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Many guests of Mountain Majesty choose to stay at home in the peace and beauty of the mountain. Others venture out in the Western North Carolina or North Georgia or Eastern Tennessee area. This section will give you a preview of the many outdoor, historical, and human interest attractions within a drive of Mountain Majesty. How far to: Asheville, NC - 120 miles Atlanta, GA - 100 miles Blairsville, GA - 15 miles Bryson City, NC - 65 miles Chattanooga, TN - 75 miles Gainesville, GA - 80 miles Knoxville, TN - 115 miles Murphy, NC - 12 miles   Walking Trail From Mountain Majesty Walk up road to top of mountain and then start down and turn right on Indian Gap road (.8 miles from MM). Turn right at top of hill at dead end onto Tsali Drive. Follow road and stay along left side (i.e. another road veers sharply right). You'll dead end into the Whitehouse cabin. They're directly below Mountain Majesty. There's a trail up to MM along the east side of MM. (MM points north).   AMUSEMENT PARK Lake Winnepesaukah, or Lake Winnie, was rated a Top 10 family park by Travel and Leisure. Located in Chattanooga, TN. $3 gate admission, with $17 for unlimited rides.    http://www.lakewinnie.com   APPALACHIAN TRAIL The trail travels 2096 miles from Amicalola Falls, Georgia to Maine covering 14 states with it crossing Highway 19/129 south of Blairsville on Blood Mountain (elevation 4461 ft.). There are day trips available here. The trail also is accessible at Wesser Creek in the Nantahala Gorge, near the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC).   APPLES Apples are in season from late August through late October. You can buy them from the Flea Market (in Murphy) or from the orchards. Stalcup Orchards in Murphy on Little Brasstown Road. Mercer's Orchard just south of Copperhill or on Hwy. 5, Panorama Orchards in Ellijay on Hwy. 76.   BICYCLING Bikes can be rented from Carolina Tours through the Nantahala Outdoor Center. Call 800-232-7238.   BILTMORE ESTATE This Asheville, NC 250-room mansion has a museum, winery, and gardens. Cost is around $35 daytime and kids under 9 are free. Open 7 days a week except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Hours and admission prices change with the seasons. Call 1-800-543-2961 for hours, rates, and special events. Allow 4 to 6 hours to tour.    http://www.biltmore.com   BOAT RENTAL You can rent fishing boats or pontoon boats at Hiawassee Hideaway for half or full day. Call for rates and availability. Directions: To Murphy, left at McDonald's to first light. Turn left and follow to Joe Brown Highway, past rock quarry and bridge. Follow signs to Hiawassee Hideaway Marina. Call 828-837-5049. Nottely Marina - Blairsville. Located on Hwy. 19/129 3 miles north of Blairsville. Pontoon and fishing boats. Call 706-745-3638.   http://www.nottely.com Mountainview Marina is located on the north end of Lake Hiawassee through Bear Paw subdivision. Covered slips, pontoon boat, ski boat, and fishing boat rentals, jet-wet rentals, fishing rods, knee boards, and skis. Small hamburger grill at marina. Call 828-644-5451 for rates and availability. Boat rentals available at Cozy Cove on Lake Nottely toward Blairsville. Call 706-745-2468 for rates and availability.   http://www.cozycoverealty.com Lake Blue Ridge Marina - Call 706-632-2618.    http://www.theblueridgehighlander.com/lake_blue_ridge_marina   BOWLING Cherokee Lanes in Murphy has 16 lanes. On Hwy. 64. Call 828-837-8075. Blairsville has lanes on Hwy 76 East about 2 miles on right. Call 706-745-4444.   BRASSTOWN BALD The highest point in Georgia at 4784 feet. On clear days, a 360 degree view of three states (Georgia, Tennessee and North Carolina) from the lookout tower on top. Approximately 35 miles. Follow Hwy. 19/129 south of Blairsville to Rt. 180. Turn left and follow Rt. 180 to Brasstown Bald. Drive to parking area almost to top. Parking lot is 1/2 mile from top. Walk is fairly steep but paved to top. A shuttle (small fee) is available spring, summer and fall. Call 706-896-2556 or 800-858-8027.     