a copy here - North Georgia Farm Trail
Transcription
a copy here - North Georgia Farm Trail
Welcome to the North Georgia Farm Trail. Come explore the natural & delicious wonders of North Georgia! Come Play on the Farm! Orchard & Bakery July–December (seasonal) Apples, Peaches, Nectarines, Pumpkins, Farm-Fresh Vegetables & More U-Pick & Farm Fun September–October (weekends) U-Pick, Petting Farm, Exotic Animals, Corn Maze, Wagon Rides, Pig Races, Cow Trains, Apple Cannons, Cow Milking, Scavenger Hunt, Zipline Rides, Festival Food — Fun for the Whole Family! Wo rld fa mo us Fr ie Pie d s! Open: July-December | Please call for hours 9131 Highway 52 East, Ellijay 706-276-3048 | ReeceOrchards.com 2 3 4 1 6 7 8 9 5 10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 1 2 706.946.6164 6 7 576 E. Main St., Blue Ridge, GA 30513 11 12 16 17 3 4 8 9 13 14 18 19 T ra il ! Welcome to the Farm Trail! Now in its third year, the North Georgia Farm Trail is the place to explore, experience and reconnect with the land. As we continue to grow, we’re proud to welcome even more farms, wineries and other agritourism businesses (visit GaFarmTrail.com for the most up-to-date listings). W el co me to th e Proudly Supporting North Georgia Growers Since 1949 Blairsville, GA 706-745-2148 2934 W. Hwy. 515 In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your agri-adventures. We hope you’ll eat, drink, stay, play — and maybe even get a little dirt on your knees! Whatever you do, savor the experience. Visit with a local farmer. Explore our scenic wineries and microbreweries. Experience some delicious farm-to-table dining. And enjoy a few homegrown happenings — fairs, festivals and family-friendly events! Jasper, GA 678-454-2900 292 Interstate South Dr. nelsontractorco.com Our Partners in Agritourism NELSON TRACTOR COMPANY 1 2 3 4 5 ON THE COVER: Chef Shawn Kight combines fresh provisions 6 7 8 10 area growers with heirloom recipes for incredible 9 from 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 28 29 30 Agricultural Equipment • Food Plot Management • Service 26 27 It takes plenty of hard work to keep agritourism growing in 32 North Georgia. And all along the North Georgia Farm Trail,31family farmers, producers and growers turn to the Nelson family 36 for the tractors, implements and equipment they need. Cecil Nelson started Nelson Tractor Co. back in 1949, and the business has been carefully nurtured by three generations — passing from Cecil to W.C. Nelson and now to his son, Will Nelson. Today, the dealership has grown into a 46,000-square-foot facility on 17 acres, including 6,500 square feet of showroom and sales space, a large parts department, a modern service facility and a large conferencing center. 4 • North Georgia Farm Trail farm-to-fork meals at The Sawmill Place in Blairsville. (photo by Joyce Dumas) Produced in association with the Chambers of Commerce for the North 23 24 25Georgia counties of Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin, Union & Towns. © 2015 Content Creative LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without written permission is prohibited. 33 34 35 For advertising and distribution information, please contact the publisher: (706) 838-5230 • [email protected] 37 Photography by Joyce Dumas, Jackie Smith, Scott Anna, Randy Gray, Hannah Queen, the Chambers and our Advertisers. Locate our advertisers by number on the map on pages 20-21. Ga Fa r mTr a il.com / No r thGe or g ia Fa r mTr ail Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin W e lco me Taste, Tour & Explore to th e T r a il ! U-Pick, U-Eat.............................................................6 Farmers Markets, U-Picks & Orchards Have you met an alpaca yet? Natural Attractions...........................................11 Fun Things to Do, Unique Things to See Handcrafted & Handmade................................16 Artisans, Crafters, Galleries & Guilds Area Map............................................................20-21 Stops Along the Farm Trail From Farm to Table...........................................24 Locally Sourced & Inspired Cuisine Pour It On.................................................................27 Vineyards, Wineries & Microbreweries Stay Awhile............................................................. 31 Farmstead Lodging, B&Bs and Cabins History & Heritage.............................................34 Homesteads, Museums & Heritage Sites Union & Towns Counties Across the State Line...................35 isit Our Farm Trail V Neighbors in North Carolina Homegrown Happenings................36 airs, Festivals F & Seasonal Events GaFarmTrail.com • 5 U-P ic k , U-E a t Dig-It Farm Grandview Rd., Jasper (706) 692-7902 • dig-itfarm.com Sustainable Organic Farm • Roadside Stand • Garden Tours Harvest Table Farm 961 Old Whitestone Rd. E.,Talking Rock (828) 772-4206 • kalunacommunity.org/harvest-table-farm.html Fresh Produce for CSA and Local Markets Mel-O-Dale Farm 1053 Old Cove Rd., Jasper (706) 692-2086 Blueberries Farmers Markets, U-Picks & Orchards Talking Rock Produce 6414 Hwy. 136 W., Talking Rock (706) 253-2531 Roadside Stand Wolfscratch Farms F orget the packaging and preservatives — food in its freshest, juiciest natural state is what you’ll find along the North Georgia Farm Trail. Here, a Saturday morning farmers market means heirloom tomatoes, fresh-from-the field Silver Queen corn — and the chance to shake hands with the farmers who grew everything! Or, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the sun on your back as you pick plump berries at a local berry patch. Best of all, imagine the happy surprise when the kids and grandkids discover that apples really do grow on trees at one of our local U-pick orchards! Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of pick-your-own opportunities along the Farm Trail. Of course, there’s no rushing Mother Nature, so be sure to check GaFarmTrail.com for events and links to 1 each location to verify dates and picking schedules. 5 Sons Farm 639 Hamrick Rd., Talking Rock (404) 702-9486 • 5sonsfarm.com U-Pick Blueberries • Fresh Produce • CSA Program Ellijay & East Ellijay Aaron’s Apple House 8350 Hwy. 52 E., Ellijay (706) 273-3180 • facebook.com/AaronsAppleHouse Apple Picking • Farm Products • Fried Pies Bear Creek Cattle Company 4989 Gates Chapel Rd., Ellijay (706) 636-2333 • bearcreekcattle.com Premium Dry Aged, All-Natural Beef 2 3 4 BJ5 REECE ORCHARDS 11 9131 Hwy. 52 E., Ellijay 7 8 9 10 (706) 276-3048 • reeceorchards.com 12 13 U-Pick 14 15 • Farmers Market • Petting Farm • Wagon Rides 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 6 Jasper & Talking Rock 673 Long Swamp Church Rd., Jasper (770) 617-8403 • wolfscratchfarms.wordpress.com CSA and Workshare Farm Apple Pic J u bi l e kin’ e! U-Pick Apples Bakery & Farm Market Cow Train • Petting Farm Wagon Rides • Cow Milking Pig Races • Jumping Pillow Mini Golf • Live Entertainment Great Food • Family Fun! S�������� 12-N������� 1 (attractions open weekends only; Farm Market & Petting Farm open daily) 706-273-3838 H��������O�������.��� 9696 H��. 52 E. • 9 ����� �. �� E������ 2 3 4 5 1 6 • North Georgia Farm Trail Pickens, 6 Gilmer, 9 10 7 8Fannin Fresh Georgia peaches are available for only 16 weeks (yet, growers manage to produce 2.6 million cartons each season). 4 5 U-P ic k , U-E a t 3 Live, Work and Play … Pickens County – It’s All Right Here! AGRI-FACT: BJ Reece Orchards HILLCREST ORCHARDS 9696 Hwy. 52 E., Ellijay 8 9 10 (706) 273-3838 • hillcrestorchards.net • Bakery & Farm Market • Festivals • Petting Farm 15 3 14 U-Pick Holden Creek Farms 20 8 19 23 24 28 29 59 New Liberty Tr., Ellijay 25 (706) 273-6999 • holdencreekfarms.com Goats • Pastured Poultry • Goat Milk Soap • Farm Store 30 33 34 Hudson’s Apple House 35 37 8036 Hwy. 52 E., Ellijay (706) 273-3160 Apples • Cider • Jams • Relishes • Honey • Syrups Mack Aaron’s Apple House 8955 Hwy. 52 E., Ellijay (706) 273-3600 • sites.google.com/site/mackaaronsapplehouse Apples • Peaches • Nectarines • Fried Pies pickenschamber.com Mountain Valley Farms 2021 Homer Wright Rd., Ellijay (706) 889-0999 • grassfedgeorgia.com Farm Store • Grass-Fed Beef • Free Range Pork Panorama Orchards & Farm Market Hwy. 515 S. / 63 Talona Spur, Ellijay (706) 276-3813 • panoramaorchards.com Farm Market • Fudge visitpickens.com Penland’s Apple House 7678 Tails Creek Rd. / Hwy. 282 E., Ellijay Also Hwy. 515 S., Ellijay (706) 635-5100 Apples • Cider • Pies R&A Orchards 5505 Hwy. 52 E., Ellijay (706) 273-3821 • randaorchards.com Apples • Strawberries • Peaches • Roadside Market Red Apple Barn 3379 Tails Creek Rd. / Hwy. 282 E., Ellijay (706) 635-5898 • redapplebarn.com U-Pick Apples • Pumpkins • Cider • Farm Market Union & Towns Counties October 3-4, 2015 georgiamarblefestival.com A 706.692.5600 500 Stegall Drive, Jasper, GA 30143 B GaFarmTrail.com • 7 U-P ic k , U-E a t Sellers Apple House 6 7 8 9 10 MERCIER ORCHARDS 15 255 Parks Dr. / Hwy. 52 E., Ellijay (706) 273-3026 Apples • Breads • Fritters • Canned Goods 11 12 13 8660 Blue Ridge Dr., Blue Ridge 19 20 16 17 18 (706) 632-3411 • mercier-orchards.com 24 25 • Bakery • Market • Restaurant • Farm Winery 21 22 23 U-Pick 14 Smokey Hollow Farms 26 27 28 Mountain View Orchards & Cider House Cafe 29 30 31 32 33 36 37 2897 Goose Island Rd., Cherry Log smokeyhollowfarms.com Classes • Events • Organic Gardening • Goats The Tater Patch Farm Podunk Produce-N-Such 5390 Big Creek Rd., Ellijay (706) 273-9746 • facebook.com/taterpatchfarm U-Dig Potatoes • Hayrides • Games 9976 Lakewood Hwy., Mineral Bluff (706) 374-1234 • facebook.com/podunkproduce.tommerrell Farm Stand Shadow Ridge Bee Farm Blue Ridge & McCaysville 564 Blue Arrow Rd., Mineral Bluff (706) 374-0409 • shadowridgebeefarm.com Farm Fresh Honey • Beeswax • Queen Bees • Bee Supplies Blake Collins Blueberry Farm 843 Collins Rd., Morganton (706) 374-5674 U-Pick Blueberries Blue Ridge Beef Taste of Amish 83 2 Dunbarton 3 4 5Farm Rd., Blue Ridge (706) 632-8989 • tasteofamish.com 10 6 Seasonal 7 8 9Produce • Grass-Fed Beef • Pantry Staples 1 11 Mountain St., Ste. 1, Blue Ridge (706) 633-7469 • facebook.com/blueridgebeefinc Natural Organic & Grass-fed Beef • Pork • Eggs • Cheeses 16 Blue Ridge Rum Cakes & Farm Fresh Eggs 21 11 Strauss Village Ln., Blue Ridge (706) 309-0309 • blueridgerumcake.com Farm-fresh Eggs • Homemade Rum Cakes Cross Country Farms 2465 Hardscrabble Rd., Mineral Bluff (706) 633-0383 • facebook.com/crosscountryfarmshardscrabble Farm-Raised Pork & Beef D&D Produce Market 10480 Lakeway Hwy., Mineral Bluff Roadside Market • Fresh Fruit • Seasonal Vegetables Foster’s Produce Market West First St., Blue Ridge Roadside Market • Fresh Fruit • Seasonal Vegetables Gabe’s Greens at Quinn’s Greenhouse 1060 W. Tennessee Ave., McCaysville (706) 492-4219 • quinnsgreenhouse.com Fruit Trees & Bushes • Herbs • Seeds • Hydroponic Greens Heartwood Market Garden & CSA 100 Burdines Pond Rd., Blue Ridge (706) 669-3240 • facebook.com/Heartwoodcsa CSA Program • Seasonal Produce & Microgreens Leaning Duck Farm 129 Madola Rd., Epworth (404) 718-0422 • leaningduckfarm.com Pastured Eggs • Turkeys • Pork • CSA Program 8 • North Georgia Farm Trail 2984 Mobile Rd., McCaysville • (706) 492-7753 34 35 facebook.com/pages/Cider-House-Cafe/106784536044145 U-Pick • Farm Market • Restaurant 11 26 31 12 13 14 15 18 19 B17lairsville & Suches 20 22 23 FAMILY 24 25 FARMS 7M 596 Crump Creek Rd., Blairsville 27 28 29 30 (706) 835-1607 • 7mfamilyfarms.com Family • Pesticide-Free Fruits & Vegetables • 34 35 32 33 Farm Hydroponic Strawberries, Lettuce & Tomatoes 36 37 “From Our Land to Your Hands” is the motto at 7M Family Farms, a family-owned operation in Blairsville with farming roots that stretch back 100 years. Fourth generation grower Dick Mills combines organic openfield farming with an impressive greenhouse and hydroponics operation. The result is a yearround bounty of flavorful, locally grown fruits and vegetables. The farm is making a name for itself with its impossibly plump-andjuicy hydroponic strawberries — but don’t miss the hydroponic tomatoes, lettuce, cilantro, kale and peppers, too. Mills also works a variety of traditional row crops, such as okra, cucumbers, sweet corn, cabbage and pumpkin, all of which are grown pesticide-free using organic supplies and non-GMO seeds. 7M Family Farms rolls out the farm-fresh goodness Tuesdays and Saturdays at the Union County Farmers Market, as well as through a CSA program. But there’s no beating a drive out to the farm, where you’ll find a farm market, seasonal u-pick opportunities, farm tours and an assortment of arts & crafts. Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin 95 Bee Hive Dr., Blairsville (706) 835-8210 • [email protected] Honey • Beeswax 17 18 21 22 23 26 27 28 31 32 33 36 37 Farm Fresh Processing 6310 Murphy Hwy., Blairsville (706) 745-0027 • farmfreshbeef.net 2 4 5 1 3 Processing Beef & Pork • Sales 6 9 7 8Farm Hill-Vue 10 1159 Rd., Blairsville 12 13South 14 Farm 11 Deep 15 (706) 745-5714 • hillvuefarm.com 20 19 Ranch Working • Annual Angus & Hereford Sale 16 17 18Cattle 21 22 23 TURNPIKE 24 25 LOGAN MILL 4494 Gainesville Hwy. (19/129 south), Blairsville 26 27 28 29 30 (800) 84-GRITS • (706) 745-5735 • loganturnpikemill.com Stone 33 34Grits 31 32Ground 35 • Corn Meal • Porridge • Mixes/Flour Long’s 36 Produce 37 346 Blue Ridge St., Blairsville Roadside Market • Fresh Fruit • Seasonal Vegetables 2 3 4 1 Southern 5 Mountain Living by Mountain View Farm 237 John Abernathy Rd., Blairsville 7 8 9 10 (706) 897-3396 • facebook.com/southernmtnlivingmtnviewfarm Eggs 12 Farm 11Dairy 15 13 14• Fresh 6 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 AN T G LO URNPIKE M IL L 19 24 20 25 SUNRISE GROCERY 7568 Gainesville Hwy., Blairsville 29 30 (706) 745-5877 • sunrisegrocery.com 34 35 Seasonal Produce • Honey & Sorghum • Hams • Cheeses Prepare to step back to another time and place when you visit Sunrise Grocery. Originally opened in 1920, it’s one of Union County’s oldest businesses still in its original location. However, it has evolved since current owner Jason Clemmons’ parents stocked staples for the campers at nearby Vogel State Park back in the ’80s. Today, you’re more likely to find the fruits of local growers and artisans featured — homemade jellies, local honey and syrups, handmade soaps and unique pottery. In season, the produce is as fresh as it gets — beefy red tomatoes, juicy peaches and more. Of course, any time of year is right for a crispy fried pie or some of Jason’s famous wood-fired boiled peanuts (they’ve been featured in Southern Living and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution). From grits to gifts and firewood to fishing licenses, Sunrise Grocery is a don’t-miss Appalachian heritage experience — with a little something for everyone! U-P ic k , U-E a t Berry’s Honey Farm 16 GRITS, PORRIDGE, CORNMEAL, FLOUR & MIXES, ALL STONE GROUND THE OLD-FASHIONED WAY Stop by our store in Blairsville or order online. Visit our whole grain bakery in-store on Thursday & Friday, and at the Farmers Market on Saturday. 4494 Gainesville Hwy. • Blairsville, GA 30512 1-800-84-GRITS • www.LoganTurnpikeMill.com Union & Towns Counties GaFarmTrail.com • 9 U-P ic k , U-E a t Farmers Markets on the Trail 87 percent of Georgia farms are family owned. Jasper Farmers Market Park & Ride Lot Next to Lee Newton Park, Jasper facebook.com/JasperFarmersMarket April-October: Saturdays 7:30 am-12 pm Fresh Vegetables • Arts & Crafts • Soaps • Baked Goods Gilmer County Farmers Market 4 Blue Ridge Downtown Market 19 23 24 28 29 33 34 37 583 W. Wolfcreek Rd., Blairsville (706) 835-2737 Natural Grown Blueberries • U-Pick • Already Picked 3 4 7 8 9 H10iawassee & Young Harris 12 13 14 15 Hiawassee Fruit & Vegetable Market 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 24 810 N. Main St., Hiawassee 20 (706) 896-7234 25 Roadside Market • Fresh Fruit • Seasonal Vegetables 27 28 29 30 32 33 34 36 37 5 Downtown Blue Ridge City Park 26 brfarmersmarket.com 8 9 10 June-September: Saturdays 8 am-1 pm 31 Vegetables • Arts & Crafts • Soaps • Baked Goods 15 13 14 Fresh 18 Wolfcreek Wilderness Farm 2 1 Broad Street, Downtown Ellijay facebook.com/pages/Gilmer-County-Farmers6 Market/150451501804750 Memorial Day-Labor Day: Saturdays 8 am-11 am 11 Fresh Vegetables • Arts & Crafts • Soaps • Baked Goods 3 FARM FACT: Union County Farmers Market 25 Cannery & Community Gardens & 20 148 Old Smokey Rd., Blairsville 30 ucfarmersmarket.com June-October: Saturdays 7 am-1 pm 35 & Tuesdays 2 pm-6 pm Fresh Vegetables • Arts & Crafts • Soaps • Baked Goods Towns County Farmers Market Hwy. 76 at the County Beach Facility, Hiawassee facebook.com/TownsCountyFarmersMarket Summer: Fridays 5:30 pm-7:30 pm & Saturdays 9 am-1 pm Fresh Vegetables • Arts & Crafts • Soaps • Baked Goods 5 OLIN HUGHES SORGHUM SYRUP MILL 2053 Olin Hughes Rd., Young Harris 706-400-8420 Sales • Tours • Processing Since 1954, Olin Hughes and his family have been growing sorghum and boiling the juice into some of the sweetest-tasting syrup around. In North Georgia, nothing is better than homemade biscuits slathered with hot sorghum syrup (this natural sweetener is also the perfect addition to gingerbread and oatmeal cookies). The process starts with fall cane-cutting. The cane is run through a masher and then filtered into a steaming vat, where it’s cooked off until it becomes sweet, golden syrup. The Hughes family welcomes visitors to the syrup mill during the fall processing season — just follow your nose to the sweet, steamy smell of sorghum in the air! 35 Sweet Corn Stand Near Hiawassee River, Hiawassee Roadside Market • Farm-Fresh Sweet Corn Wildflower Hollow Farm 886 Jack Branch Rd., Hiawassee (706) 435-8067 Sustainable, Organic, Non-Commercial Produce Farm Union County Farmers Market 10 • North Georgia Farm Trail Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin 4729 Waleska Hwy. / Hwy. 108, Jasper (770) 735-3638 • yahoofarm.com Pumpkins • Parties • Campfires • Hay Ride • Corn Maze Ellijay & East Ellijay 3 4 11 9131 Hwy. 52 E., Ellijay 7 8 9 10 (706) 276-3048 • reeceorchards.com 12 13 Petting 14 15 Farm • Wagon Rides • Cow Train 16 17 18 Cornett 19 20 Ranch 21 22 23 26 27 28 909 Cornett Dr., Ellijay 24 25 (706) 972-0010 • cornettranch.com Stables 29 30 • Riding Lessons • Clinics • Overnight Boarding 31 32 33 Elatse 34 35 Yi 36 37 6 Fun Things to Do, Unique Things to See P art of the fun of the Farm Trail is the chance to see and do things you just can’t do at home. Where else can you get up-close and personal with a cuddly alpaca or saddle a gentle quarter horse for a ride along mountain trails? How about exploring a woodland medicine trail or marveling at the flash of fingerlings at a trout hatchery? All along the Trail, you’ll find plenty of folks “living the dream” and eager to share their passions. In many cases you can call ahead and make arrangements to visit with farmers and ranchers. In between, you can explore petting farms, pumpkin patches, nurseries, corn mazes and more. It’s all about trying new things … and experiencing the land in new ways! For help planning the ultimate agritourism adventure, be sure to check the GaFarmTrail.com website. BJ5 REECE ORCHARDS 2 1 N a tu ra l A ttra c tio n s Yahoo Farm 589 Berean Church Rd., Ellijay (404) 510-3684 • ellijayhideaway.com Alpaca Farm • Glamping Retreat Gilmer County Cannery 408 Bobcat Tr., Ellijay (706) 276-5095 Public Canning Facility & Kitchen Gilmer County Saddle Club Old Hwy. 5 / S. Main St., Ellijay gilmercountysaddleclub.com Horse Shows • Rodeo • Monthly Meetings Nature is no stranger along the Farm Trail, where farms, ranches and stables swing their barn doors wide open for agri-adventures! Jasper & Talking Rock Cherokee Valley Ranch 909 Upper Salem Church Rd., Jasper (706) 692-9277 • cherokeevalleyranch.com Hay Rides • Ziplines • Tubing • Parties Fancy Mount Farm 8375 Hwy. 136 W., Talking Rock (404) 323-1566 • fancymountfarm.host22.com Horseback Riding Lessons • Camps • Shows Jack’s Tree Farm 8700 Hwy. 53 W., Jasper (770) 894-1985 • [email protected] Cut-Your-Own Christmas Trees Kernel Kob’s Corn Maze 1153 Salem Church Rd., Jasper (706) 692-4464 • kernelkobcornmaze.com Corn Maze • Haunted Maze • Hay Ride • Petting Zoo Lasso the Moon Alpaca Farm Union & Towns Counties GaFarmTrail.com • 11 4 N a t ura l A ttra c tio n s 3 5 HILLCREST ORCHARDS Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery 4730 2 3Rock 4 Creek 5 Rd., Suches (706) 838-4723 • fws.gov/chattahoocheeforest 6 Educational 7 8 9 10 Exhibits • Events • Fishing 9696 Hwy. 52 E., Ellijay 8 9 10 (706) 273-3838 • hillcrestorchards.net Farm • Cow Milking • Rides • Games 15 3 14 Petting 8 23 28 33 37 19 Little G’s Mountain Garden Center 20 29 768 Cherry Log St., Cherry Log 25 (706) 273-2012 • littlegsgardencenter.com Mountain Plants • Gardening Products • Landscaping 30 34 Lowery’s Tree Farm 35 24 1 12 1 2 Cohutta 3 4 5Stables 6 7 Blue Ridge • (706) 851-5198 • cohuttastables.com 10 • Horse Sales • Training 8 9Rides Trail 11 12 13 83 Dunbarton Farm Rd., Blue Ridge 16 17 18 19 20 (706) 946-6366 • cohuttacountrystore.com Tack25• Clothing & Boots • Gifts & Decor • Pets & Feed 22 23 & 24 21 Horse Just look for 26 27 28 29 30 the soaring 31 32 33 34 35 windmill to discover the 36 37 “country store that’s a whole lot more!” Inside Cohutta Country Store, you’ll find stylish western accessories, gifts and home decor — in addition to unique farm, garden and pet goods, including an array of holistic and all-natural pet foods. When it comes to critters, owners Laurie and Jim McClearen know their stuff. Jim’s a long-time veterinarian, and Laurie has been involved with horses most of her life. Together, they raise beef cattle and Dartmoor ponies on their family farm outside of Blue Ridge. They also stock all of your favorite clothing brands, including Levi’s, Columbia, Wrangler, Carhartt, Ariat and much more! And if it’s something small that you’re looking to take back home, you won’t be disappointed by Cohutta’s line of candles and soaps. 499 Old Pleasant Valley Rd., Talking Rock (706) 276-3545 Christmas Tree Farm Mountain Ridge Garden Shop 746 River St., Ellijay (706) 698-2815 • mountainridgegardenshop.com Mountain Plants • Gardening • Landscaping Reece’s Corn Maze 1472 Hudson Martin Rd., Ellijay (706) 889-7468 • mazeplay.com/reeces-corn-maze Corn Maze • Creekside Picnic Area The Tater Patch Farm 5390 Big Creek Rd., Ellijay (706) 273-9746 • facebook.com/taterpatchfarm U-Dig Potatoes • Hayrides • Games Blue Ridge & McCaysville Adventure Trail Rides 933 Cashes Valley Rd., Blue Ridge (706) 258-BARN • adventuretrailrides.com 1 & 1½ Hour Rides • Picnic Rides • Sunset Rides Back Country Horseman of North Georgia (706) 851-5198 • bchng.org Trail Maintenance • Benefit Rides • Membership Big Creek Alpaca Farms 193 Bear Mountain Lodge Rd., Cherry Log (706) 838-4801 • bigcreekalpacafarms.com Alpacas • Fiber • Rugs • Sales Blanche Manor Stables 177 Deal Hollow Rd., Copperhill, TN (706) 455-7433 • blanchemanor.com Horseback Riding • Wagon Rides • Yurts & Bunkhouses Blue Ridge Cannery 811 Summit St., Blue Ridge (706) 632-0208 Public Canning Facility & Kitchen Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides at Hells Hollow 319 Hells Hollow Rd., Blue Ridge (706) 408-7433 • blueridgemountaintrailridesathellshollow.com Pony-Go-Round • Wagon Rides • Trail Rides 12 • North Georgia Farm Trail 13 14 15 COUNTRY STORE COHUTTA 11 14 15 THE COOK’S FARM 200 River St., Blue Ridge 16 17 18 19 20 (706) 946-3276 • thecooksfarm.org 23 24 Farm 25 • Kids’ Farm-to-Fork Camp 21 22 Urban 26 27 31 32 36 28 29 County 30 Fannin Co-Op 370 E. Main St., Blue Ridge 33 34 35 (706) 632-5425 Seasonal Bedding Plants • Seed • Feed 37 Noontootla Creek Farms 3668 Newport Rd., Blue Ridge (706) 838-0585 • (706) 781-4019 • ncfga.net Fly Fishing • Sporting Clays • Quail & Pheasant Hunting Quinn’s Greenhouse 1080 W. Tennessee Ave., McCaysville (706) 492-4219 • quinnsgreenhouse.com Seasonal Bedding Plants • Landscape Plants Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin N a tu ra l A ttra c tio n s Willow Creek Falls & Vineyard 35 Trackside Ct., Blue Ridge (706) 632-7008 • willowcreekfalls.com Special Events • Hayrides • Parties • Weddings Blairsville & Suches 2 Above 5 3 4 Stables A1 Step 696 Mauney Cir., Blairsville 6 7 8 9 10 (706) 745-9051 • astepabovestables.com Trail Boarding • Breeding • Showing • Sales 11 12Rides 15 13 • 14 16 20 ANNIE’S DREAM ALPACA FARM 17 18 19 Rocky Top Rd., Blairsville 21 22 23 24 25 (770) 503-9229 • alpacasatanniesdream.com Alpacas • Breeding 29 30 • Farm Tours by Appointment 26 27 28 Darrell and Annie Addi31 32 33 34 35 son had a dream — to share their love of ani36 37 mals with others who aren’t so lucky to live on a scenic mountain farm! The Addison family has opened their delightful 10-acre spread for visitors to experience their cute-and-cuddly alpacas up-close and personal. Currently, there are 26 alpacas in the herd. This isn’t a stand-behindthe-fence experience — visitors are invited to come inside and interact directly with these incredibly social animals. There’s also a friendly flock of chickens and ducks (and a few rambunctious goats!). Farm tours are available by appointment daily from 11 am-4 pm. Call (770) 503-9229 or (678) 997-6931 to schedule your visit! Basket Barn Nursery 77 Basket Barn Ln., Blairsville (706) 751-6187 • basketbarnlane.com Nursery • Wrought Iron Containers • Bedding Plants Buds & Butterflies Nursery & Garden Center 5483 Murphy Hwy., Blairsville (706) 745-0840 • facebook.com/budsandbutterflies Annuals • Perennials • Hanging Baskets • Bird Seed Georgia Mountain Research & Education Center 195 GA Mtn. Experiment Station Rd., Blairsville (706) 745-2655 • gmrec.uga.edu Woodland Medicine Trail • Ethnobotanical Gardens Union & Towns Counties SMALL TOWN. BIG VIEWS. Get a world away in only an hour Just an hour north of Atlanta, come explore our natural treasures: 696 First Avenue East Ellijay, GA 30540 706-635-7400 fresh-picked apples, flavorful wines, unique restaurants, quaint lodging, textural pottery, colorful paintings, frolicking horses, expansive ranches and more. They’re just a few of the reasons we say: “Gilmer’s Got It!” EXPLORE THE ELLIJAYS