Vacation Guide in the Mountains - Spring 2023 - 16.1

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Every Issue we will feature a Community Spotlight and point you in the right direction of Hiking Trails, Waterfalls, or Scenic Road Trips in our area.

View our website at www.MountainLakeGuide.com to find everything Online & Links to find more about our Restaurants, Shopping, Lodging, and Area Recreation.

Spring in the Mountains

photo by Brittany McConnell

The Enchanted Valley of Hiawassee & Young Harris, Georgia

The Appalachian Mountains come alive with the changing of the seasons from winter to spring and blooms with new growth appear. After so many months indoors, people flock outdoors to enjoy nature and the beauty of the mountains.

Whether you’ve come for a weekend or want to stay longer, everyone is greeted with small town friendliness in the Enchanted Valley. With natural beauty surrounding the towns of Hiawassee and Young Harris locals are always ready to share their knowledge of the best hiking, fishing, and magnificent views from the highest mountain tops.

For many years, Hiawassee is known to be the home of the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds that host numerous events throughout the year with Live Concerts, Shows at Anderson Music Hall, Pioneer Village & Local Craft Events. The  nearby Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens are also open year round with more than 3,000 plants in bloom.

Today, during the summer the city of Hiawassee holds events on the Square including First Friday Markets with live music, food, & games held the first weekend of the month May - October.  Saturdays also offer Music on the Square for visitors to bring a lawn chair and listen to a variety of country, bluegrass, and easy listening for your enjoyment Memorial Day - Labor Day Weekend.

Also known by many is that Towns County has many outdoor recreational areas since the Chattahoochee National Forest covers over 50,000 acres in Towns County and another 7,000 is owned by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), which built Lake Chatuge in 1941. Lake Chatuge’s many activities range from fishing, boating, swimming, sailing, tubing, water skiing, wake boarding, jet ski and canoeing.

Towns County has many public parks, picnic areas and beaches for outdoor enjoyment including  Bell Mountain Park that offers 360 degree views of Hiawassee & Lake Chatuge with an observation platform.  Although Georgia’s highest mountain is Brasstown Bald  at 4,784 ft., it has views of 4 states on a clear day.  The Brasstown Bald Visitors center, with museum is Located on Hwy. 180 and has a paved trail to the top or shuttle available. For hikers the famous Appalachian Trail crosses Unicoi Mountain at Hwy. 17 /76 west of town. This trail  draws hikers nationwide to see nature at it’s finest. Many accommodations can guide visitors to spend time at one of the many golf courses, horseback riding stables, white water rafting

adventures and surrounding hiking, biking trails & waterfalls in our surrounding National Forest Land.

Star Gazers will appreciate Rollins Planetarium which is located in the Maxwell Center building at Young Harris College and during season public shows are offered in this 100 seat planetarium under a 40-foot-diameter dome.  The college also has an observatory, located on Georgia state property near the Brasstown Valley Resort, only a short distance from campus.

The entire region surrounding Lake Chatuge is famous for year round trout fishing in numerous streams and rivers.  Another great way to have fun exploring Lake Chatuge is to enjoy a leisurely cruise on a pontoon boat or rent a jet ski, canoe, or kayak from one of the marina’s.

The region surrounding Lake Chatuge is a shopper’s dream including many intriguing stores that display the work of many well-known painters, potters and sculptors along with a colorful array of Appalachian folk art.  Restaurants feature everything from fine cuisine to country cooking, deli treats, and bakery sweets. Many surrounding wineries also offer tasting and tours for an afternoon of activities.

You’ll feel relaxed with the wide variety of accommodations.  Stay overlooking a mountain or lake view in our many hotels, resorts, cabins, cottages, B & B’s, or campgrounds.  No matter where you stay, you will feel welcomed by a friendly community who enjoys sharing all the best places for you to stay, dine, shop, and enjoy all the beauty this area has to offer.

“Come and stay where Georgia meets the Mountains”

For more information on Hiawassee & Young Harris  visit: GoLakeChatuge.com

Top of Bell Mountain

Have you ever wanted to feel on Top of the World? Just head to Hiawassee and Bell Mountain Park Historical Site.

Originally Bell Mountain was very prominent rising 3,424 foot of elevation from the “Enchanted Valley” of Hiawassee. Then in the early 1960’s Bell Mountain’s land was purchased to mine for its minerals, and the top was left with a wide gap at the knob.

After the mining, Mr. Hal Herrin partner of the Hiawassee Land Company, then later Mountain Realty purchased it in an effort to preserve it from future mining. Bell Mountain primarily became a home for sunset hikes and later on, a place for Jeeps, Hang gliders and other off-road enthusiasts. The mountain also became vandalized at the top with spray paint graffiti from kids and people who took advantage of the remote location that was not monitored.

The Hal Herrin Estate graciously donated the 18 acre Bell Mountain Summit to Towns County. in 2016. Today, it has paved the road, established parking area, and in addition to the Hal Herrin Scenic Overlook erected a 2nd platform that offers 360 degree views of the surrounding lake and mountains.

