Explore Blue Ridge
Blue Ridge
Blue Ridge is named for the southern reach of the Appalachian Mountain Range that stretches into the area. Downtown Blue Ridge is about 20 minutes from the cabin.
- Once in town, sample craft breweries, wineries, surprisingly upscale shops, galleries and restaurants.
- One of the most popular attractions is the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway sfollow the Toccoa River to the town of McCaysville. Tickets sell out during the busy seasons, so book your tickets quickly.
- Hike to a local waterfall on the Appalachian Trail, tube or kayak the Toccoa or go whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River.
- One of our favorite wineries is Bear Claw Vineyard. This is the closest winery to the cabin. You can bring your dogs and your kids to Bear Claw. Make sure to try a tasting and enjoy the live music. https://bearclawvineyards.com/
- Learn more about Blue Ridge: https://www.blueridgemountains.com/things-to-do/
Top Ten Things To Do While Vacationing at the Cabin
1. Enjoy the views from the porch. The view from Black Bear Hideaway is one of the prettiest in all of Blue Ridge. But make sure to catch a sunrise. Grab your coffee and a cozy blanket. You might even hear a screech owl.
2. Visit Mercier Orchards Mercier Orchards is a family & veteran-owned and operated apple orchard and a must-see in Blue Ridge. Whether it’s their fried apple pies, apple cinnamon bread, apple sauce, hard apple cider, or fresh apples picked right off the orchard, Mercier Orchards is an icon of Blue Ridge. Black Bear Hideaway is only 9 miles from Mercier Orchards.
- Mercier Orchards
8660 Blue Ridge Dr. Blue Ridge GA 30513
Open 9 AM to 5 PM Every Day
https://mercier-orchards.com/
3. Spend a day in downtown Blue Ridge
There is so much to see in downtown Blue Ridge. Make time to walk down Main Street and enjoy the antiques and specialty shops, galleries, restaurants, small town atmosphere and friendly people. https://www.blueridgemountains.com/things-to-do/mountain-town/downtown-blue-ridge/
4. Ride the Blue Ridge Railway Starting at the historic depot in downtown Blue Ridge riders take a four-hour, 26-mile roundtrip journey along the Toccoa River. Passengers enjoy all the towns have to offer during a two-hour layover before taking the one-hour return trip through the scenic forest and back to the depot in Blue Ridge, Georgia. https://brscenic.com/tickets/
5. Visit Local Wineries and Breweries
Spend the day exploring North Georgia Vineyards and Wineries. The comfortable tasting rooms, live music, and stunning views give you a taste of Napa Valley right here in Georgia.
- Bear Claw Winery is only 20 minutes away and has gorgeous mountain views and is the perfect place to relax with a group of friends or family. Enjoy the calming atmosphere, drink delicious wine, and lounge by the firepit. Children and dogs are always welcome.
- Favorite wineries in the Ellijay area include Cartecay Vineyards, Chateau Meichtry, and Ott Farms and Vineyard.
- And if you are near Young Harris, check out Crane Creek Vineyards.
- Blue Ridge has great breweries too. Check out Fannin Brewing Company or Grumpy Old Man Brewing..
7. Enjoy the river and lakes of Blue Ridge. We love tubing down the Toccoa in McCaysville, but there are many options for water sports during the summer months. https://www.blueridgemountains.com/things-to-do/outdoors/water-sports/
8. Relax by the firepit Enjoy smores and the gorgeous views. But make sure to put the fire out completely with water to keep everyone safe on the mountain.
9. Go for a Hike Blue Ridge offers many options for hiking based on your skill level and time. We love hiking to the Toccoa Swinging Bridge. There are many guides and websites to help you choose your next hike. Here are ideas for five great hikes here.
10. Enjoy a nice dinner in downtown Blue Ridge
There are many great restaurants in Blue Ridge. Our favorites are Chester’s, Harvest on Main, The Dogwood, The Black Sheep and Blue Ridge Mountain BBQ.