http://ngeorgia.com/travel/brasstown.html   CABBAGE PATCH KIDS Babyland General Hospital is located in Cleveland, GA about an hour and fifteen minute drive. Free tours of the hospital and watch a cabbage patch kid being born. Open year round. Combine this trip with one to Helen, GA. Call 706-865-2171.    http://www.cabbagepatchkids.com/   CADES COVE In Tennessee just west of Gatlinburg. Go to Maryville, TN and then east on Hwy. 321. Cades Cove is an early settlement in a valley cove. Hiking, log cabins, and a national park in the area. In the early morning or around dusk, hundreds of deer come out of the woods. Also, bear, skunk and raccoon are often seen. See the drama Christy, visit Tuckaleechee Caverns and stop by Apple Valley Farms Gift Store.     http://www.cadescove.net/   CHATTOOGA RIVER World famous white water rafting river made famous from the 1970's movie Deliverance staring Burt Reynolds. Approximately 1 1/2 hours from MM just east of Clayton, GA. The Chattooga is the border river between Georgia and South Carolina. The Chattooga will provide exhilarating rafting and intense hikes along the banks. Rafting trips are available from Southeast Expeditions. Call 800-868-RAFT.   CHEROHALA SKYWAY New 40+ mile two lane skyway connects Tellico Plains in southeast Tennessee to Robbinsville, NC. Full of scenic overlooks. Take Hwy. 129 to Robbinsville and turn left on Hwy. 143.     http://www.cherohala.com/   CHEROKEE INDIAN RESERVATION This is home for a large population of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee and the source of this county's name. It is located 60 miles NE of Murphy. In the summer, the nation's oldest drama "Unto These Hills" is a story of the Trail of Tears. The Oconaluftee Indian Village is open mid-May through mid-October where you can tour for $9 adults and $5 children and learn the heritage, traditions, and crafts. The reservation also has a Casino (828-497-7777). Call 828-497-2111.    http://www.cherokee-nc.com/main.htm Also, visit the Cherokee Historical Museum in downtown Murphy (87 Peachtree St.). Largest collection of Cherokee Indian info. Free.   CHIMNEY ROCK Chimney Rock Park, Lake Lure, Bat Cave, and Gerton are all 25 miles southeast of Asheville and 2 1/2 hours from MM. The 1000 acre park and visitor center is open year round except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Cost is $6 in the winter and $10 in the summer. Kids 6-15 are half price. This was the film location for The Last of the Mohicans. Call 800-277-9611.    http://www.chimneyrockpark.com/   CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS Mountain Country Christmas Celebration with festival of trees, tours of homes, craft sales, plays, dramas, etc. from Thanksgiving through the first week of December. Young Harris College, Blairsville. Call 706-896-4966. The Biltmore Estate is decorated for Christmas.   CHURCHES Baptist:   The First Baptist Church of Murphy is across from McDonald's. Sunday school at 9:45 and services at 11:00a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Call 828-837-2615. Catholic:   St. William's of Murphy. Turn left at McDonald's, follow through town. Church is 6 blocks past downtown near Oak Barrel Restaurant. Services Sat. 6:00 p.m. and Sunday at 11:00 a.m. Call 828-837-2000.   COLLEGES Tri County Community College, Murphy. Community courses, continuing education, and a 2 yr. Associate degree. School of cosmetology, nursing, computer. Young Harris College, Young Harris, GA. Methodist college located on Hwy. 76 about 45 minutes from MM. Two year college. Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, NC. 4 yr. Degree. 1 hour 45 minutes from MM. Haywood Community College, Waynesville, NC. 2 yr. Degree in forestry and wildlife management. 