OF NORTH GEORGIA A ExploreTheEllijays.com / TheEllijays B GaFarmTrail.com C• 13 N a t ura l A ttra c tio n s What’s Ripe & Ready to Pick? Happy Goat Trading Co. 4903 Hwy. 515 E., Blairsville (706) 379-2123 • www.happygoattrading.com Animals & Supplies • Furniture • Restaurant • Events Late April–May: Strawberries Need a reason to pick your own strawberries? Consumer Reports says store-bought strawberries have so much pesticide and fungicide residue, that they don’t recommend you eat them! Hint: It takes 10-15 minutes to pick a quart of strawberries. June-August: Cherries Sweet cherries normally ripen in the middle of June. Sour, or tart, cherries normally ripen from mid-July through August, and are typically canned, frozen or used for cooking. Hint: Cherries have a short storage time; use them within 3 days of picking. June-September: Blueberries Pick several pints of blueberries, which can be frozen and used to make muffins, pancakes and desserts all year long. Hint: Once picked, blueberries do not continue to ripen, so choose only berries that are completely blue with no hint of red. Late Summer: Peaches The Herb Crib 6 2998 Church Rd., Blairsville 5 3 4Trackrock (706) 781-6465 • herbcrib.com 8 9 10 7 Organic Herb Farm • Heirloom Flowers • Retail Store 11 12 16 Henson 20 Rd., Blairsville 18 19 17 1338 21 22 26 27 1 31 2 32 36 15 13 14 Unity Jerae’s Alpacas (706) 889-2185 • jeraesunityalpacas.com 23 24 Farm 25 Alpaca • Farm Store 28 29 30 THE MOON ALPACA FARM LASSO 106 Agape Dr., Blairsville 33 34 35 (706) 835-1837 • alpacamoon.com Alpaca Farm • Glass & Fiber Studio • Felting Classes 37 Pappy’s Trading Post 50 Pappy’s Plaza, Blairsville (706) 745-2965 • pappystradingpost.com Homemade Jams & Jellies • Old-Fashioned Goods Payne Mountain Farms & Store 322 EV Farm Dr., Blairsville (706) 897-9435 • paynemountainfarms.com Wild Herbs & Teas • Seeds • Jewelry • Online Ordering Georgia’s favorite fruit is bursting with flavor and ready a little later in the summer. Hint: Pick your peaches with just a little “give” when gently pressed. And remember, peaches don’t ripen much after picking. July-December: Apples Starting with early season McIntosh and Galas and ending with Pink Ladies and Fujis, mountain apples are some of the tastiest to be found (and picked!). Hint: Apples ripen from the outside of the tree toward the center, so apples on the outer branches will be ready first. All Summer: Veggies Farmers markets and U-picks along the Farm Trail offer a wide variety of fruits and vegetables nearly yearround. During the summer, you’ll find plenty of ripe tomatoes, sweet corn, peppers, collard greens, green beans, potatoes, squash and watermelon. Look for asparagus and spinach earlier in the season, and pumpkins closer to fall. BJ Reece Orchards 14 • North Georgia Farm Trail Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin 6 8 9 10 12 13 14 Tree 15 Plantation Southern N a tu ra l A ttra c tio n s 11 7 Owltown 19 20Rd., Blairsville 16 2226 17 18 (706) 745-0601 • southerntreeplantation.com 22 23 24 Trees 25 21 Christmas • Hay Rides • Petting Farm 26 31 27 28 29 30 TRACKROCK STABLES 202 Trackrock Camp Rd., Blairsville 32 33 34 35 (706) 745-5252 • trackrockstables.com 36 37 • Lessons • Horse Camps • Overnight Boarding Riding 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 DID YOU KNOW? An average hen in Georgia will lay about 24 25 240 eggs per year? 33 34 35 BRASSTOWN VALLEY RESORT STABLES 6321 Hwy. 76, Young Harris 36 37 (706) 379-9900 • brasstownvalley.com Trail Rides • Hay Rides • All Abilities • Custom Excursions (20% discount on Trail Rides when you mention this ad.) Cupid Falls Farm For an adventure you won’t soon forget, saddle up with the experienced guides at Trackrock Stables. They’ll match you up with a well-trained horse — whether you’re an accomplished rider or a “greenhorn”! Children are welcome on trail rides starting at 18 months. Guides share their knowledge of horsemanship with you along the trail, which winds through a beautiful valley bordering the Chattahoochee National Forest. Take your choice of one- and two-hour guided rides as you cross clear mountain streams and canter through peaceful green meadows filled with wild turkey, deer and other wildlife. Camping and cabins are also available at adjoining Trackrock Campground & Cabins. Visit the website for information on horse camps, too! Union County Saddle Club 4630 Thomas Town Rd., Young Harris (706) 379-4179 • cupidfallsfarm.com Handmade Soaps & Lotions • Alpacas • Alpaca Products Destiny Alpacas 1952 Gibson Rd., Young Harris (706) 379-2361 • destinyalpacas.com Alpacas • Gift Shop • Alpaca Products Enota Mountain Retreat 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 21 22 23 24 26 27 28 29 31 32 33 34 36 37 1000 Hwy. 180, Hiawassee (800) 990-8869 • enota.com 16 17 18 19 Organic Farm • Cabins & Camping • Farm Animals 73 Saddle Club Dr., Blairsville (706) 745-3420 • unioncountysaddleclub.org Horse Shows • Clinics • Rodeos • Special Events Hiawassee & Young Harris Alpaca Tierra 7062 Nichols Rd., Young Harris (706) 897-4305 • alpacatierra.com Alpaca Farm • Breeding Union & Towns Counties GaFarmTrail.com • 15 Organic Artist Tree H a n d cr a f te d & H a nd mad e Ellijay & East Ellijay Gilmer Arts & Heritage Association 207 Dalton St., Ellijay (706) 635-5605 • gilmerarts.org Gallery • Gift Shop • Exhibits • Classes Green Willow Soap 52 N. Main St., Ellijay (706) 273-1250 • facebook.com/GreenWillowSoap Artisan Soaps • Sugar Scrubs • Lotions • Soy Candles Artisans, Crafters, Galleries & Guilds F rom baskets and brooms to quilts and pottery, handcrafted items once served a strictly functional purpose here in the mountains. Thankfully, the old ways live on in North Georgia, which has become a haven for talented artisans who celebrate both form and function in endlessly creative ways. Along the Trail, you’ll find not only shops and stores, but also studios and galleries where you can watch skilled artisans whittle, paint, sew, cast, weave and carve. Check GaFarmTrail.com for upcoming exhibits and arts & crafts shows, as well as links to locations. Mountain Oak Pottery Pottery available at local galleries (706) 636-5593 • facebook.com/mountainoakpottery Handmade Pottery New Ground Market 118 N. Main St., Ellijay (706) 455-3018 • newgroundmarket.com Local & Regional Food • Seasonal & Specialty Items Whistle Tree Pottery 10 N. Main St., Ellijay (706) 698-1223 • whistletreepottery.net Handmade Pottery • Classes • Parties • Gallery In a world of “me-too” items and mass-produced “stuff,” local artisans celebrate the beauty of handcrafted and handmade. Jasper & Talking Rock Ed B’s Art Barn 470 Nalley Dr., Jasper (706) 392-8753 • facebook.com/jasper.brackin Gallery • Studio • Original Art & Sculptures Pisconeri Photography Studio PO Box 339, Jasper (770) 737-2699 • pisconeri.com Gallery • Workshops The Quilt Shop on Main 29 S. Main St., Jasper (706) 692-0702 • thequiltshoponmain.com Fabric • Books • Patterns • Classes • Longarm Quilting Shadow Creek Antiques & Artisans 4525 Hwy. 136 W., Talking Rock • (404) 219-8377 Gallery • Studio Talking Rock Pottery 35 Hidden Creek Rd., Ste. 109, Jasper (706) 253-3520 • talkingrockpottery.com Gallery • Studio • Supplies • Classes • Parties Lasso the Moon Alpaca Farm 16 • North Georgia Farm Trail Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin Ain’t What It Used to Be 304 W. First St., Blue Ridge (706) 308-2787 • aintwhatitusedtobe.com Upcycled & Handcrafted Functional Art • Photography Blue Mountain Music & Gems 6 3397 E. First St., Blue Ridge 3 4 5 (706) 258-2736 • bluemountainmusicandgems.com • Jewelry Made by Local Artists 10 8 9 Gemstones 7 Artistic 11 12 1 H a nd cra f te d & H a n d m ad e Blue Ridge & McCaysville 2 13 14 15RIDGE MOUNTAINS ARTS ASSOCIATION BLUE 420 W. Main St., Blue Ridge 6 17 18 19 20 (706) 632-2144 • blueridgearts.net Art Exhibits • Arts Education • Art Supplies 23 24 •25 21 22 Gallery The Art Center is home to the 26 27 28 29 30 Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association (BRMAA), a non31 32 33 34 35 profit, member-based arts 36 37 organization providing multidisciplinary arts education, artist guilds and one of the largest gallery experiences in North Georgia. BRMAA hosts two annual arts festivals: the Spring Arts in the Park festival on Memorial Day weekend and the Fall Arts in the Park festival the 2nd weekend in October. Located in the Historic Fannin County Courthouse, The Art Center houses seven galleries, two resident artist studios, three classrooms, a dance studio, an art supply station and a kiln studio. Stop in to view the artwork, take a class or enjoy a festival — then become a member and be a part of The Art Center canvas! A B C D Country Stitches Quilt Shop 30 W. Main St., Blue Ridge (706) 632-3070 • countrystitchesinc.net Homemade Quilts • Quilt Supplies • Classes E Fishbone Gallery 723 E. Main St., Blue Ridge (706) 632-1718 • fishbonegallery.com Pottery • Dinnerware • Mosaics • Flowerpots Canoe / GawdyBobbles 624A E. Main St., Blue Ridge (706) 258-2999 • canoelook.com Handcrafted Jewelry • Designer Bags High Country Art & Antiques 715 E. Main St., Blue Ridge (706) 632-6882 • highcountryart.com Fine Art • Folk Art • Clay Sculpture • Pottery Union & Towns Counties GaFarmTrail.com • 17 H a n d cr a f te d & H a nd mad e High Country Picture Framing 491 E. Main St., Blue Ridge (706) 258-2987 • highcountrypictureframing.com Local Art • Photography 21 22 23 24 26 27 28 31 32 33 36 37 29 HI 30COUNTRY SHOPS / SHERRY O ARTS & CRAFTS / 34 35 GAIL’S GIFTS 25 1779 Murphy Hwy., Blairsville (706) 745-8868 • candlesbyjean.com Hand Carved Candles 11 3347 Hwy. 515 E., Blairsville (706) 781-4226 • facebook.com/SherryOArtsCrafts Locally Made Arts & Crafts A truly unique local shopping experience awaits you at Hi Country Shops, where owners Sherry Owenby and Gail Tipton have meticulously stocked 3,000 square feet of space with distinctive arts & crafts, country décor and charming handmade pieces from area artists and crafters. Local and regionally made items include jewelry, woodwork, pottery, artwork and “not-your-ordinary” furniture — whiskey barrel sinks and pieces made of reclaimed barnwood. There are also plenty of old tin signs, turned bowls, yard art and tea-stained sheet music. A perennially popular item is Sherry’s line of Mason Jar hanging lamps, featuring the old Edison-style incandescent light bulbs. If you’re lucky, Sherry may have some of her own creations on display (her trademark American Flag wreaths sell out almost as quickly as she can 2 make 5 Hi Country Shops also features dealer space with 3 4them). a constantly evolving assortment of treasures — from quilts to 7 8 9 10 kitchen linens and Christian art items. Whatever you do, come 12 prepared 13 14 15to browse! Ellen & Roger Gerber 16 17 21 22 26 27 Pit Rd., Blairsville 23 24 25 (706) 781-1221 • butternutcreekfestival.com Annual 28 29 Fine 30 Juried Arts & Crafts Festival 31 32 Inspire 33 34 Art 35 Studio Jerry’s Mountain Furniture 1014 Aska Rd., Blue Ridge (706) 632-6464 • jerrysmountainfurniture.com Rustic Wood Furniture • Custom Orders Multitudes Gallery / The Coop Around Us 723 E. Main St., Blue Ridge (706) 632-1718 • multitudesgallery.com Glass Art • Jewelry • Art Gallery • Garden Center Organic Artist Tree Gallery 701 E. Main St., Blue Ridge (706) 851-5616 • oatree.com Handcrafted, Sustainable, Regional & Indigenous Artwork Oyster Fine Bamboo Fly Rods 494 E. Main St., Blue Ridge (706) 374-4239 • oysterbamboo.com Hand Engraved Bamboo Fly Rods • Classes Turning Leaf — A Fine Art Gallery 651 E. Main St., Blue Ridge, GA 30513 (706) 632-6625 • turningleafwoodart.com Affordable Local, Regional & American Art & Gifts Blairsville & Suches Candles by Jean Union County Farmers Market, Stall #51, Blairsville (706) 897-1773 • [email protected] Scrimshaw Art • Garlic • Heirloom Tomatoes Essence of Rose 44 Chevy Dr., Ste. G, Blairsville • (706) 994-1497 [email protected] Homemade Soaps & Lotions Fabrics Galore & Quilting Store 1 6 36 18 19 20COUNTRY ARTISANS, INC. HIGH 279 2 3 4 Rd., 1 Riverbend 5 Blairsville • (706) 881-7771 37 facebook.com/pages/Inspire-Art-Studio/220119848002550 6 9 10• Workshops & Classes • Events 7 8Parties Painting 11 12 13 Unity 14 15Alpacas Jerae’s 19 Cobalt St., Ste. G, Blairsville (706) 745-6918 fabricsgaloreandquiltingstore.com Quilts • Fabric • Classes 16 133818Henson Rd., Blairsville 19 20 17 21 22 Alpaca 23 24Fiber 25 26 27 Nature is the inspiration for handcrafted items you’ll find along the Trail. 