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DESTINATIONS & DAY TRIPS

Explore beautiful sett ings f i l led with destinations

and day tr ips.

exploresoutheast.com

©2012amitphotography.com

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GILMER

Jasper

TateDawsonville

Ellijay

Blue Ridge

Ball Ground

Cornelia

Helen

Cartecay

Clarkesville

Talking Rock

Gainesville

Hiawassee

Marble Hill

Blairsville

19129

Clayton

LAKE SIDNEYLANIER

Dahlonega

East Ellijay

Young Harris

LAKE CHATUGE

NOTTELYLAKE

BLUE RIDGE LAKE

CARTER’SLAKE

LAKE BURTON

SEEDLAKE LAKE

RABUN

Suches

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FANNIN UNION

TOWNS

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BigCanoe

Nelson

Hinton

AMICALOLAFALLS S.P.

SPRINGER MTN.

RICH MTN.

BRASSTOWN BALD

McCaysville

Morganton

Explore Hwy. 515Destinations & Day Trips

See ABOUT THE ARTIST on page 23

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Welcome to the Georgia Mountain Parkway Of all North Georgia’s scenic highways, U.S. Highway 515, the Georgia Mountain Parkway, offers the greatest “escape” into the colorful and quaint communities tucked away in the state’s Blue Ridge Mountains heading northward into western North Carolina. Meandering through towns chocked full of unique stops, you’ll find some of the Southeast’s best antiquing, casual or fine dining, arts and crafts from quilts to pottery and hand-hewn furniture, plus outfitters for world class hiking, whitewater rafting, swimming, fishing, golfing or just strolling the trails of exceptional greenways. There’s almost too much to do! Festivals here are prolific, enjoining travelers in celebrations extending from spring through Indian summer. You’ll find music venues and one-of-a-kind cultural celebrations and showcases. Summer into mid-fall is the high season, and people who vacation here yearly book early, so look for accommodations in advance. Find the places that soothe your soul and inspire you to explore in this tranquil, diversely appealing mountain region along Hwy. 515. Our guide will accompany you to the best stops, natural wonders, must-see attractions and the rest! Year round.

– Sheila Brewington, Publisher Mountain Link

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Contents ◗ PICKENS COUNTY 515 Georgia Mountain Parkway Pickens County .................................................................................. 5 - 9 Natural Attractions & Outdoor Recreation ................................... 10

◗ GILMER COUNTY 515 Georgia Mountain Parkway Gilmer County ................................................................................ 11 - 18 Natural Attractions & Outdoor Recreation ........................... 22 - 23

◗ FANNIN COUNTY 515 Georgia Mountain Parkway Fannin County ........................................................................................24 Natural Attractions & Outdoor Recreation ...................................24

◗ UNION COUNTY 515 Georgia Mountain Parkway Union County ................................................................................. 25 - 30 Natural Attractions & Outdoor Recreation ............................30 - 31

◗ TOWNS COUNTY 515 Georgia Mountain Parkway Towns County .................................................................................32 - 33

◗ AREA MAPS KEYED TO VISITOR INFO DIRECTORIESn Accommodations n Attractions n Dining n Real Estate n Services n Shopping• City of Ellijay ...................................................................................... 14 - 15• The Ellijay’s ....................................................................................... 16 - 17• Hwy. 515 ............................................................................................... 1 9 - 2 1 • City of Blairsville ............................................................................. 28 - 29

◗ ADVERTISER DIRECTORY n Accommodations n Attractions n Dining n Real Estate n Services n ShoppingA complete list of all advertisers along with their name, address, phone and website .............................................................................. 34 - 39

◗ VISITOR CENTER INFORMATIONA list of area Chambers of Commerce with address, phone and websites .................................................................................................39

◗ ABOUT THE ARTISTWayne Hamby .............................................................................................. 23

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Pickens CountyJasper, Big Canoe, Talking Rock, Tate, Nelson and Hinton

Big Canoe is a scenic, 8,000-acre mountain residential development surrounded by over 8,000 acres of unspoiled woodlands, mountain lakes and streams,

including 2,000 acres of passive recreation green space. Just an hour north of Atlanta, the community is convenient to Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, via I-285 and Georgia 400, the “Hospitality Highway.” Big Canoe is also known as “the Enchanted Land,” after the first known people to inhabit the region, the Paleo Indians. The Cherokee Indians inhabited in the region, in later centuries, and suffered at the hands of white settlers after they sided with the British in the War of 1812. The town of Dahlonega formed the heart of the North Georgia Gold Rush, the first in America, until California gold prompted “Gold fever” due west. But at Big Canoe, marble deposits were discovered and another legacy emerged. The town of Tate dates back to before 1837-1838, years that saw the Cherokee Indians removed west. Taverns here were major stops on the Federal Road finished in 1805. Tate marble has been used in countless monuments, including the Lincoln and Alamo Memorials. Historic sites abound, including 114 on the National Register. Tours available, during the October Marble Festival.

Gibbs Gardens is another day trip worth seeing, near Big Canoe. This is the sight built by architect Jim Gibbs, who traveled worldwide studying gardens of all styles. He built the extraordinary garden here after a six year search for a site with a strong source of water and mature trees in a rolling topography. The “dream come true” site is open March 1 through Nov. 30, closed major holidays and December through February.

