Our recent trip to Blue Ridge, Georgia revealed more pleasant surprises than we could have imagined. We found this quintessential southern town near the Georgia/Tennessee border to be brimming with life and hospitality.
Initially, the reason for visiting Blue Ridge was to pick up our daughter at the summit of Springer Mountain. She thru hiked the ENTIRE Appalachian Trail (2200 miles) and this would be the culminating destination.
After spending three days in the area, we all agreed that a return visit needs to be scheduled. There are so many options for entertainment, and it is always changing based on the season.
Lodging in Blue Ridge, Georgia
Grey Station Bungalow
Our AirBnb, Grey Station Bungalow, was perfect. Originally a Trailways Bus Station from the 1950s, it has now been turned into an adorable two-bedroom home with all the amenities needed. Deep interior window wells and a cozy front porch are some of the architectural bits that remain.
The home is fully furnished with kitchen ware, linens, hot drinks, snacks, toiletries, and laundry needs. The owners have gone above and beyond to make a person’s stay extra comfortable.
Being able to walk downtown from the bungalow is super convenient. The home is located just a few blocks away from all the main restaurants and commerce.
For the architectural history buffs, a beautiful stone building sits right next door and is currently used as the town’s police station. It looks like it came straight from England.
Where to Go in Blue Ridge, Georgia
Main Street(s) – yes, plural!
Blue Ridge, Georgia sets itself apart by how it was structured historically. For decades, the railroad was the main hub for transportation and commerce. This town took the railroad tracks and optimized their location by making TWO Main Streets – one on both sides of the tracks. You will find West Main Street full of businesses along with an East Main Street sporting the same.
The old train depot still stands in the middle and scenic train rides are offered throughout the year. You can also rent a four-seater rail bike to take on a leisurely stroll along the track. We didn’t have time to do either on our trip, but we hope to the next time we come back.
Blue Ridge has a great downtown for all interests. We were able to spend a few hours popping in and out of some of the shops but didn’t even make it to half of them.
How’s this list for fulfilling a quintessential checklist:
- Used and antiquated book store
- Art gallery selling local artists’ artwork
- Pinball arcade – you can play all day!
- Vinyl record store
- Antique Mall
- Ice cream
- Toy store
- The old corner gas station has even been repurposed selling novelty items for cats and dogs.
Coffee
There is no shortage of coffee in Blue Ridge, Georgia. That in itself is a great reason it visit, right?
Mountain Mama’s Coffee Lounge
Mountain Mama’s is a cup of coziness and deliciousness all served up together. If you only have time for one cup of Joe during your visit, this is the place you’ll want to visit.
Moe, the owner, was taught by some of the best baristas while working at coffee shops in Hawaii, England and France. Back in Blue Ridge, she decided to open her own coffee shop and share her knowledge and talent with all who enter. The syrups are hand crafted and seasonal menu items let you explore new flavors you might not have thought to combine.
The space itself is so inviting. Amongst the array of potted plants, there are comfy couches, communal tables and the most popular spot, the chairs next to the fireplace. If an outdoor seat is your jive, the front porch, along with the screened in back porch, welcomes you.
Local coffee shops are notorious for being a collaborative entity within the community. Mountain Mama’s is no different. Their food is sourced daily from Folk Collaborative, a local business. Local artists also have various items for sale inside the shop. Depending on the season, you might find poetry readings, yoga classes or other entertainment in conjunction with community members. It truly is a space for all.
Mountain Mama’s Coffee Lounge 477 W First St. Blue Ridge, GA If you have trouble finding it according to your GPS, know that it is behind Southern Charm.
Das Kaffee Haus
This cute little coffee house is across the tracks from Mountain Mama’s. There’s not much seating but it’s a great option for yummy drinks and pastries on the go.
Das Kaffee Haus 612 E. Main St. Blue Ridge, GA
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth in Blue Ridge, Georgia
The Sweet Shoppe of the South
Speaking of yummy treats, a must-stop is The Sweet Shoppe of the South. Knowing they were Season 6 winners on the Food Network’s Cupcake Wars might be reason enough to grab a cupcake (or six). If not, the pictures of their delicious pastries should.
During our visit, we had the pleasure of meeting Susan, one of the owners. She was able to share some great stories about their journey. Growing up, her mother was always baking for the family and for the community. Their home was notorious for smelling like freshly baked batter. Susan’s mother, now 92, was so proud as she watched her recipe receive top honors on national television during the 2012 Cupcake Wars episode.
