Blue Ridge Georgia

Although Blue Ridge is considered to be a city with a population today of roughly 1,200 citizens, the word city does seems to be quite a hefty title for such a small mountain town with so few residents. I prefer to think of Blue Ridge as a beautiful classic mountain town, with an intimacy that is ever so inviting. Today the Blue Ridge city limits have spread to the very shores of Lake Blue Ridge, even though you can't see the lake until you get past the trees.

The development of the downtown historic district of Blue Ridge by means of renovations and new construction, along with the ever expanding commercial development along Highway 515 (east to west) and Highway 5 (north to south) have brought Fannin County to the forefront of other North Georgia mountain communities.

Today Blue Ridge seems to be busting at the seams with progress through the first and into the second decades of the 21st century. Shopping, other amenities and services all along the outer Highways of 515 & 5 only compliment the charming historic downtown shopping, restaurant and art district. Throughout the week and even more so on weekends, the historic downtown district of Blue Ridge is a haven of residents, vacationers and day visitors that enjoy strolling the main-streets of the town, stepping in and out of specialty shops while taking time to linger and observe the many fine artworks within the galleries. There are a variety of restaurants, eateries and coffee shops throughout the county with a nice selection of cuisine offering the comforts of their indoor or outdoor cafe' style in the fresh mountain air.

As often the case throughout the mountains the largest town is also the county seat, yet that's not the way this town began. Morganton, a neighboring Fannin County town founded in 1853 was the original county seat before the railroad came through Fannin County in 1886. Today the historic Fannin County courthouse in downtown Blue Ridge which was constructed in 1937 stands next to the newly constructed 72,000-square foot county courthouse. The old historic courthouse is now the home of the Blue Ridge Mountains Art Association.

Not only does the city of Blue Ridge have all the amenities visitors are looking for, the town is located close to the very shore of Lake Blue Ridge offering water sport recreation, swimming and fishing that are either exciting or tranquil depending on your choice of lake activity.

Blue Ridge is a great destination for a day trip, a getaway or a lifetime. The city of Blue Ridge has it's own unique personality and hospitality, definitely one of the Highlander's top favorites towns.

The Railroad and Blue Ridge

Though some gold and an abundance of copper was discovered in the region along with a large amount of timber being harvested in the surrounding mountains, it would take a railroad to haul out all the natural resources to market. The need for a central railroad hub site to be established in the region led to the founding of the town of Blue Ridge (incorporated in 1886,) which also became the new county seat due to the new rail line. With the coming of the railroad, hotels, restaurants and stores began popping up all along the tracks. The new town of Blue Ridge along with its rejuvenating mineral springs was fated to become a popular health-resort destination and leading commercial center in the region.

Today there are no longer any mineral springs available for visitors to submerge in, even though un-maintained springs still do exist on private property in the area if you know where to look. Yet Blue Ridge has continued to grow as a popular tourism destination replacing the springs of old with luxury lodging equipped with hot tubs and Jacuzzis for relaxing and rejuvenation.

The historic Blue Ridge Depot that received so many visitors at the turn of the century is still a center of attention today; this historic structure was built in 1906 after the first depot burnt down. Today the Depot is the home of the Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad offering sightseeing and rail adventure along the banks of the beautiful Toccoa River between the towns of Blue Ridge and McCaysville to the north with a round trip train excursion of about 3 1/2 hours, approximately a 26-miles round trip.

Blue Ridge City Park • Events and Festivals

The picturesque Blue Ridge City Park located in the heart of Blue Ridge's downtown historic district is also positioned along the rail line; the park is home to several of Fannin County's events and festivals.

The main events in Blue Ridge are  Spring and Fall Arts in the Park, and two Plein Air Festivals, Labor Day Barbecue, Halloween Safe Zone and Light Up Blue Ridge Holiday Festival. Check out the Highlander's event calendar for more information on these events.

When the park isn't hosting an event, visitors and county residents alike find the park to be a quiet setting offering picnic tables, a gazebo, and a playground for the kids so they can let off some of that adolescent energy while the adults watch on from a picnic table, comfortable lawn chair or blanket.