31 32 (Painted Gourd available at Hi Country Shops) 18 • North Georgia Farm Trail (706) 889-2185 • jeraesunityalpacas.com Products 36 28 LARDWORKS 29 30 STUDIO AT LASSO THE MOON ALPACA FARM 33 34 35 106 Agape Dr., Blairsville (706) 835-1837 • alpacamoon.com 37 Glass & Fiber • Alpaca Jewelry & Products Mountain Hope Pottery & Sculpture Various Galleries (Call to schedule a visit in Blairsville) (706) 400-2461 • mountainhopepottery.com Dinnerware • Unique Pieces • Unusual Sculptures Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin BYRON HERBERT REECE Farm and Heritage Center Freshest Photo courtesy of the AJC Discover the Cultural and Literary Legacy of Georgia’s Appalachian Poet/Novelist • Beautiful 9-acre mountain farm • 1 mile north of Vogel State Park near Blairsville on scenic Hwy. 129 • Displays of early 20th century Appalachian life, including restored barns, farm exhibits & artifacts • Mulberry Hall (Reece’s original writing studio) • Wedding & event facilities alongside Wolf Creek • Poetry & nature trails, pavilion and picnic areas • Welcome Center with museum & gift shop • Open April-November, Thursday-Saturday 10-5 & Sunday 1-5, or by special arrangement 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 8552 Gainesville Hwy. • Blairsville, (706) 745-2034 • ReeceFarm.org 21 22 23 Largest Friendliest 19 20 17 GA1830512 24 25 Union County Farmers Market — the freshest, largest and most family friendly on the Farm Trail! 30 27 Every 2 nd & 3 rd Weekend in October 28 26 29 33 34 31 at32Meeks 35 Held Park 36 37 46 Years of Fun! Live Music! Parade! Arts, crafts, exhibits, food, music, activities, square dancing, 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 BlairsvilleSorghumFestival.com 21 22 23 19 20 24 25 biscuit eating, pole climbing, log sawing, horseshoe pitching, rock throwing and, of course, sorghum mill grinding & sorghum cooking! 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 32 2 33 3 34 35 6 36 7 37 8 9 148 Old Smokey Road, Blairsville, GA 10 706.439.6043 - UCFarmersMarket.com 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 4 HO ME GROWN & HANDMADE 5 Weekly Market Days-Auctions-Trash & Treasures Special Events-Locavore Cafe North Georgia Farm Trail Area Map Ocoee River 64 Tennessee North Carolina McCaysville ur 60 Mineral Bluff Toccoa River 3 Cohutta 6 Wilderness 11 Area 7 12 16 17 21 22 26 27 8 9 10 Morganton 4 5 5 11 22 33 4 2 3 2 4 5 76 1 13 14 15 Morganton Point 9 10 66 BLUE 77 88 C9 6 10 9 10 Area 7 8 Recreation 18 RIDGE 19 20 12 14 11 15 13 12 14 11 13 11 15 Lake13 14 15 12 23 24 25 Blue Ridge 20 18 19 16 17 20 16 17 18 19 16 17 18 19 20 28 29 30 31 32 4 5 22 23 23 24 24 25 25 21 22 21 21 22 3351534 35 28 29 29 30 26 27 27 28 26 26 30 27 37 Cherry Log 34 35 32 33 33 34 31 32 35 31 31 32 36 37 37 36 36 d a Ro To Fort Mountain State4Park5 3 2 22 3 4 5 7 528 9 10 515 7 8 9 10 2 2 4 4 1 5 5 3 3 12 13 14 15 ELLIJAY 12 76 13 14 15 10East 9 820 9 10 8 719 177 618 282 17 18 19 B 20Ellijay 12 1123 14 1325 15 14 15 13 1224 22 76 1 2 6 7 11 12 16 17 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 32 33 36 37 23 24 1 2 53 d . Roa Mtn 6 7 8 9 10 19 20 16 17 18 14 2 11113 1212 4 13135 14 1515 21 22 23 24 25 10 1919 2020 7 16168 17179 1818 136 26 27 28 29 3 28Toccoa 29 30 River 6 7 8 33 34 35 4 5 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 37 18 19 20 17 18 1 21 22 23 24 25 22 23 2 26 27 28 32 33 30 27 1 28 2 2 31 29 26 34 31 33 37 7 3 36 37 12 1 Brasstown 2 16 21 35 32 6 36 11 4 1 5 2 3 16 4 5 1 17 2 3 4 5 1 10 2 6 7 8 9 610 7 8 219 22 6 7 8 9 10 14 11 12 13 14 1115 12 15 2 26 4 2 1 13 3 27 UNION COUNTY 11 12 13 d14 15 66 . 20 18 19 16 17 18 19 1620 o17 R 7 318 329 3 g6 mL 16 G17u 18 19 20 1 2 22 23 24 25 25 2111 2222 2333 24 21 YOUNG 12 14 44 55 11 36 2 13 4 3 1 3 24 HARRIS 25 6 1 7 416 1 212 223 23 Lake 26 28 2 5 4 30 5 3 29 18 19 17 10 6 2777 2888 299926130 1027 Nottely 6 129 226 327 4286 5297 308 9 1 12 11 6 6 7 14831635 9 33 31 10 22 9 35 23 876 34 24 7 10 21 12 1111 32 13 1211 33 14 15 1532 13 34 1110 12 13 14 6 9 8 7 BLAIRSVILLE 34 35 16 1117 12 32 14 11 31 13 33 37 12 15 14 429 28 15 13 3 27 2 126 18 16 17 2036 18 19 191120 16 36 17 37 16 17 18 19 14 2 11 12 1913 15 36 37 22 21 16 18D 19 16 17 432 331 20 19 9 34 33 17 20 8 21 718 5 22 23 231 24 2421625 256 21 22 16 1 17 2 18 3 1942120522 23 24 26 21 27 23 24 25 21 22 9 8 23 10 24 25 36 37 13 26 1122 12 286 29 2972130 3011 26 27 27 28 28 14 29 26 27 Tow 2510 216 22 7 238 24 9 32 S n31C 26 28 2927 30 26 27 12 14 r e30 28 ch15 2635 o29 3131 32 16 Blue Ridge Hwy. 34 32 O33 3311 34 3513 19 18 ol e19 w 34 k 32 33 313017 l12 28 2914 26 27 R t o d31 11 32 wn33 15 13 34 35 . 36 31 11 20 18 19 16 17 34 R 32 33 31 35 22 23 24 36 36 37 d 21 36 37 37 31 32 3318 .3419 3520 129 180 16 36 17 37 1 Chattahoochee National Forest 26 27 28 25 National 29 Fish 30Hatchery 31 32 33 34 36 37 35 17 3 Trackrock Gap R 515 60 25 21 22 23 36 24 37 25 28 26 27 24 25 21 3622 3723 Vogel 29 30 State28 Park32 26 27 33 31 26 27 31 180 29 28 32 33 31 32 33 36 36 37 60 Suches 34 37 30 34 36 35 35 37 19 129 Appalachian Trail Springer Mountain Yukon Road 34 6 Jone s 31 1 325 22 MacKaye 23 24 21 Benton Trail Rich Mountain Wilderness Area 22 23 24 25 20 19 20 18 1729 19 1830 17 1628 27 27 28 29 30Cartecay 22382 23 2234 25 24 25 32 52 4 2133 5 24 2335 River 32 33 34 35 1 302 k3 4 5 28 28 29 29 30 26 27 27 e 10 9 37 8 36 re rC d 36 37 ea27Roa 38 49 10 32 3133 3234 3335 3416 Cl35 31 14 5 15 13 2 3 4 5 1 12 14 11 15 13 37 36 37 6 7 8108 9 10 18 36 20 19 a Ro 5 ka As 36 16 26 26 21 31 3 31 26 d g vin Lo 2 GILMER COUNTY 21 60 1 FANNIN COUNTY 1 1 6 6 111 11 6 16 16 11 21 Sp 16 Amicalola Falls State Park 52 30 12 21 14 23 15 24 13 22 222 424 25 121 525 323 35 11 31 32 33 34 35 Talking Rock 26 30 20 29 19Road 16 17 6 18Mtn. 929 10 828 727 28 30 26 27 Burnt 21 26 31 36 37 22 1131 23 1232 24 1333 25 1434 1535 33 34 31 35 A 32 28 1736 29 1837 30 19 20 27 16 JASPER 36 37 32515 2133 2234 2335 24 25 36 2637 27 Tate28 29 30 53 34 35 31 PICKENS COUNTY 32 33 To 36 37 Atlanta Big Canoe Numbers on map denote advertiser locations. Map not to scale. Please verify hours & driving directions. 29 34 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 10 2 13 24 35 4 Hayesville 11 112 213 314 415 7 68 79 810 9 16 617 718 819 920 12 11 14 13 15 14 13 12 21 1122 1223 1324 1425 20 19 18 17 19 18 6 17 16 Lake 29 30 26 1627 1728 18 19 24 25 1 2217 23 Chatuge Rd. 6 21 31 2132 27 26 E28 2636 32 31 33 31 36 37 22 2233 29 27 2737 34 32 32 36 36 23 2334 30 28 28 35 33 33 37 37 Please Support Our Advertisers 5 5 5 10 10 64 15 15 Brasstown Bald 2Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard & Winery 23 Paradise Hills Resort & Spa 22 7M Family Farms 24 Sunrise Grocery 25Byron Herbert Reece Farm & Heritage Center 4 BJ Reece Orchards 5 Hillcrest Orchards 26 Sundance Gallery Gifts 6 Engelheim Vineyards To Rabun County 75 180 21 Logan Turnpike Mill 3 Cartecay Vineyards 20 20 24 25 TOWNS COUNTY 75 2435 25 29 30 29HIAWASSEE 30 34 35 34 35 76 1Fainting Goat Vineyards & Winery 17 75 7 The 1907 Restaurant & Bar 27Trackrock Campground & Cabins 8 Georgia Apple Festival 27 Trackrock Stables 9The Martyn House — In Towne & The Farm 28 Lasso the Moon Alpaca Farm 10 Ellijay River Vineyards 11 Toccoa Riverside Restaurant 30Olin Hughes Sorghum Syrup Mill 12 Cohutta Country Store 31 Crane Creek Vineyards 13Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association / The Art Center 32 Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa 13Blue Ridge Grocery / The Cook’s Farm / Harvest on Main / Masseria Kitchen & Bar 6 Lake 9 10 Lodge 7 8Chatuge 33 29 Hi Country Shops 2 3 4 1 Georgia 5 33 Mountain Fairgrounds 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 14 Mercier Orchards 19 20Furniture 16 Forest 17 18 Cabin 34 15 Serenberry Vineyards 22 23 24 General 25 21 Creekside 35 Store 16 Annie’s Dream Alpaca Farm 29 30 Ranch 26 Walnut 27 28 Hollow 36 17 Nelson Tractor Co. 32 33 34 31 Punkin’ 35 37 Chunkin Festival 18 Butternut Creek Festival 36 37 Wine Country Ellijay 34 35 listed separately) 32 33 31 (see wineries 18 Blairsville Sorghum Festival A 36 37 to Blue Ridge Cabin Escape Rentals (not shown on map – A visit escapetoblueridge.com) 19 The Sawmill Place A 1 12 13 14 Signature 11 Deb 15 34 Collins Gallery 20Union County Farmers Market B North GeorgiaB Farm Trail Chamber CPartners B Pickens County Chamber of Commerce (706) 692-5600 B A VisitPickens.com A Gilmer County Welcome Center (706) 635-7400 C D ExploreTheEllijays.com C B Fannin County Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau (706) D 632-5680 (800) 899-MTNS BlueRidgeMountains.com C E Blairsville-Union County Chamber of Commerce (877) 745-5789 D VisitBlairsvilleGA.com E C D owns County T Chamber of Commerce (800) 984-1543 MountainTopGA.com E H a n d cr a f te d & H a nd mad e The Mountain House 3258 Hwy. 515 E., Blairsville (706) 745-6006 • jerrysmountainfurniture.com Custom Furniture & Decor Rich Furniture & Cabinet Shop 37 Horizon Dr., Blairsville (706) 745-3548 Rustic Design Furniture Rountree’s Furniture & Décor 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 79 Rountree Cir., Blairsville (706) 745-3103 • rountreesfurniture.com Custom Design Furniture • Screen Doors 16 Sleepy Hollow Enterprises 26 5279 Hwy. 515 E., Blairsville (706) 2379-9622 1 3 4 • 5whimsicalfairygarden.com Handmade Whimsical Gnome Houses NATIONALLY-ACCLAIMED RESIDENT ARTIST 1 15 17 18 19 2 3 4 1 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 1 16 2 17 3 18 4 19 5 20 20 21 31 • RUSS COLLINS • PROFESSIONAL PICTURE FRAMER SINCE 1978 22 27 32 36 23 28 33 24 29 34 25 30 35 “Waitin’ on Mama” (Giclées Available) 706.896.1294 347 N. Main Street Hiawassee, GA 30546 www.debcollins.com . Southern Shabby Décor 6 21 37 8 7 23 22 Gainesville Hwy., Blairsville 12 28 14 11 27 13 7568 29 15 30 26 (706) 745-5877 • sunrisegrocery.com 18 Homemade 19 20 16 Foods • Local Crafts • Souvenirs 17 33 34 31 32 35 21 21 22 36 23 37 26 27 28 31 32 33 6 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 Church 11 Confidence 15 148 Rd., Blairsville (706) southernshabbydecor.com 18 19 • 20 16 17835-1848 Home Accessories • Outdoor Decor 26 22 23 24 25 27 28 29 30 SUNDANCE GALLERY GIFTS 4397 Town Creek School Rd., Blairsville 31 32 33 34 35 (706) 781-3938 • sundancegallerygifts.com Local36& American-Made Arts & Crafts 37 The works of American craftsmen and artisans is the focus at Sundance Gallery. Here, owner Julie Willer has created an amazing collection of made-in-America pottery, woodcraft, glass art, jewelry and more — with many of the items crafted right here in the North Georgia and North Carolina mountains. Gorgeous (and functional) hand-thrown pottery ranges from oversize soup mugs and mini omelet makers to colorful decorative bowls and platters. Stunning, handcrafted jewelry takes advantage of everything from recycled copper and dichroic glass to reclaimed metal from shotgun shells. Plus, you’ll find hand-fired ceramic beads and distinctive crochet jewelry, all made in Blairsville. There’s also local gourd art, socks, hats and other wearables — plus plenty of soaps, candles and other good-smelling things! Be sure to stop in the charming garden shed adjacent to the gallery, where you’ll find an incredible array of garden accessories, lawn flags, bird feeders, weather vanes and porch decor. Sundance Gallery Gifts is located across from Alexander’s store in Blairsville and is open Monday-Saturday, 10 am-6 pm. 22 • North Georgia Farm Trail 36 37 9 24 10 25 SUNRISE GROCERY 24 25 29 30 Hiawassee & Young Harris 34 35 FOREST CABIN FURNITURE 247 Big Sky Dr., Hiawassee (706) 896-1211 • forestcabinfurniture.com Rustic Cabin Furniture • Handcrafted Decor The first thing that hits you as you walk through the doors of Forest Cabin Furniture (formerly Bearwassee Furniture) is the sweet smell of freshly cut pine, red cedar and sassafras. There’s no mass produced furniture here (and “particle board” is a very bad word!). Everything is rustic and handcrafted — with many of the log beds, tables, bar stools and furnishings made just around the corner in the woodshop. The woodshop is home to gifted local craftsmen who create unique, customized selections for every room in your house (visitors are always welcome). In the store itself, you’ll enjoy the soft sounds of Bluegrass as you wander through rooms filled with handmade decor items and works from local and regional artisans — barnwood picture frames, custom screen doors and mantels, handcrafted birdhouses, chainsaw art and much more. Of course, you’ll also find a delightful assortment of bear-related decor, ranging from whimsical to fine art. Be sure to stop in during one of the monthly artist exhibits during the summer and fall. Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin 28 29 30 26 27 3 4 31 5 32 8 Hwy. 76, Young Harris 10 9 6321 36 37 3 14 Art 15 Exhibits • Gallery • Events 8 19 23 24 28 29 33 34 H a nd cra f te d & H a n d m ad e 33 34 35 BRASSTOWN VALLEY RESORT & SPA (706) 379-9900 • brasstownvalley.com 37 2 3 7 8 2 13 17 18 22 23 27 28 32 33 36 37 20 Campus Gate Art Gallery 5149 25 College St., Young Harris College, Young Harris (706) 379-5256 • yhc.edu/academics/fine-arts/campus-gate 30 Gallery of Student Artwork 35 CREEKSIDE GENERAL STORE 2955 US Hwy 76 E., Hiawassee, Ga. 30546 (706) 896-9448 • creeksidegeneralstore.com Pottery • Furniture • Home Decor • Jams & Jellies Just like a bustling general store from days gone by, Creekside General Store is bursting with just about everything a fan of homemade and handcrafted could dream of. That means hand-thrown pottery, woodturned bowls, barnwood frames, handmade knives, unique gemstone jewelry, and handmade soaps and lotions. Here, you’ll find the perfect outdoor rocking chairs, porch swings and tables — plus unique chainsaw art, whimsical birdhouses and other wood crafts. Local furniture maker David Jones’ beautifully carved screen doors add the perfect rustic touch to your home or cabin. Locally made also means 4 5 incredible things to eat! Creekside General Store doesn’t disappoint with its selection of local jams, jellies, 9 10 chow-chow and honey. In addition to all the items made locally or Creekside General Store proudly stocks a full line of 14 nearby, 15 made-in-the-USA products — Corinthian Bell Chimes, Signa19 20 ture Tumblers, Yankee Candles and more. They also have souvenirs, 24 25 T-shirts and lots of other gift items. You’ll find this delightful store just outside of Hiawassee on Hwy. 76 East. 29 34 From apples and alpacas to history and heritage, the attractions are natural here. Visit our famous Farmers Market or a fun Alpaca Farm. Saddle up at a Riding Stable or stroll an Arts & Crafts festival. Explore our fascinating History & Heritage. Whatever the attraction, your “agri-adventure” starts right here in Union County! 30 35 COLLINS SIGNATURE GALLERY DEB 347 N. Main St., Hiawassee (706) 896-1294 • debcollins.com Watercolor Gallery • Original Artwork & Gifts • Classes Mountain Regional Arts Guild/Artworks A 308 Big Sky Dr., Hiawassee (706) 896-0932 • mtnregartscraftsguild.com Gallery of 50+ Local Artists B William Holland School of Lapidary Arts C 230 Lapidary Ln., Young Harris (706) 379-2126 • lapidaryschool.org Classes • Handmade Bead, Mineral & Gem Artwork Union & Towns Counties www.VisitBlairsvilleGA.com D 877-745-5789 GaFarmTrail.com • 23 T a ble to Harvest on Main F r o m F a rm 1 6 11 16 21 26 31 Locally Sourced & Inspired Cuisine W hether you’re a hardcore “locavore” or just a slow-food aficionado, you’ll find that our area chefs firmly embrace the belief that “nearer is dearer” when it comes to sourcing their provisions. Farm-fresh foodstuffs from small, local producers form the core of the farm-to-fork experience here. In their capable hands, stone-ground grains, locally pastured meats and poultry, and sustainably grown fruits and vegetables add an unmistakable touch to classic regional dishes. It might be a bit of sourwood honey in a glaze or the kick of local apple brandy in a bread pudding. In many cases, 1 2 3 the farm-to-table experience is enhanced by unique settings in6 7 8 historically significant buildings. The best advice is to come 11 12 13 hungry — and be sure to check the GaFarmTrail.com website 16 17 18 for locations, as well as links to restaurants and stores. Jasper & Talking Rock 61 Main 3 4 5 E2 llijay & East Ellijay 7 9 10RESTAURANT & BAR 8 1907 THE 24 River St., Ellijay 12 13 14 15 (706) 276-6116 • the1907.com Upscale Dining 20 Featuring “New South” Cuisine 17 18 19 Tucked into a delightful corner of historic 22 23 24 25 downtown Ellijay, The Restaurant & 28 29 30 27 1907 Bar combines indige34 35 with 32 33 nous ingredients time-honored recipes for 36 37 a unique re-imagining of Southern cuisine. That means inspired appetizers like Local Deviled Eggs with Country Ham and Olive Oil, and lunchtime favorites such as Southern Pimento Cheese on Sourdough and a Fried Green Tomato BLT. For dinner, it’s Shrimp & Grits and Charleston Style Crab Cakes or Whole Local Mountain Trout served with charred cream corn and creamed spinach. Seasonal menus are created around what is freshly available from local farmers, beekeepers, cheese makers and craft brewers. You can enjoy a cocktail at the handcrafted bar, then head for a table inside the distinctly restored historic building — or enjoy outside dining on the patio. And if Wayne Sloop — the gregarious owner — stops by, be sure to make some time for a 1907 ghost story or two (the former pool hall and bar is 4 5 rumored to have the occasional spectral visitor). 9 10 MARTYN HOUSE – THE FARM THE 912 Flat Branch Rd., Ellijay 14 15 (706) 635-4759 • themartynhouse.com Glamping Bed & Breakfast • Farm-to-Table Dinners 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 49 S. Main St., Jasper (706) 253-7289 • 61main.com Historic Building • Sustainable Fare from Surrounding Farms Madeline’s Cafe & Bakery 1052 E. Church St., Jasper (706) 253-1052 • madelinescafebakery.com Cafe • Bakery • Gift Shop • Catering Along the Farm Trail, you’ll find beef raised on grass pastures, clear mountain stream water and fresh air!. 24 • North Georgia Farm Trail Mountain Valley Farm Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 2 3 16 4 17 5 18 19 20 7 10 23MARTYN 8 21 9 22 24 25 THE 706-632-7891 1 ToccoaRiversideRestaurant.com 6 8055 Aska Road, Blue Ridge (Open for lunch & dinner Wednesday-Sunday) 11 Black Sheep Restaurant, Bar & Patio 480 W. Main St., Blue Ridge (706) 946-3663 • blacksheepblueridge.com Locally Sourced Ingredients • Craft Beer • Full Bar Blue Ridge Brewery 6 187 4 5St., Blue Ridge 3 Depot (706) 632-6611 • blueridgebrewery.com 10 8 9 Sourced 7 Locally Ingredients • Craft Beer • Live Music 11 12 1 2 13 14 15RIDGE GROCERY BLUE 560 E. Main St., Blue Ridge 6 17 18 19 20 (706) 258-2867 • facebook.com/BlueRidgeGrocery.com Local Made Provisions • Bakery 23 24Grown, 25 21 22 Local 26 27 31 32 36 28 29 30 Fightingtown Tavern 511 E. Main St., Blue Ridge 33 34 35 (706) 946-2006 • fightingtowntavern.com Locally Sourced Ingredients • Craft Beer • Full Bar 37 Union & Towns Counties 3 4 5 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 HARVEST ON MAIN 11 26 12 27 13 28 14 MASSERIA KITCHEN & BAR 29 15 30 6 Wy., Blue Ridge 2 32 4 Roberts 5 20 3 67 18 19 16 17 34 33 31 35 (706) 946-1511 • facebook.com/masseriakitchen 9 10 8 Locally 7 36 Mediterranean & Italian Restaurant 22 23 24 Sourced 25 21 37 11 12 26 13 27 14 28 15 MERCIER ORCHARDS 29 30 26 27 28 Mountain View Orchards & Cider House Cafe 29 30 31 32 33 36 37 13 2614 27 15 28 Blue Ridge & McCaysville 2 2 576 4 Main 1 17 5 St., Blue Ridge 3 E. 20 18 19 16 (706) 946-6164 • harvestonmain.com 10 6 22 9 Sourced 8 24 7 Locally Farm-to-Fork Restaurant 23 25 21 HOUSE – IN TOWNE 131 N. Main St., Ellijay 29 30 (706) 635-5565 • themartynhouse.com/in-towne Bistro • Live Music 19 322033 Bar 34 •35 17 18 31Espresso Located in a 1940s building 22 23 24 3625 37 in historic downtown Elli29 The 30 Martyn House In 27 28 jay, Towne is an espresso bar, 32 33 34 35 bistro and photography 36 37 gallery. The coffee house is nostalgic, hip and comfy, open 7 days a week and offers free WiFi. Several times a year, The Martyn House offers special events at both locations (The Farm and In Towne), including farm-to-table dinners, concerts and other unique entertainment. T a bl e 3 to Local farm-raised Rainbow Trout, our signature dish prepared a variety of ways, including smoked on-site! 2 2 Chefs plan seasonal menus around what’s freshest and most flavorful. Casual dining overlooking the scenic Toccoa River. 1 F ro m F a rm Premier Riverfront Dining 1 8660 Blue Ridge Dr., Blue Ridge 18 33 19 20 35 16 17 31 32 (706)34632-3411 • mercier-orchards.com & Bakery • Farm Market • Farm Winery 23 Restaurant 24 25 21 22 36 37 2984 Mobile Rd., McCaysville 34 35 (706) 492-7753 Restaurant • U-Pick • Farm Market Taste of Amish 83 2 3 4Farm 1 Dunbarton 5 Rd., Blue Ridge (706) 632-8989 • tasteofamish.com 6 9 •10 Grass-Fed Seasonal Produce • Sandwiches 7 8 Beef 11 12 13 14RIVERSIDE 15 TOCCOA RESTAURANT 8055 Aska Rd., Blue Ridge 16 17 18 19 20 (706) 632-7891 • toccoariversiderestaurant.com Local • Wine & Beer • Riverside Dining 23 24 Trout 25 21 22Rainbow 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 Blairsville & Suches Appalachian Kitchens & Winery 36 37 PO Box 2285, Blairsville (706) 745-8660 • appalachiankitchens.com 2& Jellies 1 5 3 4 • Wedding Jams Favors • Corporate Gifts 10 Grill 6 7 8 9 Boondocks Bayou 583 Blue Ridge St., Blairsville 11 12 13 14 15 (706) 400-7098 • facebook.com/Boondocks.blairsville Locally Produce • Cajun & Creole Meals 18 19 20 16 17 Sourced 21 22 23 TURNPIKE 24 25 LOGAN MILL 4494 Gainesville Hwy., Blairsville 26 27 28 29 30 (800) 84-GRITS • loganturnpikemill.com Stone 33 34Grits 31 32Ground 35 • Corn Meal • Porridge • Mixes/Flour 36 37 GaFarmTrail.com • 25 11 12 13 16 17 18 The Sawmill Place 21 22 23 Discover “Destination Dining” in Blairsville 26 27 1 28 1150 Pat Haralson Dr., Blairsville 24 25 (706) 745-1250 • thesawmillplace.com 2 30 5 3 4 Southern Traditional Farm-to-Table Food 29 31 32 6 33 10 & Campground 8 9Lodge 7 35 Wildcat 34 F r o m F a rm to T a ble Spotlight on: N ow, this is what farm-to-table dining is all about! Nestled in a charming cabin just off the town square in Blairsville, The Sawmill Place is truly a destination to plan your visit around. Start your agri- adventures with a hearty, cooked- to-order breakfast using seasonal, locally-sourced goods — the farm fresh eggs and Applewood Smoked Bacon are brought in daily, and the fresh berries on your Buttermilk Pancakes probably came from around the With so many fresh goods corner at Tim Dyer’s Bluegrown right here, it only makes berry Patch. At lunch time sense for Shawn and Amy Kight (or dinner as we say in the to prepare their generational South), the experienced family dishes with foods from Sawmill staff family the local harvest. serves up an authentic meat-and-three using locally sourced meats and fresh veggies harvested on area farms — try the Pork Chops, Meatloaf, SlowCooked Roast Beef or Chicken ’n Dumplins paired with some delicious sides, including Okra & Tomatoes, Corn on the Cob, Red Skin Potatoes, Crowder Peas and, of course, Fried Green Tomatoes. The menu is harvestdriven and filled with heirloom recipes from co-owner Amy Kight’s family. “As Amy was growing up, if they didn’t grow it or catch it, they didn’t eat it!” co-owner Shawn Kight explains. “So, we’d rather source five items from 10 local growers instead of making one call to a food service truck.” 2 3 4 5 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 22 23 24 25 27 28 29 30 Made-from-scratch biscuits and hearty “meat-and-threes” are always on the menu at The Sawmill Place. 1150 Pat Haralson Dr., Blairsville (706) 745-1250 • thesawmillplace.com 26 • North Georgia Farm Trail 36 14 19 15 20 SAWMILL PLACE THE 7475 Hwy. 12 13 1460,15Suches (706) 747-1011 • wildcatsuches.com 19 20 Store • Farm-to-Table • Camping/RVs 16 Diner 17 18& Country 11 37 21 26 31 22 23 24 25 27 28 29 30 Hiawassee & Young Harris 32 33 34 35 BRASSTOWN VALLEY RESORT DINING 6321 Hwy. 76 W., Young Harris 36 37 (706) 379-9900 • brasstownvalley.com Regional Cuisine • Friday Seafood Buffet • Sunday Brunch Brother’s at Willow Ranch 6223 Hwy. 76 W., Young Harris (706) 379-1272 • brothersatwillowranch.com Local Mountain Trout • Steaks • Chicken • BBQ The Chophouse of Hiawassee 625 Hwy. 76 W., Hiawassee (706) 896-3200 • hiawasseechophouse.com Fine Dining • Steaks • Seafood • Lounge It’s a Great Time to Be a Farmer! by Michelle Moran, The Cook’s Farm / Harvest on Main These are exciting times for the American farmer. Consumers are seeking out wholesome foods and supporting local agricultural economies. Farms along the North Georgia Farm Trail are happy to open their doors to visitors. We love to teach families about how the food they eat is grown or raised, and it’s a welcome treat to share with guests what’s closest to our hearts. The farms along the Farm Trail are all so diverse. Some farms, like ours, are “hobby farms” designed to sustain our family and also provide some additional products for our restaurants. Others are full-scale producers that concentrate on one or more products, such as Holden Creek Farms in Ellijay (which produces some of the best free-range chicken I’ve ever had the pleasure of consuming). And wonderful fresh produce from Gabe’s Greens is grown in an incredible hydroponic operation at Quinn’s Greenhouse in McCaysville. I’m excited that, perhaps, we might actually be able to preserve the art of farming, and the heritage animals and crops of our forefathers — while at the same time improve our children’s health by teaching them what wholesome, real food tastes like and how it’s grown. Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin Serenberry Vineyards 1 2 3 4 GOAT 5 FAINTING VINEYARDS & WINERY aise a glass to “locally made” with a visit to one of our unique local wineries or craft breweries. Winemakers in particular are busy in the vineyards — and the tasting room — as North Georgia comes into its own as a winemaking region. In fact, a section of the Farm Trail was recently designated as the “Upper Hiwassee Highlands” American Viticultural Area (AVA) — joining such esteemed winemaking regions as Napa Valley and New York’s Finger Lakes Region. Not to be outdone, passionate local brewers are doing their part to turn our area into the next craft beer mecca. From IPAs and Amber Ales to Lagers and hard ciders, microbrew enthusiasts enjoy plenty of opportunities to quench their thirst along the Farm Trail. To plan your wine wander or beer tour, visit GaFarmTrail.com for links to our local wineries and breweries. 