Getting your bearings
Blue Ridge is the hub of Fannin County in the North Georgia mountains, roughly two hours north of Atlanta and about an hour and a half from Chattanooga. Mineral Bluff sits just to the north, Morganton to the east by the lake, and Ellijay about half an hour south.
Downtown and the Scenic Railway
Downtown Blue Ridge is compact and walkable, with restaurants, shops, galleries and tasting rooms. The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway departs from the historic depot and follows the Toccoa River to McCaysville, GA and Copperhill, TN, where you can walk across the state line.
Lake Blue Ridge and the Toccoa River
Lake Blue Ridge, managed by TVA, is known for clear water and wooded shoreline, with marinas and public access points including Morganton Point Recreation Area. The Toccoa River is popular for tubing and paddling below Blue Ridge Dam, and for trout fishing.
Trails
The Chattahoochee National Forest surrounds Blue Ridge. The Aska Adventure Area has hiking and mountain-bike trails close to town, the Benton MacKaye Trail passes through, and the Toccoa River Swinging Bridge is a well-known hike destination.
Apple season in Ellijay
From late summer through fall, orchards around Ellijay and Blue Ridge open for apple picking, cider and baked goods. Ellijay hosts the Georgia Apple Festival each October.
When to go
October is peak for fall color and apples. Summer is lake and river season with cooler evenings than the city. Winter and early spring are quieter, cozy cabin weekends — and often better value.
Hours, seasons and access change — check official sites before you go.