The coziest, quietest season of the year is officially here: winter. The average highs from December through February typically rest in the mid-50s, so we thankfully don’t have to endure anything resembling a frigid Northern United States winter. While most of the leaves fall, the North Georgia mountains remain a picturesque (albeit frosty) getaway for couples, families, and groups looking for an extended break from the fast lane. Luckily for you, there are countless things to do in North Georgia, even in the heart of winter. And Mountain Oasis Cabin Rentals has the ideal mountaintop cottage that perfectly suits your group’s size, style, and budget!
A Midwinter North Georgia Escape
Perhaps the best part of choosing Mountain Oasis is that all of our North Georgia cabin rentals are just a short drive from the area’s most beloved shops, restaurants, wineries, and outdoor attractions. With so many fun things to do in North Georgia, piecing together a daily itinerary will be a cinch. To ensure that your escape to Blue Ridge, Ellijay, or Mineral Bluff is nothing short of sensational, we’ve compiled 10 of our favorite midwinter activities, attractions, and destinations (as seen below).
Top 10 Things to Do in North Georgia
1. Go Waterfalling: Yes, even amid winter’s peak, the region’s rushing waterfalls collectively rank among the best things to do in North Georgia. You won’t regret centering your day around these three natural beauties: Amicalola Falls, Fall Branch Falls, and Emery Creek Falls.
2. A Hot Tub Soak Under the Stars: The majority of our Ellijay cabin rentals, including Secluded Mountain Falls, Home Run View, and Lakeview Lodge, feature outdoor hot tubs.
3. Drink a Hot (and Hard) Apple Cider at Mercier Orchards: There’s no offseason for hard cider here in the North Georgia Mountains. Mercier Orchards’ taproom is an idyllic locale to warm up following an afternoon of hiking, mountain biking, or fishing.
4. Climb Aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway’s Santa Express: If you plan to visit Blue Ridge during the holiday season, your first stop should be at the Scenic Railway. The Santa Express runs through December 23 every year, so make sure to head our way as soon as possible!
5. Hook a Trophy Trout: Fly Fishing North Georgia operates out of Blue Ridge, and their trout-focused guides are second to none. This region has thriving brown, rainbow, and brook trout populations, especially inside the Toccoa River.
6. Campfire Stories with the Family: It’s never too cold for a waterfront bonfire at Buddy’s Bungalow, River Spirit, or Rushing River Lodge. Don’t forget to pack s’mores, weenies, and blankets.
7. A Steamy Bowl of Soup at Cantaberry Restaurant: Yes, Cantaberry’s soup needs inclusion—it’s that good. Locals flock to sip and savor the tomato basil bisque and the chicken and wild rice, two culinary staples in the community.
8. Horseback Riding in the Mountains: There are nearly a dozen reputable stables in the area, including Appalachian Trail Rides, Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides, and Cowgirl Up Stables. There’s an extra element of tranquility during this cool, quiet season.
9. Shop ‘Til You Drop: Most of the large communities in the region, including Blue Ridge and Ellijay, have ultra-charming downtowns. We particularly enjoy shopping at Out of the Blue, Blue Ridge Cotton Company, Broken Bull, the Sweet Shoppe and our own Mountain Oasis Decor and More in downtown Ellijay.
10. A Self-Guided Winery Tour: Regardless of the season, winery tours always rank among the most desired things to do in North Georgia. Luckily for you, there are two world-class vineyards near our luxurious Ellijay cabins: Engelheim Vineyards and Chateau Meichtry.
North Georgia Mountain Cabin Rentals
Hopefully, this handy list of things to do in North Georgia this weekend was enticing enough to garner a midwinter visit to Ellijay or Blue Ridge. Many of the most beautiful places in Georgia rest on these vacation properties—the mountain views are awe-inspiring, the decor is sleek yet rustic, and the amenities are world-class. Please give us a call today at 706-276-4343 to book a well-deserved escape from Atlanta. You’ll be blown away by the region’s striking natural beauty, charming downtowns, and seemingly endless outdoor adventure.