Exploring the North Georgia & North Carolina Mountains

EXPLORING THE NORTH GEORGIA & NORTH CAROLINA

MOUNTAINS

Blue Ridge | Blairsville | Hiawassee | Young Harris | McCaysville Mineral Bluff | Morganton | Ellijay | Cherry Log

| Hayesville

Visit us at HarryNormanMountains.com

FANNIN COUNTY Fannin County, is one of the premier counties in the North Georgia Mountains offering an escape from the outer world to a land where natural wonders and majestic landscapes beckon the adventurous at heart with an additional lure of peace, tranquility, fun and excitement for others.

The allure of the southern Blue Ridge Mountains extends beyond their majestic beauty; it’s the ever-changing weather that truly makes this region irresistible, showcasing four distinct seasons. With the arrival of spring, the landscape bursts into life, adorned with blossoming trees and native wildflowers, offering a refreshing escape from the confines of a long winter for those with adventurous hearts. Summer brings warm days filled with leisure and excitement, seamlessly transitioning into cool, inviting nights. As autumn arrives, the mountains paint a breathtaking picture with vibrant foliage, starting at their summits and cascading down as the season unfolds. Winters in the southern Blue Ridge Mountains are generally tranquil and mild, occasionally blanketed by light snowfalls that adorn mountaintops with glistening white crowns, while the valleys below gradually melt under the afternoon sun’s gentle warmth.

Reignite your spirit with a day of exploration in the Chattahoochee National Forest, whether it’s hiking to nearby waterfalls or embarking on a horseback riding adventure through the lush wooded trails. For the thrill-seekers, there’s the exhilarating Ocoee River whitewater rafting experience, or you can opt for a scenic journey aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway or a treetop canopy adventure.

On the serene waters of Lake Blue Ridge, you can rent a pontoon boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard, and for those with a taste for the sweet and local, Mercier Orchards, a family orchard with a 65-year legacy, offers the opportunity to pick your own fruits. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at Old Toccoa Farm, where the course hugs the picturesque Toccoa River. Whether you prefer trout fishing, tubing, canoeing, or a hike to the Swinging Bridge, there’s an outdoor activity to suit every taste. And don’t forget the charming Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, which meanders alongside the tranquil Toccoa River, connecting Blue Ridge to McCaysville. Blue Ridge also boasts a vibrant arts scene, complete with a thriving arts center and community theater, and the ambiance is further enhanced by live music performances at numerous restaurants, wineries, and breweries.

HAYESVILLE

NORTH CAROLIN

TENNESSEE TENNESSEE GEORGIA GEORGIA

McCAYSVILLE MINERAL BLUFF

YOUNG HARRIS HIAWASSEE

BLUE BLUE RIDGE RIDGE MORGANTON

BLAIRSVILLE

CHERRY LOG

ELLIJAY

ATTRACTIONS

RESTAURANTS

• Appalachian Trail Rides Horse Back Riding

• Black Sheep

• Aska Adventure Area

• Black Bear Bier Garten

• Bear Claw Vineyards

• Burra Burra on the River

• Benton MacKaye Trail/Appalachian Trail

• Cantaberry

• Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

• Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar & Grill

• Blue Ridge Downtown Park

• Cucinella’s Pizza

• Expedition Big Foot Experience

• Dogwood

• Lake Blue Ridge Marina

• Fightingtown Tavern

• Long Creek Falls and Fall Branch Falls

• General Ledger

• Mercier Orchards

• Grace Prime Steakhouse

• Morganton Point Rec Area & Kayak Launch

• Grumpy Old Men

• Noontootla Creek Farms

• Harvest on Main

• Ocoee River

• Misty Mountain Hops

• Old Toccoa Farm Golf

• Mountain Mama’s Coffee Lounge

• Swan Drive-In Theatre

• Roe

• Toccoa River Swinging Bridge

• Serenity Garden Cafe

• Toccoa River Tubing

• Southern Charm

• Tank Town USA

• Toccoa Riverside Restaurant

• Whitewater Rafting the Ocoee River

• Whiskey & Water

• Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge • Zoo Groovy

HarryNormanMountains.com

GEORGIA

UNION COUNTY Whether you’re seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, Union County offers it all. Nestled amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of the great outdoors, Union County has long been a cherished destination for those craving a life connected to nature. Here in Union County, nature takes center stage with rolling pastures, majestic mountain vistas, crystal-clear rushing creeks, and hidden waterfalls waiting to be discovered. All of this is wrapped in the warmth and charm of a quintessential mountain community.