From Highway 76 – Turn on Shake Rag Rd. and go slow (Speed limit is five MPH.) Hours are 8 AM - 8 PM, and is Closed during inclement weather.

road trip to

Appalachian Trail

Hikers come from near and far to celebrate the Appalachian Trail Community and to kick off the annual hike of the famous 2,175 mile trail. Every March the trail officially begins at Springer Mountain but most people start their journey at Amicalola Falls State Park.

The park is an 829 acre Georgia state park located between Ellijay and Dahlonega in Dawsonville, Georgia. It offers many hiking trails, a guest lodge, restaurant, cabins, a shelter for long distance Appalachian Trail hikers, a campground and access to the ecofriendly Len Foote Hike Inn.

From the State Park, an 8.5 mile trail leads to Springer Mountain, which is the southern end of the Appalachian Trail, although there are shuttles that can take people through the forest service roads to the upper part of Springer Mountian.

Visitors can also access The Appalachian Trail along many Highway Routes in North Georgia including: Hwy. 60 – Woody Gap, Hwy. 19 – at Neels Gap on Blood Mountain for visitors to stop at the Walasi Yi Center.

The trail also crosses Hwy. 348 at the Richard Russell Scenic Hwy., it then goes to Hwy. 75 between Helen & Hiawassee at Unicoi Gap. On Hwy. 76 between Clayton & Hiawassee at Dicks Creek Gap visitors can also stop before the trail runs farther into North Carolina.

Nearby Attractions in the area:

AMICALOLA FALLS VISITORS CENTERSun. - Wed. 9am - 5pm, Thurs. - Sat. 9am - 7pm Georgia, Georgia’s tallest cascading waterfall at 729 ft.

AMICALOLA FALLS LODGE - This scenic facility also has a Conference Center with a restaurant.

LONG CREEK FALLS - is located further along the Appalachian Trail in the Three Forks Valley area for backpacking, fishing, and camping.

DAHLONEGA, GA - Quaint historic town with shopping, and dining. Festivals include Bear on the Square, July 4th Celebrations, and Gold Rush Days.

DAHLONEGA GOLD MUSEUM – 1836 Historical Courthouse showcasing area history.

PAN FOR GOLD AT CRISSON GOLD MINE – to find your riches. Precious gems and a 25 year old Stamp Mill.

WINERIES – Come for wine tastings featuring great food and entertainment at over 5 local wineries just outside of Dahlonega.

Warwoman Dell

Warwoman Dell was named to honor a Cherokee Warwoman. Some believe it could have been named for Nancy Hart, the Revolutionary War era woman who may have fought at the Battle of Kettle Creek with her husband and sons. Most likely, though, it was named to honor Nancy Ward, a highly-respected “beloved woman” of the Cherokee Nation who frequented the dell and advised the Cherokee tribal council on war and peace. She was very powerful in the Cherokee clan rule, for she was the last Warwoman in the East. When the Cherokee chiefs voted to go to war, it could only happen if the Warwoman approved.

Nancy Ward was born circa 1738 and was called Nanyehi in her native Cherokee language. She was no stranger to war. At the Battle of Taliwa in Ball Ground, Georgia, she helped her husband, Kingfisher, in battle by laying behind a log and chewing his bullets so that the resulting jagged edges might create more damage. When her husband was killed, Nancy picked up his rifle and continued the fight leading her people to victory. She was only 17. At the age of 18, she was awarded with the Cherokee title of “Ghigau”, a prestigious title meaning “beloved woman” or “war woman”, making her a member of the tribal council of chiefs. She was also named the leader of the Women’s Council of Clan Representatives and took over the role of ambassador and negotiator for her people. Through the difficult, war raved years of the Revolutionary War era, Nancy Ward continued promoting alliance and mutual friendship between the Cherokees and the colonists. She led the Cherokee in the implementation of farming, dairy production, and new loom weaving techniques that forever changed traditional roles in Cherokee society. She died in 1822, or possibly 1824, before the Cherokee were removed from their remaining lands during the Trail of Tears.

In the 1930’s, after decades of logging had nearly destroyed the area, the Civilian Conservation Corps arrived to reforest and restore the natural beauty of the dell. There is small Forest Service park located at the site of the CCC camp of the 1930’s. No remains of the camp buildings exist. A series of stone structures, identified as trout hatcheries by a sign in the park, are the only remnants of the CCC at Warwoman Dell. Thanks to the hard work of the Civilian Conservation Corps, the area’s natural beauty can be appreciated today.

Two moderately easy, family-friendly trails lead through this beautiful pocket of wilderness showcasing tall trees, dense vegetation, mosses, wildflowers, and three waterfalls. The hike visits the popular Becky Branch Falls, historic areas of Warwoman Dell and several smaller waterfalls on a 1.4 mile loop. While it’s not a long hike, it’s an exceptionally beautiful one. This is a fairly moderate, short trail, with parking and a roadside picnic spot.