2 hours from MM. University of Tennessee - Chattanooga. 1 hour 45 minutes from MM. University of Tennessee - Knoxville (Volunteers) 2 1/2 hours from MM.   DILLSBORO, NC City is known for their artisans, crafts, and hospitality. Home of the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad. The Jarrett House restaurant provides home style dining for $10. Try the cobbler! Call 800-972-5623.    http://www.jarretthouse.com/Restaurant.html   FALL MUSIC FESTIVAL AND FIDDLER�S CONVENTION In mid-October enjoy music shows, midway, gospel show, fiddlers convention, arts & crafts and more at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee, GA. Call 706-896-4191.   FIELDS OF THE WOOD The 10 Commandments 5 feet high! On a mountainside, a tablet the size of two football fields! The flags of 60 nations outline a 150 foot cross at the top. With history back to 1896, the Church of God of Prophecy built the park because they believed that by engraving biblical truths on marble plaques, the stones themselves would inspire the tourist to a greater awareness of God. No admission fee. Open every day sunrise to sunset. Take Hwy. 64 west to Hwy. 294 North. Follow to left at split. 15 minutes from split. Giant stonework, lots of walking trails, gift shop, book store, baptismal pool, Gospel Theatre, Puppet Shows, beautifully maintained property, and the top of the mountain has a panoramic view that you can drive to or walk up the 354 steps to the Place of Prayer. Peaceful, tranquil. Take a picnic and continue on to the Hiawassee Dam for a tour of the dam and picnic beside the lake in the park. Stop at Cherokee Lake on the way back for some quiet fishing, swim, or picnic. Clean restrooms. Call 828-494-7855.    http://www.westernncattractions.com/fieldsof.htm   FIRES CREEK Swim in the creek, fish up stream, picnic areas, hiking trails. Hwy. 64 East from Murphy (turn right at Econolodge) toward Hayesville and turn left at gas station. Follow Forestry signs for Fires Creek.   FISHING Lake and stream fishing is abundant. NC fishing licenses are available at Wal-Mart. You can buy day, annual, or comprehensive (lake and trout) licenses. Lake fishing includes crappie, large and small mouth bass, catfish, white bass, spotted bass, striped bass, and wall-eye pikes.   FLEA MARKET Tuesday: King's Flea Market in Murphy diagonal from McDonald's under the bridge behind Haywood Savings Bank. 7:30 a.m. to noon. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: Decker's Flea Market and Foster's Flea Market a the intersection of Hwy. 19/129 and Hwy. 64. 7:30 a.m. until dark during the summer. Closes around 2:00 in winter.   FURNITURE Discount Furniture next to McDonald's in Murphy. Owner is Hoyt Palmer. Good furniture, reasonable prices, will ship. Town & Country Furniture in Blairsville. Hwy. 19/129 to Hwy. 76 then left. One block on left. Call 706-745-9410.   GAS Prices are much lower in Georgia. Poteete's General Store/BP gas station on Hwy. 19/129 toward Blairsville 4 miles from MM. They carry the Atlanta Journal newspaper and basic groceries.   GEORGIA MOUNTAIN FAIR Usually, two weeks in mid-August in Hiawassee, GA (45 minute drive from MM). Quilting, crafts, music, blacksmithing, pioneer village, carnival food, etc. Call 706-896-4191.    http://www.georgia-mountain-fair.com   GIFT SHOPS AND CRAFTS Shoppes of Murphy A downtown mall that has several shops, such as coffee and wine shop, full service salon, men's store, art gallery, studio and a local newspaper office. A variety of evening events such as live music, wine tasting, and gallery exhibits take place in the mall. On Valley River Ave. Call 828-835-5840. Flea Market, John C. Campbell Folk School Sunny Point Mercantile - Hwy. 64 west 6 miles. A Scent of Pink - 105 year old Victorian home with varied and inspirational gifts. In the mall location. Call 828-835-7371. Andrews Valley Artist's Gallery - A professional, yet casual, gallery where visitors can purchase fine artwork and prints produced by talented local artists. On Main Street in Andrews. Call 828-321-9553.   