First-Time Cabin Getaway Guide: What to Know Before You Go

Cabin Rental vs Hotel Stay

If you’re planning a trip to Blue Ridge, one destination you won’t want to miss is Mercier Orchards . Known as one of the largest and most beloved orchards in the Southeast, Mercier Orchards has been a family-owned staple in the North Georgia Mountains for generations, offering visitors a true taste of local flavor and tradition. A Year-Round Destination No matter the season, there’s always something happening at Mercier Orchards. In the spring, the orchard comes alive with blooming apple trees and fresh strawberries ready for picking. Summer brings a bounty of cherries, blueberries, and juicy peaches, perfect for a sunny day outing. Fall is arguably the most popular time to visit, as the mountains burst into vibrant color and the orchard welcomes guests for apple and pumpkin picking. And during the winter months, the orchard transforms into a festive holiday destination, complete with seasonal markets and special visits from Santa. Taste the Flavors of North Georgia One of the highlights of any visit is the tasting room, where you can sample a wide variety of fresh apples, homemade jams, jellies, and locally crafted ciders. The market also features regional favorites like fresh-baked bread, local cheeses, and other gourmet treats—perfect for snacking or taking a piece of Blue Ridge home with you. Explore the Orchard For a deeper look into the orchard’s history and daily operations, hop on a guided wagon tour. Led by knowledgeable staff, these tours take you through the scenic property while sharing insights into how the orchard grows and harvests its crops. It’s an engaging and educational experience that both kids and adults will enjoy. Don’t Leave Without a Fried Pie Before you head out, make a stop at the country store—home to one of Mercier’s most famous treats: their fried pies. Available in flavors like apple, peach, and blueberry, these warm, flaky desserts are a must-try and a perfect way to end your visit. Plan Your Visit Whether you’re picking fresh fruit, enjoying a wagon ride, or simply soaking in the mountain views, Mercier Orchards offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. It’s the perfect place to spend a relaxing day with family and friends while enjoying the best of what the North Georgia Mountains have to offer. Add it to your Blue Ridge itinerary—you’ll be glad you did

If you’re dreaming of a golf getaway surrounded by mountain views, fresh air, and scenic fairways, the Northeast Georgia Mountains deliver in a big way. This region is a true golfer’s retreat, offering a mix of championship courses, hidden gems, and unforgettable landscapes that make every round feel like a vacation. Championship & Resort Golf Experiences Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa is one of the most celebrated courses in the region—and for good reason. This 18-hole championship course winds through rolling hills, lush valleys, and water features, all set against a stunning mountain backdrop. Designed by Denis Griffiths, it consistently ranks among Georgia’s top public courses. With a full-service spa, dining, and lodging on-site, it’s perfect for a complete golf getaway. In Helen, Valhalla Resort Hotel & Golf Club offers a more refined, European-inspired experience. This semi-private course features dramatic elevation changes, scenic vistas, and a challenging layout designed by Bill Bergin. Paired with upscale accommodations and amenities, it’s ideal for golfers looking to combine luxury with play. Scenic Mountain Favorites Old Toccoa Farm is a standout for both its design and views. Also crafted by Bill Bergin, this semi-private course showcases rolling terrain, pristine greens, and panoramic mountain scenery that makes every hole memorable. Over in Ellijay, Whitepath Golf Club offers a fun yet challenging round for golfers of all skill levels. Designed by Rocky Roquemore, the course features tree-lined fairways, water hazards, and beautiful North Georgia vistas. Meanwhile, Butternut Creek Golf Course delivers a classic mountain golf experience. Known for its rolling fairways and fast greens, this public course provides both scenic beauty and a satisfying challenge. A Hidden Gem Across the State Line Copper Basin Golf Course is a laid-back, family-friendly course with deep roots in the region, dating back to the 1920s. Located at 5765 US-64 in Copperhill, Tennessee , this 9-hole public course offers a relaxed atmosphere paired with scenic mountain surroundings—perfect for golfers of all ages and skill levels. Course Details: Flexible Layout: Two sets of tees allow for a full 18-hole experience Greens: Elevated bent grass greens that add a fun challenge Fairways: Bermuda grass with select sand traps and no water hazards Difficulty: Ideal for both beginners and experienced players On-Site Amenities: Swimming pool for a refreshing break after your round Pro shop stocked with golf gear and apparel Practice facilities including a driving range and putting greens 📍 Location: 5765 US-64, Copperhill, TN 37317 📞 Phone: (423) 496-3579 Its convenient location near the Georgia border makes it a perfect addition to any North Georgia golf itinerary—especially when paired with a visit to nearby McCaysville. Stay & Play in the North Georgia Mountains To make the most of your golf getaway, stay with Mountain Escapes Properties, where you’ll find a wide selection of cabin rentals near many of these top courses. Whether you’re planning a weekend golf trip or a full mountain retreat, having a comfortable cabin to unwind in after a day on the course makes all the difference. Plan Your Perfect Golf Getaway From championship resort courses to relaxed local favorites, the Northeast Georgia Mountains and Copper Basin area truly offer something for every golfer. Add in the region’s mild climate, breathtaking scenery, and endless outdoor activities, and it’s easy to see why this area is considered a golfer’s paradise. Pack your clubs, book your tee times, and get ready to experience mountain golf at its finest.

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway: A Journey Along the Toccoa River

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.

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