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10061 Ball Ground Hwy.Ball Ground, GA 770.735.6923wildcatonawing.com

A Gallery of Fine American Crafts

Hours: Wed-Sat 10am-5pm and Sun 12:30-5pm

◗ Wildcat on a Wing evolved from a birdhouse workshop and studio into a unique American crafts gallery featuring pottery, wearables, sculpture and garden art, including hand-made jewelry, fine local crafts, hand-made clocks and purses. The colorful store takes pride in the uniqueness and high quality of works sold, from local and national artisans, including blacksmiths, glass blowers, leather craftsmen, pottery makers, woodworkers and more. A whimsical experience! Located in Ball Ground, just off of Hwy. 515.

Tate House was built by Col. Sam Tate, Georgia Marble President, in 1925. Open for special events. Adjacent to the pink marble quarry.

◗ Millie’s is a classic diner on Hwy. 53 in Tate, offering fresh Southern grill fare in relaxed surroundings. Stop in for a delightful, unforgettable meal!

◗ Huddle House is a welcoming dining experience, also on Hwy. 53, for travelers and locals alike. Everyday has a friendly “hello”.

Jasper is a hub for fine dining, colorful specialty shops and the Pickens County marble courthouse. A stop on the

original Federal Road, the Oglethorpe Memorial is on North Main Street.

◗ Daisy Clothes & Accessories in Jasper offers women’s clothing that reflects the colorful, casual elegance of mountain life. The boutique features shoes, jeans, handbags, and specialty items, including Brighton jewelry and Vera Bradley.

◗ Madeline’s Cafe & Bakery in Jasper is a gourmet restaurant serving an assortment of exceptional baked goods, as well as sandwiches, soups and desserts made fresh daily. The word is getting out on this restaurant’s “amazing” cakes.

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Jasper has a rich history to share with thepreservation of the Old Pickens County Jail and the Kirby-Quinton Cabin downtown. Diversity and friendly attractive stores keep Antiquing in Jasper a popular destination.

Antiques & Treasures706-253-74671227 B East Church St.

Junktiques706-253-229523 Mary St.

Nana’s Outback706-253-621412 Summit Dr.

Weeks Jewelry706-253-921157 Main St.

Antiques, Art and Collectibles. Open 7 Days

Something for everyone. “Put a little junk in your trunk”

“Join us for a walk down memory lane.” Antiques, Glassware, and Collectibles.

Estate and Fine Jewelry.

Antique Shoppingin Jasper

A Special Experience

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Elegant Mountain Furnishings770.893.3495 • LakotaCove.com230 Old Mill White Rd. Ext. Jasper, Ga. 30143 Hours: Monday thru Saturday 10 to 6, Sunday 1 to 5

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Talking Rock is a picturesque town formerly booming in the late 1800s, and now a venue for gift and antique emporiums. Visit the Talking Rock Festival the third weekend in October.

◗ Lakota Cove is an exceptional destination for rustic home furnishings “gallery” celebrating the “western” spirit of the environs. The unique gallery specializes in hand-hewn, one-of-a-kind items and furnishings for every room in the home, and offers design services. Visit for ideas for your own home, which you’ll find in abundance. Regular exhibitors in log home and home shows, as well as horse shows year-round, enjoy the facility’s presentation of American artists and their great designs.

706.253.6996www.daisyboutique.comMon-Sat 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN JASPER BEHIND THE OLD JAIL OFF MAIN ST.

140 E Mark Whitfield St., Jasper, GA

BREAKFAST LUNCH DESSERTS

4753 HWY 53 EAST, TATE,GA(PREVIOUSLY CROSSROADS CAFE)www.milliesdiner.com

BBQ & COMFORT FOODS OF THE SOUTH

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Natural Attractions & Outdoor Recreation

• Burnt Mountain Overlook and Dawson Forest Trail offer scenic views of the Long Swamp Valley. Tate, Jasper and Sharp Top Mountain are among mountain trails off Monument Road and Steve Tate Highway, developed by Mountain Stewards.

Highway 515

◗ North Georgia Mountain Outfitters is family owned and operated by veteran outdoor enthusiasts, who are on a mission to help explorers maximize their experience in North Georgia’s great outdoors. On hand here is everything needed to safely explore woodlands, trails, rivers, lakes, streams, rapids and mountains in the Appalachian foothills. Ready to equip you for your outdoor adventures! hikenorthgeorgia.com

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Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce696 First Avenue, East Ellijay, GA 30540

706-635-7400www.explorethemountains.com

www.facebook.com/theellijays

EXPLORETHE ELLIJAYS

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Gilmer CountyEllijay, East Ellijay, Cherry Log

Apple Orchard Alley & Georgia Apple Festival are appropriately located in Georgia’s “Apple Capital,” Ellijay. For over 40 years, the Georgia Apple Festival,

