anything in-between, we have a trail to suit your heart’s desire. Nature and the great outdoors are right on our front porch. That much is easy to see. What may not be quite as well known is how steeped in history hiking in our area actually is. Taking a walk on one of our trails is like stepping back in time, and not just because you’re disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of everyday, but because you are literally walking the same paths that were carved through the woods by the original explorers of our area.
One trail in particular worth mentioning for its historic significance is the Bartram Trail. The trail is named for the 18th-century American naturalist, William Bartram, who traveled southeastern colonial America between the years of 1773 and 1777, documenting
and illustrating species of plants and animals previously unknown to western civilization. William was the son of John Bartram, Royal Botanist to King George the 3rd, and grew up loving travel, exploring, adventure, art and nature. Bartram was also an astute ethnographer, providing us with some of the only descriptions from that era of Native American villages and customs, all of which culminated in his collection of journal entries into his 1791 publication, Travels, which is still in print today (and available at your local library!). As a result of this documentation, we have a detailed account of the areas he visited. The most established section of the Bartram Trail winds about 115 miles from the North Georgia mountains into North Carolina. It has been designated as a National Recreation Trail by the National Trails System Act of 1968. In Rabun County, the Bartram trail covers 36.5 miles and is well marked with historic markers. It follows the mountain ridge line to its highest point in Georgia at Rabun Bald. From there it passes a number of waterfalls before dropping to its lowest elevation along a stretch of
the Chattooga River. As you hike any or all of this amazing trail, it’s easy to imagine yourself back in Bartram’s time, recording new species of plants and animals, most of which can still be found along the trail today. For more about the history of The Bartram Trail and efforts to preserve its heritage, visit the Blue Ridge Bartram Trail Conservancy’s website at blueridgebartram.org.
In addition to its historic importance, the Bartram Trail offers a great deal of scenic beauty. From the top of Rabun Bald at 4,969 feet, you can see for countless miles in all directions. The more challenging trail to the summit is the Rabun Bald Trail from Hale Ridge Road, which climbs over 2300 feet in less than three miles. But there is an easier option with the Rabun Bald via Beegum Gap Trail for those a little less ambitious (like me!). Although lower in elevation, the section of the trail that skirts the Chattooga River is no less stunning. The rugged beauty of the National Wild and Scenic River will fill your heart with the same sights and sounds that have been alive in these woods for centuries. Most popular hiking websites have detailed information about the trails and how to access them.
Try hikethesouth.com or alltrails.com for starters… So, get out there and see for yourself why the Bartram Trail is just one more example of these mountains holding so much more than just amazing views. From their natural environment, to their history and culture, to the people who are inspired by them, there are so many things that truly make this place “Our Mountain Treasure.”
Trail Town Treasure
In June of 2022, Clayton-Rabun County earned its designation as the 51st Appalachian Trail Community TM. But how many of us actually know what that means, or more importantly, what it means to us? In order to understand what the benefits associated with being a “Trail town” are, it helps to know a little about the Appalachian Trail itself, the organization that manages it, and the people who hike it.
From the beginning, founder Benton MacKaye, a regional planner, had a vision of the Appalachian Trail providing opportunities for recreation, recuperation and employment. “The project is one for a series of recreational communities throughout the Appalachian chain… to be connected by a walking trail.” In 1925, MacKaye, convened the first Appalachian Trail conference. This
initial gathering of hikers, foresters, and public officials laid the groundwork not only for the creation of the Trail, but also for an organization to build, manage, and protect it, to become known as The Appalachian Trail Conservancy, or ATC for short. The Trail was officially completed in 1937 and became part of the National Park System. Today, through the efforts of the ATC, volunteers, clubs, and agency partners, the A.T. extends more than 2,198 miles from Maine to Georgia within a protected 250,000 acre greenway. The ATC was also instrumental in the passage of federal legislation that designated the A.T. as America’s first National Scenic Trail in 1968. Over the past 85 years, the positive economic and environmental impact that the Trail has had on the communities it touches has far exceeded Benton MacKaye’s expectations.
But what about the people who hike the Trail? Amazingly, over 3 million people visit the Trail each year and over 3,000 people attempt to “thru-hike” the entire length. Hikers come from across the globe and are drawn to the A.T. for a variety of reasons, such as reconnecting with nature, escaping the stress of city life and experiencing a simpler life. They range in age from 5 to the oldest hiker, legendary Nimblewill Nomad, at 83 years old, with the average age at about 37. Most are well educated and generally have disposable income, spending an average of over $8,000
each on their adventure. Hikers often spread the word about the communities they’ve visited and return to ones they particularly enjoyed, essentially becoming ambassadors for our area.
Trail communities also develop a sense of stewardship over the section of trail closest to them. Our A.T. Community Committee works with local groups to organize Trail clean-up and maintenance days. In particular, members of the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club are currently working with the student Outdoor Adventure Club at Tallulah Falls School to enhance their understanding of environmental responsibility as well as local biology and ecology along the Trail, giving the students a hands-on and practical education to go along with their classroom learning. Being a Trail town adds emphasis to the importance of protecting our outdoor spaces and works to preserve the integrity of the wonderful environment that makes our area so special.
All in all, you can see how becoming the 51st A.T. Community has not only connected us with a larger community, it serves as a catalyst for enhancing local economic development and encourages environmental stewardship and local community engagement. Having the Appalachian Trail in our own backyard is both a privilege and a responsibility. As we celebrate the one-year anniversary of our A.T. Community designation, we look forward to the future opportunities and benefits that this will bring to our Clayton-Rabun County community!
For more information on the Appalachian Trail, visit appalachiantrail.org or georgia-atclub.org.
Our Phenomenal Fishing
You won’t have to tell a fish story after you’ve spent the day angling on one of our many lakes, rivers or streams here in Rabun County. The only whopper you’ll need to impress your friends will be on the end of your line! Rabun County is an angler’s paradise. Our beautiful mountain waters provide some of the best sport around and our area is vital to Georgia’s recreational fishing industry in many ways.
Take the newly renovated Lake Burton Trout Hatchery for example. One of only four trout hatcheries in the state, the Burton hatchery is home to more than 300,000 trout each year and provides stocking support for north Georgia trout streams and public waters. According to John Lee Thomson, Hatchery Manager & Trout Stocking Coordinator for the Georgia DNR at the Burton Fish Hatchery, “We have a lot of really nice trout water here in Georgia, but the fertility of our streams is fairly low. There’s not a lot of bugs for the wild trout to eat. So if we want people to come to Georgia and buy a fishing license, we need to supplement the wild population with some larger fish that people would be happy to catch.” Fish spend about two years at the Burton Fish Hatchery. They go from fingerlings to about 10 inches long in that time. Rainbow and brown trout fill most of the hatchery’s raceways. Once the fish reach 10 inches, they are loaded onto trucks and released into streams across north Georgia. “Rabun is a great fishing destination,” Thomson said. “Every stream in Rabun County
is classified as a trout stream and Rabun County receives over 100,000 stocked trout each year. So, it’s a great place. We have a lot of streams that are weekly stockings and those are the ones you want to target if you’re not an experienced angler because high stock rate equals high catch rates.” Visitors can tour the hatchery’s facilities seven days a week. To try your own hand at trout fishing, experts and novices alike of any age can “hook” up with one of our many local guide services to have a world-class experience. Shady Creek Expeditions, Hightrout Guides, Blackhawk Fly Fishing, Hatch Camp & Art Farm and Andy’s Trout Farm are all great places to start.
Beyond trout fishing, Rabun County even has our own special species of bass, the Bartram’s Bass. Often mistaken for Redeye, Bartram’s bass is distinct to the Chattooga River area of Georgia. People come from all around just to try to catch our little fish. In fact, the Georgia DNR’s Wildlife Resources Division sponsors a program known as the Georgia Bass Slam which recognizes anglers with the knowledge and skill to catch at least five different species of black bass in a variety of habitats across the state, and encourages interest in the conservation and management of black bass and their habitats. Anglers that successfully catch and document five eligible species receive a variety of prizes and recognition. Species include Largemouth, Spotted, Smallmouth, Shoal, Suwannee, Redeye, Chattahoochee, Tallapoosa, Altamaha and our very own,
Photo by Steve Thornton
Bartram’s Bass. For more information on the Georgia Bass Slam as well as anything “fishy” in Georgia, visit georgiawildlife.com/ fishing/angler-resources/.
Our many lakes are home to not only bass but also walleye, bream, yellow perch, crappie, and of course …catfish! In Rabun County
• Lake Burton Trout Hatchery
706-947-3112
• Shady Creek Expeditions
678-986-5167
• Hightrout Guides
828-547-0231
• Blackhawk Fly Fishing
706-947-3474
• Hatch Camp & Art Farm
706-782-3747
• Andy’s Trout Farm
706-746-2550
we have the most beautiful mountain waters and naturally the most beautiful fish that inhabit them. So spend the day, weekend or however long you can manage to get away, casting your line. We’re sure you’ll catch not only a spectacular fish but also land an amazing story.
It’s always a great day on the water with the guys from
Hightrout Guides
Abby Jackson of Blackhawk Fly Fishing shows how it’s done
Tallulah River Fishing Rodeo
Scott Low of Hatch Camp and Art Farm shows off a spectacular Rainbow
Shady Creek Expeditions in Downtown Clayton can get you outfitted and on the water in one stop.
The Bartram’s Bass
A young angler lands a beauty with a little help from the guide at Hatch Camp & Art Farm
Ryan Cowart of Dunwoody, Georgia lands a 6lbs 6oz record breaker up at Andy’s Trout Farm in Dillard!”
Raceways at the Lake Burton Trout Hatchery
Photo Steve Thornton
Happy Trails A’winding Make a Great Day
The lure of life atop a horse is a style of living that many people enjoy and many more yearn to enjoy. For those fortunate enough to have a few acres on which to stable their horses and ride them, there’s still the matter of same old same old. Eventually you’ll get tired of riding the same pastures and trails on your own piece of dirt.
Then there are those whose love of everything you can do on horseback is more dream than reality. Perhaps they lack the space and opportunity to ride. Perhaps they even lack the horse. Fortunately, there are equestrian business that can deliver all the fun, without any of the ongoing expense and work involved in owning a horse.
It’s the best of both worlds, and in Rabun County and in neighboring Macon County, North Carolina, there are several options to make that magical life from the topside of a horse become a reality. The opportunities abound, and while many of these possibilities
are similar, it’s definitely not a one size fits all. This is what makes the entire horse experience so interesting. It all comes down to what the rider, or rider-wanna-be, is looking for.
If you already own your horse, then you’re half-way there. The question is, have the trails around your place begun to lose their challenge? Are you looking for greener pastures, so to speak? Do you just need a place to ride, some new ground to explore, and then you’ll go home? Or are you seeking more adventure? Perhaps you’d like to take your horse on an overnight camping trip?
Maybe you don’t have a horse yet. For that matter, perhaps you’ve never been on a horse before. There are options for you as well. For the greenhorn who’s never settled into the saddle before, there are many places that offer lessons. Instruction from novice to experienced is available, where the student will be paired with an animal the instructor believes is the best “other half” of the horse and rider partnership.
For the experienced rider, you can bypass the instruction and go straight to the main attraction. Whether that attraction is you alone on your rental horse, becoming one with your steed and nature, or as part of a group ride is up to you, and depends on the offerings of the particular facility. From well-traveled low-challenge trails to more rugged passage ways carved out of the mountainous terrain, there’s something for everyone.
Bottom line: regardless of where along the scale you are, from novice rider to almost good enough to go pro, you can easily find enhancements and opportunities to take your skills to the next level right here in your own back yard. Here are a few of those opportunities.
Randy’s Horse Camp
Billed as the only Mom and Pop Horse Camp in Rabun County, Randy’s Horse Camp, located some eight miles from Clayton at 334 Henry Page Road, offers a variety of options to the horsey set. Some 16,000 acres of Wildlife Management area surround this equestrian Mecca, where 21 campsites with water and power, covered stalls, bathhouses, and a covered pavilion complete the
physical attributes. From this base, there are many trails of varying difficulty for riding and wagon riding. Guides are available for those rides. During the off times, there’s fishing in Walnut Fork Creek, and plenty of natural beauty to please the eye and the soul. Contact the camp by calling 706-782-6118 or 706-982-0899. Check out http:// www.randyshorsecamp.com/.
Willis Knob Horse Camp and Trails
This camp, located some 12 miles east of Clayton, is near the Georgia-South Carolina border, and holds the distinction of being one of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests most beloved horse-lover hideaways. Equestrian camping, riding and hiking trails, and fishing in the nearby Chattooga River are the attributes that have contributed to its popularity. From its location in a heavily-wooded area of the forest, amid deep canyons, Willis Knob is a reservation-only campground. A gate security code will be provided with the reservation confirmation letter. Campers have two access trails that connect to the 15-mile Willis Knob Horse Trail, which in turn connects to the 12.5 mile Rocky Gap Horse Trail in South Carolina by three official fords crossing the Wild and Scenic Chattooga River.
by Kurtis Miller
Photo
Single, double, and group campsites with water and electric hookups for both tent and RV camping are available, along with tables, lantern posts, and campfire rings with grills. Accessible flush toilets and drinking water are provided. Campers must clean up after their horses.
An information number is 706-754-6221. The mailing address is Willis Knob Horse Camp, 801 Highway 441 South, Clayton, GA 3055. Check out this web site http://explorerabun.com/willis-knobhorse-camp-and-trails/.
Dillard House Stables
In the rolling hills of north Rabun County is the Dillard House Stables, where owner-operator Pam Thompson strives to keep the trail-riding tradition alive. Thanks to her 25 years in the business,
Pam and her experienced staff offer the opportunity for a safe and enjoyable riding experience for every level rider from beginner to the experienced.
Dillard House Stables is one of the only stables that offers riders the chance to actually ride down the middle of a river. The experience, according to those who have done it, is both exhilarating and thrilling. Traditional rides on dry land are also available, along with an educational program that creates a safe riding environment for all involved. Complete information is available by calling 706-7462038 or checking out www.DillardHouseStables.com.
After a day on horseback, at the end those happy trails, you’ll realize there’s something locally for every rider and every skill level. So saddle up, find your comfort level, and enjoy!
Photo by Kurtis Miller
Commercial Adventures
If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, Rabun County is the gateway to the beautiful and amazing Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains for the entire Southeast and all the wonderful pursuits those mountains provide. While hiking, biking and camping are the obvious choices, what is often overlooked are the guided and managed activities which are available to all and make thrilling mountain adventures safe and accessible for everyone, even those less experienced visitors.
Take for example, mountain ziplining. There is no substitute for soaring through the sky, 200 feet above the treetops and between the mountain peaks. At first, this may seem like something only for the well-seasoned athlete. But when controlled with engineered cables, state of the art equipment and expertly trained guides, even the most timid traveler can safely and securely thrill at the majesty of our forests and mountains, flying through the air with a view and experience that can’t be had from the ground. And their sense of satisfaction and accomplishment at taking on such an endeavor, only adds to the enjoyment.
The same can be said for the whitewater rafting on Rabun County’s Wild and Scenic Chattooga River. The Chattooga River is one of the longest and most spectacular free-flowing mountain rivers in the Southeast. Over a distance of 50 miles, the river descends an average of 49 feet per mile from its headwaters in North Carolina along the state line between South Carolina and Georgia. It’s beauty and magnificence
are unparalleled. The river first came to prominence in 1971 with the filming of the movie “Deliverance,” starring Burt Reynolds and Jon Voight. Several area expert river runners actually worked as advisors and stunt doubles for the movie. Two of whom, Payson Kennedy and conservationist Claude Terry, founder of American Rivers, a non-profit that works to preserve and protect many of the nation’s most beautiful rivers, then started their own rafting companies on the river.
Today, there are three highly qualified and licensed outfitters on the river, with expertly skilled staff who take adventurers over the jaw dropping flumes and sluices that make up the class 1-4 rapids along the mighty Chattooga, nature’s original rollercoaster. No experience necessary, just a bit of daring and a willingness to get wet!
Speaking of rivers, Rabun County’s many rivers, lakes and streams are idea for fishing adventures of all kinds. Even if you’ve never cast a line in your life, there are experienced fishing guides who can show you how to land your first trophy. From fly-fishing for trout on our rivers and streams to bass fishing on the lakes, the beauty of the surrounding natural environment will astound you and make your own “fish story” worth telling again and again.
But, if you prefer your rollercoasters to be located on land, then you should try a mountain coaster! Just imagine over 3800 feet of gravity-powered thrills winding through the magnificent Appalachian Mountains and forest. And in the
winter, snow tubing offers downhill fun for everyone. This is family amusement at its finest, perfect for the young and the young at heart.
For the adventurer who may like things a bit tamer, mountain horseback riding provides guests with a leisurely stroll through the pastures, woods and even the streams that fill this county with uncompromised and pristine beauty. The mountain views are that much more spectacular when seen from atop your own well trained and carefully selected quarter horse, led by friendly and experienced equestrians. Enjoy the sounds of hooves clopping the ground or riverbed, the smell of the vast fields of wildflowers and the sights of hawks circling overhead as you’re carried through the landscape. The photo-ops alone are worth the price of admission!
Milder adventures in Rabun County also include outback kayaking, boating on the lakes and world class golfing. Delight in a peaceful paddle kayaking down the Little Tennessee River where you can immerse yourself in the wildlife that thrives along the banks. Rent a canoe, jet ski or pontoon boat and spend the day, with family and friends on the waters of lakes Burton, Rabun or Tugalo. For the golfers, Rabun County boasts three mountain courses with elevation changes not normally experienced, challenging your shot-making
skills in a whole new way!
And even if you still tend to favor the simple pleasures of hiking or camping, in Rabun County you can up your game and add more to your experience with guided excursions. Camping guides with special permits to enter National Forest Service lands are a popular way to visit areas often out of reach to everyday campers. There are also many hiking opportunities hosted by local guides who can teach hikers all about the plants and animals encountered along the trails. You can even learn to forage for and then prepare edible wild plants. Curated foraging tours with wild foods cooking workshops offer a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Southern Appalachia.
These are just some of the professionally guided outdoor adventure opportunities available in Rabun County. There are so many more! And all of these service providers are best in their class, insured, and accredited where required. So you can feel that while you’re out there in the magnificent beauty of the North Georgia mountains, enjoying a thrilling experience like none you’ve ever had before, you’re in good hands and all your expectations will be fulfilled. Come see for yourself, we’ll be happy to take you on the ride!
Lake Burton Aerial by Peter McIntosh
Winter Mountain View by Peter McIntosh
Travel from Tallulah Falls to Clayton
Follow Highway 441 north out of Habersham County into Rabun County, and you’ll find a variety of stops and shops, things to see, things to do, and memories to make in small towns with intriguing names like Tallulah Falls, Lakemont, Wiley and Tiger.