GOLD DIGGING There�s gold in them thar hills! In Dahlonega, GA on US 19 south of Blairsville. Guided tours of mines, museums, go 70 feet below the earth into tunnels. Open year round Monday to Saturday 9 to 5 and Sunday 10 to 5. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. Visit the Smith House Restaurant (family style) while in Dahlonega (closed Mondays). Call the Dahlonega Chamber of Commerce at 800-231-5543.   GOLF http://www.greatsmokiesgolf.com Cherokee Hills Golf Club, Murphy - 18 hole championship golf course, par 72 and driving range. Greens fees are $15 for 18 holes to walk or $25.60 with cart. Tennis Courts, swimming pool and health spa. Turn right at the McDonald's in Murphy and follow 2-3 miles. Call 828-837-5853. Brasstown Valley Resort - 18 hole championship links course associated with Brasstown Valley Resort. Take Hwy. 76 east of Blairsville, through Young Harris. On right after Young Harris. Call 706-379-9900 or 800-201-3205.    http://www.brasstownvalley.com Butternut Creek Golf Course, Blairsville - 18 hole golf course on Hwy. 19/129 across form the KFP. Call 706-439-6076 or 877-745-5153.    http://www.butternutcreekgolf.com/Golfcourse.htm Chatuge Shores - 18 hole, par 72 in Hayesville. Greens fees are $18 to walk and $30 with cart. Driving range. Take Hwy. 76 east of Blairsville. Continue through Young Harris. Turn left at first stoplight (Hwy 17) upon entering Hiawassee. Golf course two miles on right. Call 828-389-8940. Copper Basin Golf Club - 9 hole, off Hwy. 64 west just over TN state line. Innsbruck - 18 hole mountainous course and driving range in Helen, GA. Call 800-642-2709.   GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN Walk the mile high swinging bridge! Watch hang gliders exhibition 4 times daily (weather permitting), picnic area, trails. 3-4 hour drive from MM. From Boone, NC, take Hwy. 105 to Linville, NC. Turn left on US 221 and the entrance is 2 miles on left. If traveling on the Blue Ridge Parkway, exit US 221 to Linville, NC and the entrance will be 1 mile on the right. Call 800-438-7500.    http://www.grandfather.com/   GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK America's most popular national park with over 520,000 acres for sight-seeing, camping, hiking or fishing.    http://www.great.smoky.mountains.national-park.com/   GROCERY STORES Murphy- about 12 miles: Ingles: Stay on Hwy. 64 into Murphy and follow through two stoplights. One mile on right past McDonald's. Open 24 hours. Bi-Lo: Stay on Hwy. 64 into Murphy and follow to fourth stoplight (at Wal-Mart). Turn left. Turn left at stop sign. Bi-Lo will be a block on the left. Best selection in Murphy. Super Wal-Mart: Stay on Hwy. 64 into Murphy and follow through two stoplights. 1 1/2 mile on right past McDonald's. Open 24 hours. Blairsville - about 12 miles: Ingles: South on Hwy. 129/19 to Blairsville. Left on Hwy. 76. 6 blocks on left. This is the nicest grocery store between Blairsville and Murphy. Blue Ridge - about 20 miles: Ingles: On Hwy. 515. Huge store.   HELEN, GA The Alpine Village of the Blue Ridge Mountains. An old gold town in 1878, lumbering town in 1928, today is a prime tourist stop offering shopping, German restaurants and pubs, and tubing. The Oktoberfest starts in mid-September and runs through October and is very popular (and crowded). Take Hwy. 19/129 south through Blairsville, over Blood Mountain, and follow signs. About 1 1/2 hours from MM. Call 800-858-8027. See Anna Ruby Falls or play GOLF at Innsbruck golf course while here.   HIKING See CADES Cove, Joyce Kilmer Park, Smoky Mountains National Park, Appalachian Trail, Brasstown Bald, Vogel State Park, Unicoi State Park, and Fire's Creek.   