has happened the 2nd and 3rd weekends of October. Apple Orchard Alley is along Hwy. 52 east from this picturesque town, toward Dawsonville and Dahlonega, but there are apple house and farm markets spread throughout the county. The Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce welcomes visitors at its 696 First Avenue, East Ellijay location as well as its downtown Ellijay Welcome Center. Georgia’s officially designated mountain bike capital offers outdoor enthusiast of all varieties opportunities to set out and explore mother nature at her best. Stroll or bike through this Better Hometown designated community in which vibrant shops, galleries and eateries make for a colorful, bustling atmosphere in the heart of the Appalachian foothills. The local events draw crowds in summer, and feature music programs, live demonstrations of mountain arts and crafts, bike races, festivals and events at the lovely Cartecay Vineyards, the signature local winery that has optimal climate for exceptional varietal wines. You can also enjoy the water on Gilmer Counties three rivers–the Cartecay and Ellijay which converge to form the Coosawattee. The scenery in downtown Ellijay, is reminiscent of once-a-week towns of the early 20th century. Something is going on every day in this authentic mountain town that serves as a “jumpin off” spot for outdoor adventurists and apple hunters alike. Visitors are invited to shop, make jewelry, paint pottery, and enjoy the many parades Ellijay is known for –“St. Petrick’s” Day, Veterans Day, Apple Festival, plus night parades for Independence Day and Light Up Ellijay (Friday after Thanksgiving). On weekends, be sure to visit the Tabor House Civil War Museum and Library. Downtown, the atmosphere is friendly and the shops are filled with area antiques and crafts, unique gifts, and collectibles, and supplies for mountain living. The restaurants are exceptional, as are the friendly folks who work there. Traveling on Hwy. 515 through Gilmer County are two stops that will delight visitors.◗ Satterwhite Log Homes offers “homes for the new millennium” featured in Texas and Georgia’s own Ellijay. ◗ Black Bear Antiques is great place to shop for antiques directly off of Hwy. 515. There’s a delightful department store appeal and displays in beautiful venues.

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Better Hometown

Ellijay

Downtown Ellijay Map Sponsored by ...

South toJASPER

Ellijay

SOUTHMAIN

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Ellijay Map DirectoryMap # Ad Page #

n ATTRACTIONS12 Ellijay Marketplace ................................. Page 392 Gilmer County Welcome Center ....... Page 39

n DINING3 Cantaberry Restaurant ......................... *Page 35

n SHOPPING 10 Antique Show ............................................Page 174 Boone’s Art and Antiques ....................*Page 37 14 Cartecay River Bicycle Shop ..............*Page 361 Cartecay River Trading Co. ................*Page 3611 The Christmas House / Interiors ......*Page 385 Jumping Mouse Beads ..........................*Page 3813 Main Street Antiques ............................*Page 376 Misty Hollow Antiques ........................*Page 377 Mountain Ridge Garden Shop ............*Page 38 8 North Star Emporium ...........................*Page 389 Whistletree Pottery ...............................*Page 38

* Ad Directory Listing

A True Mountain VillageJust West of Hwy. 515

www.ellijay-ga.govfb Historic Downtown Ellijay

twitter @ellijayeverydayemail bht@ellijay.com

Tea Time or Any Time, Join Us in Downtown Ellijay

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Ellijay

North MainStreet

South toJASPER

EastEllijay

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Ellijay Map Sponsored by ...

Industrial Blvd.

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The Ellijay’s Map DirectoryMap # Ad Page #

n ACCOMMODATIONS16 Chamomile Retreat................................*Page 34

n ATTRACTIONS17 Cartecay Vineyards ................................ Page 2219 Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce .......................................................................Page 1218 Hillcrest Orchards ................................. *Page 35

n REAL ESTATE 22 Satterwhite Log Homes ..........................Page 18

n SHOPPING 20 Black Bear Antiques ................................Page 1721 North Georgia Mountain Outfitters .... Page 11

* Ad Directory Listing

Natural Attractions & More on page 22

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ANTIQUE SHOW merchandise is housed in the beautifully restored local theatre built in 1920. Visit to discover antiques and collectibles. You may find locally made pottery and jewelry, primitives, a vintage gas stove and lovely quilts. Open 7 days.5 Southside Square, Ellijay706-698-SHOW (7469) www.ellijayantiqueshow.com

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Highway 515 Map DirectoryMap # Ad Page #

n ACCOMODATIONS49 Big Canoe Conference & Lodging, The Chimneys .......................................*Page 34 50 Big Canoe Golf Club Villas ..................*Page 3437 Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa ........ Page 3335 Comfort Inn & Suites ............................*Page 34 51 Petit Crest Villas at Big Canoe ...........*Page 34

n ATTRACTIONS40 Cherokee Valley Ranch. ....................... *Page 35

n DINING39 BIGuns Barbeque ................................... *Page 3554 Huddle House .......................................... Page 1046 Madeline’s Cafe & Bakery....................... Page 956 Millie’s Diner .............................................. Page 948 61 Main ...................................................... *Page 35

n REAL ESTATE52 Big Canoe Realty ....................................*Page 3653 Vann Custom Homes ............................*Page 36

n SERVICES47 Barkley Financial Group ....................... Page 36

n SHOPPING 41 Antiques & Treasures Shop ................... Page 742 Daisy Boutique & Accessories .............. Page 9 38 Hiawassee Antique Mall ....................... Page 3243 Jasper Drugs & Gifts..............................*Page 3841 Junktiques.................................................... Page 734 Lady Sibylla ..............................................*Page 3845 Lakota Cove ................................................ Page 841 Nana’s Outback .......................................... Page 757 The Rusty Rooster .................................*Page 3755 Shofar Designs ......................................... Page 3744 Van Goghs Hideway..............................*Page 3841 Weeks Jewelry ........................................... Page 758 Wild Cat on a Wing .................................. Page 636 Young Harris Watersports ................... Page 32

* Ad Directory Listing

Highway 515 Map on Next Page

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GILMER

TN

Tate

Dawsonville

Ellijay

TO ATLANTA

Ball Ground

Cornelia

Helen

Cartecay

Clarkesville

Talking Rock

Gainesville

Hiawassee

Blairsville

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515

19129

Clayton

LAKE SIDNEYLANIER

Dahlonega

East Ellijay

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AMICALOLAFALLS S.P.

