The Blue Ridge Mountains stretch 550 miles, beginning in Southwest Pennsylvania and terminating in ... [+]
Editor’s Note: *Due to the current Covid-19 outbreak, please be sure to postpone any travel plans until well after the pandemic has subsided.*
When it comes to the American South, the sprawling states of Georgia and North Carolina share far more than just a border - both regions are home to an abundant array of natural wonders, historic cities, and thrilling outdoor adventure opportunities perfectly suited for any traveler. From the jagged peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains to the shores of the Savannah River, there’s a treasure trove of once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to be encountered on a trek through these two captivating states.
Unwind With High-Altitude Yoga at Beech Mountain, North Carolina
Though Beech Mountain's population is just a few hundred people during the off-season, the town ... [+]
Standing at an elevation of 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is the highest town east of the Rocky Mountains, a quality that has allowed this tiny community to develop into a major tourist destination over the decades. For those seeking inner tranquility, consider taking part in Beech Mountain Resort’s Mile High yoga program - the class is suited for all skill levels, and provides stunning views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains from the property’s observation deck. After a relaxing morning stretch, be sure to take advantage of the wealth of outdoor activities available throughout the town - mountain biking, trekking along the pristine Emerald Outback hiking trail, and kayaking across the tranquil Buckeye Recreation Center are just a few of the activities available in this idyllic mountain town, and for those less inclined to physical activity, the Land of Oz offers opportunities for guests to relive their childhood on a trek down the Yellow Brick Road.
Immerse Yourself in the Rich Cultural Heritage of Dahlonega, Georgia
The Dahlonega area is home to the highest concentration of wineries in Georgia.
Nestled along the southern edge of Chattahoochee National Forest, Dahlonega was named by Southern Living as one of the South’s Best Mountain Towns in 2020 - and for good reason. The town has a fascinating cultural legacy, having served as the site of one of the earliest gold rushes in US history. After a trip to Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site for an up-close view of historic tools and trinkets, consider a visit to one of the town’s many prestigious wineries. The Northern Georgia wine industry has experienced an unprecedented boom over the past few years, with prominent venues such as Montaluce Winery and Accent Cellars standing out as local favorites.
Enjoy Sweeping Views of the World’s Most Prestigious Golf Course in Augusta, Georgia
Augusta was formally established in 1736, drawing its name from Princess Augusta of ... [+]
Few other golf courses on earth have reached the level of esteem bestowed upon Augusta National Golf Club - the stunning venue has hosted one of golf’s most prestigious championship matches, the Masters® Tournament, each year since 1934. While the course is notoriously difficult to access as a non-member, Augusta Aviation Inc offers a birds-eye view of the property through their half-hour aerial tour package. After enjoying the scenery, be sure to head to downtown Augusta for an intimate immersion into the city’s cultural background - a tour of the Augusta Museum of History and a cruise down the Augusta Canal are just a few of the city’s most popular activities.
Soar Along the Treetops in Whitesburg, Georgia
The now-defunct community of Banning was once home to a booming textile industry.
For those seeking out natural beauty in the remote reaches of interior Georgia, few destinations can compare to Snake Creek Gorge, a pristine stretch of land located in Carroll County. The idyllic region is rife with historic sites, outdoor adventure opportunities, and wildlife in abundance - all of which can be encountered at Historic Banning Mills, a beloved local resort. The property comes equipped with 80 acres of hiking trails, a spa, cozy cabins, and, perhaps most impressive, the world’s tallest freestanding artificial climbing wall and longest zipline canopy tour on earth, as certified by the Guinness Book of World Records.
Experience the Natural Wonders of Jackson County, North Carolina
Jackson County is named after the seventh president of the United States, Andrew Jackson.
Given Jackson County’s proximity to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it should come as no surprise that the region offers some of the eastern United States’ most spectacular scenic views. A particularly esteemed hiking destination is Whiteside Mountain - the towering behemoth is estimated to be over 450 million years old, with some geologists considering it the oldest mountain on earth. Those visiting the region between mid-October and early November should be sure to catch a glimpse of the Shadow of the Bear - at 5:30 PM on a sunny day, the mountain casts a shadow that’s a spitting image of one of the area’s native black bears.