Each of these towns is a launch pad, a jumping off place for fun, good eats, and pleasures for all ages. There’s so much packed into those stops alongside the winding twin lanes of asphalt that connect all the towns in Rabun County, from Tallulah Falls on the south through Clayton, to Dillard on the north end.
Tallulah Falls is synonymous with the Tallulah Gorge, where world-famous high wire artist Karl Wallenda crossed on a high wire in 1970. For more than a century, this ancient, awesome chasm carved by the wild waters of the Tallulah River has been a talisman attracting visitors.
But there’s so much more to this southern-most town in Rabun County, that first began hosting visitors after the arrival of the railroad in 1882. While the grand hotels that once rimmed the gorge have long since disappeared from the landscape, there are still many other visitorfriendly businesses.
Tallulah Falls is walk-about friendly, with opportunities for both short and longer distance treks. It’s fitting that Wander North Georgia caters to hikers and campers with an assortment of necessary gear. Be sure to check out the Short Line Railroad walking trail. And when you need sustenance from all that outdoor activity, you can choose from Tallulah 1882 Tea Room and Restaurant in the original railroad station, as well as The Edge Café and Main Street Grill & BBQ.
freed from their imprisonment, and adventuresome visitors can raft the gorge. You’ll also want to check out Lakes Terora, Tugalo and Yonah.
There are other options for overnight accommodations, and this quaint little town is also home to the internationallyknown Tallulah Falls School.
The General Store at Tallulah Falls is housed in a historic building that harkens from the early 1900s. In addition to handcrafted items from local artisans, campers can pick up grocery items needed for their stay.
Tallulah Gorge State Park offers still more hiking opportunities, as well as overnight camping options. The park is the entry way to the Gorge with its six waterfalls. Hikers can descend the 1,000 steps to the bottom of the gorge. At other times during the year, the white waters are
Almost like close cousins, the towns of Lakemont and Wiley lie shoulder to shoulder just north of Tallulah Falls. This is one of those times when you’ll want to abandon the fourlane highway, and take Old Highway 441 instead. This area is especially sweet when it comes to a variety of things to see and do, starting with the Blue Ridge Honey Company. Nearby is Hillside Orchard Farms, where you can see fruit and produce being grown, and then purchase those same products canned and ready to take home.
Downtown Lakemont was once a major railroad stop for visitors seeking access to either Lake Rabun or the many guest accommodations scattered about the lake region. If you’re headed to the historic Lake Rabun Hotel, this is where you want to be. Today, Lakemont is still the major route to the lake, but while the trains no longer run through town, a sense of revitalization does. This little burg continues to reinvent itself.
Art abounds here, through retail outlets such as Harvest Moon Antiques & Garden Arts, India Piper Society, Ladybug Landing, and Lakemont Gallery. And when you’re ready for a break, a bite to eat and something to wet your whistle, The Open Door at Alley’s ‘Ol Store is only steps away. A number of overnight lodging options, from camping to luxury accommodations, can be found nearby.
Continue traveling north to a small crossroads snuggled in at the base of Tiger Mountain, just a couple of miles south of Clayton. You’ll want to make this a definite stop on your itinerary, to visit both Stonewall Creek Winery and Tiger Mountain Vineyards. In both locations, you can see first-
hand the way the grapes are grown and the wines for sale are crafted. An added plus at Tiger Mountain Vineyards is The Vineyard Café, where you can pair menu items with wines from the vineyard.
Close out your visit to Tiger with a stop at the Tiger Drive-In Theater, which is open seasonally, and screens movies and hosts other special events and attractions.
It’s been over 140 years since a rail line to Tallulah Falls first allowed the outside world to discover the beauty and hospitality of Rabun County. What began at Tallulah Falls ultimately connected towns to the north alongside Highway 441, truly making Rabun County a popular destination. The reputation of hospitality that was established then still exists today, except it’s been enhanced and expanded.
The southern end of Rabun County is still a destination that welcomes visitors and provides many opportunities for enjoyment. There’s something waiting between Tallulah Falls and Clayton that has your name on it. It’s just waiting for you to discover it.
Visit Clayton
Much has been said about Clayton and all the wonderful places to eat, the variety of shops with all the offerings and these things are all true. But that doesn’t tell the whole story. That doesn’t tell what makes Clayton so special. It is only part of the story.
It is true that Clayton is a foodie’s dream offering anything that your taste buds desire. The only downside to this is choosing where to eat. If you are in the mood for wings, then Friends American Grill is your spot with over a dozen flavors to choose from. And they are also the only place in town to get an authentic Monte Cristo sandwich. Enjoy outdoor seating at Hush for Cuban food. Fortify and Fortify Pi are local favorites for good reason. If southern cuisine is wanted, Clayton Café will not disappoint. And don’t miss Rabun Social for sushi and hand-crafted cocktails. Start your day at White Birch Provisions for coffee and end at Main Street Chocolates for the sweet treat to end the perfect day. Coming soon are The Vandiver at the Bridge Creek Inn,
Henri’s Deli & Bakery and Stekoa Creek Steak and Seafood. These restaurants are all downtown but don’t miss all the wonderful places all within a 2-minute drive such as Mama G’s for Italian, Rusty Bike & Sunday Diner offering breakfast all day, and Ishy’s for a variety to please everyone in your group.
In between meals, take a walk around Clayton and visit the shops offering as much variety as the restaurants. Many of the shops are owner operated and showcase a unique array of wares. The entrepreneur spirit is strong in Clayton. If you to take a little piece of the area home, visit Crawford Art Gallery for paintings or photography of the area. Outdoor 76 is a mecca for all things to get you ready to take advantage of the hiking and other outdoor opportunities in the area. Isadora Poppers is an eclectic shop with unique greeting cards, kitchen wares and pop in next door to Madison’s on Main for the latest fashions. And because you can never have too many T-shirts. Check out the homewares at Idle
& Wild and pick the perfect unique piece at Lulu & Tully’s. Reeves is a “must see” and be ready to spend some time to make your way through the entire store.
This is just a few of the many things that make Clayton a wonderful place to visit but it doesn’t scratch the surface of what makes the city so special. If you look at the obvious, it has great restaurants and shops, it is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with hiking, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, camping and fishing. The weather is pleasant, and the views are astonishing. But still, this isn’t what makes it special. What makes our towns and county so special is the people. The one finger wave offered from the steering wheel of the car or the nod of a stranger as you pass. Those who hold the door and wish you a good day. That is what makes Rabun County so special.
North to Discover More of Rabun County
When you’ve taken in all the Clayton has to offer we urge you to head north. The first town you’ll come to is Mountain City. You will not find fast food restaurants and businesses lining the highway through this town that lies on the Eastern Continental divide in a deep gap in the Blue Ridge Mountain front, but there are treasures to behold. First you’ll want to visit The Foxfire museum just off of the Black Rock Parkway. The interactive museum allows visitors to glimpse accurate representations of our southern Appalachian history. Situated on eight acres of mountainside next to Black Rock Mountain State Park, the Foxfire Museum is a family-friendly outdoor village with over 20 historic log buildings!
Each historic structure is filled with artifacts representative of life in the mountains from 1820 to 1940. Be sure to wear good shoes because you will walk/hike through the village. Be sure to visit the Foxfire Mercantile/Gift Shop on the property. It is an enjoyable and interesting step back in time. Foxfire books and magazines document the rich history and culture of the mountains. You can find out more about Foxfire by visiting www.foxfire.org.
You must continue up the Black Rock Parkway to the Black Rock Mountain State Park, at 3,640 feet elevation, this highest state park encompasses some of the most outstanding scenery in Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Roadside overlooks provide spectacular 80-mile vistas, and four hiking trails lead visitors past wildflowers, streams, small
waterfalls and lush forests. Back on Highway 441, be sure to check the schedule for the Mountain City Playhouse, before continuing your journey through Rabun Gap to Dillard.
Rabun Gap’s rich soils are ideal for agriculture and the valley boasts many acres of vegetable crops grown in season. For a chance to take some of those vegetables home with you, a stop at Osage Farm’s produce market can fulfill that wish. Folks travel from near and far to purchase fresh produce, local meat, breads and more. Rabun Gap is home to the sprawling historic Rabun Gap Nacoochee School too. This private college preparatory school known for educating young people from countries across the globe, has a reputation for excellence.
Dillard, on the northern end of Rabun County, where opportunities for good eating and something to do have been attracting visitors since 1794. It was Captain John Dillard who received one thousand acres in what is now Dillard, as a reward for his military service in the American Revolution. Legend says that Captain Dillard made peace with the local Cherokee Indians by trading a muzzle-loading rifle, a jug of apple brandy, one coonskin cap and three dollars cash in exchange for all the land between the two mountain tops.
In the 230 years since, while the names and faces of the key players have changed, the enticement that first drew Captain Dillard continues to entice year-round visitors to enjoy the
many perks this picturesque town offers. Whether the need is for food, lodging, shopping, or things to do, check out these possibilities. Whether you’re just looking for a relaxing stay and a good meal, or to get out in nature with scenic hiking trails, horseback riding, or fishing Dillard is waiting for you.
It was in 1917 that the now-famous Dillard House Farm & Resort restaurant was established by an earlier generation of the family for whom the town was named. In the years since, thousands of ordinary individuals and some famous personalities as well have enjoyed the southern-influenced cuisine. Cooked and served with love and concern, their family-style offerings are synonymous with good Southern hospitality. The Dillard House Farm & Resort also offers a variety of comfortable overnight accommodations, and be sure to check out the Dillard House Stables, if you’d like to see the area on horseback. Owner Pam Thompson and her experienced guides can take you or your family or group along well-maintained trails to enjoy breathtaking views and the opportunity to ride down a cool mountain stream aboard well-trained horses.
Julep Farms offers new one and two-bedroom rental cottages, the Julep Kitchen restaurant and bar, and the Julep Market that sells fresh flowers, home and garden goods, and
a chance to get back to the basics in a luxurious manner. But there are many other Dillard dining and lodging options that all deliver the same degree of good eats and comfortable hospitality. Check them out, in between visiting all the antiques locations, art galleries, and gift and specialty shops in downtown Dillard.
If you like to hike, there are plenty of established trails. Do you have young children or grandchildren with you? Then you’ll definitely want to visit Andy’s Trout Farm, where you can be a kid with a fishing pole again. Check out Dillard’s North Georgia Community Players if you’re into hometown drama. And be sure to stop at 12 Spies Vineyard for a few sips in their tasting room at some point.
Aside from the many attractions that Dillard offers, it also serves as the perfect location from which other Rabun attractions can be accessed. Up the mountain to the north is Sky Valley, which brands itself as Georgia’s highest and coolest city, with many long-range views. Nearby are Mud Creek Falls and Estatoah Falls. Rabun Bald with a 4,696-foot peak offers a six-mile trail and a wooden viewing platform for breathtaking wilderness and mountain views. Shouldn’t Dillard and its related communities be on your next northeast Georgia travel itinerary? Come see what Captain John Dillard started.
Small Town with BIG Flavor
By John Shivers
Are you hungry? Is there a food-shaped empty hole somewhere between your belly button and your backbone? Are you ready to slide your feet under some table, somewhere, and chow down on really good vittles?
Look no farther than right outside your own door, if you want to feast on some of the best cooking you ever wrapped your mouth around. After all, if it answers your craving, that automatically makes it comfort food!
When it comes to easing hunger pangs, nowhere answers the need for good grub better than Rabun County, Georgia, the farm-to-table capital of the state. What’s more, there are now more food service establishments in Georgia’s northeastern-most corner than ever before. And that’s not all; there are even more eateries on the horizon. Rabun County is definitely an epicurean’s dream come true.
Now is your chance to take advantage of the many different opportunities to satisfy your hunger pangs, where every meal feels like Sunday dinner, whether you’re enjoying the hands-down best fried chicken in town, or your sights lean more toward sushi and foods on that end of the spectrum. Regardless of where you elect eat, you’ll find an attitude of total hospitality and welcome, like you’d expect at your mama’s table.
Folks generally expect at least three square meals a day, not to mention a couple of snacks somewhere in between, and the food service community in Rabun doesn’t disappoint. From fast food outlets to restaurants that have been around for the long haul, to relative newcomers on the scene, it’s possible to satisfy your hunger in fine fashion. These restaurants that are found from the far northern end of Rabun to the Habersham County line on the south, and at points toward Towns County
Skillet Roasted Shrimp - Max’s Lakeside
and the South Carolina line are ready to serve up their own unique specialties.
And what specialties they are. If you can desire it, Rabun County cooks and chefs, some of which are nationally renowned, can definitely deliver the goods… good eating, that is. There’s just something so delicious, so satisfying about dining from simple, fresh cuisine sourced from locallygrown seasonal ingredients.
And if you need a recommendation on where to eat, check out where the locals take their nourishment. If you do a little informal investigative work, you’ll quickly find those breakfast and lunch places where the elected officials choose congregate. You’ll find that where merchants gather to grab a bite and compare notes with their fellow business people are some great places to eat.
So, if you’ve got a hankering for some tasty old home cooking like Granny would have put on her table, you’re in fantastic luck. Using garden-fresh produce in season and serving up good old meat and three plates with some homemade dessert to boot, Rabun’s got you covered.
And if your taste expectations are for something more exotic, you’re still covered. How does authentic Cuban cuisine tickle your taste buds? In Rabun County you’ll find what many satisfied diners before you have declared the best fresh, made from scratch Cuban sandwich this side of Havana.
Got a craving for Italian food prepared by chefs with a pedigreed Italian heritage behind them? In Rabun County, you’ll have several options to indulge your desire for pasta and pizza, because there are several restaurants that specialize in made to order Italian cuisine. You’ll for sure want to check out the craft pizzas that live up to their name.
It doesn’t get much better than the mouth-watering barbecue that hails from this northeast corner of the state. While there are several eateries, each chef’s interpretation is different. In some cases, these same chefs have awards in their background. But regardless of which business you patronize, you’ll agree there’s just something about the fragrance of meat hickory smoked for hours until it’s fall-offthe-bone-tender that makes for an unforgettable meal.
Lampchops - Lake Rabun Hotel
It’s a long way from Rabun to Mexico, but the contribution several Mexican restaurants make to the local food scene are not to be overlooked. While menu specifics may vary, in these establishments you’ll find real authentic flavors of Mexico, cooked by those who know it best, using authentic ingredients and spices.
And if you have a yearning for blackened fish, étouffée, oysters, and po-boys, salads, sandwiches and desserts all native to Cajun country, there’s no need to head for the bayou lands of Louisiana. Even all the way in Rabun County,
Pizza from Mama G’s
The Cupboard Cafe berry pancakes
Fortify Kitchen & Bar Seared Rabbit Loin
Veronica’s Cafe
Blackened fish tacos - Bowline
you’ll find chefs dedicated to serving up authentic Cajun cuisine.
Whatever you crave in the way of food, Rabun County has the answer. From something so casual and down to earth and American as burgers dressed just the way you like, to Chilean sea bass and steamed fresh veggies and everything in between, Rabun’s where you’ll find it. Enjoy your eats in a setting of your choice. If white tablecloths and personalized table service are what you desire, Rabun delivers. Does an outdoor setting only add to the enjoyment factor? You can find several eateries that indulge that desire. From historic settings to crisp contemporary architecture, the restaurants in Rabun County are as varied and inviting as the vast array of foods they offer.
This area is a popular tourist destination, in large part because Rabun County chefs specialize in unforgettable food in a range of affordable prices. After all, if you’re going to hike and play water sports, browse art galleries, and shop ‘til you drop, sooner or later, you’re gonna have to have something to fill that empty spot in the vicinity of your backbone.
That’s when you let Rabun County answer your hunger pangs, because you have no one to blame but yourself if you leave here hungry.
Our Distillation and Fermentation Destinations
by Peter McIntosh
For many years now, northeast Georgia has been known as wine country with award winning vineyards serving up tasty reds, whites, and rose’s all across our corner of the state. (You’ll find more about our vineyards in this guide.) But times, and laws, are changing and now we have highly regarded local microbrewery to visit as well as a pair of award winning distilleries.
Let’s start with the distilleries, both located in Rabun County, one in Clayton and one in Dillard. Clayton is the home of Moonrise Distillery, founded in 2012 by James Henry Harris, a retired chemist/scientist. In recent years, Mr. Harris sold Moonrise to Doug Nassaur who is owner, master distiller and chief tour guide. Doug will be happy to show you around and offer you a sip of his fine wares. Both the James Henry Bourbon and the James Henry Rye earned high ratings from The Tasting Panel magazine, a go-to trade publication for industry professionals. Getting The Tasting panel folks to notice them speaks volumes about the quality of Moonrise Distillery. The distillery also makes a legal version of moonshine called “Corn Squeezin’s” if you’re looking for something with a link to our mountain’s rich history of making untaxed liquor.
Moonrise Distillery: www.moonrisedistillery.com
Before the Civil War, R. M. Rose was a nationally recognized whiskey maker, one of the finest in the land, but when prohibition came, their doors were shuttered and once alcohol was legalized again, the family had moved on to other enterprises. The folks have revived the name and are dedicated to producing a nice line of bourbons and flavored whiskeys. My personal
Currahee Brewing Company: www.curraheebrew.com
R. M. Rose Distillery: www.rmroseco.com
favorite is a cinnamon whiskey called “Fire on the Mountain”. Yummy! And like their neighbors at Moonrise, the R. M. Rose Distillery has also been honored with national awards. Stop by for a tour and tasting.
Now who’s ready for a cold one? And by cold one I mean beer, hand crafted, fresh made, and delicious. Currahee Brewing Company, located in downtown Clayton and just up the road in Franklin, North Carolina has a few brews that are almost always available and a rotating list of specialty beers the brewmaster dreams up. On my visit, I enjoyed a Burningtown Belgian Amber, rich, full-bodied, and delicious. They have brews for every taste: heavy, light, sweet, bitter. And if you want some food with your beverages, Currahee has Chef inspired eats on the premises. They offer tasting flights, a small sampler of five different beers selected by you, to match your palate with the perfect brew.
Currahee partners with local charities to have fundraisers each month. And just so you know, these vineyards, distilleries, and breweries all have a lot of cool hats, t-shirts, and other souvenir items that might make great gifts. So take a trip and have a sip, just do so responsibly please.
Old Know beverage Co. is a Micro-distillery serving unique cocktails and mocktails in downtown Clayton, GA. Recent years has birthed the most heinous of beasts: bread water. With it, the loss of all hope for a beverage with flavor, a beverage with soul. But fear not, in the darkness there has come a shining light, bestowed to the people by the spirits as a gift. A seltzer that is made of pure virgin mountain water and the most exquisite spirits, familiar and obscure. This isn’t for the cult spirit apostles or the low sugar priests – though they will rejoice. This is for everyone to have a better seltzer, a seltzer with spirit.
Old Know Bev Co.
Rabun Wines and Really Good Times!