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Cleveland

Hayesville

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WATERFALLS

1 - Falls Branch Falls

2 - Jacks River Falls

3 - Little Rock Creek Falls

4 - Sea Creek Falls

5 - Helton Creek Falls

6 - Horse Trough Falls

7 - Dukes Creek Falls

8 - Anna Ruby Falls

9 - High Shoals Falls

10 - Desoto Falls

11 - Long Creek Falls

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City Maps listed belowEllijay page 14

East Ellijay page 16Blairsville page 29

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CHATTAHOOCHEE NATIONAL FOREST

Highway 515GEORGIA’S

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GILMER

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Tate

Dawsonville

Ellijay

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Ball Ground

Cornelia

Helen

Cartecay

Clarkesville

Talking Rock

Gainesville

Hiawassee

Blairsville

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WATERFALLS

1 - Falls Branch Falls

2 - Jacks River Falls

3 - Little Rock Creek Falls

4 - Sea Creek Falls

5 - Helton Creek Falls

6 - Horse Trough Falls

7 - Dukes Creek Falls

8 - Anna Ruby Falls

9 - High Shoals Falls

10 - Desoto Falls

11 - Long Creek Falls

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City Maps listed belowEllijay page 14

East Ellijay page 16Blairsville page 29

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706-698-9463 (WINE) 5704 Clear Creek Rd., Ellijay, GA 30536 cartecayvineyards.com facebook.com/CartecayVineyards

GILMER COUNTYNatural Attractions & Outdoor Recreation

• The Appalachian Trail (AT) - Perhaps the most famous hiking trail in the U.S. has its trailhead is at Springer Mountain on the Gilmer-Fannin County line and leads hikers 2,000 miles along the eastern ridge of the Appalachian Mountains, through 14 states, Nearly 80 miles of the AT runs through North Georgia.

• Amicalola Falls State Park is located 25 minutes east of Ellijay on State Hwy. 52. The popular park and lodge is the site of the 729-foot Amicalola Falls, the tallest cascading falls east of the Mississippi River. Nature displays and a gift shop complement the beautiful lodge and cabins.

• River Park on the Coosawattee River - This beautiful recreation center on the Coosawattee has picnic areas, tennis courts, a walking trail, ball fields and an Olympic- sized pool.

• Fort Mountain State Park is among the picturesque and accessible north Georgia state parks that book up well in advance for camping. Visit by traveling 25 minutes due west of Ellijay on Hwy. 52. An ancient 855-foot rock wall here is thought to have been built by early native Americans. A 17-acre lake, cottages and beach are also featured.

• Carter’s Lake, the deepest manmade lake in the southeast, offers 62 miles of shoreline and is perennially popular for fishing, camping, swimming, boating and water sports.

• Rich Mountain Wilderness is a 9,000-acre black bear preserve popular among unmarked trail enthusiasts, located within the Chattahoochee National Forest.

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• The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests are federally protected lands. Chattahoochee National Forest covers 749,689 acres and combined with the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest offers 37 developed recreation areas, beaches and over 530 miles of trails.

• Cohutta Wilderness/Lake Conasauga comprise 35,268 acres of national forest lands, designated as wilderness. Elevations range from 950 to 4,200 feet on Big Frog Mountain. Lake Conasauga has the highest elevation of any lake in the state. Hiking trails, picnicking, fishing and wilderness camping are available.

ABOUT THE ARTIST: Wayne Hamby, is a self-taught artist. He also painted the art on the inside front cover. As a young boy he learned to put what he saw and lived on paper using his fingers and watercolors. He now paints his memories on canvas with acrylic paints. He has over 900 paintings in the US and abroad. www.waynehamby.com • 678-746-2601 WAYNE & MARGARET

HAMBY

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Fannin CountyBlue Ridge, McCaysville and Morganton

Blue Ridge - The mineral-rich waters in local streams and springs make Blue Ridge a popular health spot with vibrant shops, art galleries and eclectic dining spots. Blue Ridge City Park offers a playground, picnic facilities and free-range chickens roam the turf.

• Blue Ridge Scenic Railway surveys winding hills along the Toccoa River, taking passengers along 26 miles to McCaysville and into Tennessee. For more information or tickets, visit www.brscenic.com or call 706-632-9833.

McCaysville, Georgia and Copperhill, Tennessee are “twin” towns that share spectacular views of the scenery at the Georgia/Tennessee state line, a.k.a. the “Blue Line.” Historic buildings, unique culinary spots and a great River Park.

Natural Attractions & Outdoor Recreation

• Lake Blue Ridge is a picturesque mountain lake offering fishing, camping, picnicking and boating, and for those not equipped pontoon rentals and jet skis from the lake Blue Ridge Marina. lakeblueridgemarina.com

• Aska Adventure Area is a 17-mile hiking and mountain biking trailway in National Forest lands that includes portions of the Benton-McKaye Trail. Choose short or longer trails. Open to the public.

• Toccoa River Canoe Trail offers superior trout fishing along 17.3 miles of river from Deep Hole Recreation Area to Lake Blue Ridge. Rapids make for excitement, and are tame enough for beginners.

• Waterfalls of the Toccoa Ranger District qualifying as must-sees include Fall Branch Falls, Long Creek Falls and Sea Creek Falls, accessible from short easy hikes, or long meandering and challenging hikes.