201 Vineyard Wy., Jasper 6 7 8 9 10 (706) 692-9463 • faintinggoatvineyardsandwinery.com Boutique 14 15 & Winery 11 12 13Vineyard Fond memories of 18 19 20 16 17 their self-sustaining farm in Ohio paved 25 21 22 23 24 the way for Dave and 28 29 30 26 27Higginbotham Robin to create their pictur31 32 33 34 35 esque vineyard and winery 36 in37the scenic mountains of North Georgia. Along with daughter McKenzie and her husband Corey Potts, the family takes seriously their stewardship of the land — embracing a simple concept of “Love people, love the earth.” From conception to crush, the grapes are gently cared for and the wines carefully handcrafted from the finest certified French vines. The result is small lots of full-bodied reds, crisp-and-fruity whites and sweet blends. As much as they love tending the vines, the folks at Fainting Goat cannot wait to share their love of wine with visitors. Here, you can enjoy a glass of wine while taking in soaring mountain views from the 50-foot veranda. Or stay inside and enjoy panoramic views from the loft or tasting bar through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Indoor and outdoor fireplaces make wine tastings at Fainting Goat perfect regardless of the season! Jasper & Talking Rock Ellijay & East Ellijay Vineyards, Wineries, & Microbreweries R 1 Sharp Mountain Vineyards 110 Rathgeb Tr., Jasper (770) 735-1210 • sharpmountainvineyards.com Handcrafted Fine Wines • Wedding Venue • Events Terrain, soil and elevation combine to give North Georgia wines a distinct “sense of place,”or terroir. Union & Towns Counties 2 3 4 5 CARTECAY VINEYARDS 11 5704 Clear Creek Rd., Ellijay 7 8 9 10 (706) 698-9463 • cartecayvineyards.com • Events • Live Music 12 Tasting 15 13 14 Barn 16 1 17 6 2 18 Pour It On Ellijay Wine Country is an association of wineries & vineyards in Gilmer & Pickens counties. Visit: ellijaywinecountry.com 4 5 MEICHTRY FAMILY VINEYARD & WINERY 3 20 CHATEAU 19 1 2 1862 Orchard Ln., Talking Rock 6 23 9 10 8 25 7 24 21 22 (404) 441-1897 • chateaumeichtry.com 4 Family 5 13 3 27 12 14 11 28 29 Owned 30 15 & Operated Vineyard & Winery • Events 26 6 7 8 31 9 10 RIVER 18 35 19 20 16 17 ELLIJAY 34 32 33 21 22 23 24 31 26 27 28 29 31 32 33 34 36 37 VINEYARDS 111 River Birch Ln., Ellijay 14 22 11 12 13 36 15 24 25 21 37 23 (770) 315-9121 • ellijayrivervineyards.com 2 Local 4 5 1 28 3 Winery 20 19 Small 16 17 18 26 29 30 27 6 25 32 9 10 8 35 7 34 ENGELHEIM VINEYARDS 33 127 Lakeview Rd., Ellijay 12 13 14 15 11 37 30 36 706-635-9463 • engelheim.com Small 18 Winery 19 20 • Tasting Room • Live Music 16 35 17Local 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 GaFarmTrail.com • 27 P o ur I t O n Blue Ridge & McCaysville Blue Ridge Brewery 187 Depot St., Blue Ridge (706) 632-6611 • blueridgebrewery.com Brew Pub • Craft Beer Brewery Blue Ridge Cellars 4 5 8 9 10 500 E. Main St., Blue Ridge (706) 946-1416 • blueridgetastingroom.com Local Wines • Tasting Events • Craft Beer 13 14 15 Fannin Brewing Company 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 13 14 15 18 19 20 23 24 25 28 29 30 33 34 35 2 3 6 7 11 12 16 1 1 6 11 16 2 7 12 17 1862 Orchard Lane | Talking 21 Rock22 2 3 4 1 706.502.1608 | chateaumeichtry.com 6 26 27 9 5704 24 Clear 25 Creek Road | Ellijay 706.698.9463 | cartecayvineyards.com 3 8 5 4 9 5 10 12 13 14 28 Out of the Blue 29 30 9 37 10 Local Wines & Beer • Growlers • Artisan Cheeses 15 8 36 11 12 13 14 10 26 27 28 29 14 15 31 32 33 34 18 19 20 36 37 22 23 24 25 27 28 29 30 19 37 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 31 32 33 34 35 7 8 9 36 37 11 12 13 16 17 21 26 15 15 MERCIER ORCHARDS 8660 Blue Ridge Dr., Blue Ridge 16 17 18 19 20 (706) 632-3411 • mercier-orchards.com 24 25Winery • Apple & Peach Wines • Hard Cider • Tastings 21 22 23 Farm 7 17 36 31 11 6 16 18 127 Lakeview Road | Ellijay 706.635.9463 | engelheim.com 7 3 32 14 6 6 1315 4 E. 5 Main St., Blue Ridge (770) 331-8870 • grumpyoldmenbrewing.com 9 10Beer Brewery • Tasting Events 8 Craft 3 27 13 1 2 2 31 12 11 1 26 8 32 Grumpy Old Men Brewing 1 10 7 31 3758 E. First St., Blue Ridge (706) 258-2762 • fanninbrewingcompany.com Craft Beer Brewery • Tasting Events Main St., Blue Ridge 4 647 5 E. 34 33 35258-2750 • outofzbleu.com (706) SERENBERRY VINEYARDS 450 Tipton Tr., Morganton 16 17 18 19 20 (706) 623-8463 • serenberryvineyards.com 30 111 River Birch Lane | Ellijay 2 3 4 | ellijayrivervineyards.com 5 770.315.9121 • Tasting Bar • Events 25 21 22 23 24 Vineyard 32 33 34 35 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 706.692.9463 24 25 26 27 28 36 37 201 Vineyard Way | Jasper faintinggoatvineyardsandwinery.com 29 30 34ve 35 32 33 fi Just an hour’s drive north of vineyards 31 Atlanta, 36 37 form the heart of Ellijay Wine Country. We invite you to come visit our vineyards, taste our fine wines and enjoy a wonderful time in the mountains of North Georgia. 28 • North Georgia Farm Trail The 30 Vine Wine Bar & Bistro 632 E. Main St., Blue Ridge 35 (706) 946-9463 • thevineofblueridge.com Local Wines & Beer • Chocolate & Wine Pairings Don’t have time for a tasting or tour? Plenty of stores and restaurants along the Trail proudly carry North Georgia wines (craft beer lovers can grab a growler to go!). Blairsville & Suches The Bearding Bottle Shop 6 Town Sq., Blairsville (706) 745-2337 • facebook.com/beardingbottleshop Local Wine & Beer Odom Springs Vineyards 637 Odom Rd., Blairsville (706) 745-3094 • odomspringsvineyards.com Farm Winery • Tastings • Events Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin 2 6 7 11 12 6 17 21 22 26 27 31 32 36 Serenberry Vineyards 3 4 5 Georgia was the first colony to cultivate grapes 8 9 10 and became the nation’s sixth largest grape 13 14 15 producer until Prohibition. 18 19 20 23 Visit Blue Ridge’s Farm Winery for a Tasting! L ooking for a chance to pause and appreciate nature’s sweet — or perhaps, dry — gifts? Serenberry Vineyards’ vines look forward to meeting you! Tucked away down an unA wine tasting is a assuming road just perfect way to try 10 miles from downa variety of wines town Blue Ridge, before buying the Serenberry’s Tasting bottles you enjoy! Room dates back to the 1920s when it stood as a barn. You can still see the original barn wood that silently connects you to a bygone past. Serenberry Vineyards offers a wide range of wines to satisfy a variety of palettes. The winery is open all year, Thursday through Sunday. Whether you choose to relax on the patio or stroll through the vineyard with a glass of your favorite wine, you can take in nature the way it was meant to be – one sip at a time! 24 25 PARADISE HILLS RESORT & SPA 366 Paradise Rd. / 129 South, Blairsville 28 29 30 (877) 745-7483 • paradisehillsresort.com Farm • Tastings • Accommodations • Spa 33 34Winery 35 The focus is on wines 37 made in the Old World tradition at Paradise Hills, where you’ll find classic varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, Traminette and Sangiovese. Owners Robert and Ilke Lander proudly released their first estate-grown vintage this year with a small-batch Chardonnel. The winery also enjoys the distinction of lying entirely within the recently designated Upper Hiwassee Highlands American Viticultural Area (AVA). But the best part of a visit to Paradise Hills is that you don’t have to leave! The Landers are happy to set out the welcome mat at any number of their charming 1-4 bedroom cabins, hot tub cabins and even pet-friendly cabins. Paradise Hills is the perfect base to taste, tour and explore the magic of North Georgia. Or, stay right where you are and enjoy the resort’s distinctive spa with a massage or spa package. Spa facilities include a steaming rock sauna and an aromatherapy lounge with light snacks and three spa treatment rooms. The Wine Shoppe 64 Bracketts Wy., Ste. 9, Blairsville • (706) 745-9463 facebook.com/pages/The-Wine-Shoppe/551262248326717 2Wine 1 5 3 &4Beer Local 6 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 15& Young Harris H11 iawassee 20 19 Shoppe 16 17 18Wine Bacchus 355 22Main 23 St., 24 Hiawassee 25 21 N. (706) 896-9947 • bacchuswineshoppe.com 28 29 30 • Wine Club • Events 26 27Wines Local & Beer 31 34 35 VINEYARDS 32 33 CREEK CRANE 916 Crane Creek Rd., Young Harris 36 37 (706) 379-1236 • cranecreekvineyards.com Tasting Room • Guest House • Culinary Events Hightower Creek Vineyards 7150 Canaan Dr., Hiawassee (706) 896-8963 • hightowercreekvineyards.com Farm Winery • Tasting Room • Live Music • Events Union & Towns Counties Pour It On 1 Spotlight on: DID YOU KNOW? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 Stop by for a tasting and have fun sipping some wine and learning the fascinating history of our area. Call or visit the website for directions, hours & events. GaFarmTrail.com • 29 P o ur I t O n Tasting Notes Cartecay Vineyards “Chimney Blush” — A semi-sweet wine of floral aromas with tropical fruit flavors. The wine’s beautiful pink amber color is a blend of Vidal Blanc (95%) and Chambourcin (5%). Perfect with: A summer salad of spinach and strawberries, or as an apéritif. Crane Creek Vineyards sits high in the mountains of North Georgia, just three miles from the quaint college town of Young Harris and in the shadow of Brasstown Bald, the state’s highest peak. It’s less than two hours from Atlanta — yet truly a world away. Stroll through our beautiful gardens and grounds. Drink in spectacular views of our vineyards and the Blue Ridge Mountains as you picnic by the pond or enjoy a leisurely lunch on the deck. And, of course, sample awardwinning wines in the historic farmhouse that is home to our charming tasting room. Crane Creek is also a delightful setting for gatherings large and small. From romantic getaways for two to intimate family celebrations to extravagant weddings, we offer a one-of-akind experience for your next special event. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 16 21 26 31 706.379.1236 [email protected] 22 23 24 25 www.CraneCreekVineyards.com 27 28 29 30 916 Crane Creek Road, Young Harris, GA 30582 32 33 34 35 37 30 •36 North Georgia Farm Trail Chateau Miechtry “Georgia Merlot” — Extended barrel aging in French oak gives this wine a nice balance. A rush of black fruit with slight hints of pepper lead way to a long-lasting finish. Perfect with: Applewood smoked chevre and crisp crackers. Crane Creek Vineyards “Enotah White” — “Une Bouché de Beurre” refers to the richness of this Chardonel vintage, which features aromas of apple and vanilla, with flavors of tropical fruit, toast, smoke and butter. Perfect with: Heavier seafood dishes, creamy pasta and gouda cheese. Engelheim Vineyards “Sweet Molly” — Floral and fruit forward, this little lady is “Bless her heart” sweet. Perfect for: A summer picnic, or just about anywhere on a perfect Southern day. Fainting Goat “Patriot” — Like the founders of our great nation, Patriot is a bold red wine. This off dry red is fuller bodied with moderate acidity for an opulent, yet velvety taste. Perfect with: A filet mignon topped with blue cheese butter and a piece of pink sea salt dark chocolate. Paradise Hills “Sunset” — Named after its beautiful color that’s reminiscent of a mountain sunset, Sunset is a medium dry, fruity blend of Vidal Blanc and Chambourcin grapes. Perfect for: Picnics (try it with ham or BBQ chicken). Serenberry Vineyards “Little House White” — If you like a balanced Chardonnay, this may be for you. With just a touch of butter, this is a relaxed style, highly drinkable wine. Perfect with: A nice salmon cooked with a fine olive oil. Ellijay River Vineyards “Seyval Blanc” — Estate-grown, this crisp summer white balances an acidic kick with distinct floral notes. Perfect for: Summer suppers of chicken, fish or other white meats. Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin Escape to Blue Ridge Cabin 166 Ames Lake Ln., Ellijay (404) 909-9303 • georgiacountryretreat.com Wooded Country Retreat Creel Lodge 165 Whitewater Falls Tr., Ellijay (404) 376-4107 • fishcreellodge.com Fishing Cabin on Mountaintown Creek S ta y A w h ile Chamomile Retreat Elatse Yi Farmstead Lodging, B&Bs and Cabins 1 2 589 Berean Church Rd., Ellijay (404) 510-3684 • ellijayhideaway.com 4 5 3 Glamping Retreat • Alpaca Farm 6 7 8 9 10 MARTYN HOUSE – THE FARM THE 912 Flat Branch Rd., Ellijay 11 12 13 14 15 (706) 635-4759 • themartynhouse.com Bed & 19 20 16 17 18 Glamping Breakfast • Farm22 23 24 25 21 to-Table Dinners ou don’t have to settle for cookie-cutter accommodations The Martyn House 28 29 30 26 27 when you travel the Farm Trail. Here, accommodations Farm is a unique 31 32 33 34 35 Bed and Breakfast can range from rustic to luxurious — and include everything 36 37 where guests stay from farmstead lodging to B&Bs, rental cabins and even in luxury sleeping upscale camping in a fully outfitted “glamping” tent! Wherever tents on 18 beautiful you stay, you’ll notice that it’s different out here. The stars are acres. Amidst the brighter ... the air is clearer ... and the sounds of city life are finest nature has to far, far away. So, go ahead and plan for a night in the country, offer, guests can experience “Glampchasing some fireflies, stargazing or just lazing away the eveing” (glamorous camping) from April 1 through December 1. ning on a porch swing. After a restful night in our crisp mounHere, luxury-in-the-wild means fine linens and gourmet tain air, you’ll be ready for even more adventures along the meals. Also be sure to visit The Martyn House In Towne — North Georgia Farm Trail. Visit GaFarmTrail.com to find an espresso bar, bistro and photography gallery in historic some unique and adventurous lodging options. downtown Ellijay. Whether you come to stay the weekend at The Farm or enjoy a cup of espresso In Towne, you can be assured it will always be a one-of-a kind magical experience. Y Jasper & Talking Rock Seventy-Four Ranch 9205 Hwy. 5 W., Jasper (706) 692-0123 • seventyfourranch.com Historic B&B • Old West Ranch • Trail Rides • Cookouts Woodbridge Inn Lodge 44 Chambers St., Jasper (706) 253-8500 • woodbridgeinn.net 18 Guest Rooms • Views • German Restaurant Ellijay & East Ellijay Bear Rock Ridge B&B 881 Fox Mountain Rd., Cherry Log (706) 273-6222 • bearrockridge.com Mountain Lodge • Soaring Views • Near Hiking & Fishing Union & Towns Counties Whitepath Lodge 987 Shenendoah Dr., Ellijay (706) 276-7199 • whitepathlodge.com Suites • Meeting Facilities • Mountain Views Blue Ridge & McCaysville 5 Star Lodge & Stables 775 Burgess Gap Rd., Morganton (888) 875-5669 • northga5starlodge.com Lodging • Retreats • Cowgirl Camps • Weddings Aska Lodge B&B 178 Calen Dr., Blue Ridge (706) 632-0178 • askalodge.net Rustic Elegance • Mountain Views • Southern Breakfast GaFarmTrail.com • 31 S ta y A w h ile Blue Ridge Inn Bed & Breakfast 477 W. First St., Blue Ridge (706) 632-0222 • blueridgeinnbandb.com Victorian Inn • Historic Residence • Full Country Breakfast Camp Skeenah Creek 20 Skeenah Gap Rd., Suches (706) 838-5500 • campskeenahcreek.webs.com Historic Mill • RV & Tent Sites • Farm House Kitchen 1 The Fernbrook Inn 174 Oak Ridge Dr., Blue Ridge (404) 272-0080 • thefernbrookinn.com 1908 Home • Small & Intimate • Gardens • Full Breakfast Firefly Fishing Lodge 2 3 6 7 11 1 12 16 6 17 8 9 10 19 B187 lairsville & Suches 21 11 22 12 23 4 5 8 9 10 2 13 3 14 4 15 5 20 13 14 24 25 15 PARADISE HILLS RESORT & SPA 366 Paradise Rd. / 129 South, Blairsville 17 18 29 19 30 20 26 16 27 28 1414 Robert Miller Ln., Mineral Bluff (706) 374-4489 • fireflyfishinglodge.com Toccoa River Frontage • Flyfishing • Hiking Trails 31 Horse Creek Stable Bed & Breakfast 574 Postell Rd., Mineral Bluff (706) 455-3060 • horsecreekstable.com Lodging • Rescue Horses & Alpacas • Weddings Toccoa House Properties 83 Riverview Circle, Blue Ridge (404) 661-4531 • toccoahouse.com Cabin Lodging • Toccoa River Fishing • Hiking Trails Lake Chatuge Lodge is convenient to u-pick orchards, farmers markets, wineries & vineyards, as well as horseback riding, golfing and fishing. Just a short stroll away, you can enjoy a farm-to-table meal at The Chophouse or a festival or event at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds & Hamilton Gardens. It’s also the perfect setting for your destination wedding! 2 3 4 Start your next agritourism adventure 6 7 at8 this peaceful retreat that features stunning 12lake 11 13 & mountain views and comfortable rooms. 9 1 16 (877) 745-7483 • paradisehillsresort.com 22 23 • 24 25 Winery • Spa Cabins Farm 33 34 35 26 36 27 37 28 29 30 TRACKROCK CAMPGROUND & CABINS 141 Trackrock Camp Rd., Blairsville 31 32 33 34 35 (706) 745-2420 • trackrock.com 95 36 Sites 37 • 1- & 2-Bedroom Cabins • Lake • Horseback Riding Family friendly camping doesn’t get any better than this — a 300-acre paradise of meadows, hayfields and woodlands bordered on three sides by the Chat tahoochee National Forest. Trackrock Campground makes a great, central “hub” for your North Georgia vacation. There are 95 level, shady campsites for tents, pop-ups and RVs of every size (pull-thru and back-in sites are available). All sites have picnic tables and fire rings. The modern bathhouses are kept spotless and are equipped with hot showers. For those who prefer not to camp, cozy, comfortable one-and two-bedroom cabins come fully furnished with kitchens and baths, covered porches and all the modern amenities including air conditioning and satellite TV. Family fun includes swimming and fishing in a 5 stocked lake, two playgrounds, many trails to walk or hike, 10 as well as hayrides and other outdoor activities nearby, in cluding tubing and whitewater rafting. You can also saddle 15 up next door at Trackrock Stables for horseback riding, rid20 ing lessons and even summer horse camps. 19 23 24 25 28 29 30 (706) 745-9337 32 33 34 35 36 37 Next to the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds 31 14 21 32 18 17 lakechatugelodge.com 21 22 (800) 613-4349 • (706) 896-5253 26 27 653 Hwy. 76, Hiawassee, GA 30546 32 • North Georgia Farm Trail TRAVEL TIP: Accommodations book up fast along the Farm Trail - especially during the summer harvest and fall leaf seasons. Your Home in the Woods B&B 143 Timber Ln., Blairsville • yourhomeinthewoods.com 5 Acres • 3 Rooms • Hearty Breakfast Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 27 28 29 30 26 Hiawassee & Young Harris 31 32 33 34 35 BRASSTOWN VALLEY RESORT & SPA 6321 Hwy. 76, Young Harris 36 37 (706) 379-9900 • brasstownvalley.com Resort • Spa • Golf • Dining • Horseback Riding Set deep in the mountains of the Chattahoochee National Forest, Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa quietly redefines the mountain getaway. The Resort is renowned for its picturesque mountain views and abundance of distinctive amenities. Saddle up at The Stables to explore miles of mountain trails on a guided horseback adventure. Tee up for championship golf on the challenging Scottish-links-style course (it was named among Golf Digest’s top places to play). Of course, you could always settle in for some serious pampering at the Cherokee-inspired Equani Spa. Brasstown Valley’s staff of recreation specialists is happy to create custom itineraries packed with adventure for your family or group — whitewater rafting, winery tours, antique shopping or even guided hikes on the resort’s 9.2 miles of wilderness trails! (Receive a 20% discount on Horseback Trail Rides when you mention this ad.) 1 2 6 9 10 Camp Rd., Hiawassee 180 8 Jarrard (762) 500-2055 • longridgecampground.com 12 13 14 15 RVs • Tent Camping • Free WiFi • Hot Showers 11 6 1 7 17 2 21 22 26 27 31 32 21 36 22 26 27 31 32 6 11 6 7 12 3 4 5 Long Ridge Campground 18 19 20 Creekfront Cabins 3 4 5 7316 Hwy.2576 E., Hiawassee 23 24 (706) • crystalriver-ranch.com 10 8 9896-5005 28 29 Cabin 30 Rental • Llama Farm • Shearing/Weaving 13 33 14 15 34 35 GEORGIA MOUNTAIN FAIRGROUNDS CAMPGROUND 18 Music 19 20Hall Rd., Hiawassee 17 1311 36 37 (706) 896-4191 23 24 25 • georgiamountainfairgrounds.com Boat Ramp • Playgrounds • Tennis Courts • WiFi • 28 29 30 Sites • Next to Fairgrounds/Auditorium Lakefront 33 34 35CHATUGE LODGE LAKE 653 Hwy. 76, Hiawassee 37 (706) 896-5253 • lakechatugelodge.com Panoramic Lake & Mountain Views • Next to Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds & Chophouse Restaurant Multiple Counties Spotlight on: Escape to Blue Ridge Plan the Perfect Vacation Escape! N orth Georgia is set against the beautiful backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. An accessible escape, the mountains are just 90 minutes from Atlanta and a day’s drive from five Southeastern states. It’s a peaceful place where starry nights still dazzle and life revolves around Cabins are simple pleasures … relaxbeautifully ing by the fire … walking appointed through the woods … with breathteaching a child to fish. taking views Cabins are selected and plenty for beauty, livability and of upscale proximity to the “Blue amenities. Ridge experience.” While the architecture, décor and location of each cabin reflects the mountain tradition, they’re hardly rustic. With stunning views and gourmet kitchens, game rooms and hot tubs, they exceed the “home away from home” concept. All Escape to Blue Ridge rentals, whether two-bedroom retreats or resort-style mansions, offer the value and convenience of a spacious, fully-furnished home versus a hotel room. Each cabin is privately owned and maintained with consistently high standards of cleanliness and comfort. “My family and I stayed at Riverwalk, and we could not have asked for a better cabin. No hotel has ever been so clean. It had everything we needed. We had a wonderful vacation and are making plans to return next summer.” S ta y A w h ile 16 The Escape to Blue Ridge Difference ✓ D iverse selection of luxury cabin rentals in several North Georgia counties (Gilmer, Fannin & Union) ✓ R eservation agents on duty 8 am-8 pm, 7 days a week ✓ D irectors of Guest Services available 24/7 ✓ 1 00% cotton linens and spa-quality towels ✓ K eyless entry systems for late arrivals and quick check-in ✓ F ree WiFi in all cabins ✓ G uest Information Guides in all cabins ✓ C oncierge Services for scheduling activities, reservations, in-cabin chef services, stocked fridge or wine tours ✓ Amenities (game rooms, hot tubs, fireplaces) in most cabins ➲ ESCAPE TO BLUE RIDGE (866) 618-2521 • escapetoblueridge.com Rental Cabins • Rustic to Upscale • Lakefront, Riverfront and Mountain View Settings • Serving Several Counties • Concierge Services Escape to Blue Ridge EscapeToBlueRidge.com | 866.618.2521 Cabin Vacations of North Georgia Union & Towns Counties See Ad Inside Front Cover GaFarmTrail.com • 33 Historic Gristmill at Meeks Park H is to ry & H e rita g e An old gristmill, recently restored in Union County, can easily be accessed via Meeks Park. Historic Train Depot 1 2 3 6 7 8 150 5 Railroad Ave., Mineral Bluff (423) 496-5006 • tsmri.org 10 9 Historic Building • Annual Ride the Rails Festival 11 12 13 14 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 24 26 27 28 29 31 32 33 34 36 37 Homesteads, Museums & Heritage 4 Historic Union County Courthouse & Mountain Life Museum On the Square & 23 School St., Blairsville (706) 745-5493 • unioncountyhistory.org Historic Buildings • Museum • Friday Night Concerts Misty Mountain Railroad 16 Misty Mountain Ln., Blairsville (706) 400-2085 • mistymountainrailroad.com Model Trains • History • Collection 61 Marble Mansion Ln., Jasper (706) 735-3122 • tatehouse.com Gallery • Studio • Original Art & Sculptures Trackrock Archaeological Area Brasstown District Ranger Station, Blairsville (706) 745-6928 • fs.usda.gov Carved Petroglyphs of Native Indian Origin Ellijay & East Ellijay Walasi-Yi Center Tabor House & Civil War Museum Fannin Historical Museum/Baugh House 411 W. First St., Blue Ridge (706) 258-2645 • [email protected] Built 1890 • Listed on National Register • Limited Hours 34 • North Georgia Farm Trail BYRON HERBERT REECE FARM & HERITAGE CENTER Meeks Park off Blue Ridge Hwy., Blairsville (706) 439-6074 • unioncountyga.gov Reconstructed Gristmill • Walking Trails • River Access Historic Tate House 241 Depot St., Blue Ridge (706) 632-8724 • brscenic.com Historic Depot • Family Train Rides • Scenic Views 25 8552 Gainesville Hwy., Blairsville 30 (706) 745-2034 • reecefarm.org Exhibits • Museum • Gift Shop • Poetry & Nature Trails 35 Historic Gristmill Jasper & Talking Rock Blue Ridge Scenic Railway 20 195 GA Mtn. Experiment Station Rd., Blairsville (706) 745-2655 • gmrec.uga.edu Botanical Gardens • Historic Cannery • Museum T Blue Ridge & McCaysville Blairsville & Suches Georgia Mountain Research & Education Center he North Georgia Farm Trail meanders through some of the state’s most historic terrain. Museums, cultural sites and living history farms preserve our rich agricultural heritage — and exhibits and artifacts bring the stories of the Cherokee and Civil War heroes to life. So, plan time on your tour to hear the history and experience life in another place and time. Before venturing out, check the GaFarmTrail.com website for events and links to locations with hours of operation. 138 Spring St., Ellijay (706) 276-1861 • facebook.com/TaborHouseCivilWarMuseum Historic Home • Museum 15 1 9710 Gainesville Hwy., Blairsville (706) 745-6095 • mountaincrossings.com 2 1937 5 3 4 Structure • Appalachian Trail • Supply Store 6 7 11 12 16 17 21 22 26 27 31 32 36 8 9 10 14 15 H13iawassee & Young Harris 18 19 20 Bald Brasstown 2941 Hwy. 23 24 25180 Spur, Hiawassee (706) 896-4137 • cfaia.org 28 29 Point 30 Highest in GA • 360° Views • Historical Exhibits 34 35 33 GEORGIA MOUNTAIN FAIRGROUNDS & HAMILTON RHODODENDRON GARDENS 37 1311 Music Hall Rd., Hiawassee (706) 896-4191 • georgiamountainfairgrounds.com Annual Festivals • Rural Life Demonstrations • Concerts • Rhododendron Festival & Greenhouse Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin Visit Our Neighbors to the North ust a two-hour drive from Atlanta, Asheville or Chattanooga, the quaint, historic town of Hayesville, NC, is seemingly worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities. Lo cated on a knoll overlooking the Hiawassee River, it has a spectacular view of the rugged Tusquittee Mountains and offers an escape for anyone wishing to enjoy nature. Lake Chatuge is a 7,000-acre mountain lake offering more than 130 miles of shoreline in Hayesville and nearby Hiawassee, GA. It’s a year-round attraction for water sports and recreation, 2 1 vacation homes and scenic beauty. There are three public docks 7 in Clay County and more than 32 species of fish — from6spotted bass to hybrid stripers. 