Living in this county is an enriching experience that enhances your quality of life. The air is pure, the climate is delightful, the water is pristine, and the people are genuinely welcoming and friendly. Union County is an ideal place to retire and savor the tranquility or raise your children amidst its many opportunities. Our award-winning local hospital and top-notch public school system provide the essential amenities you’d expect, ensuring the well-being and education of your loved ones. Regardless of where you choose to reside, you’ll discover that the area’s natural splendor, sustainable growth, outdoor adventures, vibrant festivals, delectable dining options, excellent shopping, comfortable lodging, and friendly locals.

Union County hosts an extensive network of hiking trails, catering to all skill levels.

From leisurely strolls in Meeks Park to challenging mountain treks that wind through streams and lush gorges, there’s a path for everyone. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike a portion of the legendary Appalachian Trail. For a true visual feast, ascend Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest peak at 4,784 feet above sea level. It’s the perfect spot to witness the vibrant colors of fall foliage, with a panoramic view encompassing four states: Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Lake Nottely, entirely within Union County extends 20 miles upstream to the charming town of Blairsville, it offers a swim beach, campsites, and remarkable wildlife sightings. This serene lake also boasts some of the finest scenery and fishing opportunities in the Southeast. Vogel State Park, one of Georgia’s oldest and most cherished state parks, rests at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest. During autumn, the Blue Ridge Mountains transform into a breathtaking tapestry of red, yellow, and gold leaves, making Vogel an exquisite destination. Explore a variety of trails, cozy cottages, campsites, and primitive backpacking sites in this natural haven.

Come experience Union County, where nature, community, and adventure converge to create an idyllic place to live and explore.

HAYESVILLE

NORTH CARO

TENNESSEE TENNESSEE GEORGIA GEORGIA

McCAYSVILLE MINERAL BLUFF

YOUNG HARRIS HIAWASSEE

BLUE RIDGE MORGANTON

BLAIRSVILLE BLAIRSVILLE

CHERRY LOG

ELLIJAY

ATTRACTIONS • Alexanders Store • Brasstown Bald • Brasstown Valley Resort and Spa • Butternut Creek Golf Course • DeSoto Falls

RESTAURANTS • Cabin Coffee Company • Cooks Country Kitchen • Dan’s Grill • Grand Daddy

• Downtown Blairsville

• Hole in the Wall

• Grandaddy Mimm’s Distilling Co.

• Lala’s Kitchen in the Mountains

• Helton Creek Falls

• Longhorn Steakhouse

• Living Water Winery & Vineyard

• Lucky’s Taqueria and Cantina

• Lake Nottely • Meeks Park • Odom Springs Vineyard • Paradise Hills Winery and Spa

• Michaelee’s Italian Life Caffe • Mike’s Seafood Market and Grill • Mimms Distilling Co

• Trackrock Archaeological Site

• Pizza Belly

• Trackrock Stables and Campground

• Sawmill Place

• Union County Dog Park

• The View Grill

• Vogel State Park

HarryNormanMountains.com

GEORGIA

TOWNS COUNTY Towns County boasts an array of outdoor activities for both the novice and expert enthusiast. There is something for everyone.

Here you’ll discover a wanderlust adventure with endless recreational opportunities to explore and natural beauty to behold. It is also home to Young Harris College, a privately funded institution.