The mountains of Rabun County are not only beautiful and full of outdoor adventures, they are also the perfect environment for growing grapes and making wonderful wine! The wineries of Rabun County are places to delight in amazing views while sipping award-winning wine, escape the norm, relax to live music, savor fine farm-to-table dining, join in social activities and basically celebrate life. What’s more, each of the wineries in Rabun County has its own unique personality and creates wines to express it. Each offers an experience you won’t get anywhere else.
To start with, Terra Incognita Vineyard, situated high atop Stoney Mountain, is like exploring a world apart. A meandering forest service road takes you to unparallelled views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Their brand-new tasting room boasts a 270-degree mountain aspect and is surrounded not only by lush vines, but also hiking and mountain biking trails. Guests are entertained with live local musicians, trivia nights, yoga classes and occasional gatherings of outdoor adventurers and enthusiasts for shows and seminars on everything from extreme sports to geology. And if you’re a wine adventurer, you’ll find their wines are as innovative, fresh and full of spirit as their winery is.
Next up is Stonewall Creek Vineyards. Stonewall Creek Vineyards is nestled amongst rolling hills and pastures in an idyl-
lic setting that feels straight out of a classic novel. Bring a deck of cards or try your hand at a round of disc golf on their 9-hole course while you sample their delightful varietals. The atmosphere is quiet, comfortable and as relaxed as one could wish for. Don’t miss out on their Harvest Stomp Celebration each fall where you get to press grapes the old-fashioned way, with your bare feet!
Just over the hills, Tiger Mountain Vineyards is reminiscent of a picture from a travel brochure of Tuscany. The old red barn that used to house dairy cows, now provides patrons with an upscale farm-to-table café. Take a barrel tasting tour with the Sommelier to learn all about their rich history of making award-winning wines, the first vineyard in Georgia to grow noble European grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. You can also enjoy live music on weekends and special dining occasions, which are regularly offered.
And then there’s 12 Spies Vineyards, like your own backyard winery! Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic basket and their leashed furry friends to sit underneath the stunning mountains, sip wine and play a little cornhole if you’d like. The folks at 12 Spies are unpretentious and go out of their way to make you feel at home and enhance your enjoyment of their 16 varietals, something for every palate. Live music on Saturdays just adds to the good vibes you get from this gem of a mountain winery.
Tiger Mountain Vineyards
If you prefer to sample a selection of wines from all over the area, Downtown Clayton, in the heart of Rabun County, offers two distinctive wine tasting rooms, Highroads Tasting Room and Napa South. Enjoy the relaxed ambiance of these charming shops and take in an art exhibit or some live music while you sample delightful wines, meads, ciders, wine cocktails, craft beers and gourmet snacks.
As you can see, whether you’re interested in a particular winery experience or trying them all, Rabun County vineyards and the wines they produce will satisfy both your palate and your soul. For more information about all the wonderful things Rabun County has to offer, visit ExploreRabun.com.
Stonewall Creek Vineyards
High Roads Tasting Room
Terra Incognita
Explore Shopping in Rabun County, Georgia
Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Rabun County, Georgia, offers a unique shopping experience that blends local charm with a touch of Southern hospitality. From quaint boutiques to bustling farmer’s markets, this region is a haven for those seeking one-of-a-kind treasures and culinary delights. Join us on a journey through the diverse shopping scene of Rabun County, where each storefront tells a story and every purchase supports the vibrant community.
Overview of Rabun County
Welcome to Rabun County, Georgia, where the charm of the North Georgia mountains meets small-town hospitality. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Rabun County offers a picturesque backdrop for shopping enthusiasts seeking a mix of local flair and unique finds.
Local Shopping Destinations
Main Street Shopping Districts
Embark on a shopping spree along the quaint main streets of downtown Clayton. Clayton is our county seat and offers a unique downtown experience, but don’t discount the towns along the path from county line to county line in every direction! Explore a variety of shops offering everything from antiques, fine art to handmade crafts, home goods and clothing, all while taking in the charm of this vibrant community.
Unique Boutiques and Artisan Shops
Indulge your inner fashionista or art connoisseur at Rabun County’s unique boutiques and artisan shops. Discover handcrafted treasures and one-of-a-kind pieces that will add a special touch to your shopping experience.
Farmer’s Markets and Local Produce
Popular Farmer’s Markets in the Area
Experience the vibrant flavors of Rabun County by visiting its popular farmer’s markets. Sample fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local delicacies while supporting the community’s farmers and growers.
Seasonal Produce Availability
Depending on the time of year, Rabun County’s farmer’s markets offer a variety of seasonal produce that showcase the bounty of the region. From juicy peaches in the summer to crisp apples in the fall, each season brings a new array of delicious offerings to savor.
Antiquing and Vintage Finds
If you’re a fan of the old and unique, Rabun County offers a treasure trove of antique stores just waiting to be explored. From vintage furniture to retro knick-knacks, you’ll find it all in these quaint shops.
Antique Stores in Rabun County
Take a stroll through the charming town of Dillard and you’ll stumble upon a variety of antique stores. From small hidden gems to larger establishments, each store has its own collection of timeless pieces just waiting to find a new home. Virtually every city in the county has treasures to be discovered from days gone by.
Specialty Foods and Culinary Delights
Rabun County isn’t just a haven for antique enthusiasts; it’s also a paradise for foodies. Local specialty food stores offer
a mouthwatering array of delicious treats that will tantalize your taste buds. We are known as the Farm-to-table Capital of Georgia for a reason!
Local Specialty Food Stores
From artisanal cheeses to homemade jams, Rabun County is a food lover’s dream come true. Take your pick from a diverse selection of locally sourced and gourmet foods that are sure to elevate your culinary creations. Check our directory for some great places to find these items.
Must-Try Culinary Experiences
Don’t leave Rabun County without indulging in some of the must-try culinary experiences. Whether it’s savoring farm-totable cuisine at a cozy restaurant or picking up fresh produce from a local farmer’s market, the county offers a culinary adventure that’s not to be missed.
Outdoor Gear and Adventure Shopping
For those who seek outdoor thrills, Rabun County has you covered with its array of outdoor retailers. Gear up for your next adventure with top-quality equipment and essentials for all your outdoor escapades.
Outdoor Retailers in Rabun County
From hiking boots to camping gear, Rabun County’s outdoor retailers carry everything you need to embark on your next outdoor expedition. Explore these stores to find the perfect gear that suits your outdoor lifestyle.
Essential Gear for Outdoor Activities
When gearing up for outdoor activities, make sure to invest in quality essentials that will enhance your experience. Whether it’s a sturdy backpack for hiking or a reliable tent for camping, having the right gear can make all the difference in your outdoor adventures. You can even plan a guided fishing or hiking expedition with our local outfitter and expedition company.
Tips for a Successful Shopping Experience
To make the most of your shopping spree in Rabun County, keep these handy tips in mind. Shop with an open heart, a curious mind, and a full stomach to ensure a successful and enjoyable shopping experience that you’ll cherish for years to come. As you bid farewell to the charming shops and bustling markets of Rabun County, Georgia, may the memories of your shopping adventures linger as a reminder of the warmth and character that define this hidden gem in the heart of the South. Whether you leave with a bag full of handmade goods, a taste of local flavors, or simply a heart full of joy, the spirit of Rabun County will beckon you to return and explore its treasures once more.
Q. Are there any specific shopping events or festivals held in Rabun County?
A. Oh, so glad you asked! Yes, from art festivals to small business festivals, we have something for you to enjoy. Visit explorerabun.com to keep up with all of the great events we have going on in our region.
Q. What are some popular souvenirs or local products that visitors often purchase in Rabun County?
A. Of course you want to grab a t-shirt to remember your stay or take home to a friend, but also you might treasure a bottle of wine or whiskey made in the mountains. We have abundant wineries, distilleries and breweries. Another great idea would be a coffee mug, stickers are another great souvenir or maybe local art or photography!
Q. Are there any recommended shopping itineraries or routes for maximizing one’s shopping experience in the area?
A. One thing you’ll love about the mountains is the laid-back atmosphere. Stringent itineraries are not really how we roll. We want you to stroll, browse, relax, enjoy a great lunch, drop your bags at the car and head to the next store. Your Rabun County shopping experience will be enjoyable at your own pace with no time restraints.
Q. How can visitors support local artisans and businesses in Rabun County beyond shopping?
A. If you aren’t able to shop in person many local artists, galleries and businesses offer online shopping. Tell your friends and family about your trip and how much you loved your visit and recommend they visit Rabun County too. We’d also love for you to “come back now, ya hear”!
Inspiring Art and Creativity for 30 Years!
A long-time goal was realized in 2015 when we established the NGAG Art Scholarship Program. Through it, we provide educational financial assistance to artistically talented Rabun County high school seniors. The first scholarships were awarded to four outstanding students in 2016. The program is funded by proceeds from the annual fundraiser, Sassafras Artisan Market, the Painted Fern Art Festival,sponsors and individual donations.
The North Georgia Art Guild’s Art Scholarship Program was established in 2015, a long-time goal of the Art Guild. To date $33k in educational financial assistance has been awarded to artistically talented high school seniors. The program is funded by proceeds from the annual fundraiser, Sassafras Artisan Market, the Painted Fern Art Festival, sponsors and individual donations.
Join us on the third Thursday of the month at Clayton United Fellowship Building beginning at 9:30am.
Join us for our monthly art programs presented the third Thursday at the Clayton United Methodist Fellowship Hall, 71 South Main Street, Clayton, GA 30525.
The Art Scene in the Mountains
In Rabun County our small towns have transformed into unexpected hubs for the arts. This cultural metamorphosis is a testament to these towns’ resilience and innovative spirit. Here, creativity has found fertile ground, as local artists, artisans, and visionaries converge to weave a vibrant tapestry of artistic expression. It’s as if they are drawn to the mountains by some creative force.
The transformation has become the heartbeat of our mountain towns, with murals adorning once-bland walls and local art gracing public spaces, bringing splashes of color and conversation to the streets. Each town’s art scene is not just an aesthetic enhancement but a catalyst for social and economic change.
Local businesses are reaping the benefits of this artistic renaissance. Cafés, boutiques, and galleries now thrive in spaces where vacancy signs once lingered, drawing both residents and tourists alike. The art scene has created a domino effect, fostering a sense of pride within the community and making the town a destination for those seeking cultural enrichment.
The growing inclination towards local art reflects a broader movement towards supporting local economies. When community members purchase local art, they are investing money back into their own locale, encouraging not just the thriving of local creatives but also fostering a vibrant cultural scene. Small galleries, community art spaces, and local art markets become bustling hubs of activity, strengthening communal ties and offering a counter-narrative to the anonymity of larger retail chains.
Broderick Crawford, Crawford Art Gallery
Diane Rush
Local art, often created by artists who live and work in the community, reflects the unique character and experiences of the area. Through their artworks, these artists weave the personal and the collective, telling stories that resonate on an intimate level with individuals who share the same space. The increased support for such artists is evidence of a renewed desire for authenticity and a deeper connection with one’s roots.
Art festivals and exhibitions have become a mainstay in each town’s calendar, attracting visitors from far and wide. These events are more than just a display of talent; they are a way of weaving together the fabric of community life. Each brush stroke and chisel mark tells the stories of the locals, capturing the essence of their lives and heritage.
As the small towns continue to embrace their role as emerging art hubs, the implications are clear. This is a community that values innovation, collaboration, and the power of art to inspire and unite. The art scene in this region is proving that even the most unassuming places can become canvases for extraordinary creativity.
Handcrafted furniture, jewelry and more can be found at Timpson Creek Gallery
Magical Mountain Music
One thing we are known for in the mountains is our unique musical heritage. Many people may only think of Bluegrass when they think of Appalachian Music, but Appalachian music first arose when people from various European and African countries intersected in the mountains, bringing their own traditions and cultures together to form a new music style, now known as “Old-Timey” music. It is the culmination of nearly 300 years of musical influences from around the world, has contributed to nearly every modern musical genre and is a part of our history that we treasure and are proud of!
Old-timey music encompasses various styles that originated in rural America, particularly in the Southern Appalachians, before recorded music and radio were widely available. This wasn’t music meant for performance’s sake, it was music made in the home and in community spaces, generally for personal entertainment, dancing, worship and mourning. It is a synthesis of European and African music… fiddle traditions from Scotland, Ireland, England, France, and Germany; ballad traditions from Scotland and England; and vocal, rhythm, and instrumental styles from West Africa. Much of this is embodied in the union of European fiddle and African banjo music.
Tallulah Falls student musicians circa 1920, including Grady Nixon on harmonica, Gertrude Kilby on guitar and Hazel Nixon on banjo
Early Rabun County musicians Grady Nixon on fiddle, Everett Nixon on banjo and other Tallulah Falls students, circa 1925
Jam session on the porch at Blue Ridge Music
Lisa & Filmer Kilby at Stonewall Creek Vineyard
This music is so much a part of who we are because it was passed down from family member to family member, just like cooking recipes, sewing and weaving skills, other functional crafts and even liquor making! Everyone participated and music was taught one on one, many not even reading traditional music, using shape notes instead. And dance developed along with it – square dancing, clogging, buck dancing and other types of folk dance. Music and dance were the primary form of entertainment for our ancestors and an intrinsic part of life in the rural mountains of Southern Appalachia.
Today, old-timey music is still alive and well here in Rabun County, as well as the many types of music that have evolved from it. Stop by Blue Ridge Music to enjoy an impromptu jam session with Tom and the gang on the front porch. Get yourself up to the newly reopened and renovated Mountain City Playhouse for a quick lesson in buck dancing and then join in evening’s fun when the band gets going. Plan an afternoon at one of our local wineries which feature performances by many of our wonderful local artists while you sip and savor their wine and the spectacular mountain views. You can also learn more about the history of music in the Southern Appalachians at the Foxfire Museum. There are so many ways to experience our wonderful musical heritage as we celebrate it every day in some form or other. Music is a part of just about everything we do, from worship, to dining, festivals, get-togethers and events of all kinds. And when you come to the mountains, you are welcome to join in, kick up your heels, hum along, tap your toe or simply listen and smile. However you choose to enjoy it, be prepared to be entertained. In Rabun County music fills the air and our hearts. We hope you’ll come and be a part of our song!
The Foxfire Boys at the Dillard Bluegrass Festival
Marie Dunkle & Margie Swint, “Caledonia Women,” at Tiger Mountain Vineyard
Dancing Lessons at the Mountain City Playhouse
Take a Step Back
Experiencing life in a rural area will put you in touch with history, surprisingly, in everyday ways. Our history in the mountains seems to be lingering just over our shoulder and more a part of our present than it may be in many other places. A lot of the people who live here come from families who have called this area home for many generations. As such, the stories, traditions, skills, and even the environment of our Appalachian ancestors is still right here in our midst, mostly unchanged. From music to crafts, cooking, dancing, farming or just plain walking around out in the woods, we still appreciate and practice time honored ways of life in the mountains. That’s one of the things that makes Rabun County so special and one of the many reasons people who aren’t long time residents come to visit and sometimes stay.
When you come to Rabun County to take a step back and experience a little of the past, there are many ways to go about it. Of course, you can stop by the Rabun County Historical Society to look at and read local historic records, painstakingly and lovingly preserved. Or, you can immerse yourself in history at the Foxfire Museum & Heritage Center, watching craftsmen and women plying their talents with the same tools and techniques as the settlers did. You can also visit our own Tallulah Gorge State Park’s Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center to learn about one of the most dramatic and amazing geographic features in our state. But in Rabun County, our vibrant past can be found in so many more places than just history centers.
How about stopping in at the Dillard House Farm and Resort to enjoy a true farm-to-table, homestyle meal made with the same recipes that founder Carrie Dillard used when she prepared fresh meals with vegetables straight from her garden for her boarding house guests over 100 years ago. Or, take a walk along the Bartram Trail. There you can follow in the footsteps of William Bartram, explorer and botanist, one the of the first explorers of this area, who documented his journey in 1775 in his book, Travels, still in print today. The trail leads to some of Georgia’s most beautiful forests, peaks, rivers and waterfalls, so unspoiled that you’ll really feel like you’re an explorer yourself.
And, you’d really be missing out if you didn’t indulge yourself in a little ‘ole timey music and dancing. There are many venues that host our local musicians playing their own versions of songs and styles that have been passed down to them through generations. Our wineries, distilleries, restaurants, towns, churches and more all hold concerts open to anyone and everyone. But if your legs need a little “tuning up” before you’re ready to jump in, then head up to the newly renovated Mountain City Playhouse for a dance lesson or two, they’ll be happy to help out!
Dillard House Farm and Resort Food
Tallulah Gorge State Park’s Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center
As you can see, history really is alive (and kicking!) in Rabun County. And it’s not boring or dusty either. It’s loads of fun, adventurous, authentic, proud, heartfelt and welcoming, just like everything else you’ll find here in our North Georgia mountains. So come to Rabun County to take a little step back. You may just be surprised how far it will get you! For more information about all the wonderful things we have to offer, visit our website at ExploreRabun.com.
Music on the Mountain at Foxfire Museum
Line Dancing at Mountain City Playhouse
5 Things To Do While Visiting
You’re a visitor to the mountains, yes? Or maybe you live in Rabun County but it’s been years since you’ve been to Foxfire? You know the Foxfire Heritage Center exists, but it’s just like driving down Warwoman? Or you grew up in Southern Appalachia, and you are familiar by experience with the artifacts of mountain culture? Visiting Foxfire is interesting, but you’ll save it for another time? Let me suggest the time is now.
For those not familiar, Foxfire is a Museum and Cultural Center located on an abandoned apple farm on the side of Blackrock Mountain. 20 cabins, dispersed across 100 acres, host artifacts from the original settling (or resettling) of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. On a typical visit, a cabin hums with conversation as folks learn to weave, a group of students work their way methodically through the Cherokee exhibit while smoke and the smell of cornbread drift up from another cabin where folks learn to cook on a woodstove.
The geography of the Foxfire Museum and Cultural Center is also unparalleled. A winter view carries far into North and South Carolina, and a pair of binoculars allow those in the know to spot rare warblers, tiny downy woodpeckers and the occasional raven flying high overhead. Closer at hand, seasonal mushrooms sprout
out of a biomass composed from last Fall’s Hickory, Oak, Popular and Locust. A beautiful, rarely-used trail (1.2 miles) leads from Foxfire up to adjacent Blackrock Mountain’s camping sites.
Fall’s vista is an unpredictable mix of leaf color, while March returns all to a consistent lush green, mixed in with the darker shades of Hemlock and Pine. Whether in drought or seasonal rains, rock cliffs at the top of the property run with spring water which provided (and likely still provides) drinking water to some folks living on the east-facing slopes. With all respect to locations across the United States, the Foxfire Museum is a beautiful reflection of this region, a museum-as-artifact as unique as the broken chips and shards of amethyst, beryllium or corundum once mined in the region.