HORSEBACK RIDING http://www.greatsmokies.com/horseback.asp Mountainview Riding Stables - West on Hwy. 64 into Tennessee. Travel through the Ocoee River area, right on Hwy. 318 at Grumpeys Store for about 1/4 mile to stables. Great rates and great people. Overnight trips offered as well as group rates. Trackrock Stables - Blairsville. South on Hwy. 19/129 through Blairsville. A few miles out of Blairsville, turn left at Owl Town Grocery. Follow signs. 1 and 2 hours rides. Beginner and advanced horses. Call 706-745-5252. Eagle Fork Stables - east of Hayesville. Guided trail rides of 1, 2, 4, and 8 hours by appointment only. Take Hwy. 64 toward Hayesville to first paved road to right past Davis Brothers Amoco (approx. 9.5 miles), then follow signs. Call 389-6655 or 389-9663. Nantahala Riding Stables - Open April/May through Sept./Oct. on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Hour trips, day trips, and overnight trips. Located on Hwy 12/74 in the Nantahala Gorge. Call 828-488-9649 or 828-488-2903. Thundering Hooves Riding Stables - Open 7 days a week, April - November. Located West of Bryson City on 19/74 West. Call 828-488-0446   HUNTING License required! Wild Turkey, fox, deer, squirrel, dove, bear.   INDUSTRY Our first industry in Murphy was logging in the 1930's. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) dams were being built during this time also. Logging is still active but many other industries have a presence in the area including: OMC - Outboard Motor Marine Corp., manufacturers of Glastron boats in Murphy. Baker Furniture - nearest showroom is in High Point, NC Lee Company - Lee Jeans in Andrews Owenby - textiles including fleece, t-shirts in Blairsville, GA MGM Brakes - Murphy Carolina Mountain Streams - trout fish processing plant in Andrews Kings' Leathercraft - leather belts, wallets, etc. Hwy. 64 west of Murphy   JOHN C. CAMPBELL FOLK SCHOOL 70 year old school patterned after the Danish Folk Schools. Originally established to educate natives in domestic and agricultural arts to improve living conditions. Today it operates as a craft and folk arts center. Classes are available on a weekly basis ($150-$300 per student) and some weekends in banjo making, quilting, blacksmithing, music, dance, folklore, photography, and yes, basketweaving. A gift shop of student's is open to the public. The school is located very close to MM. At the bottom of the mountain turn right to Hwy. 19/129. Take the first right onto Martin's Creek Road. Follow past grade school and turn right immediately after school onto Brasstown Valley Road. Follow 4-5 miles and you will see the school on both sides. Craft shop is on right on lower level of large white building. Most Friday nights at 7:30 the school offers entertainment in the hall. Check the Cherokee Scout newspaper for details or call 828-837-2775. http://www.folkschool.org/   JOYCE KILMER MEMORIAL FOREST Enjoy the deep woods of this natural treasure where hiking trails weave through the wilderness. The back side has a trail called Slick Rock Creek that you can hike to a waterfall.    http://www.main.nc.us/graham/hiking/joycekil.html   LAKES There are 8 major lakes in the area with 8700 acres of clear water allowing swimming, fishing, water skiing, boating and camping. Hiawassee, Appalachia, and Cherokee are the most scenic. Nantahala, Santeelah, Chatuge, Fontana Reservoir, and Nottely are also close. The TVA lakes are drained in the late fall and winter.   LEAVES The exact time of fall peak color is difficult to predict. Usually between October 15 and early November a spectacular array of color can be enjoyed.   LIBRARIES Murphy Public Library and Nantahala Regional Library are both in the same location in Murphy. Open Monday through Fridays 9 to 5, Thursday 9 to 9, and Saturday 9 to 3. Call 828-837-2417. Tri-County Community College library in Murphy is open Monday through Thursday, 8 to 10 and Friday 8 to 3.   