Cuddle Up Cabin Rentals, Managing Privately Owned Cabins

Cuddle Up Cabin Rentals offers many vacation rental cabins which allow you to experience a little piece of heaven every time you visit. Our private luxury cabins provide a getaway retreat for couples, families and friends who love nature and the outdoors. Cuddle Up Cabin Rentals manages these privately owned luxury cabin rentals, all of which are located within minutes of Blue Ridge, Georgia and the beautiful Ocoee River and Toccoa River.

224 Blue Ridge Dr  • McCaysville, GA  •  877.628.3353  •  www.CuddleUpCabinRentals.com

Highlander Fine Arts, Authentic Mountain Photography and Fine Crafts

When you are visiting the Blue Ridge - Smoky Mountains, a stop by the Highlander Gallery is well worth your time. The Highlander Gallery represents some of the finest artists in the mountains.  With a large assortment of Fine Art Photography and Fine Crafts as well.

Here are a sampling of the artists you will find....Anthony Abreu • John Mac Kah • Ruthanne Kah • Michael Bedoian • Keith Moore • Juanita Greenspan • Robert Levin • Tonya Fowler • Jason Fowler • Jo Kilmer • Les Smith • Chuck Waldroup • Joe Waldroup • Billy Reynolds • Bob Crisp • Thomas Payne • Sarah Long Dauchez • January Tiberius • Frances McCord • Rita Poole • Clive Poole • Richard Cranford

Wednesday - Saturday 10:00 - 5:00
10079 Old Highway 64  •  Brasstown, NC  • 828.835.9982  • www.HighlanderGallery.com

BRMAA - Art Center Gallery

The Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association is passionate about art. Our Art Center Team is devoted to bringing new exhibits, new events, and new programs to our community through art and culture. We endeavor to provide a haven for artists to flourish and grow. We measure success by the success of our artists and the many galleries that help to make up our Art Town in the mountains of Blue Ridge, Georgia. We boast the largest Gallery Experience in the North Georgia Mountains, come visit us and experience a true Art Town in the Mountains.

Tuesday - Sunday 10:00 - 6:00 - Closed on Monday
420 West Main Street  •  Blue Ridge, GA 30513  •  706.632.2144  • www.BlueRidgeArts.net

The Art Station

The Art Station was created to provide economical pricing for supplies for artists and for our art classes for children and adults. We surveyed our artists to determine the supplies most needed and we are adding to that inventory every day with requests from our artist members.

We encourage you to visit, check out our supplies. "Art, We are it!"

Tuesday - Sunday 10:00 - 6:00 - Closed on Monday
420 West Main Street  •  Blue Ridge, GA 30513  •  706.632.2144  • www.BlueRidgeArts.net

Trout Treks • Bass Fishing • Wade • Pan Fishing • Fly Fishing • Private Trophy Trout Waters • Drift Boat Trips

Great mountain adventures is offering the "Best Fishing" available in the Mountains. We create a fishing trip, designed specifically towards your needs with a professional fishing guide to guide you to make the most of your fishing adventure on the Finest Lakes, Rivers and Streams in the Southern Appalachians!

So much water to choose from and an adventure you'll never forget.

Call today to start your adventure...828-835-3275  •  GreatMountainFishing.com

Rafting on the Ocoee River

The Ocoee River is often described as the roller coaster of the southeast. Come experience what has been called the greatest white water center in the world.

Professional river outfitter with over 30 years experience. Our safety record is unsurpassed in the industry. We believe our staff is simply the best in the business. Guides are chosen for their character and enthusiasm for sharing the outdoors with you.

Call today to start your adventure...828-835-3275  •  GreatMtnAdventures.com

Rafting on the Nantahala River

Experience this unforgettable whitewater adventure through the gorge. The Nantahala is exciting, and a great time, but not as wild as the Ocoee.  This is a river that you can bring children on as young as seven years old.

Experience the excitement of Patton's Run, the fun and splash of Tumble Dry, the rush and roar of riding Class III Nantahala Falls. For a bigger thrill, try taking one of our Duckies down the river!