The word “museum” means a million different things to a million different folks. Whatever your idea, the Foxfire Museum will entertain and surprise you in equal parts. With Barry Stiles oversight—if you’re local, you’ll remember his uncle, Science teacher Billy Joe Stiles—the Foxfire Museum has leaned in on its Southern Appalachian preservation focus, and Barry has been quick to expand that to include a Cherokee connection. Within this context, there is truly something for everyone at the museum. For the doubters, here are five ways you can engage the museum.
• Pack a carry-on picnic. Foxfire’s museum itself has a large number of cabins and open spaces, including an almost-finished outdoor pavillion at the upper end and a beautiful open green space on the lower property. Foxfire is careful to protect the cabins and thus limits the ability to bring food inside. However, with beautiful trails, access to water, bathrooms and picnic tables, the entire property functions as a museum yet feels like a park.
• Research a cabin before arriving and then visit both the museum and the local community from where it emerged. Some of the cabins are mixes of many different cabins, but others have been donated by local families, and with a little research it is possible to see the cabin and then visit parts of Warwoman, Persimmon, Tessentee, Tusquittee and Shooting Creek (as well as many other places) where the cabins once stood.
• Learn how to weave, cook, make an arrowhead or a musical “canjo.” By following our website it is possible to visit Foxfire and engage in one of the traditional Appalachian Heritage Skills. Our demonstrators and teachers are professional in their expertise and often deeply imbedded in the local community, providing visitors with access to both the traditional skills and informal practices passed down in Appalachia.
• Create your own visual “passport” of nature’s offerings. Using your smart phone, take a handful of pictures of various fungi, animals, insects, geological and climatological formations. It is easy in a day’s visit to take 30 or 40 photos that can serve as a memory, an educational tool and an opportunity to further engage in Southern Appalachia’s community.
• Photograph an artifact and research its use in Appalachia and its history prior to being considered a piece of Southern Appalachian Folklore. Did it originate in Ireland? Scotland? From the Cherokee? Has its use changed over time? Does it have a modern application?
• (Ok, yes, I said 5, but I could go on all day...) Without telling your children (or preparing them) watch and photograph how they engage at the 4-cabin kid’s village. Did their interest increase or change? How so? Amusingly, our very non-professional observation is that the “Kid’s Village” turns everyone into kids and allows a very different way to engage with history.
The reality is, whatever you are expecting at the Foxfire Museum and Heritage Center, it is very likely to be expanded with a visit. While it is possible to visit the mountains without going to a museum, for folks who would like to access a bit of the history and tradition of the region, but do so in a way that is engaging and hands on, visiting Foxfire—and a thousand and one google reviews back us up—is a great way to learn or return to life as it was once lived in the Southern Appalachian Highlands.
Don’t miss the annual Foxfire Mountaineer Festival the first weekend of October for more information visit Foxfire.org.
Tallulah Autumn Mist
JOriginal “Mountain Treasure”
ust about 200 years ago, in around 1829, gold was discovered in our North Georgia mountains, part of the first gold rush in the country, which started in North Carolina, and the second most significant, next to the famous California gold rush of 1849. During this time, people flocked to the area in search of “mountain treasure.” It is estimated the Georgia Gold Rush netted over 870,000 ounces of some of the prettiest gold ever mined, due to the fact that Georgia gold was close to being 24 karat, 100% pure.
The first discovery of gold in Rabun County was just north of Burton, at the confluence of Moccasin Creek and the Tallulah River. According to our own Rabun County Historical Society, “John Morris is believed to have made the first discovery of gold in Rabun County in the 1830s on a parcel of his land along Dick’s Creek, west of the town of Burton, which now is submerged under Lake Burton. Mining operations in this area ceased during the Civil War, but later resumed for another 25 years. The county’s other primary gold field was on land owned by James Stonecypher along Moccasin and Wildcat creeks, also on what is now the western shore of Lake Burton. At one point, Rabun County was home to almost 30 gold mines.”
When the gold yields started to play out in the mid 1800’s, commercial gold mining in the north Georgia mountains came to an end, as any remaining gold would have cost more to get out than it was worth. Many of the Georgia miners moved on to the next great gold rush in the west. However, those that remained developed an appreciation for a different sort of “mountain treasure” they found here. It is this legacy that we value most today.
Engraving of Georgia Gold Prospectors
Today, people come to our area to find a treasure that may not fill their pockets, but it does fill their hearts. What we value today are the experiences we are able to have in these stunning mountains that we can’t get anywhere else. If you’ve ever seen the 100 mile, 360° views from the observation platform at the top of Rabun Bald, you’ll know what I mean. If you’ve ever felt the rush of adrenaline as you shoot the rapids of Bull Sluice on the Wild and Scenic Chattooga river, you’ll know what I mean. If you’ve ever had to stop and catch your breath both from climbing the Hurricane Falls Trail
Shooting the Rapids on the Chattooga River
stairs and the majesty of the Tallulah Gorge, you’ll know what I mean. And if you’ve ever sipped a wonderful glass of wine while watching a spectacular sunset at one of our amazing mountain wineries, you’ll know what I mean. I could go on and on, but you get the idea.
Although today, our “Mountain Treasure” is less tangible than a nugget of gold, it’s no less real and just as valuable. It’s found all around us, in the beauty of a stunning sunrise over the mountain tops, the crashing thunder of a waterfall, the crisp fall air and the sparkling stars in a clear night sky, and in the laughter and good company you’ll find in the people of our community. And fortunately for us, this treasure is ours to keep, to cherish and to share. Whether near or far, we hope our “Mountain Treasure” will continue making your life rich!
Upper Moccasin Creek Falls by Mark Oleg Ozboyd
Terra Incognita Vineyard
MOUNTAIN DINING & SPIRITS
Farm-to-Table & Fine Dining
Fortify Kitchen and Bar
69 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Located in historic downtown Clayton, Georgia. An award winning farm to table restaurant. Simple, elegant farm to table cuisine. www.fortifyclayton.com • 706-782-0050
Julep Farms
500 Hwy 246, Dillard, Georgia 30537
Located in Dillard, Georgia. Come eat, drink, shop, and stay. Great outdoor scenery with home grown flowers, farm animals, cottages for overnight stay. Gift shop, coffee shop, restaurant, cottages, “New American” cuisine with a decidedly southern flair. High quality cuisine with fresh vegetables, true farm to table food. www.julep.farm.com • 706-960-9600
Lake Burton Grill
25 Shoreline Trail, Clarkesville, Georgia 30523
Lake Burton Grill offers stunning views of Lake Burton and a delectable menu. Enjoy your meal in style with indoor seating or the covered deck, where you can relax by the cozy fireplace and sip a drink from the full bar. With a selection of eighty-five wines to choose from, you can find the perfect pairing for your meal. The restaurant is open year-round, offers catering and can host your private events. www.lakeburtongrill.com • 706-222-7060 • @Lakeburtongrill
Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant
35 Andrea Lane , Lakemont, Georgia 30552
Lake Rabun Hotel and Restaurant is a unique, historic mountain getaway and farm-to-table Restaurant. Located on Lake Rabun, celebrating their 98th birthday, it’s the last surviving mountain lodge on a lake.
www.lakerabunhotel.com • 706-782-4946
Vineyard Cafe at Tiger Mountain Vineyard 2592 Old Highway 441, Tiger, Georgia 30576
Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of the North Georgia mountains, the Vineyard Café offers a delightful culinary experience in a picturesque setting. With a menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients and a wine list that highlights the vineyard’s signature varietals, the Vineyard Café provides a truly immersive dining experience. www.tigerwine.com • 706-782-4777
The Vandiver (at Bridge Creek Inn)
60 S. Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
The Vandiver, where every dish tells a story, and every sip carries the essence of the wild. Fresh, local flavors that will elevate your dining experience. Embark on a culinary journey reminiscent of the rugged yet vibrant spirit of yesteryears.
www.thevandiverclayton.com • 706-960-4300
Comfort & Casual Dining
Annette’s Cafe
6798 US Highway 441 N., Dillard, Georgia 30537
Great home-cooking. Most everything on the menu is made from scratch from the hand battered chicken fingers to their hand cut French fries. American breakfast & brunch restaurant, country fried steak, grilled chicken, delicious sides. Family friendly atmosphere www.explorerabun.com/blog/annettes-cafe/ 706-746-2688
Bella’s Junction Cafe
20 Old Mud Creek Rd., Scaly Mountain, NC 28775
Serves lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Pizza in the evenings! Catering available. Great food convenient to Dillard and Sky Valley, Georgia too.
www.facebook.com/bellasjunctioncafe • 828-526-0803
Bowline Takeaway & Bar
25 Shoreline Trail, Clarkesville, Georgia 30523
Located at LaPrades Marina, Bowline Takeaway & Bar is a great spot to grab some delicious food on the go. Our menu features a variety of tasty options and their fully stocked bar offers exceptional refreshing beverages. There is also plenty of seating on the Marina deck overlooking Lake Burton. Bowline Takeaway & Bar is open seasonally. www.lakeburtongrill.com • 706-222-7060 • @BowlineTakeaway
Clayton Cafe
50 North Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Clayton Cafe is a local, historical restaurant in Clayton, Georgia. We welcome locals and visitors with a smile and hug. Although ownership has changed hands several times since 1931, our true Southern hospitality has remained the same! Whether breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert, we offer fresh, homemade meals that are sure to please everyone! Great food, great service, great friends.
www.theclaytoncafega.com • 706-212-2233
Coach’s Sports Bar & Grille
667 Hwy 441, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Good food, great service, sports and cold beer was the start of the idea for Coach’s. We wanted to create a place where anyone could come enjoy their favorite sport, have a cold drink and fresh food. While we have a full bar on one side, we also have a full dining room for those that prefer dinner without the crowd.
www.coachsbarandgrille.com • 706-782-7923
Cupboard Cafe
7388 Highway 441 N., Dillard, Georgia 30537
Open year round for your dining pleasure, the Cupboard Cafe invites you to come in and taste for yourself. You won’t be disappointed and won’t go away hungry. Specials and standard menu. Catfish, Fried Chicken & other Southern fare. Cozy spot with front-porch seating. www.facebook.com/Cupboard-Cafe • 706-212-2233
The Dillard House Farm & Resort
768 Franklin Street, Dillard, GA 30537
Enjoy our famous southern cuisine in our beautiful and tranquil mountain setting. Stay overnight in one of our rooms, suites, cottages or chalets and relax in a rocking chair with your morning cup of coffee. Take a leisurely stroll around the property and enjoy the lush green grass and colorful flowers still in bloom.
www.dillardhouse.com/ • 800-541-0671
Friends Clayton Grill
88 N Main Street, Clayton, GA 30525
Friends is a neighborhood grill & bar. We are locally owned and operated with locations in Dacula, Dawsonville, Bethlehem, Winder, Jefferson, Cumming, and Buford. In business since 2010, we are a great place for excellent food and service, families, and sports. Our #1 goal is customer loyalty, and we continue to focus on the quality of our food as well as service.
www.friendsamericangrill.com • 706-782-0300
Henry’s Restaurant
78 Lynn Drive, Clayton, 30525-5800
A long standing institution in our community, this traditional Southernstyle buffet offers everything from their famous fried chicken to seafood and a low country boil. Bring your appetite! Buffet only with appetizer add-ons. Family friendly casual atmosphere. Lots of vegetables to choose from. Dessert choices included! www.henrysclayton.com/ • 706-782-3533
Embers Vine Restaurant at Kingwood 401 Country Club Dr., Clayton, Ga 30525
Embers Vine is a restaurant and bar located in the Kingwood Golf and Resort Clubhouse. We offer from scratch patties burgers and homemade biscuits. Brisket is our specialty and a killer smoked chicken salad sandwich. Open Thursday- Saturday from 8am-10pm and Sunday 8am-5pm. Stop by and let us feed ya bellies! www.embersvine.com • 706-982-3391
Lake Burton Cafe
72 Jones Branch Road , Clayton, Georgia 30525
Lake Burton Cafe -Th last of the Dives is a Bar & Grill located in Clayton, Georgia, specializing in beer & wine, burgers, wings, and more. Barbecue, American Southern Cuisine. Laid back atmosphere, great place to unwind, Great spot to eat near Lake Burton. www.facebook.com/TheLastoftheDives/ • 706-782-6184
Max’s Lakeside
1659 Lake Rabun Road, Lakemont, Georgia 30552
Max’s Lakeside is open year-round and serves a delectable range of authentic New York-style pizza and traditional Italian dishes. The menu showcases house specialty pizzas, as well as the option to create your own pie, and an array of classic dishes. Guests can also indulge in an impressive wine list and fantastic lakeside cocktails. www.maxslakeside.com • 706-960-8619 • @maxslakeside
Mountain Grill
677-C Highway 441 South, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Grill & Bakery offering dine-in or take-out. Breakfast and brunch all day. Cinnamon rolls and pastries. Sandwiches, salads, and desserts. www.facebook.com/Hwy441ClaytonGeorgia • 706-239-5616
North Georgia Catering Co.
813 Highway 441 Clayton Ga 30525, Clayton, GA
North Georgia Catering Company, brings culinary expertise to celebrations of all kinds across Northeast Georgia. Their team creates exceptional food experiences for weddings, corporate events, Food Truck Service and everything in between. Make sure to check out our Soda Fountain located in the Georgia mountain market in Clayton Ga! 865-680-7229
Rabun Beach Grocery
5628 Lake Rabun Road, Lakemont, Georgia 30552
The beach store on Lake Rabun is a hidden treasure. They have the BEST ribs, chicken, with delicious sides: baked beans, coleslaw, potatoes salad, a few others but that’s what we ordered. A pizza to die for- Jenny’s cookout pizza OMG. The Beach Store is a happy place to be. Music over the lake on Saturday, hang out on the deck or in your boat.
Sunday Diner
36 Stave Mill Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Sunday Diner has a casual family diner, farm to table food. Every menu item is thought out and flavor-tasted to bring you a memorable dining experience. Farm to table food, healthy choices, using Georgia’s own products. Casual dining, great for family and kids. Great country style cooking.
www.sundaydinerclayton.com • 706-212-0412
Take It On The Lake
75 Timpson Cove Road, Clayton, GA 30525
The Lake’s Favorite place to grab a bite to eat to go! Take It On The Lake at Anchorage Boat Dock features signature Tacos, hot sandwiches, fun sides and snacks, and hand-scooped ice cream. The comfortable atmosphere and laid-back setting compliments Anchorage’s storied history and family values while providing Take-Out meals that are sure to impress and satisfy during those long summer days!
www.anchorageboatdock.com/restaurant • 706-782-5193
Tallulah Adventures & The Edge Cafe 11785 Hwy 441
Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
At Tallulah Adventures we invite people to choose from a variety of activities ranging from outdoor recreation to art and music, and to curate an adventure experience that suits them. While for some this might be learning how to rock climb or slack line, kayaking or standup paddle boarding, going on a whitewater rafting trip for the first or hundredth time. Others may find adventure in learning about the local history of the area, observing the local flora & fauna, or even taking a painting class while snacking on something from our cafe. www.tallulahadventures.com/ • 706-960-4211
The Farmhouse, Food, Catering & More 5 Jones Branch Road, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Located on Highway 76 W near Lake Burton, this little shop offers world class dining in an “off the beaten path” location. Chef Vince Scafiti purchases only the freshest ingredients available weekly, many of them local in order to craft his “Farm-to-Table” creations. Take out only. Grab-n-go meals. www.farmhousemarket-lakeburton.com/ • 706-782-4646
The Open Door at Alley’s Ol’ Store 8476 old 441 South, Lakemont, Georgia 30552
Located in the beautiful town of Lakemont, Georgia. Freshly made meals, and gift shoppe for browsing with bottled wines for sale. Inside and patio dining. Across the street new pavilion overlooking Tiger Creek. Homemade casseroles, meals, desserts. www.opendooratalleys.com • 706-960-9333
The Rusty Bike Cafe
677 Highway 441 S., Clayton, Georgia 30525
The Rusty Bike is an All-American grill owned and operated by Joel Johnson. Dine in or take out. Extensive menu of burgers, sandwiches, salads and award winning breakfast all day. Open 7 days a week from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm. Family and friendly atmosphere. www.therustybikecafe.com • 706-212-2020
The Swing Bar
1659 Lake Rabun Road, Lakemont, GA 30552
You cannot miss the magical neighborhood bar downstairs from Max’s Lakeside on Lake Rabun known as The Swing Bar. Most of the seats in the bar are actual swings, which makes it the perfect spot to hang out with friends, watch games, and relax. www.maxslakeside.com/lakemont-lake-rabun-max-s-lakeside-theswing-bar • 706-960-8619
Universal Joint Clayton
109 N. Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
The Universal Joint is a neighborhood pub offering a variety of excellent beers, great food and a fun atmosphere. The U-Joint offers some of the best burgers, classic and unique, and a bit of everything. Full bar with 17 Draft Beers. Dogs are welcome! Indoor and outdoor dining, fire pit and live music. www.ujclayton.com • 706-782-7116
Valley Cafe & Catering
7099 Highway 441 N., Dillard, Georgia 30537
Since 2001, Valley Cafe & Catering’s menu has offered a broad array of choices for your dining pleasure. The premier catering service in the region. Delivery and pick-up options. Great prices, family dining. Known for their delicious desserts. www.valleycafe.com • 706-746-3321
Veronica’s Cafe
4336 US-441 N., Rabun Gap, Georgia 30568
Excellent home cooking, breakfast and lunch served. Homemade southern cuisine like fried chicken, cubed steaks, vegetables and more. Family and friendly atmosphere. www.facebook.com/Veronicas-Cafe-114724736982933/
Vicki’s Restaurant at Rabun Flea Market
134 Market Circle, Rabun Gap, Georgia 30568
Vicki’s Restaurant is open Saturdays and Sundays serving breakfast and lunch 6:30- 2:30. www.facebook.com/Rabunfleamarket
Barbecue
Blue Hound Barbeque
6712 Hwy 441 North, Dillard, Georgia 30537
Real barbeque - Southern style! Fast and friendly restaurant specializing in Southern-smoked meats. We offer catering. www.bluehoundbarbecue.com • 706-800-8020
Oinker’s BBQ
2353 Hwy 441 S., Clayton, Georgia 30525
Locally owned, family fun restaurant serving the freshest BBQ, ribs, steak, fish and chips, salads and Brunswick Stew around. They have delicious homemade sides and fantastic homemade desserts, great tea selections and other beverages. Family owned and operated, family casual dining.