Directions: Traveling north US Hwy 441 in downtown Clayton, one block after US 76 comes in from the left, go east on Warwoman Dell Road for 2.8 miles. When the road makes a sharp curve to the left, watch for Warwoman Dell Recreation Area entrance on the right. Follow the gravel road to the first parking lot.

of North GeorGia

Waterfalls

Amicalola Falls

The highest waterfall in Georgia, falling 729 feet in seven cascades. At the base of the falls, there is a parking area, a reflection pool, and 3/10-mile paved trail leading to an observation deck at the top of the falls.

Directions: from Dahlonega, Amicalola State Park’s entrance is on GA Highway 52, east of Ellijay or west of Dahlonega.

Anna Ruby Falls

Curtis Creek falls 153 feet and York Creek drops 50 feet down the slopes of Tray Mountain in twin waterfalls. The very steep 4/10 mile Anna Ruby Falls Trail is paved and has benches along the trail for sitting or resting while enjoying the beauty of the area.

Directions: from Helen, take GA 75 North one mile. Right on GA 356 for 1.5 miles, left on the entrance road to the falls.

Becky Branch Falls

The 20 foot Becky Branch Falls is easily observed from a wooden bridge which crosses the stream. Becky Branch Falls is accessed via the Bartram Trail.

Directions: From Clayton, Georgia go east on Warwoman Road (County Rd. 5) for just less than 3 mile to Poll Creek Road. Park on left side of road by a small branch. Follow the trail on the right side of the branch for about 200 yards to a bridge at the base of the falls.

DeSoto Falls

Three falls along a 3 mile section of the DeSoto Falls Trail are maintained for the hiker’s viewing convenience, and are designated as the lower (cascading 20 feet), the middle (falls about 80 feet) and the upper (about 200 feet) DeSoto Falls.

Directions: From Dahlonega travel north on US 19 for 13.5 miles to Turners Corner. At this intersection, turn left and proceed on US 129 for 4.2 miles. Shortly after the Walasi-yi Center is a left turn for the park.

Dukes Creek Falls

A well-designed trail winds its way into Dukes Creek Gorge, ending at the base of the falls which drop about 150 feet down sheer granite canyon into Dukes Creek.

Directions: Take GA 75 north from Helen for 1.5 miles. Turn left on GA 356 (75 Alternate) for 2.3 miles to the Richard Russell Scenic Highway. Turn right, go 2 miles to Dukes Creek Falls Recreation Area.

Helton Creek Falls

Two waterfalls, one small, and one large, are located on Helton Creek.

Directions: Go to Helton Creek Road and Forest Service Rd 118, just 1 1/2 miles north of Neel’s Gap off Highway 19/129. The road is on the right as you travel north. It is just south of Vogel State Park. You have only .2 mile trail leading from the parking area on Helton Creek Road, to the base of the larger upper falls.

Martin Creek Falls

This two-tier waterfall is 35 feet high with aquatic plants covering the weeping rock wall on the left. This 20-minute walk (.5 mile) follows the Bartram Trail along the west side of the creek.

Clayton/Rabun County Area: From Clayton, go east on Warwoman Road for 3 miles. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 152, and drive past the Game Checking Station. The park drive is .5-mile. Park in a small cleared camping area on the left bend in the road. Walk west from the camping area. Cross Martin Creek, then travel uphill for about .4 mile to the top of the falls.

Minnehaha Falls

The Minnehaha Trail, .4-mile in length, follows Fall Branch until it dead ends at Minnehaha Falls. This waterfall is approximately 100 feet high (falling and shoaling).

Clayton/Rabun County Area: Take U.S. 23/441 north from Tallulah Falls for three miles to the Rabun Beach Recreation Area sign. Turn left onto Old 441. Go 2.5 miles and take a left on Lake Rabun Road. Go 1 mile past Recreation area. Take a left on Low Gap Road. Follow Bear Gap road which forks to the left. Go 1.5 miles to the sign marking the trail on the right side of the road.

Mud Creek Falls

This great waterfall is approximately 100 feet high with an impressive spouting fume down the middle. Directions: Take Highway 441 north to Dillard. Turn right on GA Hwy 246 and follow signs to Sky Valley. At Sky Valley’s entrance gate, turn left. Turn right on Tahoe Rd and follow the trails.

Raven Cliff Falls

The first fall drops 60 feet, then rushes through a split in the face of a solid rock outcropping and drops 20 feet into a deep pool, and then falls another 20 feet to Dodd Creek. 3 other waterfalls can be found on Dodd Creek.

Directions: from Helen, take GA 75 north for 1.5 miles. Turn left onto GA 356(75 Alternate) and travel 2.3 miles to the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway. Turn right and travel 2.8 miles to the trailhead and parking area

Sea Creek Falls

In the Cooper Creek Scenic Area, Sea Creek Falls are an easy walk of less than .1 miles. Two steeply cascading falls flow into a large, shallow pool at the base which is popular as a wading pool.

