169952_1

Tale of Two Trains

Mon, 04 May 2026 15:08:26 GMT

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway: A Journey Along the Toccoa River

Departing from the charming mountain town of Blue Ridge, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway takes passengers on a relaxing ride alongside the picturesque Toccoa River. This 26-mile round-trip journey lasts about four hours and includes a two-hour layover in McCaysville, which sits directly across from Copperhill.

During your stop, you can enjoy lunch, browse local shops, and even walk across the famous “Blue Line,” where you can literally stand in two states at once —one foot in Georgia and the other in Tennessee.

Passengers can choose from indoor climate-controlled cars, open-air railcars, or upgraded Premier Class seating. The experience is especially popular in the fall, when vibrant foliage transforms the landscape. In fact, this ride has been recognized by Southern Living as one of the top ways to experience fall color in the region.

Seasonal excursions add even more charm, including fall foliage rides, holiday-themed Santa trains, and special event departures throughout the year.

Hiwassee Loop: A Rail Journey Through a Mountain Gorge

For a more immersive, continuous rail experience, the Hiwassee Loop offers one of the most scenic train rides in the Southeast. This 50-mile round-trip यात्रा through the Hiwassee River Gorge departs from Delano and lasts approximately 4.5 hours .

Unlike the Blue Ridge excursion, this journey has no layover , allowing guests to fully relax and take in the ever-changing scenery. The highlight of the trip is the famous Hiwassee Loop itself—an impressive engineering feat where the train spirals upward and crosses over its own track near Farner.

As the train winds through the gorge, you’ll be treated to sweeping river views, dense forests, historic bridges, and panoramic mountain backdrops. Comfortable vintage railcars and engaging onboard narration enhance the experience, making it a favorite for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a slower-paced adventure.

This historic route once served as part of the Louisville & Nashville Railroad line connecting Etowah to Marietta, adding a rich sense of history to the journey.

Which Train Will You Choose?

Both experiences offer something special:

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway : Perfect for families and those who enjoy a mix of train travel and small-town exploration.
Hiwassee Loop : Ideal for travelers who want uninterrupted scenery and a deeper immersion into the natural landscape.

Whether you prefer strolling through a quaint mountain town or relaxing as dramatic scenery unfolds outside your window, these two rail adventures showcase the very best of the North Georgia and Tennessee mountains—one unforgettable mile at a time.

Vogel State Park

Mon, 04 May 2026 15:02:01 GMT

Nestled at the base of Blood Mountain within the Chattahoochee National Forest, Vogel State Park is one of Georgia’s oldest and most beloved outdoor destinations. Located just 11 miles south of Blairsville via U.S. Hwy 19-129, this 233-acre park offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, outdoor adventure, and rich history.

Getting There: A Scenic Mountain Drive

One of the highlights of visiting Vogel is the journey itself. If you’re coming from the south, you’ll pass through Neel Gap, a breathtaking mountain pass near Brasstown Bald—the highest point in Georgia. The drive alone sets the tone for an unforgettable mountain getaway.

Outdoor Adventures for Every Traveler

Hiking & Backpacking

Vogel State Park is a hiker’s paradise, offering trails for all skill levels:

Bear Hair Gap Loop (4 miles): A moderate favorite with stunning mountain views
Lake Trahlyta Trail: An easy, scenic loop leading to the beautiful Trahlyta Falls
Coosa Backcountry Trail (13 miles): A challenging trek for experienced hikers seeking solitude

Lake Activities & Family Fun

At the heart of the park lies a peaceful 22-acre lake perfect for relaxing or playing:

Fishing and non-motorized boating
Pedal boat rentals
A seasonal swimming beach with mountain views
Miniature golf for family-friendly fun

Whether you’re paddling across the water or enjoying a picnic lakeside, Vogel makes it easy to slow down and soak in the scenery.

Stay Overnight in the Mountains

Extend your stay and fully experience the park with a variety of accommodations:

Cozy cottages tucked into the forest
Developed campsites for tents and RVs
Primitive backpacking sites for a more rugged adventure

A Park Rich in History

Vogel State Park isn’t just about outdoor recreation—it’s also steeped in history. Many of its original structures were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression. Known as the “CCC Boys,” these workers helped shape the park into what it is today. You can learn more about their legacy at the park’s seasonal CCC museum.

Why Visit in the Fall?

While Vogel is beautiful year-round, fall is when it truly shines. The surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains burst into vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, making it one of the most popular leaf-peeping destinations in Georgia.

Plan Your Visit

Address: 405 Vogel State Park Rd, Blairsville, GA 30512
Phone: 706-745-2628
Toll-Free: 800-864-7275

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls, paddling across a mountain lake, or simply enjoying the crisp mountain air, Vogel State Park delivers an unforgettable North Georgia experience. Its mix of natural beauty, accessibility, and history makes it a must-visit destination for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Looking to turn your visit into a full mountain getaway? Pair your trip with a nearby cabin stay and enjoy the best of both comfort and adventure.

Hiking to Abrams Falls in the Great Smoky Mountains

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:40:37 GMT

Abrams Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and a must-visit destination for outdoor lovers exploring the Smokies. Located near Townsend in the scenic Cades Cove area, this stunning waterfall is known for its powerful flow, beautiful forest surroundings, and rewarding hiking trail.