www.oinkersbbq.com/ • 706-782-7010
Tomlin BBQ and Catering
5030 Highway 441, Rabun Gap, Georgia 30568
We are located next to Osage Farm Produce Market (Fri-Sun) May thru October. Owners Stephen & Jane Tomlin, in June of 2009, were selected as one of the top 5 Pulled Pork Sandwiches in America on LIVE with Regis & Kelly’s Ultimate Hometown Grilling Challenge. Pulled pork, ribs, chicken, brisket and smoked turkey with famous BBQ sauces, delicious sides are fresh and homemade, desserts and weekly specials, full- service catering available. www.tomlinbbq.com • 706-746-2690
Specialty Fare
Bella’s Italian Kitchen & Pizzeria
92 Plaza Way, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Made to order Italian cuisine. Cooked fresh for every customer. Patience for perfection is appreciated. 706-960-9185 • @Bellassteaksandpizza
Bleu Canoe
115 Sweetwater Circle, Clarkesville, Georgia 30523
A unique roadside Cajun restaurant in the mountains. An unpretentious atmosphere serving affordable Cajun and Creole fare from Harry Bissett’s owner Jim White. Bleu Canoe has a full bar and serves beer, wine and liquor. Dine inside where the staff treats you like family or enjoy the large open deck in summer. A favorite neighborhood Gathering spot.
www.bleucanoe.com • 706-947-1833
Fortify Pi
69 N. Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Fortify Pi is located in historic downtown Clayton, Georgia. Fortify Pi offers pizza, wings, and more. With a Farm-to-Table concept, all fresh ingredients always. Vegan friendly, You’ll enjoy pizza, wings, salads, meatballs, and sandwiches. Reservations and delivery available. www.facebook.com/fortifypi/ • 706-782-0079
Ishy’s Grill
www.facebook.com/Ishysgrill/ 36 Stave Mill Street Suite C, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Fresh American and Mexican dishes prepared with a flare. This little “off-the-beaten-path” restaurant is a true find. Fresh soups and salads are a great start. Burgers, steaks, Paninis and Mexican. Family friendly www.explorerabun.com/blog/ishys-grill/ • 706782-2303
La Cabana Mexican - Clayton & Dillard
128 Duvall Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
7052 Hwy 441 N., Dillard, Georgia 30537
La Cabana is an authentic Mexican family restaurant. Great tasting meals with generous portions. You’ll enjoy appetizers, salads, combination entrees, desserts, children’s menu, senior coupons. www.explorerabun.com/blog/la-cabana-mexican-restaurant/ Clayton - 706-212-2834 • Dillard - 706-746-0058
La Pachanga Mexican
12 Hwy 441 North, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Come and experience a real Mexican Atmosphere with dining and bar area. Family friendly atmosphere, great Mexican food, children’s menu. Dine in and take out. Dining room and bar area. www.facebook.com/La-pachanga-mexicanrestaurant-124391594264107
706-782-7247
Main Street Chocolates
90 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Main Street Chocolates serves 24 flavors of super premium ice cream including two non-dairy coconut based ice cream flavors, sugar-free and sorbet. They also have a full line-up of delectable chocolate and caramel treats. Please stop by and check out this new shop. www.mainstreetchocolates.net • 706-510-1305
Mama G’s Italian Restaurant
777 Highway 441 S., Clayton, Georgia 30525
Mama G’s is a single-location, family-owned authentic Italian restaurant serving, pizza, pasta, steaks, and seafood. All of their salads are made fresh. Their rolls, pizza dough, and sauces are made in-house, fresh every day. Indoor/Outdoor seating, television, highchairs available, wheelchair accessible. Great Italian and American food, alcohol, wine, beer and full bar.
www.loveisgoodfood.net • 706-782-9565
Manrique’s Mexican Restaurant
611 Hwy 441 S., Clayton, Georgia 30525
This is a fine family owned and operated Mexican Restaurant. Delicious genuine Mexican food. Domestic and Imported Beers available. Family and friendly atmosphere. www.facebook.com/ManriquesMexicanRestaurant/ 706-782-5815
Rabun Social
34 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
A dynamic kitchen, cocktail, and sushi bar in downtown Clayton. Delight in rich Asian flavors. Sushi is crafted following authentic Japanese traditions, offering some of the finest tastes available. Handcrafted cocktails, each a masterpiece made with in-house syrups and fresh-squeezed fruits. At Rabun Social, every visit is a promise of an extraordinary culinary adventure. www.rabunsocial.com • 706-782-0964 • @rabunsocial
Tallulah 1882
105 Moss Street, Tallulah Falls, Georgia 30573
This shop serves healing herbal and caffeinated teas crafted by Garden & Forage Organic Teas, locally roasted espresso from Cool Beans Roasters and fresh 9n-house baked goods by Curious Antoinette. They look forward to serving you a cuppa! www.tallulah1882.com • 803-868-0816
The Hush Cuban Cafe
175 N. Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
The Hush is a Cuban influenced restaurant. The house of the best Cuban sandwich. All of their food is made fresh daily and service is great. Don’t miss the Kahlua Banana Pudding! www.hushcubancafe.com/menu • 706-782-3371
White Birch Provisions
60 E Savannah Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
A gourmet shop with a full service espresso bar and bakery. Try one of their specialty coffee drinks or tea varieties. Their amazing baker makes fresh baked goods daily. In their ‘Wine Cave’ you will find wines, cigars and accessories, whereas the ‘Farm’ room showcases cheeses, charcuterie and other tasty treats. Enjoy your coffee and drink in the comfy loft. www.whitebirchprovisions.com • 706-782 2263
Wineries & Distilleries
12 Spies Vineyards
550 Black Branch Road, Rabun Gap, Georgia 30568
12 Spies Vineyards and Farm is a vineyard and winery situated In the beautiful mountains of North Georgia. Open Mon.-Fri. (12pm-5pm), Sat. (11am-6pm) and Sun. (12:30pm-5pm) We grow Cabernet, Franc, Malbec, Tannat and Traminette Grapes. We make 4 Varieties of wine . www.12spiesvineyards.com • 706-490-0890
Highroads Tasting Room
58 North Main Street, Clayton, GA 30525
Escape the normal by the flight, glass or bottle - find the wine, mead, cider, or beer just for you. Highroads Tasting Room offers a wonderful selection of craft and locally produced beverages and snacks, served in a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere surrounded by friends and enhanced with local art and live music. So, sit back and enjoy the afternoon or evening, sipping and socializing at Highroads Tasting Room on Main Street in downtown Clayton! www. HighroadsTastingRoom.com • 706-490-5348
Moonrise Distillery
31 Webb Road, Clayton, Georgia 30525
118 Oak Cresent Circle, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Established in late 2012, Moonrise Distillery is located in the foothills of the Southern Appalachian mountains as you enter the City of Clayton in Rabun County, Georgia. They produce high quality Whiskey, Bourbon and fruit Brandies, with all ingredients coming from local farmers and sources. We operate a tasting room and offer tours. www.moonrisedistillery.com • 844-994-4759
Napa South www.napasouth.wine
Napa South features small-production wines from Napa Valley appellations and North Georgia along with locally-crafted beer and small plates. They have domestic beer as well. Order by the flight, glass or bottle. They cant wait to see you! taste@napasouth.wine • 706-970-8535
Oldknow Bev Co
301 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Recent years has birthed the most heinous of beasts: bread water. With it, the loss of all hope for a beverage with flavor, a beverage with soul. But fear not, in the darkness there has come a shining light, bestowed to the people by the spirits as a gift. A seltzer that is made of pure virgin mountain water and the most exquisite spirits, familiar and obscure. This isn’t for the cult spirit apostles or the low sugar priests - though they will rejoice. This is for everyone to have a better seltzer, a seltzer with spirit. Spirit Based Seltzers made with pure Georgia Mountain Mineral Water. 5% abv www.oldknowbevco.com
R.M. Rose Distillers
890 Franklin Street, Dillard, Georgia 30537
The oldest registered distillery in Georgia. They opened the distillery in Dillard in 2016. R.M. Rose decided this location was an excellent choice because it has the best water in Georgia. When you have good water, a copper pot still and the finest corn available, you can make some of the finest whiskey around. Come by for a tasting and tour. www.rmroseco.com - 706-982-8115
Stonewall Creek Vineyard
323 Standing Deer Lane, Tiger, Georgia 30576
Visit the new tasting room next to the winery and overlooking the vineyards and Glassy Mountain. They currently offer nine wines for tasting, eight on our Stonewall Creek Vineyards label, and two on their Standing Deer Cellar label (grapes primarily from Stack Farm). The latter two feature the American Norton grape and Petit Manseng. Look for our new vines off Bridge Creek Road www.stonewallcreek.com/ • 706-212-0584
Terra Incognita
1821 Vandiver Mountain Road, Clarkesville, Georgia 30523
Fields of grass perched above vineyard rows surrounded by thousands of acres of protected forest land with unparalleled mountain views is the home of Terra Incognita Vineyard. A meandering gravel road, following the backbone of Tallulah Ridge for a mile and a half leads you up the mountain to the entrance. Interested? If so, join us for wine sampling, plan an event in our pavilion, or spend the night. www.terraincognitavineyard.com • 706-963-0228
Tiger Mountain Vineyards
2592 Old Highway 441, Tiger, Georgia 30576
Tiger Mountain Vineyards is nestled on a hillside high up in Rabun County, on the rocky, sunny slopes of the North Georgia mountains. Our vineyard is small, the vines individually tended, and the grapes hand-picked for quality. We produce traditional dry wines in the European style from each of our grape varieties, three red blends, and an award-winning semi-dry Rose as well as a late-harvest dessert wine. Our red wines are barrel-aged 12 to 24 months. Visit the vineyards and enjoy barrel-room tastings. Since our opening in 2000, Tiger Mountain Vineyards has won over 130 national and international awards. www.tigerwine.com • 706-782-4777
LODGING
Bed & Breakfast Inns & Resorts
Beechwood Inn
220 Beechwood Drive, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Elevate your mountain getaway at Beechwood Inn. Discover timeless charm, meticulously rejuvenated guestrooms, and inspiring spaces. Soak in the mountain views, savor home-made breakfast, and curated wine. Seize the moment - explore mountains, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, vineyards, and downtown Clayton just minutes away. An authentic Bed-and-Breakfast experience awaits! www.beechwoodbnb.com • 706-782-5485
Bridge Creek Inn
60 S Main Street, Clayton, GA 30525
Our address might be a Clayton classic, but we’re carving out the next chapter of our city’s story with the new Bridge Creek Inn—a 45room boutique hotel that’ll have it all and then some for every leisure seeker, including a coffee shop, bar, restaurant, indoor and outdoor event spaces, and more. From the charm of Main Street to the natural beauty of Rabun County and everything in between, Bridge Creek Inn will keep you in the center of it all. www.bridgecreekclayton.com/ • 706-960-4300
Kingwood Resort & Winery
401 Country Club Drive, Clayton, Georgia 30525
The Inn at Kingwood Resort and Winery has 48 tastefully decorated hotel rooms all with mountain views. With your stay you have access to our many amenities including our brand new Tasting Room at the Kingwood Winery and of course our 18-hole championship golf course. The resort offers 2 bedroom condos for groups who a little extra space. www.kingwoodresort.com • 706-212-4100
Mountain Aire Cottages & Inn
18 Motel Drive, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Beautiful and Affordable
A cozy retreat of 3 Individual upscale Cottages, and four deluxe kitchenette rooms or suites. Beautifully decorated, themed, and maintained. Perfect for your private getaway, family reunion, or church retreat. Centrally located to local shops, restaurants, and entertainment. www.mountainairecottages.com • 706-782-9568
Sylvan Falls Mill B&B
156 Taylors Chapel Road, Rabun Gap, Georgia 30568
Sylvan Falls Mill B&B is a premier North Georgia Attraction that attracts visitors from around the world. There are many unique features that will make your stay memorable. The innkeepers share their culinary skills with guests each morning through the home-baked breads, special breakfast dishes, fresh fruits and beverages offered. www.sylvanfallsmill.com • 706-746-7138
The Cascades Inn
4982 Hwy, US-441, Tiger, Georgia 30576
The Cascades Inn, with cascading waterfalls all around, is a true retreat. There are trails that go down to the edge of the waterfall and up behind the cabins. We have 2 Chalets and 7 Suites to suit your individual needs. You may also rent the entire place which includes a room for meals or meetings that can accommodate up to 25 people. www.thecascadesinn.com • 706-782-2085
The Dillard House Farm & Resort
768 Franklin Street, Dillard, GA 30537
Enjoy our famous southern cuisine in our beautiful and tranquil mountain setting. Stay overnight in one of our rooms, suites, cottages or chalets and relax in a rocking chair with your morning cup of coffee. Take a leisurely stroll around the property and enjoy the lush green grass and colorful flowers still in bloom. www.dillardhouse.com/ • 800-541-0671
Tiger Creek Falls Inn
4982 Hwy 441, Tiger, Georgia 30537
Tiger Creek Falls Inn vacation rentals (Formally Ballard Chalets) is the most unique mountain retreat you will ever find, with cascading waterfalls all around. There is actually overlook access to 2 beautiful waterfalls right here on the premises one is over 30 ft high. Family owned and operated for over 20 yrs , it is truly a perfect spot for your next family vacation. 706-782-2085
White Birch Inn
28 E Savannah Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
The White Birch Inn is a boutique hotel located in downtown Clayton, Georgia. Freshly brewed Cool Beans coffee and freshly squeezed orange juice arrive early to complement the cooked-to-order breakfast. Relax in the guest lounge, or out on the screened porch while enjoying complimentary wine and cheese in the evening. The day culminates with turn down service including chocolates on your pillow. White Birch Inn is your in-town lodging choice for the sophisticated traveler! www.thewhitebirchinn.net • 706-782-4444
Campgrounds
Bleu Canoe
115 Sweetwater Circle, Clarkesville, Georgia 30523
The Bleu Canoe hosts a full service casual restaurant, rental cabins and RV Campground. The 23 acre property boasts communal fire pits, trails and yard games. Yard games include Bocce, Corn Hole, and Croquet open to restaurant and campground. www.bluecanoe.com • 706-947-1833
Cross Creek Camp Ground-Cabins
618 File Street, Mountain City, Georgia 30562
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Rabun County Georgia, lies a beautiful getaway for the RV enthusiast. www.crosscreekcampground.com/ • 706-746-6974
Nichols Campground
685 Tallulah River Road, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Northeast Georgia in Rabun County, Nichols Campground is the perfect place to get back to nature. On the headwaters of the Tallulah River, a year round trout stream, it’s the fisherman’s paradise. If you’ve had your fill of the woods, Clayton is only 13 miles away. www.nicholscampground.com/ • 706-782-9765
Pioneer Campground
Tallulah Falls
Primitive camping with swimming and fishing. Close to Tallulah Gorge State Park and downtown Clayton. Lots to do all around and a great place to relax and enjoy the peacefulness.
River Campground, LLC.
28 Joy Bridge Road, Lakemont, Georgia 30552
River Campground is a popular camping destination that will provide you with a truly memorable camping experience. We offer lodging options for everyone, including RV sites, Tent sites, Rustic Chalets and a River Cabin. We have 2 bathhouses and sell firewood on site. www.Georgiarivercampground.com • 706-782-1625
River Falls at the Gorge & Windy River
32 Resort Drive, Lakemont, Georgia 30552
River Falls at the Gorge RV Resort and Campground is one of North Georgia’s only riverside campgrounds located along the beautiful Tallulah River. We offer riverside camping for all types of RV’s, travel trailers, pop-ups, and tent camping. We also have alternate accommodations for the “Glamper.” We have mountainside two bedroom rustic cabins, tiny cabins, and our tree houses! www.riverfallsatthegorge.com • 706-754-0292
River Vista
20 River Vista Drive, Dillard, Georgia 30537
Whether staying in our RV park or one of our rental cabins, you and your family will enjoy the upscale amenities, well-maintained facilities and grounds, and fun activities for everyone. We have 110 RV sites, swimming pool, Wi-Fi, sauna and fitness center, cable TV and laundry. www.rvmountainvillage.com • 706-746-2722
Tallulah River Campground
800 Tallulah River Road, Clayton, GA 30525
At an elevation of 2,080 ft., on the banks of the Tallulah River, this campground is a favorite. If you like hiking, the Coleman River Trail is there for you to enjoy the outdoors and nature. www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/conf/recarea/?recid=10498
706-754-6221
Willis Knob Horse Campground
FS, 157, Clayton, GA 30525
Located in the Northeast Georgia Mountains, and far from civilization, lies one of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest’s most beloved horse-lover hideaways: Willis Knob Horse Camp. The campground features camping for horseback riders, riding and hiking trails, and fishing in the nearby Chattooga River. Restrooms are accessible to people with disabilities. The Willis Knob Trail in Georgia combines with South Carolina’s Whetstone Horse Trail to offer 27.5 miles of the most scenic horseback riding and hiking in the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains. Winding across deeply dissected ridges, the trails descend into the beautiful Chattooga Wild and Scenic River. www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/conf/recarea/?recid=10506
Willow Valley RV Resort
323 Yorkhouse Rd
Rabun Gap, Georgia 30568
Willow Valley RV Resort is Northeast Georgia’s newest luxurious campground. Located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Our resort has 81 sites with full hook-ups ,some accommodating larger RVs. Some of our amenities include, swimming pool with a wading area for younger children, playground, community fire pit, 6 private baths, laundry room and much more.
www.willowvalleyrv.com • 706-746-0078
Windy Sky RV & Cabin Rentals
32 Resort Drive
Lakemont, Georgia 30552
Offering RV rentals in the North Georgia Mountains and the surrounding areas of North GA, South Carolina and North Carolina. Their home base location in Clayton/Dillard GA. They also offer mobile delivery of RV rental units to campgrounds of your choice.
www.windyskyrvrentals.com/ • 706-426-3062
Hotels & Motels
America’s Best Value Inn (Hotels)
698 Hwy 441, Clayton, GA 30525
This straightforward lodging is 6.1 miles from Black Rock Mountain State Park and 10.6 miles from Tallulah Gorge State Park. All rooms include free WiFi, TVs with premium cable channels, microwaves, minifridges and coffeemakers. Kids 12 and under stay free with an adult. Continental breakfast is offered free of charge, plus there’s parking for trucks and buses.
www.sonesta.com/americas-best-value-inn/ga/clayton/americasbest-value-inn-clayton • 706-782-4702
Clarion Pointe
64 White Oak Lane, Dillard, Georgia 30537
At Clarion Pointe®-Dillard near Blue Ridge Mountains, they believe that travel should be all about connecting with your people while getting the amenities you deserve. Clarion Point is proud to provide you with a contemporary stay and all the perks you expect that let you relax and focus on what really matters: memorable experiences.
www.choicehotels.com/en-au/georgia/dillard/clarion-hotels/gac43
Days Inn by Wyndham
54 US-441, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Days Inn hotels offers the best rate guarantee, friendly service and comfortable rooms.