When I say they offer the most delicious chocolate chip cookies and tiramisu I’ve ever had, it’s no exaggeration. I purchased a chocolate lava cake for my daughter as a surprise at the end of the AT trail. My husband nor I got a bite but for the speed it went down, I’m confident saying it was phenomenal as well.
The Sweet Shoppe of the South 721 E. Main St. Blue Ridge, GA
Restaurants in Blue Ridge
Black Sheep Restaurant
Finishing a 2200 mile hike meant two things. One, it calls for celebration. Two, the hiker is ready for a delicious hearty meal. The Black Sheep Restaurant was recommended by several locals and they also advised us to make reservations in advance.
The restaurant is located inside a historic 1914 home with an enclosed outdoor dining area for extra seating. Heat lamps and a large fire pit provide added warmth for those evenings that actually get chilly in the south.
Although the menu items are nothing unfamiliar (salmon, meatloaf, shrimp), it’s the fresh ingredients and style they are prepared that sets this restaurant apart.
Our waitress was so very hospitable, and she helped to make our celebration even more special.
Black Sheep Restaurant 480 W. Main St. Blue Ridge, GA
Getting to Springer Mountain from Blue Ridge, Georgia
Springer Mountain
One thing we quickly learned when traversing around this part of Georgia was that one mile didn’t always equate to one minute and cell service can be sketchy. Therefore, allow extra time and always have a map.
Springer Mountain is roughly 25 miles south of Blue Ridge. That being said, it will take you about an hour to get to the trailhead parking lot because of both the winding terrain and gravel roads.
Fortunately, I had stopped in the Visitors Bureau ahead of time. They have multiple brochures and maps which give turn by turn directions for remote attractions in the area.
As an additional resource, I’ve added them here.
From Blue Ridge, take Aska Rd., 13.5 miles until it dead ends into Newport Road. Turn right on Newport Road, go 4.5 miles until it dead ends into Doublehead Gap. Turn right on Doublehead Gap and go 2 miles to FS road 42 (on the left). {There will be a sign but it can be easy to miss} Turn left and go approximately 6.5 to 7 miles to parking area on your left. From the parking lot, take the trail back across the road for a short .9 mile hike to the summit.
Hiking to Springer Mountain
The hike obviously goes uphill but it’s relatively gradual. The terrain is rocky. Once you get to the summit, you’ll find two plaques pertaining to the Appalachian Trail. This is the starting/ending point of the south depending on which direction you’re heading.
You can continue hiking the Approach Trail for 8.5 miles which will take you to Amicalola Falls. This would be an out and back hike, so be prepared for 19 miles.
Having the parking lot so close to the trailhead allowed us to hike the last mile with our daughter. It took her 5 months and 17 days to complete the entire trek. We are beyond proud and amazed by her accomplishment!
Waterfalls near Blue Ridge, Georgia
Amicalola Falls
If you love waterfalls, you’re going to love this 729’ beauty. Amicalola Falls is the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi.
If you want to hike from the Visitor Center, it will take you uphill a little over a mile. A second option is to continue driving up the road from the Visitor Center to a small parking lot. From there, your walk to the waterfall will be roughly a quarter of a mile. Be sure to check out the huge lodge on the ridge line!
Although the waterfall is only a few miles from Springer Mountain as the crow flies, the winding dirt roads result in a drive that takes almost an hour.
Extras In and Around Blue Ridge, Georgia
A quick 15-minute drive north will bring you to McCaysville. This is where the train will take you if you opt for one of the scenic rides. Once in town, you are able to exit the train to go grab a bite to eat and/or explore the town. McCaysville is not as large as Blue Ridge, but it does have some pretty cute shops. I’m sure it’s no surprise, but my favorite is the corner store selling coffee, tea, and plants. I could sit in there for hours! Across the street you’ll find a huge variety of flies and a flyfishing charter. Bucket list item for sure.
So, what started out as a quick trip to Georgia to pick up our daughter turned into quite a wonderful three-day experience. I heard someone compare Blue Ridge to Gatlinburg. I hope this cute little town never gets commercialized like that as it would lose so much of its charm. As for now, you can rest assured knowing that all the good stuff is here waiting for you.
Opening Your Own Airbnb
Have you ever thought about opening your own Airbnb? I’ve stayed in a wide variety of them and own/manage one myself. If you have questions about getting started, I’m happy to help you through the process. By using my Airbnb referral code, you will receive a cash back bonus after your first booking! Thank you in advance. You can reach out to me via email at bountifulblessingstravelblog@yahoo.com.
