The 'Ideal Blue Ridge Mountain Life' Thrives In This Underrated Georgia Lake City Full Of Outdoor Thrills

For many, the foothills of the Appalachians are the ideal place to live. They combine the best of what nature has to offer: stunning mountain views, endless forest streams, and temperate weather. In this part of the United States, another factor comes into play for many: small-town charm. While there are plenty of stunning mountain towns throughout this region of North Georgia, East Tennessee, and the western parts of the Carolinas, certain towns just seem to especially capture the magic of the region. Blairsville, Georgia is one such town. Tucked away deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia, Blairsville is about 15 minutes south of the North Carolina border and two hours from Chattanooga, Tennessee's 'scenic city' known for its flourishing art scene. 

Its location in the Blue Mountain foothills and proximity to Vogel State Park, as well as to the Nottely River and its reservoir (a quick 15-minute drive west from town offering everything anglers and boating enthusiasts could want), make Blairsville a haven for outdoor adventurers. After a day immersed in nature, downtown Blairsville welcomes you to stroll along its quaint streets and embrace its slower, small-town pace while being only 30 minutes east of Blue Ridge, a popular hub for exploring Georgia's mountain towns. You can soak up the peaceful tranquility of Blairsville and head over to Blue Ridge for area attractions, including their iconic family-friendly train ride that offers the best views of the state's fall foliage.

Blairsville is surrounded by the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, so outdoor thrills are literally all around. A must-see nearby excursion (just 30 minutes away) is to Georgia's highest point at Brasstown Bald. From its observation deck, you can take in the 360-degree views of four states: North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and of course, Georgia. It's just a half-mile hike to the top from the parking lot, and a shuttle service is also available. 

Blairsville is also home to the Walasi-Yi Interpretive Center at Neel Gap, a stop along the Appalachian Trail that now houses the popular Mountain Crossings outdoor retailer and Appalachian Trail gift shop. Interestingly, the building resides on the actual Appalachian Trail, and is the only covered portion of its more than 2,000 miles. The Walasi-Yi center also has a hostel for long-distance hikers craving a soft, dry bed and real plumbing. 

If you prefer to explore the natural wonders of the region from a home base, Blairsville fits the bill. Helton Creek Falls is an absolute must for nature lovers and waterfall chasers. The short 0.3-mile hike reveals its high and low falls cascading over 100 feet. The falls are located just outside of Vogel State Park, the second-oldest state park in Georgia and an enduring favorite among local visitors and Appalachian Trail travelers alike. Located just a 15-minute drive south of downtown Blairsville, it offers some of the best outdoor activities the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest has to offer, including a short and sweet hike to the stunning Trahlyta Falls, invigorating backcountry hiking trails, and an inviting lakeside beach surrounded by Blue Ridge Mountain views. Another worthwhile excursion with plenty of hiking opportunities is out to Blairsville's cute lakeside sister town of Hiawassee.

Blairsville's quaint downtown centers around its historic courthouse, built in 1899. These days, the building is home to a local museum and a fascinating dollhouse collection, and also hosts events, concerts, and festivals. While you can stroll the downtown streets for unique shopping and dining, like handmade goods from The Farmer's Daughter and southern grits and greens cuisine at Blairsville Social, there is plenty more to explore a short drive from the city center. For example, on the way back from Brasstown Bald, plan to stop by The Herb Crib, a whimsical organic herb and flower shop nestled deep in the mountains. Blairsville is also home to the Lasso the Moon Alpaca Farm, where you can get up close and personal with the animals and even take a natural fiber art class using alpaca fleece.

There are dozens of wineries scattered throughout North Georgia, offering delectable small batch wine tastings set against the backdrop of the serene Blue Ridge foothills. You can take the short 13-minute drive from Blairsville to visit the Odom Springs Vineyards farm, or stop by their tasting room right in town. Or, book your stay in a luxurious rustic cabin at Paradise Hills Winery Resort and Spa and sip on award-winning local wines while you relax at their European-style spa, conveniently located right between Blairsville and Vogel State Park. Speaking of accommodations, there are a few budget hotels available right in downtown Blairsville, and you can also explore an array of lodging options in the surrounding countryside, such as camping at the Nottely Lake campground or renting a vacation property to enjoy the beachy shorelines along its banks. Vogel State Park also offers camping along with 34 cottages for an immersive experience in the park's tranquil surroundings.