11 12 Jackrabbit Mountain Recreation Area and Campground 16 17 includes a 2.4-mile trail offering pleasing views of Lake 21 22 Chatuge for both hikers and mountain biking enthusiasts. 26 27 Fires Creek National Wildlife Area offers a peacefully 32 scenic environment for hiking, camping, bird watching,31fish- 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 C10 N7 orth arolina Stops & Events 11 12 13 14 Evening 15 Hayesville Market: May-Sept.: Thurs. 4-8pm 16 21 26 S ta te L in e J th e The fun doesn’t stop in Georgia! Take a quick trip across the state line into North Carolina (only minutes from Hiawassee and Blairsville) for even more agritourism adventures. A c ro ss ing, rafting, kayaking and picnicking. It has more than 21,000 acres of protected forestry and a designated bear sanctuary. Leatherwood Falls, a popular picnic spot, boasts a 25-foot waterfall and a 0.7-mile loop trail. There’s also a 26-mile Rim Trail that follows the basin. The small-town charm of Hayesville is the perfect compliment to the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Visit historic downtown for fine dining, shopping in one of the many quaint shops, enjoying the local theater and regional museums, or participating in one of the many seasonal festivals. No matter what brings you to Historic Hayesville, you’ll discover why it’s Western North Carolina’s best kept secret! Hayesville Square • hayesvilleeveningmarket.com 18 19 20 17 Far Tour: June 2016 22 West 23 24 Farm 25 SouthernAppalachianFamilyFarms.com 27 28 29 30 Butts & Spuds Cook-Off Festival: May 21, 2016 3 32 Settawig 33 34 Rd., 35 Brasstown, NC • ncmtnchamber.com 4 315 811 8 9 10 36 37 WALNUT HOLLOW RANCH 1100 Carter Cove Rd., Hayesville, NC 13 14 15 (828) 389-8931 • walnuthollowranch.com 18 19 20 All-Natural Grass-Fed Beef • Farm Tours • Farm Stays • Farm-to-Table Dinners 23 24 25 Walnut Hollow Ranch is a working 28 29 30 cattle farm in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Operated 33 34 35 by Charlie Kissling, this visionary cattle operation produces high- 36 37 quality, all-natural, farm-raised, grass-fed beef and offers agritourism to the public. The Black Angus cattle are raised responsibly — with top standards — and produced 811 Settawig Rd., Brasstown, NC without hormones or antibiotics. Walnut Hollow’s progressive ncmtnchamber.com/punkin-chunkin breeding program ensures a tender, high-quality beef product. The result is the finest beef you’ll ever put on your plate. Food • Beer & Wine • Music & Entertainment The Ranch is certified by Animal Welfare, caring for the health Arts & Crafts • Activities • Face Painting and well-being of the cattle using the highest animal welfare Exhibits & Games for All Ages • Airplane Rides standards. Walnut Hollow Ranch welcomes visitors and farm stays. Farm tours are offered year-round. Charlie will personZip Line • Rock Climbing Wall • Mechanical Bull ally introduce you to his ranch and share his wealth of knowlPlus: Plenty of “Flying” Pumpkins! edge about sustainable management of productive pastures, genetics and animal husbandry. You can see the herd up-close and learn about the ranch’s safe and humane handling system. In addition, you’ll see many conservation practices used to protect the farm’s resources, water quality and environment. Walnut Hollow Ranch received the 2014 Area 1 Conservation Farm Family of the Year Award. October 17-18, 2015 Union & Towns Counties GaFarmTrail.com • 35 Blairsville Pro Rodeo H o m egr ow n H a ppening s RHODODENDRON FESTIVAL AT HAMILTON GARDENS Hiawassee • georgiamountainfairgrounds.com Spring Fest Arts & Crafts Sale Old State Farmers Market, Blue Ridge • facebook.com/pages/ Fannin-County-Fire-Explorer-Post-401/217743468415379 SPRING PLEIN AIRE FESTIVAL Downtown City Park, Blue Ridge • blueridgearts.net Taste of Blue Ridge Willow Creek Falls, Blue Ridge • humanesocietyofblueridge.org Fairs, Festivals & Seasonal Events S eems like there’s always something to celebrate along the North Georgia Farm Trail — from apple festivals and art shows to rodeos and county fairs! These are down-home affairs with tons of authentic, family friendly activities — parades, contests, rustic demonstrations and, of course, plenty of food and drink! Check the calendar on GaFarmTrail.com for dates and details. February Fire & Ice Chili Cookoff Downtown Blue Ridge • bestofblueridge.biz Sweetheart Show Young Harris • brasstownvalleyresort.com March Spring Wine Highway Weekend Multi-county • mountainwinecountry.com April May FAMILY U-FISH Mercier Orchards, Blue Ridge • mercier-orchards.com Georgia Apple Blossom Festival Craig St., East Ellijay • georgiaappleblossomfestival.com Mothers Day Show Young Harris • brasstownvalleyresort.com Mountain Wine Country Festival Multi-county • mountainwinecountry.com Spring Arts & Crafts Festival Downtown Blairsville • downtownblairsville.com SPRING ARTS IN THE PARK WEEKEND Downtown City Park, Blue Ridge • blueridgearts.net 17th Annual Butternut Creek Festival A Juried Fine Art & Craft Show • Woodwork • Jewelry • Painting • Basketry • Fabric Art • Pottery • Stained Glass • Photography • Live Demonstrations • Entertainment APPLE BLOSSOM TOURS • Delicious Food AWAKE THE GRAPES • Lots of Family Fun! Mercier Orchards, Blue Ridge • mercier-orchards.com R&A Orchards, Ellijay • randaorchards.com Serenberry Vineyards, Morganton • serenberryvineyards.com AWAKENING OF THE VINES Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay • cartecayvineyards.com Bud Break Wine Highway Weekend Multi-county • mountainwinecountry.com Easter Egg-spress Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, Blue Ridge • brscenic.com 36 • North Georgia Farm Trail Every Third Weekend in July { July 18-19, 2015: Sat & Sun: 10 AM -51PM 2} 3 4 Meeks Park in Blairsville 8 9 13 14 18 19 6 7 FREE Admission and FREE Parking! 11 12 www.butternutcreekfestival.com 16 17 22 23 21 Fannin Pickens, Gilmer, 24 H o me gro w n H a ppen in gs WHAT THE HECK’S A PECK? One peck of apples equals approximately 10-12 pounds or 32 medium apples. 1 peck = ¼ bushel, 4 pecks = 1 bushel TASTE OF ELLIJAY Downtown Ellijay • gilmerchamber.com Towns County FFA Rodeo Hwy. 76, Young Harris • townscountyagedffa.weebly.com Young Harris Spring Show Mayors Park, Young Harris • robinrobertspromotions.com June Fall Is Apple Pickin’ Time! Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee mountainwinefest.com Apple picking is one of the tastiest fall traditions here in the North Georgia Mountains. No longer just roadside stands, today our abundant apple houses offer everything from U-pick apples, hayrides, cow milking, petting farms and apple canons to homemade goodies, gifts and freshmade fried pies. Harvest dates and U-pick times vary throughout the season, so be sure to call ahead. Appalachian Wine, Jazz & Art Festival Blairsville Pro Rodeo Union Cty. Saddle Club, Blairsville • blairsvilleprorodeo.com COMMUNITY QUILT & FIBER ARTS EXHIBIT The Art Center, Blue Ridge • blueridgearts.net Glenda Gooch House Benefit Rodeo Union Cty. Saddle Club, Blairsville • unioncountysaddleclub.org KIDS FARM TO FORK CAMP The Cook’s Farm, Blue Ridge • facebook.com/TheCooksFarm AUGUST-SEPTEMBER McIntosh: Sweet/tart for eating & cooking Mountain Fling Juried Arts Show LATE AUGUST-DECEMBER YOUTH SUMMER ART CAMP MID-SEPTEMBER-MID-OCTOBER North Georgia Technical College, Blairsville • artguildstore.com The Art Center, Blue Ridge • blueridgearts.net July BUTTERNUT CREEK FESTIVAL Meeks Park, Blairsville • butternutcreekfestival.com GEORGIA MOUNTAIN FAIR Hiawassee • georgiamountainfairgrounds.com GREEN BEAN FESTIVAL Union Cty. Farmers Market, Blairsville • ucfarmersmarket.com August Gala & Red Delicious: Sweet apples for eating Jonagold: Sweet/tart apples for eating & cooking MID-SEPTEMBER-DECEMBER Golden Delicious: Sweet apples for eating & cooking LATE-SEPTEMBER-DECEMBER Rome: Sweet/tart apples for eating & cooking Mutsu/Mutzu: Large sweet/tart apples that store well EARLY OCTOBER-DECEMBER Granny Smith: Tart apples for eating & cooking Arkansas Black: Sweet/tart apples for eating & cooking ANNUAL TOMATO FESTIVAL MID-OCTOBER-DECEMBER Crane Creek Vineyards, Young Harris • cranecreekvineyards.com Stayman Winesap: Tart, tangy apples for eating & cooking Dash to the Vineyards 10K & Fun Run MID-OCTOBER-LATE DECEMBER Brasstown Valley Resort, Young Harris • active.com Gilmer County Fair Lions Club Fairgrounds, Ellijay • (706) 635-5900 Union & Towns Counties Fuji: Sweet, crunchy apples for eating LATE OCTOBER-JANUARY Pink Lady: Firm, sweet/tart apples for eating & cooking GaFarmTrail.com • 37 21 27 29 30 H o m egr ow n H a ppening s 25 28 32 33 34 35 36 37 26 31 FALL ARTS IN THE PARK Downtown City Park, Blue Ridge • blueridgearts.net Fall Fest Arts & Crafts Sale Old State Farmers Market, Blue Ridge Fall Foliage & Pumpkin Pickin’ Train Rides Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, Blue Ridge • brscenic.com Fall Hoedown Vogel State Park, Blairsville • gastateparks.org/Vogel GEORGIA APPLE FESTIVAL Lions Club Fairgrounds, Ellijay • georgiaapplefestival.org GEORGIA MARBLE FESTIVAL Lee Newton Park, Jasper • georgiamarblefestival.com GEORGIA MOUNTAIN FALL FESTIVAL Hiawassee • georgiamountainfairgrounds.com Kiwanis Rodeo Kiwanis Fairgrounds, Blue Ridge • blueridgekiwanis.org Young Harris Art Fest Mayors Park, Young Harris • robinrobertspromotions.com September APPLE U-PICK (THRU OCTOBER) Various Apple Orchards in Blue Ridge & Ellijay Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival Downtown Blue Ridge • facebook.com/BlueRidgeBluesandBBQ BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS PHOTOGRAPHERS NATIONAL JURIED PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW The Art Center, Blue Ridge • blueridgearts.net Celebrate Autumn Arts & Crafts Show North Georgia Technical College, Blairsville • artguildstore.com CRUSH FESTIVAL Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay • cartecayvineyards.com FALL PLEIN AIRE FESTIVAL Downtown City Park, Blue Ridge • blueridgearts.net Gilmer County Rodeo Saddle Club & Fairgrounds, Ellijay • gilmercountysaddleclub.com GRAPE STOMPING FESTIVAL Paradise Hills Resort, Blairsville • paradisehillsresort.com Mountain Heritage Festival On the Square in Blairsville • unioncountyhistory.org Mountain Music and Arts & Craft Festival Vogel State Park, Blairsville • gastateparks.org/Vogel Ride the Rails Festival Historic Train Depot, Mineral Bluff • tsmri.org October APPLE ARTS ON THE SQUARE Downtown Ellijay • gilmerchamber.com 38 • North Georgia Farm Trail HARVEST FESTIVAL Crane Creek Vineyards, Young Harris • cranecreekvineyards.com Heritage Days Festival Talking Rock • talkingrockga.com Indian Summer Festival Woody Gap School, Suches • suches.com/festival.htm SCARECROW INVASION Downtown Ellijay • gilmerchamber.com SORGHUM FESTIVAL Meeks Park, Blairsville • blairsvillesorghumfestival.com Vogel Fall Festival Vogel State Park, Blairsville • gastateparks.org/Vogel November Brasstown Holiday Show Young Harris • brasstownvalleyresort.com HOLIDAY ART SHOW & SALE The Art Center, Blue Ridge • blueridgearts.net Light Up Blue Ridge Downtown Blue Ridge • lightupblueridge.info LIGHT UP ELLIJAY Downtown Ellijay • gilmerchamber.com Mistletoe Market North Georgia Technical College, Blairsville • artguildstore.com Santa Express & Night Trains to Santa’s Pavilion Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, Blue Ridge • brscenic.com December KRIS KRINGLE MARKET Union Cty. Farmers Market, Blairsville • ucfarmersmarket.com Mountain Country Christmas Tour of Homes Towns County • mountaintopga.com Winter Wine Highway Weekend Multi-county • mountainwinecountry.com Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin LET YOUR AGRITOURISM ADVENTURE BEGIN … in Young Harris & Hiawassee, Georgia HIKING • BOATING • FISHING • GOLFING ALPACA FARMS • HORSEBACK RIDING VINEYARDS & WINERIES • FARM MARKETS FARM-TO-TABLE DINING • FESTIVALS ANTIQUES • ART GALLERIES • WATERFALLS RESORTS & SPAS • HOTELS • CABINS A LODGES • B&BS • CAMPING B C D E 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 MountainTopGA.com MountainTopGA.com || 800.984.1543 800.984.1543 H o m e g r ow n & H a n d cr a f t e d B L U E R I D G E G E O R G I A U-Pick Season! 3 4 5 8 9 10 13 14 15 18 19 23 24 28 29 33 34 37 April Blossom Tours May Strawberries June Peaches June Cherries July Blueberries July Blackberries Aug Apples Sept Apples Oct Apples Breakfast Lunch & Dinner Family Fun Subject to availability: Please call for details. You can check us out on Facebook & visit our website for most current ripening dates! Hard Cider Tasting Room Bakery 706-632-3411 We’re Open All Year! Shop Online at Mercier-Orchards.com 20 25 30 35 h 5 Nort s: s r e v o ie C count Georgia s, Gilmer, Picken , Union Fannin wns & To Farmers Markets • U-Pick Farms & Orchards Working Ranches • Farm-to-Table Dining Vineyards & Wineries • Arts & Crafts • Festivals G a Fa r m T r a i l . c o m