Directions: (Four wheel drive vehicle recommended) From Hwy 515 just past Blue Ridge, take Highway 60 south toward Morganton. At Cooper Creek Store turn left on Cooper Creek Rd. After 3.3 miles the road makes a dramatic turn back on itself and FS 264 is to the left. Travel .3 miles to a campground, park and walk .1 miles further up the creek.

We’re expanding and opening our newest section soon: The Hodgepodge Garage Don’t miss the gardens, greenhouse, old trucks, great country porch, & enjoy our stress-FREE parking!

Look out for our special events: paint classes, live music, food trucks, and more! Follow us on social media: @terristreasuretrove

North Georgia State Parks

North Georgia State Parks include a variety of recreational activities besides camping and welcome travelers to explore “Our Neck of the Woods”. Enjoy your passion to see a waterfall, go horseback riding, canoeing, fishing, hiking, biking, or just have a picnic. The great State Parks of North Georgia are waiting for you to watch nature at it’s best!

Black Rock Mountain State Park Park (706) 746-2141

Reservations (800) 864-7275

Black Rock Mountain State Park, named for its sheer cliffs of dark-colored biotite gneiss, has the highest altitude of 3,640 feet. Numerous scenic overlooks provide spectacular 80mile vistas of the Southern Appalachians, and several hiking trails lead visitors past wildflowers, cascading streams, small waterfalls and lush forests. RVs exceeding 25 ft. are not recommended, as the park has a two-mile climb with a 10% grade and tight turns.

Moccasin Creek State Park Park (706) 947-3194

Reservations (800) 864-7275

Known as the park “where spring spends the summer,” Moccasin Creek is located on the shores of lovely 2,800-acre Lake Burton. Accessibility offers easy navigation for large RVs, children’s bicycles and wheelchairs. This also includes a fishing pier that sits above a trout-filled creek open only to physically challenged visitors, senior citizens and children.

Tallulah Gorge State Park Park (706) 754-7970

Camping (706) 754-7979 / Picnic (706) 782-4014

One of the most spectacular canyons in the eastern U.S., Tallulah Gorge is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep. A suspension bridge sways 80 ft above the rocky bottom, providing spectacular views of the river and waterfalls. Visitors can hike rim trails to several overlooks, or they can obtain a permit to hike down to the gorge floor. The Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center highlights the rich history of this Victorian resort town and is open daily.

Fort Mountain State Park Park (706) 422-1932

Reservations (800) 864-7275

Fort Mountain derives its name from an ancient 855-foot-long rock wall, which stands on the highest point of the mountain. The mysterious wall is thought to have been built by Indians as fortification against other more hostile Indians or for ancient ceremonies. The State Park encompasses over 3,712 acres with a 17-acre lake and swimming beach. Many site are available for tent, trailer, RV, or primitive horse-camping. Trails lead to spectacular views in this pristine high country North Georgia area.

Smithgall Woods State Park Park (706) 878-3087

Reservations (800) 864-7275

Dukes Creek, one of North Georgia’s premier trout stream, runs through this spectacular mountain property and has become known for it’s catch-and-release fishing. Eighteen miles of roads and five miles of trails allow hikers and bicyclists to explore hardwoods, streams and wildlife. Dukes Creek Falls has a direct trail for cottage guests to view.

Vogel State Park Park (706) 745-2628

Reservations (800) 864-7275

Vogel State Park is located at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Cottages, campsites and primitive backpacking sites provide a range of overnight accommodations. The park’s twenty-acre lake is open to nonmotorized boats. During summer, visitors can cool off at the scenic lakeside beach. Hikers can choose from a variety of trails, including the popular four-mile Bear Hair Gap loop, an easy one-mile lake loop, and the challenging thirteen-mile Coosa Backcountry Trail.

Amicalola Falls State Park Park (706) 265-4703

Reservations (800) 864-7275 / Lodge (800) 573-9656

Amicalola, a Cherokee Indian word meaning “tumbling waters,” is an appropriate name for this 729-ft fall, the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River. Springer Mountain, the well known start to the famed Appalachian Trail, is just 8.5 miles from Amicalola by trail. There are numerous other trails are available for shorter journeys along with cottages and campgrounds. Amicalola lodge is located at the top of the mountain for those who prefer traditional hotel comforts, with a restaurant that provides diners with a spectacular view.

Unicoi State Park Park (706) 878-2201

Reservations (800) 864-7275 / Lodge (800) 573-9659

Unicoi State Park, named from the turnpike that was the early means of transportation, is over 1,050 acres of beautiful nature trails. It includes a 53 acre lake for nonmotorized boats and a swimming beach. Enjoy flora, fauna and abundant wildlife as you picnic or hike a trail. Campsites and Cottages provide campers with many accommodations, including a 100 Room Lodge and Conference Center with a restaurant.

great

200

Take a Drive down

Hwy 197

BATESVILLE – has a General Store numerous galleries of regional handmade arts and crafts. Mark of the Potter is a scenic and historic grist mill was built in the 1930's

and is a must photo stop for the beautiful 25 foot falls from the Soque River that flow beside it. Potters make their “mark” on the store and feature handcrafted pottery. Many more local artists and stores are a must stop including: Hickory Flat Pottery, Burton Gallery, stained glass, and other handcrafted artwork studios.