The Appalachian Trail has several access points in Towns County including: Unicoi Gap, Dicks Creek Gap, and via Jack’s Knob Trail. Towns County is proud to partner with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and honored to be a good friend and neighbor to the Appalachian Trail and its hikers.

With 360 degree, panoramic views of Hiawassee and Lake Chatuge, Bell Mountain is easily recognizable with a crack at the top making it somewhat of a local landmark. There is a park and historical site that features a paved road, designated parking area and two observation decks to view the surrounding mountains and lake. On clear days paragliders can be seen taking off from the top of the mountain and soaring to the ground below. It’s also a popular site for eagle watching.

Lake Chatuge is a man-made reservoir with 132 miles of shoreline and unrivaled beauty set to the backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains. Residents and visitors flock to Towns County during peak season for boating, swimming, skiing, fishing, and camping options this beautiful lake hosts. The Towns County Recreational Beach features a large playground, a white sand beach, a covered pavilion, and picnic tables.

Bell Mountain Park and Historical Site became a public park in 2016 and is a popular destination for 360-degree views of the surrounding area from 3,000 feet above sea level. Plan to spend a day at the stunning Hamilton Gardens at Lake Chatuge, a sprawling botanical garden with more than 3,000 plants, including dogwood, native azaleas, wildflowers, trillium and rhododendron.

High Shoals Falls, five falls in one area that have a total vertical drop of 300 feet.

HAYESVILLE

NORTH CAROLINA

TENNESSEE TENNESSEE GEORGIA GEORGIA

McCAYSVILLE MINERAL BLUFF

YOUNG HARRIS HARRIS YOUNG

GEORGIA

HIAWASSEE

BLUE RIDGE MORGANTON

BLAIRSVILLE

CHERRY LOG

ELLIJAY

ATTRACTIONS

RESTAURANTS

• Bell Mountain Park and Historical Site

• Abide Coffee

• Brasstown Bald

• Brassies Grill and Brasstown Valley Resort

• Brasstown Valley Report and Spa and Golf

• Brother’s

• Brasstown Valley Resort Horseback Riding

• Enrico’s Italian Restaurant

• Crane Creek Vineyards

• Happy Hawg Barbeque

• Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

• Hiawassee Brew

• Hamilton Gardens at Lake Chatuge

• Marina Station

• Hightower Creek Vineyard

• Oaks Lakeside Kitchen

• High Shoals Falls

• Sand Bar & Grill

• Jackrabbit Mountain Bike Trail

• Schmear Cafe

• Lake Chatuge

• Sundance Grill

• Marina Station Water Park

• Tilted Cafe

• Splash Island Water Park • Young Harris Water Sports

HarryNormanMountains.com

GILMER COUNTY Gilmer County epitomizes the rustic agricultural lifestyle, inviting all to delve into the charm of our farm stays, apple-picking adventures, and local wineries. Fondly dubbed a contemporary “Mayberry” by travel wordsmith William Schemmel in the 1990s, the city of Ellijay embodies the essence of neighborly camaraderie. Traverse the winding backroads and be transported to an era less fraught with stress, where the air is imbued with a quaint small-town ambiance and an overwhelming sense of nostalgia.

Nestled in the heart of the North Georgia mountains, you’ll be immersed in the splendor of renowned trails, leisurely pontoon rides on Carters Lake, and evenings of relaxation with friends by a crackling campfire at your adventure base. Bring along your faithful companion to explore the mountain trails or indulge in the serenity of a cabin retreat. Break free from the ordinary with your loved ones and immerse yourself in the timeless allure of heirloom orchards and serene rivers.

Savor the genuine flavors of our farm-fresh, homegrown produce in the capital of Georgia’s apple orchards. For those seeking a challenge, engage in a round of golf at the Whitepath Golf Course or cast your line in our land blessed with abundant waters, and then discover your new favorite craft beer at a local tavern. Indulge in a delightful tasting experience at our cherished family-owned vineyards, or wander through the historic charms of Downtown Ellijay, where quaint antique shops and local culinary delights will transport you to the days of yore.

