Hit the Road on a Daytrip
Take a short drive east on Hwy. 515 to Union County and the beautiful towns of Blairsville & Suches
By Tobie Chandler,
Director of Tourism, Blairsville-Union County Chamber of Commerce
Blairsville-Union County is located just 30 minutes east of Blue Ridge and easily accessible off Hwy. 515/76. Here you’ll find great restaurants, cute shops, friendly people, fun festivals and an abundance of natural attractions.
For example, Union County is home to not one, but three lakes!
Lake Winfield Scott in Suches is home to 18 acres of crystal clear water for swimming, fishing and paddling.
4,180-acre Lake Nottely has 106 miles of shoreline, with several marinas and public boat ramps.
One of Georgia’s most beloved summer getaways, Vogel State Park, features a 20-acre lake and swimming beach.
Rushing Waters
A rock slide for the kids and a veil of water to stand behind make Helton Creek Falls a must-do activity for the young and young-at-heart. A short hike allows you to explore the beauty of both the upper and lower falls of Helton Creek. Download the North Georgia Waterfall App (free for Android and iOS) and explore all of the area’s many waterfalls.
Top of Georgia
Rising 4,784 feet above sea level, Brasstown Bald is the highest peak in Georgia. Not only can you see four states from the observation deck, but you can even see the Atlanta skyline on a clear day! Explore the museum, watch a short video, and learn about early Georgia history. You can take a shuttle to the top, or enjoy a hike on the Summit Trail to see a variety of plants and wildlife.
Mountain Arts
Festivals abound in Union County from spring through fall. The season kicks off with the Spring Arts, Crafts & Music Festival on Memorial Day weekend. In June, the Scottish Festival & Highland Games celebrate all things Gaelic. Butternut Creek Festival (July 21 & 22) is held in beautiful Meeks Park. October features the Indian Summer Festival the first weekend in October, and the popular Blairsville Sorghum Festival attracts visitors on the second and third weekends in October.
Fairies & Gnomes
Sleepy Hollow is an enchanted fairyland of fanciful gardens, gnome homes, gypsy wagons and other magical dwellings. The studio, gift shop and enchanted gardens are open to the public Monday–Saturday from 9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
For detailed local area information including dining, lodging and events, stop by the Welcome Center at 129 Union County Recreation Road. Or visit us online at VisitBlairsvilleGa.com.