LOST SEA Largest underground lake in the world! Caverns also. Good rainy day trip. Near Sweetwater, TN. Rain or shine open every day except Christmas from 9 to dusk. The cavern's temp. is 58 degrees year round. Cruise the lake in glass bottom boats and view some of the world's largest rainbow trout. Only a few caves contain Anthodites "Cave Flowers" and these beautiful crystalline formations are abundant at the lost sea. Guided 1 hour tours. Visit Orr Mountain Winery nearby. Call 423-337-6616.    http://www.thelostsea.com   MOVIE CINEMAS Henn Theatre in downtown Murphy. Turn left at McDonald's. Turn left at next light. On right. Call 828-837-2618. Bald Mountain Cinema in Blairsville on Hwy. 76 East. Call 706-745-8222. Twin Cinema in Blue Ridge behind McDonald's. Call 706-632-7202. Twin Cinema in Andrews. Call 828-321-3333.   MUSEUM The Cherokee County Historical Museum in Murphy has over 2000 exhibits describing the mountain Indian's lifestyle. Also, doll collection. Open Monday through Friday 9 to 5. 87 Peachtree Street. Free. Call 828-837-6792.    http://www.tib.com/cchm   MURPHY, NC Official home of Mountain Majesty. Population less than 3,000. Cherokee County population is about 25,000. Murphy is the western-most city in North Carolina and the county seat.   NATIONAL HISTORIC SITES Cherokee County Courthouse in Murphy. This courthouse is the fifth courthouse in U.S. history. The blue marble was quarried in Cherokee County.   PIGEON FORGE 2 1/2 hours from MM. Over 75 restaurants and 44 family attractions. Shopping at over 200 factory outlet stores. Home of Dollywood - Dolly Parton's Tennessee mountain home and theme park. 35 miles southeast of Knoxville, five miles north of Gatlinburg, TN and 5 miles north of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Call the Department of Tourism at 800-251-9100. Dixie Stampede dinner and show.    http://www.dollywood.com or http://www.mypigeonforge.com   QUILTS Quilts can be found at most antique stores. Great display at Unicoi State Park, GA. On Hwy. 19/129 south toward Blairsville, Mrs. Raper's home on right has "hand-made quilts" sign out front.   RACETRACKS Tri County Raceway is a dirt track off Hwy. 64 East between Murphy and Hayesville. Races most Saturday nights. Sometimes the car rumbling can be heard from MM. Call 828-837-3815.   RAILROAD The Great Smoky Mountain Railway has excursion trips from March through New Years Day over some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Southeast. One trip option includes lunch at a restaurant in the Nantahala Gorge. Departures from Andrews, NC (25 miles from MM), Bryson City, and Dillsboro. Call 800-872-4681 for information and reservations.    http://www.gsmr.com/   RESTAURANTS Dining out in the mountains is usually an evening out. Call ahead to confirm restaurant hours. Restaurants close earlier in the area, often around 9:30 and are often not open every day. Murphy Oak Barrel - Murphy. Left at McDonald's and continue through downtown. Oak Barrel will be 1 1/2 miles on left (next to Catholic Church). Meals run $9 to $17. Nice to sit on porch during nice weather. Open Tuesdays through Saturdays 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. Golden's Restaurant - great breakfast. Hwy. 64 west of Flea Market about 5 miles. Call 828-644-5891. Sirloin Steakhouse - Murphy. Great salad bar. Follow Hwy. 64 past McDonald's and continue straight. Turn left at stoplight at Wal-Mart. Open every night. Call 828-837-9388. No Name Deli - Murphy. Great lunch. Closed weekends and nights except Friday night. Great ice cream parlor next door (open most nights except Sunday). Next to McDonald's. Call 828-837-9138. ShoeBootie's - Downtown Murphy Left at McDonald's, turn right at light, on left. Great atmosphere, friendly service, good food, reasonable prices. Open for lunch and evenings Tuesday through Saturday. Live music and dancing Friday nights. Saturday night is a more formal setting with live music. Call 828-837-4589. The Daily Grind - Coffee shop offering specialty drinks. Also has wine by the bottle and live music. Call 828-835-7322. Sweet Tooth - Ice cream, shakes, and smoothies. Call 828-837-8615. Aldo's - Murphy. Italian. Turn left at McDonald's and follow straight. 