The North Georgia mountain town of Ellijay, with its quintessential charm, beckons visitors with an array of hiking trails, a historic downtown brimming with character, and a plethora of wineries to explore. Notably, it’s celebrated for its heritage apple orchards, earning the moniker of Georgia’s Apple Capital.

HAYESVILLE

NORTH CARO

TENNESSEE TENNESSEE GEORGIA GEORGIA

McCAYSVILLE MINERAL BLUFF

YOUNG HARRIS HIAWASSEE

BLUE RIDGE MORGANTON

BLAIRSVILLE

CHERRY LOG

ELLIJAY ELLIJAY

ATTRACTIONS • Appalachian Trail Rides • B.J. Reece Orchards • Cartecay River Experience • Cartecay Vineyards • Carter’s Lake • Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard & Winery • Ellijay River Outfitters • Expedition Bigfoot! The Sasquatch Museum • Fall Branch Falls • Farm at Hillcrest Orchards • Gibbs Gardens • Panorama Orchards & Farm Market

RESTAURANTS • Cajun Depot Grill • Cantaberry Restaurant • Charlie’s Italian Restaurant • Cornerstone Cafe • Ellijay Coffee House • El Rey Azteca • La Catrina • Smokehouse Country Grill • The Chili Dog • The Pink Pig • The Roof • The Shack of Ellijay

• Talking Rock Nature Preserve • Whitepath Golf Course

HarryNormanMountains.com

GEORGIA

CLAY COUNTY Presenting an enchanting blend of rugged mountains, serene lakes, and the warm embrace of a close-knit community, Clay County in the heart of western North Carolina invites you to unwind and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty that surrounds you.

Emerging from the tranquil shores of Lake Chatuge and reaching for the heavens atop Tusquittee Bald, Clay County NC stands as a hidden gem within the embrace of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Here, hiking trails meander through towering hardwood forests, crisscrossed by babbling creeks and pristine streams, offering a genuine mountain experience to every visitor. Nestled within its welcoming small-town communities, creative souls find solace, where they can give life to the visions of their imagination. To the north, east, and west, the Nantahala National Forest stretches its arms, while to the south, towering peaks such as Hightower Bald and the summit of Eagle Mountain crown the landscape.

The southern expanse of Clay County is predominantly dominated by the northern shoreline of Lake Chatuge, which gracefully extends into Georgia’s Towns County and the picturesque mountains of the Chattahoochee National Forest. Lake Chatuge, with its crystal-clear waters, stands as one of the most scenic mountain lakes in the entire Blue Ridge Smoky Mountains region. Along its vast shoreline, you’ll find a charming mix of vacation retreats and year-round homes. The sapphire waters of Lake Chatuge beckon both anglers and boaters, with numerous campgrounds and inviting beaches scattered along its expansive banks.

At the heart of Clay County rests the charming town of Hayesville. This quintessential mountain town perches atop a hill, its heartbeat centered around a lively town square that serves as the backdrop for countless county events and festivals. Hayesville offers a splendid glimpse into the essence of a classic mountain town, where warmth and community spirit abound. While Clay County as a whole is celebrated as an enclave for artists, from newcomers seeking inspiration to local mountain folk artisans, the epicenter of this artisan community finds its home on the outskirts of the modest yet delightful town of Brasstown.