Call today to start your adventure...828-835-3275  •  GreatMtnAdventures.com

Zip Line Canopy Tours...Nantahala Gorge • Chattooga Ridge • Asheville • Pigeon River

Whichever course you choose you are sure to enjoy the newest outdoor adventure to hit the US.

All our courses offer a soaring and gliding experience naturally fueled by a gradual drop in elevation. All trips offer fully guided tours with 2 or more Rangers on at least 10 zips, 4 bridges beginning with a training course at each location.

Call today to start your adventure...828-835-3275  •  GreatMtnAdventures.com

Horseback Riding Near the Ocoee River

Sit tall in the saddle for a leisure ride through the beautiful scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Professional outfitter with over 35 years experience. Our safety record is unsurpassed in the industry. We believe our staff is simply the best in the business. Guides are chosen for their character and enthusiasm for sharing the outdoors with you.

Call today to start your adventure...828-835-3275  •  GreatMtnAdventures.com

Adventure Camp on the Ocoee & Nantahala Rivers

White Water Rafting on the Ocoee and Nantahala Rivers • Horseback Riding • High and Low Ropes Course • Giant Swing • Caving • Paint ball • Mountain Biking • Camping & Cabin Rental

Catch the surge and ride the rapids on the exciting Ocoee River in Tennessee or North Carolina's Nantahala River for an experience you won't forget. Challenge your skills on the high ropes just for the thrill. Sit tall in the saddle for a leisure ride through the beautiful scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Camp out or stay in log cabins while letting the kids sleep in groups in one of several bunkhouse's. We will help you create a custom retreat for you or your group.

 tara@greatmountainretreats.com  •  828.835.3275  •  GreatYouthRetreats.com

Keri Conner, Realtor/Broker

My name is Keri Conner, I have lived in these mountains all my life, and have been a successful Realtor since 2001.  I know from personal experience why you want your own special place in the mountains and I know how to help you find that special place.  Whether you are looking for a luxury mountain home, log cabin, a view property, river or creek property, a lake front home or property, or a large tract of mountain property, I will help you not only find the right real estate purchase, I will help you through the entire real estate process, including closing.  If you are looking to sell your mountain home, to downsize or are finally ready to buy your new bigger dream home or cabin, I am the Realtor/Broker you need.  Check out our Featured Listings....

224 Blue Ridge Drive, McCaysville, GA  • 706-964-6470  •  RealEstateGeorgiaMountains.com

Tim Noland, Realtor® - Buyer's Agent • North Georgia & Western North Carolina

When looking to buy mountain property, you need someone that not only understands the mountains, you need someone that specifically represents you, the buyer. When you choose to work with a Buyer's Agent you are assured that you have an agent that is truly looking for your best interests, someone that will not only find what you are looking for, but someone that will negotiate the best price possible.

10886 Old Highway 64 • Brasstown, NC 28902  •  828.557.1009  •  GreatMtnRealEstate.com

Bill Banzhaf, Associate Broker  •  North Georgia, Western North Carolina & Tennessee

As an agent who's an expert in homes for sale in North Georgia, North Carolina & Tennessee, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise about buying and selling real estate in this gorgeous part of the south. Buying a new home or a new piece of land is not the same everywhere, so you need someone you can trust for up-to-date information.

Whether you're looking to purchase a year-round, luxury-style log home, buy a part-time residence for use during your getaway vacation, or prefer to use your property as a vacation rental, I am eager to serve you. Check out my Featured Listings...

11 Overview Drive, Suite 102  •  Blue Ridge, GA 30513  •  Mobile  706-851-5865
Office  706-946-1520  •  HomesinBlueRidge.com

designed, produced and hosted by

The Blue Ridge Highlander logo, all photography, design, graphics, artwork, writing, digital images, etc are the Copyright © of C. Wayne Dukes and Sherry Bell Dukes, 1996 to current day, except where otherwise stated. All rights reserved, reproduction, downloading, and/or duplication of any sort is strictly prohibited, all violations will be prosecuted. Legal Policy.  If you have any questions, or comments, regarding this site, e-mail the Highlander.