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Seafood Market & GrillEST. 1995

CALL AHEAD FOR TAKE OUT

706-745-9519513 A Murphy Hwy. • Blairsville, GA

OPEN MON-SAT GRILL: LUNCH 11AM-2PM & DINNER 5 PM-9PM

MARKET: 10AM-9PM

706-781-1911www.TheTobaccoDepot.com

THE TOBACCO

DEPOT281B Young Harris St.Blairsville, GA

◗ The Tobacco Depot in Blairsville is a fantasy come true for cigar lovers, offering fresh tobacco products, quality cigars, roll your own supplies, unique gifts and friendly service. Great selection and reasonable prices. The Depot also has a “make your own cigarettes” selection of merchandise.

◗ Mike’s Seafood Market & Grill in Blairsville has offered the best inland seafood in North Georgia since 1995. The popular restaurant is open Monday through Saturday for lunch (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and for dinner (5 to 9 p.m.). Mike’s encourages take-out customers to call ahead.

Union County - Blairsville

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Union CountyBlairsville and Suches

With the reputation of being “the” place to see when the autumn leaves begin to blaze red, orange, yellow and burnished colors only found

in Georgia’s Blue Ridge mountains, Blairsville is the scenic destination for thousands every summer and fall. Situated on the state’s “rooftop,” Blairsville is the home of Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest peak. The pride of the community is the new multi-use Union County Community Center, the Blairsville Chamber of Commerce and the Welcome Center – all located at 129 Union County Recreation Road with a panoramic view of the Butternut Creek Golf Course. Walkable or ridable, the 18-hole par 73 golf course has GPS equipped golf carts and is open to the public. People seeking locations for conferences, meetings, wedding receptions and more will find all the amenities they need in this new Community Center, which has a 2,503 square-foot conference room as well as three smaller breakout meeting rooms and a wedding preparations room. Full-service catering is available through The View Grill, which is the onsite restaurant, or through one of many outstanding local caterers. The Community Center also houses a new tourism shop, where souvenir items and products of Union County artisans are on display. Union County Historic Courthouse on the downtown square is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a unique Romanesque brick and granite 1899 structure functioning as a local history museum. Concerts in the restored courtroom offer music from bluegrass to gospel in summer through fall.

◗ Union County Historical Society is dedicated to restoration and preservation of historic resources in Union County, and operates the Courthouse Museum, which features Mountain Life Exhibits replete with Native American wares and artifacts, antique quilts and tools, vintage items and other remnants of the county’s history. One block south of the Courthouse Square, visit the Mountain Life Museum which is sponsored by the Historical Society.

◗ The Seasons Inn is a popular destination proximal to the Union County Courthouse. It often books up through summer, and well in advance during the town’s very busy fall color season.

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Union County Historical Society

706-745-5493 unioncountyhistory.org

Free Friday Night CoNCerts Bluegrass - Country - Gospel - Easy ListeningMay - October - starting at 7 pm at the

Old Courthouse MuseumOpen Monday - Friday 10 am - 4 pm (Jan. - April)Monday - Saturday 10 am - 4 pm (May - Dec.)

Mountain Life Museum Open Wednesday - Saturday 11 am - 4 pm includes Tours of Mock House, Payne Cabin & Pioneer Farm

Blairsville Map DirectoryMap # Ad Page #

n ACCOMMODATIONS31 Misty Mountain Inn & Cottages ........*Page 3424 Seasons Inn ............................................... Page 28

n ATTRACTIONS25 Blairsville-Union County Chamber of Commerce - Community Center, Butternut Golf Course, The View .... Page 2726 Old Union Golf Course ......................... *Page 3523 Union County Historical Society........ Page 28

n DINING29 Mike’s Seafood Market & Grill ............ Page 25

n SHOPPING 30 Sundance Gallery ...................................*Page 3828 The Tobacco Depot ................................ Page 2527 The Wine Shoppe ....................................Page 30

* Ad Directory Listing

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A 25 room family- owned motel in the heart of lovely downtown Blairsville. Conveniently located on the Town Square and across from the Union County Historic Courthouse.

94 Town Square, BlairSville, Ga 30512

800-901-4422 or 706-745-1631www.seasons-inn.com 24

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Blairsville

Blairsville-Union County Chamber of Commerce

Blairsville Map Sponsored by ...

BLUERIDGESTREET

YoungHarrisStreet

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12919

Pat Haralson

Drive

TOWNSQUARE

School Circle

Chandler

Wellborn Street

SchoolStreet

PlottStreet

YoungHarrisStreet

RogersStreet

ClevelandStreet

Hunt-MartinStreet

Reid

Dockery

Blalock

EdMauney

BLUERIDGESTREET

2625

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To TRACK ROCK

andBRASSTOWN

BALD

Town Mountain

Rd.

Town CreekSchool Rd.

12919

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(Map is not to scale)

515

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◗ The Wine Shoppe in Blairsville offers tastings free to the public of featured wines, and a selection of outstanding vintages from local vintners. Up and coming wines from the Appalachian region are highlighted.

UNION COUNTYNatural Attractions and Outdoor Recreation

• Benton MacKaye Trail is just one of innumerable mountain trails in the Blairsville and Suches region. The AT trailhead is at Springer Mountain close to Bald Mountain and continues to the 265-foot Swinging Bridge Trail. The trail ascends Brawley Mountain.

• Brasstown Bald is Gerogia’s highest peak, at 4,784 feet, and draws visitors to an observation tower with a 360-degree view of four states, a museum on the region and the mountain, and hiking and picnicking areas. The visitor center is open May through October, and parking is available year-round for those who can negotiate the corkscrew pass leading up to Brasstown Bald in icy weather.