LAKE BURTON – This 2,775-acre reservoir and is one of the first lakes created to generate hydroelectric energy by Georgia Power. Lake Burton's name was derived from the former town of Burton, which now lies below the lake's surface. The town (and the lake) was named after local prominent citizen Jeremiah Burton. Many species of fish, call this home, including bass, crappie, bluegill, sunfish, catfish, walleye, trout, and perch.

MOCCASIN CREEK STATE PARK  & LAKE BURTON FISH HATCHERY – Camp at one of Rabun Counties most popular State Parks on the shores of Lake Burton.  The park is relatively flat, offering easy navigation for large RVs, bicycles and wheelchairs and offers a fishing pier that sits above a trout-filled creek. Lake Burton Fish Hatchery offers tours and raises trout to stock for coldwater streams of North Georgia.

food! Great, Fun Atmosphere! 706-839-7467 583 Grant Street Clarkesville, GA Inside the Old Clarkesville Mill www.clarkesvillelanes.com 446a

SOQUE RIVER – This winding drive follows the unique tributary of the Chattahoochee River and is over 28 miles long. Use caution as you travel, as at one point on Scenic 197 there will be a dip in the road (clearly marked by a road sign) where the river can  flow over the road, this is humorously known as a “Low Bridge”. Many trout fisherman love this watershed, as the Soque River's cold temperatures are the secret to the large Rainbow, Brook, & Brown trout that inhabit it.

Cherokee Homestead Exhibit

The Cherokee Homestead Exhibit, located in downtown Hayesville, is an outdoor exhibit which includes replicas of a 17th century winter house, summer house, corn crib, summer shelter, mound gardens, dugout canoe, and public art depicting elements of the Cherokee culture. The elements of the exhibit were researched and are as authentic and accurate as possible. Informational kiosks at the exhibit enable free self-guided tours at any time.

The winter house and summer house were constructed with upright locust poles which support the rivercane woven sides and thatched roofs. Mud and straw daub create the plaster which was added to the woven sides of the winter house in order to enclose it against the cold winter weather. The circular fire pit would have been used for cooking, heat and light throughout the winter. The corn crib was constructed similar to the summer house and raised off the ground to prevent pilfering by animals. A shelter, located near the mound gardens, would have been used for a multitude of activities during warm weather, including basket making, flint knapping, and pounding corn kernels into corn meal. A dugout canoe constructed from the straight trunk of a poplar tree was placed under the summer house to shelter it from the elements.

Forged metal masks placed throughout the exhibit represent the seven Cherokee clans: bird, blue, deer, long hair, paint, wild potato, and wolf. A two-story wall mural shows representative elements of the Cherokee culture including petroglyphs, pottery, projectile points, tools, weapons, and woven baskets. The wall also contains plaques with Cherokee philosophical thoughts written in English and Cherokee Syllabary. Hand-forged metal disks have been placed on both sides of the fence atop the wall and contain iconic figures of Cherokee culture and legends.

Tours and workshops are provided by volunteers for public and private schools, colleges, adult classes and tour groups at the Cherokee Homestead Exhibit. Arrangements for a guided tour or workshop may be scheduled by calling (828) 389-3045.

The Cherokee Homestead Exhibit is the site of the Cherokee Heritage Festival held from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on the third Saturday in September.

Sponsored by the Clay County Communities Revitalization Association, a non-profit 501C3 organization. Please visit http://cccra-nc.org/ or write to PO Box 1533, Hayesville, NC 28904 for more information.

Vogel State Park

Established in 1931, Vogel, is the second oldest state park in Georgia and rises 2,500 feet above sea level.

The entire area around Vogel was once linked to the Native Americans and the State Park sits at the base of Blood Mountain, the highest summit on the Appalachian Trail in Georgia. Driving from the south, visitors pass through Neel Gap, a beautiful mountain pass near Brasstown Bald, which is the highest point in Georgia.

The history of the “Vogel” name starts in the 20th century when Augustus Vogel and Fred Vogel Jr. began a lumber mill in Union County. The mill employed many of the men in the county to cut and process lumber from the 65,000 acres of land owned by the Pfister Vogel Leather Company. They were the second generation of Vogels to run a leather company in Milwaukee with Charles Frederick Pfister, and the lumber in the North Georgia mountains was an excellent source for tannin (or tannic acid), an important raw material in the tanning process.

