Appalachian Trail • Benton MacKaye Trail • Duncan Ridge Trail

For those who love to hike, there are miles and miles of trails to hike in the National Forest in and around Fannin County. Two legendary trails are the Benton MacKaye Trail and the Appalachian Trail. These two renowned trails will take hikers into the very heart of God's Country.

The world famous Appalachian Trail cuts through the extreme southern end of Appalachian Trail in the North Georgia MountainsFannin County on its long 2,000-mile plus journey from Springer Mountain Georgia to Maine's Mount Katahdin. This is a lifetime adventure for the big hiking-backpackers that want the whole adventure, yet day hikers can also access the trail at most junctions where the trail and highways cross, then exit at one of many other roadway accesses in the North Georgia & North Carolina Mountains depending on how long and far you want to hike.

The Benton MacKaye Trail named after the regional planner who envisioned the Appalachian Trail, begins at Springer Mountain as well. This trail also travels over steep mountains for 90 miles to the border of Tennessee at Highway 64 offering the same feel of the Appalachian Trail yet not as long. When completed The Benton MacKaye Trail is expected to travel a 250-mile loop sharing sections of the Appalachian Trail as well.  The Benton MacKaye Trail and Duncan Ridge Trail share the same path at this access point just of GA 60; note that parking is limited. Benton MacKaye  This trail is named after Benton MacKaye the “Father of the Appalachian Trail”.  There are numerous points along the trail that are accessible form roadways and forest roads.

Duncan Ridge Trail extends along Duncan Ridge from Fannin through Union County's Chattahoochee National Forest. The trail is accessible from several roadways and forestry roads.

In addition these combined trails converging at GA 60 also offers an access point along a bumpy forestry road that leads to the famed swinging bridge that's suspended over the Toccoa River.

There are quite a few other trails in Fannin County to check out. You can get maps to the trails by going into Fannin County Welcome Center at 152 Orvin Lance Drive, right off Hwy 515 in Blue Ridge, Georgia. Hikers can also get detailed information from the Blue Ridge District, 2042 Highway 515 West Blairsville, Georgia 30512, 706-745-6928.

Fannin County Welcome Center in Blue Ridge Georgia

Georgia's Blue Ridge

Surround yourself with beauty, relaxation and natural fun in Georgia’s Blue Ridge. Relax in a mountain cabin overlooking peaceful ridges and valleys. Explore charming mountain towns. Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. Discover our rivers, streams, lakes and waterfalls. Hike, fish, shop or simply relax.

Stop by the "Welcome Center" when you come to Blue Ridge for brochures and maps to make your trip more enjoyable.

Art Galleries & Shopping in Blue Ridge Georgia

The Art Center at Blue Ridge Mountain Art Association

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.


The Art Center at Blue Ridge Mountain Art Association

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!”

Adventure in and around Blue Ridge Georgia

Whitewater Rafting

The Ocoee River is often described as the roller coaster of the southeast. Come experience what has been called the greatest whitewater 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.


Canopy Tours on the Nantahala Gorge, Chattooga Ridge and 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.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.


Fishing Trips in the Blue Ridge Smoky Mountains

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!

Trout Treks • Bass Fishing • Wade Trips • Pan Fishing • Fly Fishing Instruction • Private Trophy Trout Waters • Drift Boat Trips. So much water to choose from and an adventure you'll never forget.

Entertainment in Blue Ridge Georgia

Blue Ridge Community Theater

There is nothing like the energy you feel when attending a live performance and we are here to help you experience that feeling. Blue Ridge Community Theater's mission is to enrich the cultural life of residents and visitors through performances, productions and education of all aspects of contemporary and classic theater.  2015 we will be hosting 7 Main Stage Shows with 12 Performances for each show, 8 evenings of music along with 13 Sunny D Performance, our Children's Theater Program.