• The Old Union Golf Course is a popular spot for public golfing and golf outings amid the scenic surroundings of this mountain community.

305 Murphy Highway, Suite 2 • Blairsville, GA 30512

• Meursault• Riesling• Bourgogne• Caymus• Opus• Smith & Hook• Mer Solei• Sherry• Port• Vermouth

• Champagne• Wine Glasses• Flutes• Gift Bags• Wine Aerators

Present this AD at time of purchase to receive a 10% DISCOUNT

Domestic & Imported Wines from $10.00 - $200.00

Call For Information706.745.WINE (9463)Free Wine TastingMost Saturdays(21 Years of Age Required)

Best Selection Of Fine WinesNorth Of Atlanta

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• Meeks Park is a spectacular recreation complex off 515 in Blairsville, featuring picnic facilities, playgrounds, ball fields, a pool, tennis courts and a paved walking trail network that meanders through scenic woodlands. An 18-hole disc golf course and dog park are onsite, too.

• Lake Nottely is a 4,180 acre impoundment with 106 miles of shorelines offering boating, swimming, fishing, picnicking and camping, plus two marinas and public boat ramps.

• Poteete Creek Park and Campgrounds feature 95 acres of shoreline camping via 59 campsites on Lake Nottely. Open to the public April 1 through October 15 yearly.

• Suches and Lake Winfield Scott are locally known as the “valley above the clouds” and the site of Georgia’s smallest public school, Woody Gap, with an enrollment of under 100. The lake offers 18 acres of sandy beaches, swimming, a freestanding pier and picnicking.

• Vogel State Park is among the oldest and most popular of Georgia’s state parks, with tent and trailer sites, cottages and a 20-acre lake with miniature golf, a beach, picnic shelters, pedal boats and 17 miles of trials. 706-745-2628.

• Helton Creek Falls lies just beyond the Vogel State Park entrance. Set in a pristine hardwood forest, these unusual “double” falls have a vertical drop of over 100 feet, following a 300-foot trail trek.

• Walasi-Yi Center is a historical stone structure completed by the CCC in 1937, and offers the only covered stop on the Appalachian Trail’s 2100 miles. Outdoor outfitter onsite.

• Trackrock Archaeological Area - Trackrock is a unique archaeological dig site reached via Hwy. 76 East to Trackrock Gap Road. Find preserved petroglyphs of native origins, amid six table-sized soapstone boulders. A site rich in native American lore and ancient carvings. Misty Mountain Inn and Cottages offer accommodations nearby in a lovely, tranquil setting, close to the Misty Mountain Model Railroad, a must-see regional attraction, as the largest privately owned “o-gauge” model railroad in the country. Alexander’s Department Store is an eclectic renovated country store. Sundance Gallery is a shop filled with most decorator items from local artisans. Stalwart terriers also “people” the shop.

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Boat & Jet Ski Rentals / Cable ParksWakeboard Camps / Board Shop

2683 Hwy. 76, Ste. A,Hiawassee, GA 30546706-896-0834

www.mtnwake.com • www.yhwatersports.com

HiawasseeAntique Mall

12,000 sq. ft. of Antiques & Collectibles60 Dealers Open Year RoundMon-Sat. 10-5, Sun 12-5706-896-0587460 N. Main St., Hiawassee, GA 30546www.hiawasseeantiquemall.com

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Towns CountyYoung Harris and Hiawassee

Young Harris College is a gorgeous liberal arts college where visitors can catch performances in Clegg Auditorium, visit the Rollins Planetarium

and art exhibits in the Gate Gallery. • Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds -The Georgia Mountain Fair held in July and the Fall Festival, in October, are celebrations of crafts, concerts, food and unique mountain activities. The Fred Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens bloom in spring and summer.

◗ The recently renovated Hiawasee Antique Mall is Northeast Georgia’s largest antique mall, featuring 60 dealers in over 12,000 square feet of space. Here you’ll find high quality antiques, collectibles, primitive and fine furniture, pottery from Southern potters, crystal, china, glassware, vintage items, books, toys, linens and more. Very knowledgeable staff, gift ideas and unusual finds. ◗ Young Harris Water Sports outfits visitors with equipment needed to pursue water sports of all kinds, including boat and jet ski rentals, equipment, wakeboarding lessons, camps and more. Offering services to five states – Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Florida.

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www.brasstownvalley.comYoung Harris, GA 706-379-9900

Fine Dining Full Service Spa Guided Mountain Trail RidesChampionship Golf Meeting & Banquet Rooms

Weddings - Reunions

◗ Brasstown Valley Resort and Spa is an elegant, spacious resort and hotel occupying 503 scenic mountain acres surrounded by pastoral North Georgia countryside that turns every conceivable color as autumn progresses. With 5-star accommodations and dining, spa services, luxury amenities and conference facilities, the resort is completed by an outstanding 18-hole championship golf course and guide-escorted horseback riding on miles of mountain trails.

• Lake Chatuge is a haven for long summer days skiing, fishing and camping amid dark blue mountain waters. One of the most picturesque lakes in the Eastern U.S., it is surrounded by exceptional trout streams. • High Shoals Falls are a succession of five waterfalls that drop an estimated 300 feet vertically within a 170-acre scenic area flanked by High Shoals Creek. Enjoy observations decks beside two of the pristine streams that cascade out of High Shoals Scenic Area. A hiker’s dream.

