Things To Do

Coosawattee River Resort

Best time to visit: Year-round

Tubing

Lazy float down the Coosawattee River with tubes, sunshine, and mountain views—cool water, gentle current, and pure North Georgia relaxation.

Fishing

Cast a line in the Coosawattee River for bass and bream—clear water, quiet bends, and mountain views make for a peaceful fishing escape.

Playground

Riverfront playground along the Coosawattee with shaded seating, open green space, and easy water access—perfect for families to relax and play.

Indoor Pool

Indoor heated pool at Coosawattee—year-round swimming with mountain views, perfect for relaxing laps or family fun on any weather day. (Must Drive)

Riverside Pool

Riverside pool just a short walk away—cool off, relax poolside, and enjoy easy access to water and sunshine steps from the cabin.

Dog Park

Dog park within walking distance—open space for pups to run, play, and burn energy while you enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Kids Arcade

Indoor arcade nearby with classic games and family fun—perfect for a rainy day break or a little friendly competition. (Must Drive)

Fitness Center

Fitness center nearby with cardio and strength equipment—stay active and energized while enjoying your mountain getaway. (Must Drive)

Outdoor Activities

Enjoy nearby pickleball, tennis, basketball, and mini golf—easy, walkable fun for friendly games and active afternoons. (Must Drive)

Ellijay, GA

Best time to visit: September–November

Book ahead in October—leaf season sells out.

Downtown Ellijay

Stroll the historic square filled with antique shops, charming boutiques, cozy coffee houses, and locally loved restaurants.

B.J. Reece Orchards

Known for fall apple picking, a busy farm market, and kid-friendly attractions, it’s one of the area’s most popular seasonal destinations.

Hillcrest Orchards

Known for fall festivals, farm animals, and family activities, long-running U-pick apple farm it’s one of the best-known apple orchards in the state.

Blue Ridge, GA

Best time to visit: September–November

Book ahead in October—leaf season sells out.

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

It offers scenic excursions through the North Georgia mountains along the Toccoa River, highlighting the region’s natural beauty and railroad history.

Downtown Blue Ridge

Brick sidewalks, local art, handmade goods, candles, soaps, antiques, and mountain-town charm. Pop into a coffee shop or browse a gallery.

Lake Blue Ridge

It is one of the state’s most scenic mountain lakes, known for its aquamarine water and sweeping views of the southern Blue Ridge

Hiking & Waterfalls - Ellijay

Best time: Year-round

Emery Creek Falls

Multi-tiered waterfall complex known for its long, cascading drop through a forested gorge and for the creek-ford hike required to reach it.

Falls Branch Falls

Known for its multi-tiered drop through a rhododendron-filled gorge and for being one of the most accessible waterfall hikes

Fort Mountain State Park

These scenic falls appear along short hiking loops close to the park’s central lake, offering easy access to classic North Georgia mountain scenery.

Hiking & Waterfalls - Dawsonville

Best time: Year-round

Amicalola Falls State Park

Amicalola Falls State Park is a protected natural area in Dawsonville, Georgia, known for featuring the tallest cascading waterfall in Georgia.

Edge of the World Falls

Edge of the World Falls is a rocky whitewater section and popular swimming hole on the Amicalola River near Dawsonville in north Georgia

Cochrans Falls

Known for its remote setting and rugged access trail, it is considered one of the tallest waterfalls in the state and a challenging objective for hikers.

Hiking & Waterfalls - Helen

Best time: Year-round

Anna Ruby Falls

Formed by two separate streams—Curtis Creek and York Creek. One of north Georgia’s most photographed and accessible natural attractions.

Dukes Creek Falls

Multiple cascading drops and easy trail access, it’s one of North Georgia’s most popular natural attractions for hikers and photographers.

DeSoto Falls

Scenic double waterfall located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest Known for its lush forest surroundings and accessible hiking trails.

Hiking & Waterfalls - Tallulah Gorge Area

Best time: Year-round

Tallulah Falls

The Tallulah River drops through a two-mile chasm nearly 1,000 feet deep, creating some of the most spectacular canyon scenery.

Minnehaha Falls

It’s known for its picturesque, fan-shaped cascades dropping roughly 100 feet over a series of wide, stair-step rock ledges.

Angel and Panther Falls

Hiking less than two miles, round trip, the trail is a fantastic family-friendly hike for campers at the Lake Rabun Beach Campground.

Local Wineries & Tastings

Best time: Spring–Fall weekends

Cartecay Vineyards

Set on a historic farm, it’s known for estate-grown wines, a refurbished 1890s barn tasting room, and scenic outdoor spaces

Chateau Meichtry

Known for hillside vineyard views, live music, and a relaxed tasting experience featuring estate-grown and regional wines.

Engelheim Vineyards

Known for estate-grown wines, Bavarian-inspired architecture, and mountain views, making it a popular stop on North Georgia

Ready for your mountain escape?

Book your stay at Starlight River Retreat and experience the perfect blend of relaxation, nature, and comfort.

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