Oak trees are a major source tannic acid, although most trees have at least some tannin in them. Since this required harvesting a large number of oak, the Vogels also set up a lumber mill on the site of present-day Vogel State Park. Unfortunately, the state of Georgia entered an economic downturn in the mid-1920’s and the lumber mill was no longer economically feasible. In 1929 the Vogels donated nearly 259 acres to the state, much of it still encompassed within the 233-acres within Vogel State Park.

This park shares a timeless connection with its Civilian Conservation Corps builders that dammed Wolf Creek to form Lake Trahlyta and built housing around the lake for the CCC boys. The 22-acre Lake Trahlyta is named for the Cherokee maiden whose grave sits at the center of Stonepile Gap. Georgia’s poet laureate, Bryon Herbert Reece, was born in a cabin on the land where Lake Trahlyta now sits.

The rest of the land donated by the Vogels is under the Chattahoochee National Forest and includes the stone building now known as Mountain Crossings at Walasi-yi and Nottla or Nottely Falls, east of the Byron Herbert Reese

Directly by Vogel is the Byron Herbert Reece Farm and Heritage Center that celebrates the life of this famous poet who received numerous awards for his writing. The center has wonderful displays, restoration of the Reece writing studio, authentic farm buildings and equipment, plus selfguided tours.

Vogel State Park offers a variety of hiking, swimming, fishing and enjoying family time in a diverse mountain landscape.

An easy 1.0 mile hiking trail circles the lake, allowing access to fishing docks and the boathouse. A 0.1 miles side trail takes hikers down to Trahlyta Falls, also know as Spillway Falls. A spur trail off the Trahlyta Lake Loop will take you down to an observation deck at the bottom of the roaring falls! More experienced hikers may enjoy the popular 4-mile Bear Hair Gap and the challenging 13-mile Coosa Backcountry Trail.

Helton Creek Falls can be found just minutes away from Vogel. There are two waterfalls to see — the lower and upper falls — and the hike is a short, family-friendly 0.6 miles. If you’re looking for another nearby waterfall hike for the whole family, look no further than DeSoto Falls! The DeSoto Falls hike also takes you to two waterfalls, and has a beautiful picnic area.

Cottages, campsites and primitive backpacking sites provide a range of overnight accommodations to visitors to Vogel State Park and is particularly popular during the summer and fall when the Blue Ridge Mountains transform from lush green to a rolling blanket of trees in red, yellow and gold leaves. Reservations are always recommended as events are held year-round. Events at Vogel State Park include: Music in the Park, National Trails Day, Annual Kids Fishing Rodeo, Jr. Ranger Camp, 4th of July Celebration, Mountain Music Festival, Fall Festival and the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting.

For more Information see gastateparks.org/Vogel or call Park 706-745-2628 Reservations 800-864-7275. Park is open 7 am – 10 pm Office open 8 am – 5 pm.

THE Legendary Sautee-Nacoochee

The North Georgia mountains are known for their natural scenic beauty, but few communities remain as pristine as Sautee Nacoochee. Within an unspoiled, history-rich land nestle two villages - home of art galleries, shops, restaurants, museums, historical sites, wineries, and recreational activities.

At the intersection of Highway 75 and 17 is the Nacoochee Mound and Gazebo - a picturesque pastureland with grazing cattle - a notable startingpoint for the journey through this beautiful community. The mound is a burial site, dating back to the Cherokee tribe that inhabited the area. Many years later, the Cherokee tribe used the mound as a site for their townhouse and ceremonial rites. The mound was placed on the National Register of Historical Places in the summer of 1980.

A legend regarding the Nacoochee Mound tells the story of two Native Americans: Sautee, a brave of the Chicksaw tribe, and Nacoochee, the daughter of a Cherokee chief. Although from opposing tribes, Sautee and Nacoochee fall immediately and hopelessly in love. They meet at night and run away to nearby Yonah Mountain to spend a few idyllic days together. Later, they present Nacoochee’s father, Chief Wahoo, with the idea of creating peace between the two nations. In response, the chief orders Sautee be thrown from the high cliffs of Yonah Mountain. Nacoochee watching in horror, breaks away from her tribe and leaps from the cliff to join her lover. Sautee and Nacoochee drag their broken bodies together, and, locking in a final embrace, they die there.  The Cherokee chief, realizing the greatness of their love, is overcome with grief and remorse, so much so that he has the lovers buried together, in the mound near the banks of the Chattahoochee River.

Continuing north on Highway 75 on the banks of the Chattahoochee River is The Hardman Farm, a beautiful 2-story Italian-style home originally built in 1870 by Captain James Nichols, is owned by the State of Georgia and is located across the Nacoochee Mound. The home is now open for tours to show guests 19th century living.

Just up the road is The Old Nora Grist Mill.  The operational grist mill was established in 1876 with

French Burr mill stones and a 100-foot wooden raceway that feeds water to a turbine. It was constructed by John Martin when he moved to Georgia to mine for gold and made the Sautee Nacoochee Valley his permanent home. In 1902, Dr. Lamartine G. Hardman, governor of Georgia from 1927-1931, bought the mill and named it “Nora Mill” in memory of his sister, Nora, and it remained in the Hardman Family until 1998.  The mill still produces corn - and wheat-based products such as grits, corn meal, pancake mixes, flours, and biscuit/ bread mixes.