VISITEXPLORESOUTHEAST.COM

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Advertiser Directory A C C O M M O D A T I O N S

n BED & BREAKFAST

CHAMOMILE RETREAT166 Ames Lake Lane,Ellijay • 404-909-9303Georgiacountryretreat.com

n INNS/LODGES

BRASSTOWN VALLEY RESORT & SPA • P336321 Hwy. 76,Young Harris706-379-9900Brasstownvalley.com+ ◗ ATTRACTIONS+ ◗ DINING

COMFORT INN AND SUITES83 Blue Ridge Overlook, Suite 1, Blue Ridge706-946-3333comfortinnofblueridge.com

MISTY MOUNTAIN INN & COTTAGES55 Misty Mountain Lane,Blairsville • 706-745-4786jwww.com/misty

SEASONS INN • P2894 Town Square,Blairsville • 706-745-1631Seasons-inn.com

n RENTALS

BIG CANOE CONFERENCE & LODGINGThe Chimneys10591 Big Canoe, Jasper706-268-3178BigCanoe.com

BIG CANOE GOLF CLUB VILLAS90 Steve Tate Highway,Marble Hill770-893-1919golfclubvillas@tds.net

BLACK BEAR CABIN RENTALS21 High Park Dr., Suite 7Blue Ridge706-632-4794blackbearcabinrentals.com

PETIT CREST VILLAS AT BIG CANOEBig Canoe, Jasper706-268-3600Petitcrestvillas.com

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CARTECAY VINEYARDS • P225704 Clear Creek Rd.,Ellijay • 706-698-9463cartecayvineyards.com+ ◗ SHOPPING + ◗ DINING

CHEROKEE VALLEY RANCH909 Upper Salem Church Rd., Jasper • 706-692-9277cherokeevalleyranch.com

ELLIJAY MARKETPLACE • P39518 River St., Ellijay706-686-4084ellijaymarketplace.com+ ◗ SHOPPING

HILLCREST ORCHARDS9696 Highway 52 East, Ellijay • 770-273-3838hillcrestorchards.net+ ◗ SHOPPING

OLD UNION GOLF COURSE78 Scores Point, Blairsville706-745-4653olduniongolf.com

UNION COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY • P281 Town Square, Blairsville706-745-5493unioncountyhistory.org

Advertiser DirectoryA T T R A C T I O N S

D I N I N Gn BBQ BIGUNS BARBEqUE 362 Carnes Mill Road,Talking Rock706-253-7675 bigunsbbq.com+ ◗ SERVICES

CANTABERRY RESTAURANT 51 River St., Ellijay706-636-4663cantaberry.com

HUDDLE HOUSE • P10Highway 53, Marble Hill 770-894-4684huddlehouse.com

MADELINE’S • P91052 East Church Street Suite 1, Jasper 706-253-1052Madelinecafebakery.com+ ◗ SERVICES+ ◗ SHOPPING

MILLIE’S DINER • P94753 Hwy. 53 East, Tatemilliesdiner.com

MIKE’S SEAFOOD MARKET & GRILL • P25513A Murphy Highway,Blairsville • 706-745-9519+ ◗ SHOPPING

61 MAIN49 South Main Street,Jasper706-253-728961main.com

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770-893-4570 • Barkleyfinancialgroup.com

BarkleyFinanCial GrouPTax PreparationFinancial Planninginsurance Consulting

Jim Barkley • Jim.Barkley1209@gmail.com

P.o. Box 1631Jasper, Ga 30143

R E A L E S T A T EBIG CANOE REALTY Big Canoe, Jasper706-268-3333706-268-2349bigcanoe.com

SATTERWHITE LOG HOMES • P1814378 Hwy. 515 North,Ellijay • 800-918-6881Slh.net+ ◗ BUILDERS

VANN CUSTOM HOMES88 North Gate Station, Suite 101, Marble Hill770-853-6084vanncustomhomes.com+ ◗ BUILDERS

S E R V I C E SBARKLEY FINANCIAL GROUP • P36P.O. Box 1631, Jasper770-893-4570Barkleyfinancialgroup. com

n ADVENTURE, ANTIQUES, GALLERY & MISC. SHOPPING

Advertiser Directory

n ADVENTURE

CARTECAY RIVER BICYCLE SHOP123 North Main St., Ellijay404-909-9303cartecaybikes.com

CARTECAY RIVER TRADING CO.42 N. Main St., Ellijay 706.635.2783cartecayrivertrading company.com + ◗ SERVICES

S H O P P I N G

BETTER HOMETOWN ELLIJAY • P15197 North Main Street, Ellijay

706-635-4711 x 5 • www.Ellijay-ga.gov

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Unique & Inspirational Furnishings. Custom Window Valences and Lampshades. InteriorDesign Service too!