www.wyndhamhotels.com/days-inn/clayton-georgia 706-801-4051
Knight’s Inn Budgetel
3 Best inn Lane, Dillard, Georgia 30537
Budgetel Dillard is located 6.5 miles from the Black Rock Mountain State Park. Guests will enjoy a continental breakfast each morning of their stay. Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms of this Dillard hotel as well cable TV. A microwave, refrigerator and coffee-making facilities are also provided in each room. A business center is featured on site. www.knights-inn-30537.georgia-all-hotels.com/en/
Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant
35 Andrea Lane, Lakemont, Georgia 30552
Each room in our historic North Georgia hotel features private baths and plush, downy queen and king-sized beds that welcome sweet dreams. The rustic charm in our 13 rooms with one-of-a-kind handcrafted Adirondack mirrors, special lighting, and clothes racks will delight quests. There is a 2 bedroom, 2 bath cottage as well as 5 cottages at the Lake Rabun Fish Camp located one mile from the hotel. All rooms include a gourmet breakfast served from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in our hotel restaurant. www.lakerabunhotel.com • 706-782-4946
Mountain Valley Inn (Hotels)
13 Royalty Ln, Dillard, GA 30537
Centrally located in the North Georgia mountains, the Mountain Valley Inn is 15 minutes’ drive from Black Rock Mountain State Park. This hotel features a seasonal outdoor pool on site and offers a daily continental breakfast. A microwave, refrigerator and cable TV with HBO in all rooms. A children’s playground is available on site at the Mountain Valley Inn as well as meeting facilities. www.dillardmountainvalleyinn.com • 706-746-5373
Quality Inn & Suites Mt. Chalet (Hotels)
834 Hwy 441, Clayton, GA 30525
If you’re looking for a memorable North Georgia experience at a great value, then look no further than the Quality Inn & Suites® Mt. Chalet in Clayton. As a guest at our hotel, you’re sure to get your money’s worth with our dependable service and great amenities. We provide essentials like free WiFi and outdoor parking. You can also enjoy a free hot breakfast and free coffee each day of your stay. Our cozy guest rooms are the perfect place to rest up after a day spent experiencing all that the area has to offer.
www.choicehotels.com/georgia/clayton/quality-inn-hotels/ga474\ 706-782-2214
Cabin Rentals
Andy’s Trout Farm
210 Andy’s Trout Farm Road, Dillard, Georgia 30537
Andy’s Trout Farm and Camping offers 13 adorable & fully appointed cabins for your choosing, available for nightly, weekly and group rental! We have 7 one bedroom cabins that sit directly on beautiful Betty’s Creek. There are also 6 two bedroom cabins – one sitting on Hazel Lane, our creek road- the other 5, while still secluded, are situated closer to our three acre lake with mountain views! We understand that most of our guests visit us to get away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world, so for the tranquility of your stay, we do not supply the cabins with TV or phone or WiFi access.
www.andystroutfarm.com/ • 706-746-2550
Archaic Roots
626 Farside Drive, Lakemont, GA 30552
Offering one -of-a-kind experiences with our unique workshops, retreats, and personal instrument building immersions. Additionally, we can provide an awesome private guest room or primitive artist cabin on the Archaic Roots property. We can host and offer a unique experience while you’re here in the Southern Appalachian Mountains! Focus on yourself, delve into true wilderness areas, connect with our Mother Earth, hike to waterfalls, create art and instruments with a variety of media, and so much more!
https://www.archaicroots.com/ • 404-456-9932
Georgia Mountain Rentals
104 East Savannah Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
We offer the finest vacation and cabin rentals in Rabun County Georgia. Whether you’re planning a fun family vacation, a romantic weekend getaway, a corporate retreat or an intimate mountain wedding, our selection of rental cabins, single-family residences will exceed your expectations.
www.rabunrentals.com •706-782-2772
Julep Farms
500 Hwy 246, Dillard, Georgia 30537
Julep Farms, a modern farm resort where charming southern meets contemporary farm. The Social House, Julep Farm’s central hub, houses a retail shop (The Market), in addition to a coffee bar and spacious event rooms with lofty ceilings and 2-story fireplaces. Julep Kitchen, featuring new American cuisine with a decidedly southern twist Julep Farms offers lodging in their brand new modern cottages. www.julep.farm.com • 706- 960-9600
Lake Rabun Hotel Fish Camp Cabins
26 Fish Camp Lane, Lakemont, Georgia 30552
The setting is camp style with 5 cottages spaciously separated from each other and a central communal fire pit area. Three of these are charmingly renovated 2 bedroom cottages with private decks. This is a place that will put a smile on your face and in your heart. It’s like no other. You’ll feel like you skipped away for a while and life isn’t all that serious. There’s ample room to walk your dog on a private country road or wake up early and take a run. The atmosphere is natural and free. www.lakerabunhotel.com/lodging/fish-camp-cottages/ 706-982-9733
Lodging on the Lake Terrora Circle, Tallulah Falls, Georgia 30573
Escaping to the Northeast Georgia Mountains provides you with a quality of living that can’t be matched. Our cabins are within a few minutes of Tallulah Gorge State Park and convenient to Whitewater Rafting and the cities of Lakemont, Clayton and Dillard. www.lodgingonthelake.com/ • 706-490-3456
The Barn Inn at Lake Rabun
Lake Rabun Road, Lakemont, Georgia 30552
This breathtaking 2 acre lot offers 6 king bedrooms with adjoining full baths, a bunk room with a queen bed and 3 singles. The main floor has 2 full bathrooms. This unique farm house is equipped with a commercial kitchen, dining hall, great room, media room, and all the amenities that you could possibly need for any time of year. www.TheBarnatLakeRabun.com • 678-777-7418
Valley Springs Lodging
787 Patterson Gap Road, Rabun Gap, Georgia 30568
Escape to the serene, majestic beauty of Valley Springs Lodging . Meticulously maintained cabins and lodge suites are situated on 122 pristine acres in the Northeast Georgia Mountains, just outside Dillard. One and two bedroom cabins and lodge loft suites can accommodate 1 to 8 guests. All cabins/suites are fully furnished and have a kitchenette or full kitchen and a grill available. Valley Springs offers a lake, ponds, rippling creeks and several tranquil waterfalls including the amazing Patterson Creek Falls, their private waterfall! The views are spectacular! www.valleyspringslodging.com • 706-746-3875
SHOPPING
Antiques
& Flea Markets
Appalachian Trader
1093 Franklin Street, Dillard, GA 30537
Their inventory consists of country primitives, old tools, cast iron cookware, fishing gear, crockery, Life magazines and anything else that takes you back in time to the old farmstead, general store or tender memories in great grandma’s kitchen. In their search for merchandise they have traveled New England, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Missouri, but their favorite areas are Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. The Roses invite you to stop by and visit with them and enjoy stepping back into a time that they now refer to as “the good ol’ days”. www.dillardgeorgia.com/appalachian-trader/ • 706-746-5253
Carol’s Back Porch
1127 Franklin Street, Dillard, Georgia 30537
Carol’s Back Porch Antiques showcases primitives, garden items, weather vanes, vintage linens, old quilts, old dishes, enamel tables, enamelware, locally crafted tables, metal garden chairs, and much more. There are 10 dealers and 8,000 square feet of quality merchandise.
www.dillardgeorgia.com/carol • 706-746-6566
DejaVu Antiques
6804 Highway 441 N., Dillard, Georgia 30537
Dejavu Antiques has a dazzling collection of Depression Glass, Roseville Pottery, Weller, Porcelains, Fostoria, Fenton, Cambridge, Heisey, Johnson Brothers, Franciscan, Shelley, Westmoreland, small furniture and vintage tools. www.dejavuantiques.biz/ • 706-746-5863
Fox Run Farm
74 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Primitive antiques and country home accessories in antique mall The Shops at Butler Galleries, at the farm and online. Wonderful selection of antiques, folk art & home accessories! Great place to find treasures! www.visitfoxrunfarm.com • 770-869-3390
Harvest Moon Antiques & Garden Art
28 Joy Bridge Road, Lakemont, Georgia 30552
An amazing garden shop, Featuring annuals, perennials, evergreens, conifers, trees, rare plants, wholesale brokering, custom arrangements, unique gifts, local crafts, vintage & antique garden, pottery, special orders, Plant rentals and delivery available 954-410-4735
Miley Marie’s Antique Boutique
1870 Hwy 441, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Miley Marie’s Antique Boutique is a new shop filled with both old and new treasures. Antiques, gifts, jewelry and apparel for the diverse shopper. Thursday, Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 9am-3pm www.mileymaries.com/ • 706-490-1752
Pa’s Front Porch
1213 Franklin Street, Dillard, Georgia 30537
Come see an amazing inventory of antiques and collectibles of all kinds all in one convenient location. Friendly and helpful staff available to help you. Open 10am to 5pm, 7 days a week www.facebook.com/pasfrontporch1213 • 706-746-2040
Rabun Flea Market
134 Market Circle, Rabun Gap, Georgia 30568
The Rabun Flea Market is an open-air market, open Saturday and Sunday-8am-4pm. Antiques, clothes, rugs, produce, cosmetics www.dillardgeorgia.com/rabun-Gap-flea-market/ 706-746-2837
The Dillard Market
6810 Highway 441 N., Dillard, Georgia 30537
The Dillard Market, the newest addition to period antiques, art and garden decor for the cabin, home and barn. The Dillard Market features regional Folk Artists, GA Folk Potters, and Southern Sporting Decor and Collectibles. Unique selection of gift items and free gift wrapping. Local honey, Goats Milk soap and lotions, seasonal/native herbs and flowers. www.explorerabun.com/blog/dillard-market/ • 706-982-1154
The Georgia Mountain Market
811 US-441 N., Clayton, Georgia 30525
Welcome to the Georgia Mountain Market! Come and enjoy our 45,000 sq. ft. of Indoor Flea Market, all just a few minutes walk to downtown Historic Clayton, Georgia. Open Friday -Sunday 8am5pm. Loads of Booths filled with most anything imaginable www.georgiamountainmarket.com/wp/ • 706-782-7328
The Shops at Butler Galleries
74 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Butler Galleries is located in the historic Black Rock Station Clayton, Georgia and houses fifteen unique retailers. Jan.-Apr., Mon.-Wed. (11am-4pm) and Thur.-Sat. (10am-5pm) Fine art, gifts, antiques Home Decor as well as clothing for women and children www.butlergalleries.com/ • 706-212-0155
Upstairs Downstairs
6826 HWY 441 N., Dillard, GA 30537
Great antiques and more décor! 706-982-8000
Yesterday’s Treasures
6772 Hwy 441 N., Dillard, Georgia 30537
With over 10,000 sq feet and 50 dealers under one roof, we have something for everyone. We are all street level. To top it off, we have Carol’s Back Porch just below us. www.facebook.com/ytamdillard/ • 706-746-3363
Arts & Crafts
Alice’s Painted Gourds
2857 U.S. 441, Mountain City, Georgia 30562
What a wonderful place! Hand painted gourd birdhouses, unfinished gourds for crafters, several buildings with all kinds of nick-nacks, vintage toys, dolls, home decor, lots of collectibles, all of it used but some great bargains!
Crawford Art Gallery
108 N. Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Broderick Crawford is a wildlife artist who enjoys painting just about anything to do with nature, wildlife and sporting art, as well as for stamp competitions and using his talents to help support conservation groups. Nature, Wildlife and Sporting Art, Stamp Competitions. www.crawfordartgallery.com • 706-782-8379
Hickory Flat Pottery
13664 Georgia 197, Clarkesville, Georgia 30523
Decorative, functional, handmade pottery made in the Northeast Georgia Mountains. The gallery connected to the pottery studio is located in a 120 year old farm house. Inside you will find potters working daily along with the work over ten artists which includes pottery, metal work, jewelry, wood and glass. www.hickoryflatpottery.com/ • 706-947-0030
Gallery 441 in the Heart of Dillard
6795 Hwy. 441 N., Dillard, Georgia 30537
35 artists in all mediums showing in this lovely large Gallery in the Heart of Dillard building on Hwy. 441. Classes will be offered call for details www.facebook.com/Georgiallery441intheheartofdillard 770-634-2379
Lakemont Gallery
8546 Old 441 S., Lakemont, GA 30552
Paintings, Pottery, Wood Crafts, Baskets, Twig Furniture, Inlay Furniture, Photography Gifts, Home Decor & new! Waterlilies, Lotus, Bog Plants from Perry’s Water Gardens www.lakemontgallery.com/ 706-424-7322
Lulu and Tully Mercantile
11 North Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Just walking around this shop is an adventure. Maitland Smith Furniture to primitive handmade quilts, high quality merchandise, The art of shop owner Rabun Martin is highly sought after and on display in the Mercantile. www.facebook.com/luluandtullys • 706-960-9446
Main Street Gallery
51 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Main Street Gallery specializes in contemporary folk art. Well-known and emerging artists, handcrafted pottery, jewelry, and furniture Shipments to collectors nationally and internationally. www.mainstreetgallery.net • 706-782-2440
The Mark of the Potter
9982 Hwy 197 N., Clarkesville, Georgia, 30525
Mark of the Potter is nestled in a 1930’s grist mill that overlooks the Soque River where our giant “pet” trout happily await a feeding from our customers. During your visit you can experience tradition, art, history and nature come together. www.markofthepotter.com • 706-947-3440
Scaly Mountain Crafters
8106 Dillard Road, Scaly Mountain, NC
Scaly Mountain Crafters is a venue for over 100 local artists in Western North Carolina & North Georgia to sell their hand-crafted items with a portion of each purchase dedicated to providing meals for local needs. www.scalymountaincrafters.com/ 828-526-8800
Soul Intention Gallery
55 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Following your Soul Intention isn’t about achieving specific milestones; it’s about aligning with your inner compass and becoming the best version of yourself. Artists, musicians, and creatives often embody this concept. At Soul Intention Gallery, we share this philosophy. We believe that by showcasing art born from authentic expression, we can inspire others to discover and pursue their own unique callings. www. soulintentiongallery.com • 706-968-0298 Admin@soulintentiongallery.com
Sunshine & Sawdust
2511 Hwy 441 N,. Clayton, Georgia 30525 (Mountain City)
A fun DIY studio offering art and craft classes perfect for celebrations, family, friend and workplace gatherings! Open by appointment. Call to schedule a class or join one. www.facebook.com/sunshineandsawduststudio • 706-982-0216
Timpson Creek Gallery
7142 Highway 76 West, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Located in the beautiful Northeast Georgia Mountains, Timpson Creek has an eclectic collection of art. Craftsman Dwayne Thompson builds custom rustic furniture using reclaimed and re-purposed material. Proudly represent the handcrafted works of Genesee River Trading Company, antiques, beautiful jewelry. www.timpsoncreek.com/ • 706-782-5164
Clothing & Accessories
Belle & Barn Co.
46 N. Church Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
“Kinda Classy, Kinda Cowboy” is the tagline of this boutique. You’ll find clothing, shoes, hats, jewelry, unique gifts. Leather handbags, home decor and local art. They even have guy gifts! The shop is open Friday & Saturday May - December. www.instagram.com/thebelleandbarn
ImPRESSed
621 Hwy 441, Clayton, GA 30525
Impressed Custom Printing is a custom printed apparel provider, offering screen printing and embroidery on a wide variety of apparel and promotional products. 706-212-2818 • www.impressedclayton.com
Indigo Ladies & Gentlemen Clothing
75 N Main Street #101, Clayton, Georgia 30525
This is a great boutique off the Main Street and their accessory game is strong! Hours may vary but usually open (10 am till 5 pm). You’ll find ladies, gentlemen, children’s clothing, live music on occasions, The Back Room TV Lounge. www.facebook.com/Indigoclayton/ • 770-363-4043
Isadora Popper
33 N Main St, Clayton, GA 30525
Isadora Popper provides quality goods with an honest provenance that we use in our day-to-day lives, items made to last that will not fuel the throwaway nature of the modern world. Curating beautifully considered, functional items for others to enjoy is their passion. www.isadorapopper.com • 706-782-7029
Madison’s on Main
29 N. Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
This boutique is every girl’s dream. “All Things Pretty” is their tagline and it is true. They carry women’s clothing, accessories, baby clothes and gifts, and jewelry. You’ll also find a variety of gift and home decor www.shopmadisonsonmain.com/ • 706-782-1989
Of These Mountains
39 East Savannah Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
This is a small business with BIG heart. Nestled in downtown Clayton, Of These Mountains was created as both a lifestyle apparel brand and a love letter to North Georgia, written through designs from local artisans. All of our unique outdoor t-shirts, stickers, and hats pay respect to the natural beauty and life that we are so fortunate to be able to experience here in our community. www.ofthesemountains.com • 706-212-0018
Outdoor 76
104 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Outdoor 76 is family owned and operated since 2010 with locations in Clayton, Georgia and Franklin, NC. We are open 7 days a week at both locations. We are a specialty outdoor shop and outfitter. Clothing, Footwear, Hiking Gear. Accessories for any adventure you plan. www.outdoor76.com/ • 828-347-1465
Reeves
46 S Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Shop the clothing and footwear departments at Reeves Hardware Company. For brands like: Columbia, Carhartt, Patagonia, Southern Fried Cotton, Kavu, Hey Dude, Rocky, Keen and more. www.reevesacehardware.com/ • 706-782-4253
Shady Creek Expeditions
56 N Main Street, Clayton, GA 30525
Shady Creek Expeditions acts as an outfitter for outdoor adventures but you’ll find fly fishing gear, accessories and equipment, handmade knives, clothing and more at their retail location. Their ladies boutique is a favorite among locals and visitors. Book your trip and find everything you need in one place. www.shadycreekexpeditions.com • 678-986-5167
Sole Place Western Wear
61 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
When searching for western clothing, we keep the latest trends in stock to provide the perfect solution. Western hats, boots, jewelry, belts and apparel, Men, women, and children’s apparel www.soleplaceclayton.com • 706-782-4975
Ten Roof with Countryside Creations
128 Duvall St F., Clayton, Georgia 30525
A great custom design store! With their own line of apparel, hats and more. Offering services such as DTF, Embroidery, vinyl, sublimation, laser engraving and tanning beds! They also create business logos, banners, signs and MORE! www.facebook.com/tenroofclothing • 706-960-9177
Turpin’s Jewelry
6818 Hwy 441 North, Dillard, Georgia
Turpin’s Jewelry offers hand crafted silver and gold jewelry made locally in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Phil Turpin brings 24 plus years of experience to his jewelry store in Dillard. Come by to see him at 6818 Hwy. 441 in Dillard – next to the Dillard Antique Mall. www.turpinsjewelry.com/ • 828-226-2765
The Treehouse on Main 23 North Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
The Treehouse On Main is aimed at providing excellent service with a home town feel. Open Monday-Saturday (10am-5pm). Home furnishing, jewelry, gift and clothing, furnishings, bedding and rugs. www.treehouseonmain.com/ • 706-782-7297
TRZ Designz
396 Warwoman Rd, Clayton, GA 30525
This is a unique shop indeed. Lots of ideas for all kinds of occasions and gifts. They love using their creative minds to put a smile on your face.
www.trzdesignz.com • 706-782-3948
Wander North Georgia
33 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Wander North Georgia Outpost 11785 Hwy 441, Tallulah Falls, Georgia 30573
A small locally owned, family run business in the middle of downtown Clayton. You’ll find dozens of the outdoor brands to help you on your hiking or camping trip, a kids play area, enjoy coffee and ice cream or play a Game of Bocce with them.