HAYESVILLE HAYESVILLE

NORTH CAROLINA

TENNESSEE TENNESSEE GEORGIA GEORGIA

McCAYSVILLE MINERAL BLUFF

YOUNG HARRIS HIAWASSEE

BLUE RIDGE MORGANTON

BLAIRSVILLE

CHERRY LOG

ELLIJAY

ATTRACTIONS

RESTAURANTS

• Chatuge Dam & Recreation Area

• Aneho Grill

• Chatuge Lake

• Angelo’s

• Chatuge Shores

• Chevelle’s

• Cherokee Homestead Exhibit

• Chinquapin’s Ice Cream

• Clay County Rec Park & Campground

• Epic Eatery

• Eagle Fork Vineyards

• Hayesville Grill

• Fires Creek Falls

• Laughing Water

• Gold Haugen Studios

• Nocturnal

• Jackrabbit Mountain Trails

• Mariolino’s

• John C. Campbell Folk School

• Mountain Harbour Grill

• Mountain Harbour Golf

• Rib Country

• Old Jail Museum

• The Copper Door

• Peacock Playhouse

• The Crown

• Pumpkin Chunkin • The Beal Center • The Hinton Center • Walnut Hollow Ranch

HarryNormanMountains.com

GEORGIA

ANNUAL FESTIVALS FANNIN COUNTY • Fire And Ice Chili Cookoff - February, President’s Day Weekend, Blue Ridge • Troutfest & Outdoor Adventures Last Weekend In April • Spring And Fall Craft Fair - Last 2 Weekends In April And October • Spring Arts In The Park- Memorial Day Weekend • Blue Ridge Wine & Jazz Festival June • Ride The Rails Festival - July, October & November • Lake Blue Ridge July 4th Fireworks • Old Fashioned Fourth In McCaysville - July 4th Weekend • Blue Ridge Kiwanis Rodeo - August • Fall Plein Aire Art Event - September, Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Assn.

• Labor Day Barbeque - September, Downtown Blue Ridge • Blue Ridge Parade of Homes October • Paws In The Park - 3rd Weekend Of October • Halloween Safe Zones - October, Downtown Blue Ridge and McCaysville.

• Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Christmas Express - Weekends Beginning Thanksgiving through December • Light Up Blue Ridge - Saturday After Thanksgiving • Hometown Christmas - First Saturday Of December

UNION COUNTY • New Year Fireworks - Blairsville • Cruise-In on the Square - MayOctober on the third Saturday of the month • Blairsville Spring Arts, Crafts & Music Festival - Memorial Day Weekend • Memorial Day Parade - May, Blairsville

• Union County Farmers Market Saturday mornings and Tuesday afternoons from June-October • Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games (2nd weekend in June) • Boat Parade - July, Nottely Marina • Red, White & Blairsville Fourth of July Celebration & Fireworks - July 4 • Butternut Creek Festival - July • Mountain Music & Moonshine Festival - July, Blairsville • Georgia Mountain Fair - August • Mountain Heritage Festival (September-Labor Day Weekend) • Mountain Music Day Festival September • Blairsville Sorghum Festival (2nd and 3rd Weekends in October) • Indian Summer Festival – October, Suches • Fall Festival at Vogel State Park – October • Blairsville Boo Bash – October • Gobble Wobble 5K - October, Meeks Park • Tour of Trees - December, Union County Community Center • Holiday on the Square & Christmas Parade - December • Kris Kringle Mountain Market – December • Holly Jolly Christmas and Breakfast with Santa - December • Annual Vogel State Park Tree Lighting - December

TOWNS COUNTY • Hiawassee Highlands Wine Festival - May • The Rhododendron Festival - May, Hiawassee • Made in Georgia Festival - June • British in Blue Ridge Rally- June • July 4th Fireworks - Georgia Mtn. Fairgrounds

• Georgia Mountain Fair - August, Hiawassee • Fall Regional Shelby/Mustang and Ford Show - September, Hiawassee • Georgia Mountain Fall Festival October, Hiawassee • Appalachian Brew, Que, and Stew Festival - October, Hiawassee • Halloween at the FairgroundsOctober, GA. MTN. Fairgrounds • Annual Thanksgiving Buffet Brasstown Valley Resort • Mountain Country Christmas in Lights - Nov-Dec, Hiawassee • New Year Fireworks! December, Fairgrounds

GILMER COUNTY • Black Bear Plunge - January, Ft. Mtn. State Park • Wine About Winter - February, Ellijay