Although the waterfall itself is only about 20 feet high, what makes hiking in Abrams Falls so impressive is the sheer volume of water rushing over the rocks into a deep, picturesque pool below. The pool is one of the most photographed spots in the park, creating the perfect backdrop for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Abrams Falls Trail Hiking Details

The Abrams Falls Trail is a 5-mile round-trip out-and-back hike that begins from the Cades Cove Loop Road. The trail is considered moderate in difficulty, featuring rocky terrain, tree roots, and several ridges along the way. Most hikers complete the trek in about 3 to 4 hours, depending on pace and trail conditions.

As you hike, the trail follows beautiful Abrams Creek, winding through pine-oak forests and towering hemlock trees. The peaceful sounds of rushing water and the shaded forest make the journey just as enjoyable as the destination itself.

Important Safety Tips

While the waterfall’s pool may look inviting, swimming at Abrams Falls is strongly discouraged. Slippery rocks and a dangerous undertow have made this area one of the most hazardous swimming spots in the park.

Visitors should also keep in mind that a valid parking tag is required for any vehicle parked longer than 15 minutes inside the national park. Pets, including dogs, are not allowed on the Abrams Falls Trail.

If you're visiting during the warmer months, note that the Cades Cove Loop Road is closed to motor vehicles on Wednesdays from early May through late September, allowing access only for cyclists and pedestrians.

How to Get There

The Abrams Falls trailhead is located about 5 miles into the one-way Cades Cove Loop Road. After crossing Abrams Creek, visitors will turn right onto a gravel road leading to a large parking area where the hike begins.

Whether you're planning a peaceful day hike or adding another waterfall adventure to your Smoky Mountain vacation, Abrams Falls offers one of the most memorable hiking experiences in the region. Its combination of scenic beauty, forest trails, and iconic waterfall views makes it one of the top hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Where to Stay

Stay in one of our beautiful North Georgia mountain cabins .

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: America’s Most Visited National Park

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 16:44:43 GMT

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: America’s Most Visited National Park

America’s most visited national park, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is the perfect destination for travelers seeking breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventure, and rich Appalachian history. Straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, this iconic park offers a diverse landscape of ancient mountains, lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.

Why Visit the Great Smoky Mountains?

Established in 1934 and dedicated by Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1940, the park protects one of the oldest mountain ranges on Earth. Often called “the Smokies” due to the natural blue mist that hangs over the peaks, the region is globally recognized for its incredible biodiversity and scenic beauty.

With more than 12 million visitors annually, it consistently ranks as the most visited national park in the United States. Visitors come year-round to hike, camp, explore historic sites, and experience the unique culture of Southern Appalachia.

Top Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains

�� Hiking & Scenic Views

The park features over 800 miles of trails, including a portion of the famous Appalachian Trail. Popular hikes lead to stunning viewpoints like Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome), Mount Le Conte, and Mount Guyot—some of the highest peaks in eastern North America.

�� Waterfalls & Natural Beauty

Waterfalls are one of the park’s biggest draws, with favorites like Laurel Falls, Rainbow Falls, Abrams Falls, Grotto Falls, and Mingo Falls attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. These scenic spots are perfect for photography, short hikes, and cooling off in warmer months.

�� Wildlife & Wildflowers

The Smokies are home to one of the most diverse ecosystems in North America. Visitors may spot black bears, elk, deer, and over 200 species of birds. In spring and summer, the park bursts with vibrant wildflowers, while early summer brings the magical synchronous firefly displays.

Park Layout & Visitor Access

The park spans over 522,000 acres, making it one of the largest protected areas in the eastern U.S. Key visitor centers include:

Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg
Oconaluftee Visitor Center near Cherokee

The main route through the park is U.S. Highway 441 (Newfound Gap Road), offering easy access to scenic overlooks, trailheads, and historic areas.

History, Culture & Recognition

The park preserves nearly 80 historic structures, offering a glimpse into early Appalachian life. It also holds global recognition as both a UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 1983) and an International Biosphere Reserve.

Nearby Attractions & Local Tourism

The Smoky Mountains anchor a thriving tourism industry, especially in Sevier County, Tennessee. Popular nearby attractions include:

Dollywood
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
Ober Mountain

Tourism in the region generates over $2.5 billion annually, making it one of the most important travel destinations in the Southeast.

Plan Your Smoky Mountains Getaway

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a scenic escape, Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers something for everyone. From hiking and waterfalls to wildlife and rich cultural history, it’s no surprise this park continues to captivate millions of visitors each year.

Pro Tip:

Book your cabin early —especially during peak seasons like fall foliage and summer—to secure the best views and availability.

Make the most of the season by following these simple guidelines

tech@hostaway.com — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 01:41:48 GMT

The new season is a great reason to make and keep resolutions. Whether it’s eating right or cleaning out the garage, here are some tips for making and keeping resolutions.

Make a list

Lists are great ways to stay on track. Write down some big things you want to accomplish and some smaller things, too.

Check the list regularly

Don’t forget to check in and see how you’re doing. Just because you don’t achieve the big goals right away doesn’t mean you’re not making progress.

Reward yourself

When you succeed in achieving a goal, be it a big one or a small one, make sure to pat yourself on the back.

Think positively

Positive thinking is a major factor in success. So instead of mulling over things that didn’t go quite right, remind yourself of things that did.

Book a Cabin

Book one of our beautiful mountain cabins early, especially during busy seasons like fall.