www.wandernorthgeorgia.com • 770-750-4470
Home Goods & Decor
Dogwoods Home
41 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Welcome to Dogwoods! A collected, curated, mix of old and new, vintage and modern. Their approach to design is to always consider their clients lifestyle.
www.shopdogwoodshome.com • 706-960-9232
Idle + Wild
35 E Savannah Street, Clayton, GA 30525
An upscale boutique offering home goods, gifts and decor with a sophisticated Southern flare. www.idlewildhome.com/ • living@idlewild.com
Lulu and Tully Mercantile
11 North Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Just walking around this shop is an adventure. Maitland Smith Furniture to primitive handmade quilts, high quality merchandise, The art of shop owner Rabun Martin is highly sought after and on display in the Mercantile.
www.facebook.com/luluandtullys • 706-960-9446
Mine & Yours Upscale Resale
7110 D Hwy 441 N., Dillard, Georgia 30537
A small-ish, but decidedly upscale furniture and décor store with a very nice selection of beds, bedding and dressers. A few curio cabinets, tables, chairs and interesting nick-knacks. Find them on Facebook 706-982-3567
Porch and Pillow
2 Betty Whitecloud Street, Dillard, Georgia 30537
Home decor & accessories, original handmade items, painted furniture, bed linens, and floral arrangements. Unique finds! www.theporchandpillow.com • 706-982-8345
Porch Living
1218 North Main Street, Clayton, Ga 30525
Are you dreaming of expanding your living space and enjoying the great outdoors without worrying about pollen, pests, harsh weather, or unwanted intrusions? Look no further! Welcome to the world of Porch Living 24/7/365 Vinyl & Screen Enclosures, where your outdoor dreams come to life! Here you will find indoor and outdoor rugs, outdoor furniture, and all things Porch! www.porchliving247365.com/ • 706-576-7276 porchliving247365@gmail.com
Reeves Furniture & Reeves Gifts
46 S Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Whether you are looking to outfit your entire home, shopping for kitchenware or a great gift, you’ll love shopping at Reeves. The furniture department offers interior design services and can even outfit your porch and patio. Reeves also has a gift registry. www.reevesacehardware.com • 706-782-4253
Timpson Creek Gallery
7142 Highway 76 West, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Located in the beautiful Northeast Georgia Mountains, Timpson Creek has an eclectic collection of art. Craftsman Dwayne Thompson builds custom rustic furniture using reclaimed and re-purposed material. Proudly represent the handcrafted works of Genesee River Trading Company, antiques, beautiful jewelry. www.timpsoncreek.com/ • 706-782-5164
Two Sisters Shop at Butler Galleries
74 N. Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Stop in to see our new items as we are always on the lookout to offer you great home décor – lamps, rugs, prints, folk art, furniture – check out our ladies spa robes, pajamas, wraps and ponchos and purses. Lots of gardenique, pet toys and fun stuff. www.facebook.com/TwoSistersAtButlerGalleries/ 706-782-1520
Sporting Goods
Chattooga River Fly Shop
6832A Highlands Highway, Mountain Rest, South Carolina 29664
This shop offers 1/2-day, 3/4 day and full day guided fly-fishing wade trips. They carry a wide variety of flies, from the smallest of the midges to the largest stone flies, necessary for the right conditions on the river. The fly shop also carries a full array of fly lines, leaders and tippets, fly rods and reels, waders & boots for men, women & children. Nets, packs & all your fly-tying supplies are just waiting for you. www.chattoogariverflyshop.com/ 864-638-2806
Outdoor 76
104 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Outdoor 76 is family owned and operated since 2010 with locations in Clayton, Georgia and Franklin, NC. We are open 7 days a week at both locations. We are a specialty outdoor shop and outfitter. Clothing, Footwear, Hiking Gear. Accessories for any adventure you have planned www.outdoor76.com/ • 828-347-1465
Rabun Boathouse
Lake Rabun Road, Lakemont, Georgia 30552
Rabun Boathouse (more affectionately known as, Hall’s) has been a landmark and gathering place servicing the Lakemont community since the 1930’s. We provide goods and services for all of your boating needs.
www.facebook.com/rabunboathouse • 706-782-2628
Reeves Hardware, Sporting Goods
46 S Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
As your Ace Hardware we are locally owned and operated. Reeves is about helping neighbors, because we are a part of your community. Household Tools, Cleaning Products, Insect and Pest Control, Kitchen Storage/Organization, Kitchen Appliances, Plumbing Parts & Repair. www.reevesacehardware.com/ • 706-782-4253
Shady Creek Expeditions
56 N Main Street, Clayton, GA 30525
Shady Creek Expeditions offers Outdoor Adventures in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Northeast Georgia FLY FISHING, DAY HIKES, OVERNIGHT BACKPACKING & CAMPING TRIPS for individuals, families & groups. Their retail location acts as an outfitter for outdoor adventures. You’ll find fly fishing gear, accessories and equipment, handmade knives, clothing and more. Their ladies boutique is a favorite among locals and visitors. Book your trip and find everything you need in one place.
www.shadycreekexpeditions.com • 678-986-5167
Wander North Georgia
33 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Wander North Georgia Outpost 11785 Hwy 441, Tallulah Falls, Georgia 30573
A small locally owned, family run business in the middle of downtown Clayton. Their goal is to highlight the amazing people and places of North Georgia. You’ll find dozens of the outdoor brands to help you on your hiking or camping trip, a kids play area, enjoy coffee and ice cream or play a Game of Bocce with them. www.wandernorthgeorgia.com • 770-750-4470
Specialty Stores
Apple Blossom Flower Shoppe
259 N Main St, Clayton, GA 30525
Specializing in creating beautiful arrangements for all occasions, they offer a wide selection of fresh flowers and unique gifts. www.facebook.com/AppleBlossomFlowerShoppe • 706-782-6315
Blue Ridge Honey Company
6306 Highway 441 S., Lakemont, Georgia 30552
Open Monday -Saturday (8:30-5pm), Closed Sunday. Blue Ridge Honey Company has Pure natural raw honey. Wildflower, Sourwood Tupelo, Orange Blossom, and more varieties, Bees Wax/Pollen, Bee Supplies, Bees for Sale, Bees Wax Candles, Events www.blueridgehoneycompany.com • 706-782-6722
Blue Ridge Music
629 Duggan Hill Drive, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Blue Ridge Music is Rabun County’s home for all things mountain music. Come sit on our front porch and share some stories and songs with many of our best local musicians. Lessons for most instruments offered. Recording studio available. Instrument sales. www.blueridgemusicacademy.com • 706-782-9852
Blue Ridge Toys
45 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Blue Ridge Toys home of unique Toys for little ones and big kids at heart. Open 7 days a week. Board games, travel games, puzzles, arts and crafts, books, dress up and pretend. Local and regional toys. www.blueridgetoys.shopsettings.com • 706-707-8697
Buds & Blossoms
613 Highway 441 S Suite 3, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Buds & Blossoms offers fresh flower arrangements available ready made or to custom order as well as an assortment of jewelry and gifts. Fresh flowers and handmade jewelry. www.budsandblossomsflorist.com • 706-782-6876
Ghost Apothecary
112 N Main Street, Clayton, GA 30525
Ghost Apothecary is a retail experience dedicated to restorative rituals & remedies that inspire the five senses. www.ghostapothecary.co
Harvest Moon Antiques & Garden Art
28 Joy Bridge Road, Lakemont, Georgia 30552
An amazing garden shop, Featuring annuals, perennials, evergreens, conifers, trees, rare plants, wholesale brokering, custom arrangements, unique gifts, local crafts, vintage & antique garden, pottery, special orders, Plant rentals, delivery available and excellent customer service. 954-410-4735
Hillside Orchard Farms Country Store
18 Sorghum Mill Drive, Lakemont, Georgia 30552
Hillside Orchard Farm Country Store began in 1983 is a small barnyard cannery It has since expanded to a working farm with over 800 products. Apple orchard, grape vines, blueberry and blackberry picking, Country Store with baked goods, bread, cheese, and ice cream, www.hillsideorchard.com • 706) 782-2776
Holistic Mountain Market
31 W. Savannah Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Holistic Mountain Market is your neighborhood wellness store and smoothie bar. Vitamins & supplements Whole-food smoothies, Small organic grocery items, Herbs and other natural products www.holisticmountainmarket.com • 706-960-9501
HollyBeth Organics / Skin Products
54 Church Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
HollyBeth Organics is a line of organic skin products. Hollybeth handselects ingredients and formulates unique recipes based on traditional homeopathic remedies from around the world. Anti-aging Creams, face cleansers and toners, moisturizers, body creams for full body, foot massages, and lymphatic treatments. www.hollybethorganics.com • 706-490-1059
Isadora Popper
33 N Main St, Clayton, GA 30525
Isadora Popper provides quality goods with an honest provenance that we use in our day-to-day lives, items made to last that will not fuel the throwaway nature of the modern world. Curating beautifully considered, functional items for others to enjoy is their passion. www.isadorapopper.com • 706-782-7029
Ladybug Landing
8488 Old 441 S., Lakemont, Georgia 30552
Ladybug Landing is a gift shop inspired by nature. It seeks to inspire you to fall more in love with the magic of Lakemont. Come visit their fairy garden. www.facebook.com/ladybuglanding.lakemont • 229-221-8456
Main Street Chocolates
90 N Main Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Main Street Chocolates serves 24 flavors of super premium ice cream including two non-dairy coconut based ice cream flavors, sugar-free and sorbet. They also have a full line-up of delectable chocolate and caramel treats. Please stop by and check out this new shop. www.mainstreetchocolates.net • 706-510-1305
Osage Farms, Inc
5030 Highway 441 N., Rabun Gap, Georgia 30568
Nestled In the heart of the valley Osage Farms is a family owned vegetable and Fraser Fir Christmas tree farm. The Vegetable Market is open everyday May thru October. Seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables Sweetest corn that you have ever tasted! www.osagefarm.com/ • 706-746-7262
The General Store
100 Main Street, Tallulah Falls, Georgia 30573
An unique gift shop located in an old general store featuring local art, jewelry, souvenirs, vintage & retro products, souvenirs, old fashion candy & sodas, ice cream and so much! www.tallulahpoint.net/ • 706-754-4318
The Mark of the Potter
9982 Hwy 197 N., Clarkesville, Georgia, 30525
Mark of the Potter is nestled in a 1930’s grist mill that overlooks the Soque River where our giant “pet” trout happily await a feeding from our customers. During your visit you can experience tradition, art, history and nature come together. www.markofthepotter.com • 706-947-3440
The Merry Christmas Shop and Country Junction
6842 Hwy 441 N., Dillard, Georgia 30537
Every day is Christmas at this Holiday themed specialty store designed to make your wishes come true all year long. The General Store has t-shirts, jewelry, puzzles and games. We have DEPT 56, Willow Tree, Radco, Byers Choice, Jim Shore, and other lines. Holiday Jams and Jellies as Well as Decorations and so much more www.happymerrychristmas2021.com/ • 706-746-5899
ATTRACTIONS
Things to See & Do
4 Seasons Putt-N-Play 7570 Georgia Road, Franklin, NC 28734
Have a go at some mini golf! Play on various holes custom built to give you a thrill! Drive RC Trucks around our track! Race with family and friends! Indulge yourself in virtual reality games! www.the4seasonsputtnpl.wixsite.com/main
Anchorage Boat Dock 75 Anchor Lane, Clayton, Georgia 30525
We are located on the North end of Lake Burton. Our summer hours begin on Memorial Day weekend and last until Labor Day weekend. Our website has contact information for all aspects of our marina including, boat rentals and repairs, our marina store, boat sales, our restaurant Take It On the Lake, the hair salon Lakeside Roots, our live bait shop, paddle-board rental office, and both wet and dry slip rentals. www.anchorageboatdock.com/ • 706-782-5193
Andy’s Trout Farm
116 Andy’s Trout Farm Road, Otto, NC 28763
This family owned retreat offers guest lodging, trout fishing, swimming, gem mining, hiking, guided tours and great for groups. The farm has a rich history and is located in a peaceful valley just west of Dillard, Georgia. Open March - November www.andystroutfarm.com • 706-746-2550
Archaic Roots
626 Farside Drive, Lakemont, GA 30552
Offering one-of-a-kind experiences with our unique workshops, retreats, and personal instrument building immersions. Additionally, we can provide an awesome private guest room or primitive artist cabin on the Archaic Roots property. We can host and offer a unique experience while you’re here in the Southern Appalachian Mountains! Focus on yourself, delve into true wilderness areas, connect with our Mother Earth, hike to waterfalls, create art and instruments with a variety of media, and so much more! www.archaicroots.com • 404-456-9932
Barkers Creek Mill
4507 Betty’s Creek Road, Rabun Gap, Georgia 30568
Barker’s Creek Grist Mill has been providing the local community with milling services since the mid 1800s. Barker’s Creek Mill is still operated by Hambidge on the First Saturday of each month from 1p.m. to 4 p.m., and by appointment to provide milling services. www.hambidge.org/the-mill
Battle on Bell Airsoft 1688 Bell Rd Otto, NC 28763
This family-owned field is a mixture of terrain with an elevated wooded area and flat speed ball area as well. The field is altered frequently to keep things fresh and unpredictable. www.battleonbellairsoft.com/ • 828-349-0285
Bear Gap Outfitters
6 Bear Gap Road, Lakemont, Georgia 30552
Bear Gap Outfitters is a sister company of Big Mountain Transportation Shuttles and Event Management. We are a boat rental business servicing Lake Rabun, Lake Seed and Lake Burton located in the beautiful NE Georgia mountains. We offer a variety of rentals which include Pontoons, Canoes Kayaks and Paddleboards. Planning a trip to the mountains and lake? Let us be a part of your story. We also service Air BNB and VRBO homes on and around the lakes. www.beargapoutfitters.com/ • (706) 782-4438
Blackhawk Fly Fishing
9400 GA-197, Clarkesville, GA 30523
The Soque River, a small winding river that runs down from the Blue Ridge mountains past the northern Georgia town of Clarkesville, is perhaps one of the best kept secrets in the angling world today. If tangling with trout in the 3 lb. to 12 lb. class appeals to you, you’ll love the action at Blackhawk. www.blackhawkflyfishing.com • 706-947-3474
Black Rock Mountain State Park
3085 Black Rock Mtn Parkway, Mountain City, Georgia 30562
Georgia’s highest state park includes 1,803 acres. The park’s majestic Black Rock Mountain, altitude 3,640 feet, is located astride the Eastern Continental Divide. Georgia’s top recreational area features numerous scenic overlooks, trails, rental cabins, cottages, campground, playground, picnic shelters, hiking trails, a seventeen-acre fishing lake, gift shop, and visitors center which is handicapped accessible. www.Georgiastatepark.org/blackrock • 706-746-2123
Dillard House Stables
768 Franklin Street, Dillard, Georgia 39525
Pam Thompson, owner-operator of Dillard House Stables since 1989, along with her crew of experienced trail guides strive to keep the tradition alive. Pam’s lifetime of experience with horses and 25 years in the “Trail Riding” business allows her the opportunity to offer a safe and enjoyable trail and river horseback rides for every level rider. www.dillardhousestables.com • 706-746-2038
Foxfire Museum and Heritage Center
98 Foxfire Lane (off Cross Street), Mountain City, Georgia 30562
The Foxfire Museum and Heritage Center portrays early life in southern Appalachia. Visitors get a rare glimpse of what life was like for the stout settlers who braved the weather, terrain, and isolation to tame this beautiful piece of America over 150 years ago. Tour a collection of 20 historic log cabins and replicas of traditional log construction designs. The gift shop is filled with folk art, handcrafted items, regional music and books, including the acclaimed Foxfire Book series. www.foxfire.org
Georgia Shuttle
“The Loop”TM, by Georgia Shuttle, is a continuously running shuttle which serves many local Rabun County businesses. Using our unlimited day pass, riders can hop on & off at any of our designated stops, with access to many other businesses, steps away! www.georgiashuttle.com • 706-493-7372
Hambidge Center
105 Hambidge Court, Rabun Gap, Georgia 30568
In 1934 Georgia native Mary Hambidge settled in northern Rabun County where she founded the Hambidge Center for Creative Arts and Sciences. She developed a retreat, a farm cooperative and an environment where local women could utilize their talents at spinning and weaving, She called this group the “Weavers of Rabun” and the looms began to hum. The Weave Shed Gallery is open to the public during the Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm.