• Gilmer County Fair - August, Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds • Ellijay BBQ Festival - August • Cartecay Vineyards’ Crush FestivalSeptember • Ellijay Bacon Fest- September, Downtown Ellijay • Georgia Apple Festival - October, Downtown Ellijay • Apple Arts Festival - October, Downtown Ellijay • Cherry Log Fall Festival - October, Cherry Log Community Clubhouse • Dancing Goats Festival - October, Gilmer County River Park • Scarecrow Invasion - October, Harrison Park • Light UpEllijay- December, Downtown Ellijay

CLAY COUNTY

Wine Country Vineyards

• 4th of July Rodeo, Hayesville

• Earth Day Celebration - April,

• 4th of July Freedom Festival -

Downtown Ellijay • Georgia Mountain Trails Fest and 5K April, Harrison Park • Woofstock Ellijay - April, Downtown Ellijay • Plein Air Art Weekend - April • Georgia Apple Blossom Festival May, Gilmer Welcome Center • Ellijay Farmers Market - May-Oct, Downtown Ellijay - Saturdays • Memorial Day Ceremony - May, Ellijay River Park • Ellijay Songwriters Festival - Memorial Day Weekend • Blue Ridge Mountains Wine and Jazz Festival- June, White Path Creek Farms • Gilmer County Saddle Club Rodeo June • Independence Day - Downtown Ellijay - July

Downtown Hayesville • July 4th Parade and Freedom Festival- Chatuge Dam • Festival on the Square - Summer, Dtwwn Hayesville • Punkin Chunkin Festival- October, Brasstown NC • Steins & Wine Oktoberfest, Hayesville Square • NC State Fair - October, Cherokee Cty • Appalachian Brew, Que, and Stew Festival - October, Hiawassee Fairgrounds • Annual Festival of Trees - November, Downtown Hayesville • Mountain Country Christmas in Lights - November, Hayesville

VISIT US AT HARRYNOR

BLAIRSVILLE OFFICE 63 MURPHY HIGHWAY, BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 (706) 745-3000 BLAIRSVILLE.HARRYNORMAN.COM

Located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, near the North Carolina border in northern Georgia, the Harry Norman, REALTORS® Blairsville Office is the local real estate expert for the Blairsville, Hiawassee, and surrounding areas. Blairsville is also known as “The Top of Georgia” because it holds Brasstown Bald, the state’s highest elevation at 4,784 feet. A popular destination for locals and tourists alike, these mountain towns offer an abundance of natural beauty ranging from the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains, dense woodlands of the Chattahoochee National Forest, and serene landscapes of Lake Nottely, Lake Blue Ridge, and Lake Chatuge. Blairsville’s downtown provides crosswalks and sidewalks to make for a great experience visiting the local shops and eateries. The quintessential cabins, chalets, and residential retreats blend with their natural surroundings, making Blairsville, Ellijay and the surrounding areas ideal for both long-term living and second home getaways.

RMANMOUNTAINS .COM

BLUE RIDGE OFFICE 252 WEST MAIN STREET, BLUE RIDGE, GA 30513 (706) 913-8300 BLUERIDGE.HARRYNORMAN.COM

Harry Norman, REALTORS® Blue Ridge Office, located about 90 miles north of Atlanta on the northern edge of the Chattahoochee National Forest, caters to the real estate markets of Blue Ridge and the surrounding areas. A popular second home destination, the town of Blue Ridge is small in land area—it covers just 2.4 square miles—but it’s nestled against more than 750,000 acres of forested land. Life in Blue Ridge centers on outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, golf, and biking. Blue Ridge is also known for its creative and performing arts community. Recognized by the Georgia Council of the Arts as one of the top five art towns in the state, Blue Ridge is home to the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association and the Blue Ridge Community Theater. Three craft breweries and a downtown area lined with restaurants, art galleries, and independent boutiques round out the amenities that make Blue Ridge a sought-after place to live. Many homes for sale in Blue Ridge are log homes with panoramic views.

“The mountains are calling, and I must go.”

- John Muir