In addition, the Crescent Hill Baptist Church was built in 1871 by Captain James Nichols who served in the Confederate Regiment.  Its beautiful Gothic style has an impressive home next door referred to as the West End, residing to the west of the church. Services are still held on Sunday mornings.

The Old Sautee Store was built in 1872, and was a true general store with local residents purchasing food, seed and farm supplies. The road served as the local post office for Sautee Nacoochee until 1913 and post office for Sautee until 1962. Visitors are welcomed to view historical antiques, shop for old time candies, jams, jellies, cheese and various gift items.

Through the valley ran the old Unicoi Turnpike, which was a major thorough line from the Tugaloo River to East Tennessee. It used the Stovall Mill Covered Bridge - which is still a historical site today, built in 1895 by Will Pardue. The bridge retains the name of the miller, Fred Stovall, Sr. who operated the Mill Complex for many years. There is a picnic area, to enjoy this scenic place by Chickamauga Creek. The bridge was also featured in the 1951 film, I’d Climb The Highest Mountain, starring Susan Hayward.

The Folk Pottery & History Museum, displays artifacts and shows usage of pottery from 1800-1900’s. The Heritage Center features a rural school house and plays hosts to many concerts.

Continuing along the drive, visitors may see wildlife as they drive into the countryside, or visit nearby Helen for more recreational activity and nightlife. Sautee Nacoochee has an abundance of beauty - so take your camera, take your time, and enjoy it!

Chattahoochee River and the runs through it

Many people know the Chattahoochee River as one of the most important U.S. Army Corps of Engineers impoundments in the nation. This river’s basin is the smallest in the nation and serves as a source of drinking water for metro Atlanta, and continues along the Georgia – Alabama border, and into Florida. This important source not only provides drinking water supply to more than half of all Georgian residents, but also provides hydroelectric power, commercial navigation, flood control, and recreation in three states to over 25 million Americans.

It begins as a spring; “Chattahoochee Gap,” just a little more than a trickle of water where Jack’s Knob Trail dead-ends into the Appalachian Trail at about 3,600 ft. and lies 200 ft. south. Several streams flow from Habersham, Lumpkin, Rabun, Towns, Union and White counties to broaden its shoulders.

Origin of the name “Chattahoochee” is believed to be derived from ‘Chatto,’ a stone, and ‘hoche,’ marked or flowered; there being rocks of that description in the river above Hoithletigua - an old town that historians place near the present town of Franklin, Ga. in Heard County. The river, “Chota,” was named by the Cherokee Indians at the headwaters and when the river flowed into Creek territory, it became the “Chattahoochee.” and was used by the tribes as a border between their Nations, then between themselves and early settlers.

Excavations suggest that Spanish searched for gold in the valley as early as the sixteenth century. The first American gold rush began in 1828 through streambeds of the Chattahoochee headwaters, and the

first dam was built to power a grist and lumber mill in 1876. The present Nora Mill still operates a waterpowered mill and grinds cornmeal, grits, wheat, rye, and flours.

The Chattahoochee River and Wildlife Management Area are located within the 750,000-acre Chattahoochee National Forest with lush forests. More than 500 species of birds, mammals, fish, and reptiles live in this protected headwaters portion, as it provides wildlife access to drinking water, sites for nests and dens, and berry-producing shrubs along its banks as a source of food.

Helen is a perfect start, as this river runs through this Alpine Village town of themed German- festivals and businesses. Then the Chattahoochee picks up flow from creeks such as Smith, Low Gap, Henson, Dukes, and Sautee. Two beautiful waterfalls that merge into these creeks are the twin falls of Anna Ruby and Horse Trough Falls, just north of Helen. From Helen, the river flows east through Sautee Nacoochee Valley, which pass agricultural-residential areas throughout White and Habersham Counties. The river then flows into Buck Shoals State Park, a wildlife preserve not yet opened to the public and Mossy Creek State Park just north of Clermont. The river flows through the newly planned State Park (Don Carter) on the northern tip of Lake Lanier.

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy recreation such as fishing, tubing, canoeing, boating, hiking and camping on the Chattahoochee River banks, shores, and it’s watershed to make your vacation a “COOL EXPERIENCE”!