www.hambidgecenter.org • 706-746-5718
Hatch Camp and Art Farm
Joe Speed Road, Clayton, Georgia 30525
This is the only private guided trout stream adventure in Rabun County. With big fish, experienced guides, and a fly shop focused on gearing you up for the specific needs of the region. A venue for musicians and artists that need to be heard and seen. Hatch Camp has a small stage where they host a few concerts a month and larger events such as Folk Art and Music Markets, Bluegrass festivals, and songwriting and angling clinics. www.facebook.com/hatchcamp/ • 706-782-3747
Highlands Aerial Park
9625 Dillard Road, Scaly Mountain, NC 28775
Whether joining HAP for fun, or for an objective based team building experience, they will be glad to create a custom itinerary to suit your goals. There are a variety of different options to build the perfect package for any group, large or small! If you have a party of 8 or more people interested in zip-lining, team bonding, team building, or just want to plan a fun group outing call or you will find info on their website. www.highlandscanopytour.com • 828.266.0449
Highlands Outpost
7420 Dillard Road, Scaly Mountain, NC 28775
Snow tubing and ice skating in winter, summer tubing in the warmer months and a brand new mountain coaster throughout the year make for loads of fun whenever you need it! And don’t forget to visit our wonderful cafe and gift shop before or after you adventures. www.highlandsoutpost.com/ • 828-526-3737
Hillside Orchard Farms Country Store
18 Sorghum Mill Drive, Lakemont, Georgia 30552
Hillside Orchard Farm Country Store began in 1983 is a small barnyard cannery It has since expanded to a working farm with over 800 products. Apple orchard, grape vines, blueberry and blackberry picking, Country Store with baked goods, bread, cheese, and ice cream, www.hillsideorchard.com • 706) 782-2776
Kingwood Resort & Golf
401 Country Club Drive, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Lush and supremely manicured Bermuda grass tees, fairways, and bent grass greens, surrounded by mature hardwoods and rippling brooks, make this course not only beautiful but also demanding. The 18 hole course was designed by Scott Pool and features 6000 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 71. This course is Perfect for all skill levels with three different tee locations www.kingwoodresort.com • 706-212-4100
Lake Rabun Beach Recreation Area
4726 Lake Rabun Road, Lakemont, GA 30552
Cradled in the hills of the North Georgia Mountains overlooking beautiful Lake Rabun, Rabun Beach Campground is a developed recreation area offers camping, hiking, all sorts of water activities like swimming, boating and fishing, and an opportunity to absorb the peaceful lake scenery. There are 80 tent and trailer campsites in this family-oriented setting that will easily transform whatever gear you have into an outdoor home away from home. www.explorerabun.com/rabun-beach-campground 706-754-6221
LaPrade’s Marina
25 Shoreline Trail, Clarkesville, GA 30523
LaPrade’s Marina is a full-service marina located on Lake Burton. Located just 2 hours northeast of Atlanta, we are nestled in the peaceful west end of Wildcat Creek Cove. LaPrade’s Marina offers boat storage and boat rentals on Lake Burton. LaPrade’s Marina is a great place to relax and enjoy everything the lake has to offer. www.lapradesmarina.com • 706-947-0010
Lilian E. Smith Center
496 Hershey Lane, Clayton, Georgia 30525
The Lillian E Smith Center preserves the home, office and library of Lillian Eugenia Smith (1897 – 1966). Now considered by many the foremost white southern liberal writer of the mid-twentieth century, Lillian Smith devoted her life to social and economic reform. Ms. Smith ran the Laurel Falls Girls Camp on Screamer Mountain. The Center is owned/operated by Piedmont College. www.piedmont.edu/lilian
Moccasin Creek State Park
3655 Georgia Hwy 197, Clarkesville, Georgia 30523
The central location of Moccasin Creek State Park makes it a perfect spot to begin your high country exploration. Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Burton in west Rabun County, the park is easily accessible and features camping, boat dock/ramp, fishing pier, hiking trails, picnic shelters and a playground. www.georgiastateparks.org/moccasincreek • 706-947-3194
Mountain City Playhouse
186 Playhouse Dr, Mountain City, GA 30562
Mountain City Playhouse is a vibrant entertainment venue located in the scenic town of Mountain City, GA. Offering a diverse range of special events, live music, dance performances and classes, it is a hub for cultural experiences and community engagement. www.mountaincityplayhouse.com • 706-969-2777
Nantahala Outdoor Center
851A Chattooga Ridge Rd., Mountain Rest, SC 29664
Since its founding in 1972, NOC has been at the forefront of guiding expeditions on the Chattooga, with company founder, Payson Kennedy, even performing stunts in the film “Deliverance”, which showcased the Chattooga River. Nantahala Outdoor Center guides at the Chattooga are among the best whitewater navigators in the country, benefiting from unparalleled training and access to the latest river gear. If you’re looking for whitewater rafting Near Georgia or South Carolina, The Chattooga River is the perfect choice. www. noc.com/chattooga-river-sc • 866-336-1037
Primitive Outback Kayaking & Gem Mining
155 Robin Lynn Lane, Otto, NC 28763
Primitive Outback offers 2½-3-hour kayaking trips that are selfguided in their natural setting. Rent kayaks or bring your own equipment. Guided tours and a shuttle service are also available. Rock hounds and treasure hunters, get your Gem Treasure Bucket and pan rain or shine in the covered outdoor flume. Six hour Indian Pottery river tours are offered w/ reservations. Family fun on the Class 1 Little Tennessee River.
www.primitiveoutback.com • 828-349-1717
Rabun Boat House
1897 Lake Rabun Road, Lakemont, GA 30552
“Hall’s Boathouse” has been a landmark and gathering place servicing the Lakemont community since the 1930’s. We provide goods and services for all of your boating needs on Lake Rabun. www.rabunboathouse.com • 706-982-8051
Rabun County Golf Course
1322 Old 441 S., Clayton, Georgia 30535
Built in 1940, Rabun County Golf Club is a 9-hole regulation length golf course. This short layout will reward good shots and provide a fun golf outing for everyone. Online tee times may be available at Rabun County Golf Club, usually offered at a discount from the normal rate. This short and challenging golf course will test your shot making ability.
www.rabungolf.com • 706-782-5500
Rabun County Historical Society
81 North Church Street, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Rabun County’s 200-year history in the Appalachian Mountains of Georgia is on display in their 2,300-square-foot museum and archives. Historical books are available as well. Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11am - 3pm. Free! www.rabunhistory.org • 706-782-5292
Rabun County Recreation Department
400 Rabun Park Road, Tiger, GA 30576
The Rabun County Recreation Department is committed to offering recreational activities that teach fundamentals, encourage good sportsmanship and enhance the quality of life for the citizens we serve. We will strive to meet the varying and increasing demands of our community, while providing safe and accessible facilities. www.rabuncountyrecreation.com/ • 706-782-4600
Southeastern Expeditions
7350 US 76 E., Clayton, Georgia 30525
The Chattooga River, called the Crown Jewel of the Southeast, is undammed and remains the only river East of the Mississippi that hosts commercial rafting while bearing the national designation of a Wild and Scenic River. Guided rafting, kayaking and canoing trips available. Call to schedule.
www.southeasternexpeditions.com • 800-868-7238
Shady Creek Expeditions
56 N Main Street, Clayton, GA 30525
Shady Creek Expeditions offers Outdoor Adventures in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Northeast Georgia FLY FISHING, DAY HIKES, OVERNIGHT BACKPACKING & CAMPING TRIPS for individuals, families & groups. They are permitted by the US Forest Service in the Sumpter and Chattahoochee National Forests. This allows you the opportunity to experience the National Forest with an experienced Outdoor Adventure Guide. Their local Guides are experts in fishing mountain streams and hiking mountain trails. The mission is to provide an outstanding outdoor experience that you will always remember. www.shadycreekexpeditions.com/ • 678-986-5167
Sky Valley Resort Golf
568 Sky Valley Way, Sky Valley, Georgia 30537
A classic site for golf, Sky Valley opened over 40 years ago. The original design by course architect, Bill Watts capitalized on the natural features in the valley long present before the vision of a golf course. It is the highest course in Georgia and in is significantly cooler than courses elsewhere in the state. www.skyvalleycountryclub.com • 706-746-5302
Stellar Roots Herb Farm
105 Covecrest Drive, Tiger, GA 30576, Our mission is to promote a lifestyle and learning of regional herbalism and regenerative, Biodynamic agricultural practices through classes, workshops, farm-stays and visits. We are dedicated to farming practices that promote unparalleled ecological health and vitality, demonstrated through building soil, supporting biodiversity, using water responsibly and nurturing our connection to the land. www.stellarrootsherbs.com
Sylvan Falls Mill
156 Taylor’s Chapel Road, Rabun Gap, Georgia 30568
The historic Sylvan Falls Mill, located in the scenic mountains of north east Georgia, is celebrating its 175th year of operation. It is unique among other gristmills, in that it is located below a 100-foot cascading waterfall, and the mill is powered by a 27-foot water wheel, which is one of the largest in the United States. The mill is on the property of Sylvan Falls Bed and Breakfast. www.sylvanfallsmill.com • 706-746-7138
Tallulah Adventures & The Edge Cafe 11785 Hwy 441, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
At Tallulah Adventures we invite people to choose from a variety of activities ranging from outdoor recreation to art and music, and to curate an adventure experience that suits them. While for some this might be learning how to rock climb or slack line, kayaking or standup paddle boarding, going on a whitewater rafting trip for the first or hundredth time. Others may find adventure in learning about the local history of the area, observing the local flora & fauna, or even taking a painting class while snacking on something from our cafe. www.tallulahadventures.com/ • 706-960-4211
Tallulah Gorge State Park
338 Jane Hurt Yarn Road, Tallulah Falls, Georgia 30573
This 2,689 acre park surrounding Tallulah Gorge offers camping, lake/ beach swimming, fishing and spectacular waterfalls. The Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center, a 15,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility, features comprehensive displays on the history, wildlife, terrain, and fragile ecosystem of Tallulah Gorge and the surround area. Exhibits in the park’s Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center highlight the rich history of this Victorian resort town, as well as the rugged terrain and fragile ecosystem of the area. A gift shop has much to offer visitors. www.Georgiastatepark.com/tallulah
Tiger Drive In Theater
2956 Old Hwy 441 South, Tiger, Georgia 30576
Experience the movies from your car like the “old days” but with the benefits of all of our modern amenities with our modern and high quality digital projection. They have all grass terraces, FM broadcasts, outdoor speakers, Pandora pre-show music, Wi-Fi, and the delicious TDI Grill. Even better, we accept credit cards, are pet friendly, have a playground for the kids and so much more! So bring your picnic blanket or cozy up in your car. They’ll be here waiting on you! You may also rent one of their vintage campers and stay the weekend!
www.tigerdrivein.com
Willis Knob Horse Campground
Forest Service Road 157, Clayton, GA 30525
Located in the Northeast Georgia Mountains, and far from civilization, lies one of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest’s most beloved horse-lover hideaways: Willis Knob Horse Camp. The campground features camping for horseback riders, riding and hiking trails, and fishing in the nearby Chattooga River. Restrooms are accessible to people with disabilities. The Willis Knob Trail in Georgia combines with South Carolina’s Whetstone Horse Trail to offer 27.5 miles of the most scenic horseback riding and hiking in the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains. Winding across deeply dissected ridges, the trails descend into the beautiful Chattooga Wild and Scenic River. 706-754-6221
WildWater Rafting
1251 State Rd S-37-14, Long Creek, SC 29658
Located on the grounds of the Long Creek Academy, Wildwater offers Whitewater Rafting on the National Wild and Scenic Chattooga River and zip line canopy tours. Half day, Full day and Overnight trips are available March through October. In addition to rafting there are a number of lodging options on site, a 3-hour Canopy Tour, Kayak Clinics, SUP and Lake Kayaking. www. wildwaterrafting.com • 800-451-9972
WEDDING & EVENT VENUES
12 Spies Vineyards
550 Black Branch Road, Rabun Gap, Georgia 30568
12 Spies Vineyards and Farm is a vineyard and winery situated In the beautiful mountains of North Georgia. Open Mon.-Fri. (12pm-5pm), Sat. (11am-6pm) and Sun. (12:30pm-5pm) We grow Cabernet, Franc, Malbec, Tannat and Traminette Grapes. We make 4 Varieties of wine . www.12spiesvineyards.com • 706-490-0890
Beechwood Inn
220 Beechwood Drive, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Beechwood Inn features 9 well-appointed guest rooms/cabins. Each has a private bath, unique decor, high-quality linens, eco-friendly bath amenities, and locally made furniture. Our gardens, meadows and fire pit offer room to roam. Each day enjoy a farm to table breakfast and daily afternoon “wine-Thirty,” featuring our own wines and wonderful light appetizers.
www.beechwoodinn.ws • (706) 782-5485
Chota Falls
1810 Rickman Airfield Road, Clayton, GA 30525
Resting on a heavenly 150 acres of blissful peace and less than two hours from Atlanta, Georgia, Chota Falls is truly a unique facility like no other corporate meeting or event site that takes everyone away from their daily requirements and responsibilities, which enables them to join into the desired process in a very effective peaceful environment, or just to have fun. www.chotafalls.com • 706-490-5557
Green Meadow Weddings
960 Mellie Keener Road, Clayton, Georgia 30525
This micro wedding venue is located in the beautiful North Georgia mountains. The pristine meadow is surrounded by mountains with Persimmon Creek meandering through the property. A covered pavilion with seating for your guests offers an intimate setting for your wedding or event. Green Meadow is the perfect place for your special day.
www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555477860598 252-299-4649 • greenmeadowweddings@gmail.com
Julep Farms
500 Hwy 246, Dillard, Georgia 30537
Julep Farms, a modern farm resort where charming southern meets contemporary farm. The Social House, Julep Farm’s central hub, houses a retail shop (The Market), in addition to a coffee bar and spacious event rooms with lofty ceilings and 2-story fireplaces. Julep Kitchen, featuring new American cuisine with a decidedly southern twist Julep Farms offers lodging in their brand new modern cottages. www.julep.farm.com • 706- 960-9600
Kaplan Mitchell Retreat Center at Ramah Darom
70 Darom Lane, Clayton, GA 30525
The Kaplan Mitchell Retreat & Conference Center at Ramah Darom offers 122 acres of unspoiled natural beauty in the tranquility of the North Georgia Mountains. Our onsite lake provides the perfect setting for boating, relaxing and gathering by day, and transforms into a magical backdrop for weddings and special events in the evening. www.ramahdarom.org/rent/ • 706.782.9300
Kingwood Resort & Winery
401 Country Club Drive, Clayton, Georgia 30525
The Inn at Kingwood Resort and Winery has 48 tastefully decorated hotel rooms all with mountain views. With your stay you have access to our many amenities including our brand new Tasting Room at the Kingwood Winery and of course our 18-hole championship golf course. The resort offers 2 bedroom condos for groups that need a little extra space. www.kingwoodresort.com • 706-212-4100
Lake Rabun Pavilion
1757 Lake Rabun Rd, Lakemont, GA 30552
A stunning facility nestled among old hemlocks and mountain laurel, with breathtaking views of Lake Rabun. This is a remarkable site for weddings, receptions, and rehearsal dinners for up to 150. It’s an open-air facility made of rock and native woods in the style typical of the area. It features a large open fireplace, band stage, and built-in audio and speaker systems, with women and men’s bathrooms on the main level. A perfect place for a special day.
www.lakerabun.olrg/the-pavilion-at-lake-rabun • 706-782-6110
Mountain City Playhouse
186 Playhouse Dr, Mountain City, GA 30562
Mountain City Playhouse is a vibrant entertainment venue located in the scenic town of Mountain City, GA. Offering a diverse range of special events, live music, dance performances and classes, it is a hub for cultural experiences and community engagement.
www.mountaincityplayhouse.com • 706-969-2777
Lake Rabun Hotel Forest Lodge Event Venue
456 Forest Lodge Road, Lakemont, GA 30552
The Georgia mountain wedding venue at Lake Rabun Hotel is one of spacious mountain elegance. It’s nestled in a tranquil, private forest surrounded by breathtaking views. This new facility, opened in 2020, offers an architecturally beautiful mountain lodge with touches of expert craftsmanship apparent throughout. www.lakerabunhotel.com/weddings-venues • 706-982-9733
Moonrise Distillery
31 Webb Road, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Established in late 2012, Moonrise Distillery is located in the foothills of the Southern Appalachian mountains as you enter the City of Clayton in Rabun County, Georgia. They produce high quality Whiskey, Bourbon and fruit Brandies, with all ingredients coming from local farmers and sources. We operate a tasting room and offer plant tours. www.moonrisedistillery.com • 844-994-4759
Satolah Creek Farm
2220 Hwy 28, Clayton, Georgia 30525
Relax while setting up for your dream wedding. Here you can enjoy time with your friends and family, connect with nature and explore the historic farm’s pastures, forests, trails, streams, ponds and flower gardens. A farm wedding venue isn’t complete without critters. We have the two friendliest donkeys you’ll ever meet, a gentle Clydesdale, and a small herd of mini-Highland cows. hello@satolahcreekfarm.com • 706-960-6190
Sky Valley Country Club
568 Sky Valley Way, Dillard, GA 30537
The Club offers meeting room space for groups up to 75. There is a very large dining room beside the meeting space along with a covered patio that makes for more relaxed discussions and gatherings. The Club also offers a Covered outdoor pavilion approximately 100 yards from the club. This is a wonderful meeting space as well that accommodates discussion while at the same time having beautiful scenery to be your backdrop. Meals will be catered to your needs and specifications by our own staff chef and kitchen at all three meeting spaces. There is lodging in Sky Valley and near the Club. Guests can lodge in private home and condo rentals, play golf (in season), hike the many trails, fish our ponds and enjoy our waterfalls while meeting at Sky Valley.
www.skyvalleycountryclub.com • 706-746-5304
Splendor Mountain
359 Eastman Mountain Road, Tiger, Georgia 30576
Splendor Mountain in Tiger, Georgia is a celebrated Wedding venue, Corporate retreats for team building, family reunions, and spiritual events are also hosted here. Our 75-acre resort is a unique repose from your busy life in the city. Our lodging in Ruby, Sapphire, and Shadow Rock can accommodate up to 26 people.
www.splendormountain.com • 404-218-7638
Stonewall Creek Vineyard
323 Standing Deer Lane, Tiger, Georgia 30576
Visit the new tasting room next to the winery and overlooking the vineyards and Glassy Mountain. They currently offer nine wines for tasting, eight on our Stonewall Creek Vineyards label, and two on their Standing Deer Cellar label (grapes primarily from Stack Farm). The latter two feature the American Norton grape and Petit Manseng. www.stonewallcreek.com/ • 706-212-0584
Tallulah Adventures & The Edge Cafe
11785 Hwy 441, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
At Tallulah Adventures we invite people to choose from a variety of activities ranging from outdoor recreation to art and music, and to curate an adventure experience that suits them. While for some this might be learning how to rock climb or slack line, kayaking or standup paddle boarding, going on a whitewater rafting trip for the first or hundredth time. Others may find adventure in learning about the local history of the area, observing the local flora & fauna, or even taking a painting class while snacking on something from our cafe. www.tallulahadventures.com/ • 706-960-4211
Terra Incognita
1821 Vandiver Mountain Road, Clarkesville, Georgia 30523
Fields of grass perched above vineyard rows surrounded by thousands of acres of protected forest land with unparalleled mountain views is the home of Terra Incognita Vineyard. A meandering gravel road, following the backbone of Tallulah Ridge for a mile and a half leads you up the mountain to the entrance. Interested? If so, join us for wine sampling, plan an event in our pavilion, or spend the night camping or in our loft apartment. www.terraincognitavineyard.com • 706-963-0228
Tiger Mountain Vineyards
2592 Old Highway 441, Tiger, Georgia 30576
Whether you prefer a small, intimate gathering of close family and friends or a large celebration with up to a 150 guests. Our 50-acre estate provides everything your ceremony and reception needs. The Vineyard Café at the Red Barn and Pavilions are our signature wedding venues. Its open-air structure offers breathtaking views of our vineyard and Tiger Mountain. At Tiger Mountain Vineyards, we look forward to helping you celebrate this momentous occasion. www.tigerwine.com • 706-782-4777
The Moon and the Magician Retreat Center
65 Trapper Lane #1076, Dillard, Georgia 30537
Join us for healing and wellness ceremonies through every season including new moon circles, sound bath healing, massage therapy, plant medicine. We are an art farm, consciousness collective, healing retreat and mountain rental. www.themoonandthemagician.com/ • 404-849-0562
Waterfall Club
1105 Waterfall Drive, Clayton, GA 30525
When you witness the services and amenities at Waterfall Club you will know that there is no better place in Georgia to say, “I do!” Compare that to their breathtaking 360 degree views of the Chattahoochee and Nantahala National Forests, and of course, famous Lake Burton for a day unsurpassed. Waterfall Club has a picture-perfect setting with versatile facilities in a rustic elegant style. www.thewaterfallclub.com/ • (706) 212-4000
Black Rock Mountain State Park, Tennessee Rock Overlook
Photo Credit: Peter McIntosh -