Highway 53, Tate, GA

770-894-7094

n ADVENTURE continued

NORTH GEORGIA MOUNTAIN OUTFITTERS • P11583 Highland Crossing, Suite 230, East Ellijay 706-698-4453hikenorthgeorgia.com+ ◗ SERVICES

YOUNG HARRIS WATERSPORTS • P32 2683 Highway 76, Suite AHiawassee • 706-896-0834yhwatersports.com+ ◗ SERVICES

n ANTIQUES

ANTIqUE SHOW • P175 Southside Square,Ellijay • 706-698-7469

ANTIqUES & TREASURES • P71227-B East Church Street,Jasper • 706-253-7467

BLACK BEAR ANTIqUES • P17240-B Old Orchard Square, Ellijay • 706-635-2327shopblackbear.com

BOONE’S ART AND ANTIqUESNorth Square, Ellijay 706-669-4415facebook.com/Boones ArtAndAntiques

HIAWASSEE ANTIqUE MALL • P32460 North Main Street,Hiawassee • 706-896-0587Hiawasseeantiquemall.com

JUNKTIqUES •P7 23 Mary Street, Jasper706-253-2295

MAIN STREET ANTIqUES66 North Main St., Ellijay706-635-8567

MISTY HOLLOW ANTIqUES34 N. Main St., Ellijay 706-276-1644

NANA’S OUTBACK • P712 Summit Dr.,Jasper706-253-6214

THE RUSTY ROOSTER310 Gilmer Ferry Road, Hwy 372 / Main StreetBall Ground • 404-789-8719facebook.com/TheRusty RoosterTheGreenHen

Advertiser DirectoryS H O P P I N G

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Advertiser DirectoryS H O P P I N G

n ANTIQUES continued

SHOFAR DESIGNS • P37Highway 53, Tate770-894-7094+ ◗ SERVICES

WEEKS JEWELRY • P757 Main Street, Jasper 706-253-9211

n GALLERIES

ARTSMITH POTTERY STUDIO120 South Main Street,Jasper • 770-595-1977

SUNDANCE GALLERY4397 Town Creek School Road, Blairsville 706-781-3938Sundancegallerygifts.com

VAN GOGHS HIDEAWAY14 Mark Whitfield St., Jasper • 404-580-5013+ ◗ ATTRACTIONS

WHISTLETREE POTTERY10 N. Main St., Ellijay 706-698-1223facebook.com/pages/Whistle-Tree-Pottery-Company/43357290652

WILDCAT ON A WING •P610061 Ball Ground Highway, Ball Ground770-735-6923wildcatonawing.com

n MISC. SHOPPING

THE CHRISTMAS HOUSE/INTERIORS 98 River Street, Ellijay706-276-7000interiorsofEllijay.com+ ◗ SERVICES

DAISY BOUTIqUE • P9140 Mark Whitfield St., #E,Jasper • 706-253-6996daisyboutique.com

JASPER DRUGS & GIFTSOne North Main St., Jasper706-692-6427jasperdrugs.com+ ◗ SERVICES

JUMPING MOUSE BEADS52 N. Main St., Ellijay 706-276-1215jumpingmousebeads.com

LADY SIBYLLA723 A Main Street,Blue Ridge706-946-0022

LAKOTA COVE • P8230 Old Mill White Road Extension, Jasper770-893-3495LakotaCove.com+ ◗ ATTRACTIONS+ ◗ SERVICES

MOUNTAIN RIDGE GARDEN SHOP 746 River Street, Ellijay 706-698-2815mountainridgegardenshop.com

NORTH STAR EMPORIUM 10 Northside Square,Ellijay • 706-697-7827northstaremporium.com

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Advertiser DirectoryS H O P P I N G

n MISC. SHOPPING continued

THE TOBACCO DEPOT • P25281B Young Harris StreetBlairsville • 706-781-1911Thetobaccodepot.com

THE WINE SHOPPE • P30305 Murphy Hwy., Blairsville706-745-9463

Blairsville-Union County Chamber of Commerce129 Union County Recreation Road, Blairsville, GA

706-745-5789 • www.visitblairsvillega.com

Fannin County Chamber of Commerce and Welcome Center152 Orvin lance Drive, Blue Ridge, GA

706-632-5680 • www.blueridgemountains.com

Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce and Welcome Center696 First Avenue, Ellijay, GA

706-635-7400 • www.gilmerchamber.com

Pickens County Chamber of Commerce500 Stegall Drive, Jasper, GA

706-635-7400 • www.gilmerchamber.com

Towns County Chamber of Commerce1411 Jack Dayton Circle, Hiawassee, GA

800-984-1543 • www.mountaintopga.com

V I S I T O R ’ S C E N T E R S

ELLIJAYmarketplace

Ellijay, Georgia518 River Street

706.847.4531

CONSIGNMENT WAREHOUSE9,000+ Sq. Ft. (Closed Wed)Antiques, Boutique and more!

AUCTIONSMondays, 6:30Fun, Great Food, Bargains!

WEEKEND FLEA MARKETFri, Sat & Sun, Open at 9 amFun, Arts & Crafts, Great Deals!

www. ellijaymarketplace.com 706.847.4531

Comeand Explore!Comeand Explore!

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©2012 MOUNTAIN LINK PUBLICATIONS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. CALL 678-654-2324 FOR MORE INFORMATION. REPRODUCTION WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION IS PROHIBITED BY COPYRIGHT LAW. EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY OF ALL INFORMATION PRESENTED. MOUNTAIN LINK DOES NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ERRORS CHANGES AND/OR OMISSIONS.

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Gilmer County Explore The Ellijays – Georgia’s Apple Capital, where our apples are as crisp as the cool, fresh mountain air.

706-635-7400gilmerchamber.com

Blairsville-Union CountyVisit rushing waterfalls. Hike the Appalachian Trail. Enjoy a family outing at Vogel State Park. Relax on serene Lake Nottely. A world of outdoor adventure awaits in Blairsville-Union County.

877-745-5789VisitBlairsvilleGA.com

Visit Blairsville & The Ellijays

&For Serenity Adventure