Spring calendar of Events

Blairsville

March 25

March 11 & 25

Community Dance with Dog Branch Cats & caller

Bob Dalsemer

Keith House

March 13

Shape Note Singing w/ Stefani Priskos

Keith House

March 28

Dance & Social with House

Band & Caller

Keith House

Art & Music Showcase

Historic Courthouse

April 1

Blairsville Cruise-In

Farmers Market

Blue Ridge

April 1

Jim Richter & Kool Breeze

Blue Ridge Community Theater

April 6 - 23

Nana’s Naughty Knickers

Blue Ridge Community Theater

April 27 - May 7

Tuesdays with Morrie

Blue Ridge Community Theater

April 29

Blue Ridge TroutFest

Downtown City Park

Brasstown, NC

March 10

Friday Night Concert:

The Dog Branch Cats

Keith House

March 31

Friday Night Concert:

Larry Unger

Keith House

April 8

Dahlonega

March 20

E. Sullivan Jr. Recital

Nix Fine Arts Center

March 21

Golden Brass Series: Spring Euphoria

Nix Fine Arts Center

March 23

Homecoming Concert

Dahlonega Baptist Church

March 24 & 26

Faculty Recital: Joe Chapman

Nix Fine Arts Center

March 28 – 29

Golden Brass Series

Hoag Auditorium

March 30 – 31

Music Theatre Ensemble

Nix Fine Arts Center

Easter Egg Hunt

Festival Barn

April 29

May Day Parade & Maypole Dance

John C. Campbell Folk School

May 6

Friends & Family Day

John C. Campbell Folk School

Clayton

April 29 – 30

Sassafras Artisan Market

Rabun County Civic Center

April 4, 5, & 7

Cortos: The 8th Annual

Latin American Short Film Festival

Performing Arts Center

April 8

Day in the Life of a Miner

Dahlonega Gold Museum State

Historic Site

Spring calendar of Events

Please verify Event Dates in case of Rescheduling

April 8

Cook & Ferreira Junior Recital

Nix Fine Arts Center

April 11

Patriot Choir Spring

Concert

Nix Fine Arts Center

April 13

Instrumental Honors Recital

Nix Fine Arts Center

April  15 - 16

April 22

April 1

Blue Betty Sessions, Afton

Gilmer Playhouse

May 6

Georgia Apple Blossom

Festival

Hoo’s at the Museum

Dahlonega Gold Museum State

Historic Site

April 22

I Spy

Dahlonega Gold Museum State

Historic Site

April 22

Olivia Rainwater Recital

Nix Fine Arts Center

April 24

Piano Night

Nix Fine Arts Center

April 26

University of North GA

Jazz Band Concert

Hoag Auditorium

Bear on the Square

Downtown Dahlonega

April 18

Voice Division Recital

Nix Fine Arts Center

April 20

Sinfonietta Concert

Nix Fine Arts Center

April 21

Kevin Silva Rodriguez

Junior Recital

Nix Fine Arts Center

April 29

Birds of Prey Program

Dahlonega Gold Museum State

Historic Site

April 29

Skylar Cibirka Senior Recital

Nix Fine Arts Center

Ellijay

March 18 - 26

Leading Ladies

Gilmer Playhouse

Downtown Ellijay

Hayesville, NC

March 10 – 12

God’s of Comedy

Peacock Performing Arts Center

March 25

Stairway to Zeppelin

Peacock Performing Arts Center

April 1

Frankly Scarlet

Peacock Performing Arts Center

April 8

Satisfaction

Peacock Performing Arts Center

April 15

An Evening of One Act

Plays - SOS

Peacock Performing Arts Center

May 6

John Ford Coley

Peacock Performing Arts Center

Helen

March 11

Hike on Martin’s Mine Trail

Smithgall Woods State Park

March 18

Living with Bears

Smithgall Woods State Park

April 1

April 13, 20, & 27

Acoustic Sunsets at Hamilton GardensSpring Series

Hamilton Gardens

April 14 – May 14

The Rhodadendron Festival

Hamilton Gardens

April 15

Clint Black

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

April 21

Mile-Long Yard Sale

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

April 29

Atlanta Rhythm Section & Pure Prairie League

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

May 4 & 11

Acoustic Sunsets at Hamilton GardensSpring Series

Hamilton Gardens

May 13

Hiawassee Highlands Wine Festival

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Sautee Nacoochee

Helen Trout Tournament

Helen Festhalle

April 8

Laurel Ridge Hike

Smithgall Woods State Park

April 8

Build Your Own

Pollinator Garden

Smithgall Woods State Park

April 22

Earth Day: Kids Day Out

Smithgall Woods State Park

May 4

Wine & Roses

Smithgall Woods State Park

Hiawassee

March 10

Tanya Tucker

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

March 31

Gary Allan

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

April 21

March 10 – 12

A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams

Sautee Nacoochee Center

Toccoa

March 25

R&B Inc.

The Historic Ritz Theatre

March 31

Leanne Morgan: Just Getting Started Tour

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

April 22

Mile-Long Yard Sale

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

April 27

Kickoff Party for the Memory Lane Car Show

Hamilton Gardens

April 28 – 29

Memory Lane

Classic Car Show

Hamilton Gardens

2023 The Gambler Returns - The Ultimate Kenny

Rogers Tribute

The Historic Ritz Theatre

April 29

2023 Toast of Toccoa

Historic Downtown Toccoa

Young Harris

April 14 – 15

Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival

The Ridges Resort on Lake Chatuge