1 mile through downtown on left. Call 828-837-8899. Long House - At Cherokee Hills Golf and Country Club in Murphy. All you can eat seafood buffet Friday nights. Open Wed. through Sunday nights from 4:30. Call 800-334-3905 or 828-837-1762. New Happy Garden - Murphy. Chinese open 7 days. Very good! Follow four lane past McDonald's. Continue to light at Ingles/Taco Bell. In strip mall to right of Ingles. Call 828-837-0711. Mountain View Marina Grill Call - 828-321-1802 Arby's - Murphy on Hwy. 64 McDonald's - Murphy on Hwy. 64 Call 828-837-7093 Burger King - Murphy off Hwy. 64 across from Wal-Mart Taco Bell - Murphy on Hwy. 64 on right past Econolodge. KFC - Murphy off Hwy. 64 across road from Wal-Mart. Wendy's - Murphy on Hwy. 64 as you enter town. Pizza Hut - Murphy on Hwy. 64 as you enter town. Blairsville Riverside Restaurant at Pappy's Market Place. 20 miles from MM. Take Hwy. 19/129 south of Blairsville. About 5 miles south of Blairsville. Open Tues/Wed 11-8, Thur/Fri 11-9, and Sat/Sun 7-9. Call 706-745-9885. Blairsville Restaurant. Located on Earnest Street, Downtown. From Hwy. 19/129 and Hwy. 76 intersection, turn left onto Hwy. 76 East. Take first right onto Earnest Street. Call 706-745-6921. Cook's Country Kitchen. Good cooking. Turn left onto Hwy. 76 east. Take second right and Millie's is at the top of the ramp. Call 706-745-1332. Blimpie's - Located on Hwy. 76 three blocks east of Hwy. 19/129 intersection. I Can't Believe It's Yogurt - Located with Blimpie's on Hwy. 76 three blocks east of Hwy. 19/129 intersection. McDonald's - on Hwy. 19/129. Burger King - on Hwy. 76 and 19/129 intersection. KFC - on Hwy. 19/129. Andrews Chestnut's Cafe Great food, atmosphere and value. Dinners around $8 to $12. Take Hwy. 64 west to Murphy. Continue straight to Andrews. Turn right at the stoplight past the Murphy/Andrews airport (on your left). Restaurant is a few blocks on the left. Closed on Sundays and Mondays. Call 828-321-4566. Elsie's Steak and Seafood - burned down in 1999 but rebuilt across from Ingles. Open for dinner until 9pm. Call 828-321-4915. Blue Ridge Forge Mill Crossing - Great family dining. Reasonable prices. Excellent raisin bread free. Located on Hwy. 515 2 miles north of Blue Ridge on south/east side of Hwy 515. Open Tuesday-Thursday 11-8:30, Fridays and Saturdays open until 9pm. Call 706-374-5771. Barrett House - Located in Ingles shopping center on Hwy. 515. 25 miles from MM. Toccoa Riverside Restaurant - Blue Ridge, GA. Turn south/east at the Conoco station on Hwy. 515 in Blue Ridge, turn left and proceed to stop sign (next to Pizza Hut). Turn left and go 1/4 mile to Aska Road. Turn right and follow 8 miles to restaurant on left. Delicious, family operated, overlooking Toccoa River...Best around. 40 miles from MM. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Lunch 11:30-3pm, Dinner 4:30pm - on. Call 706-632-7891. McDonald's - on Hwy. 515. Burger King - on Hwy. 515. Taco Bell - on Hwy. 515. Wendy's - on Hwy. 515. Arby's - Blue Ridge on Hwy. 515. Other locations - North Carolina Nantahala Village Inn Restaurant - Bryson City, NC Superb dining in a neat lodge type atmosphere. Breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, depending on the season. Closed December, January, and February. Hour drive from MM. Call 800-438-1507. http://www.nvnc.com Relia's - At the Nantahala Outdoor Center, left across the bridge. Closed in the winter. Call 828-488-2175 or 800-232-7238. Mama's Cottage - Hayesville. Good food. Large menu. 30 minute wait often after 5:30. Take Hwy. 76 east of Blairsville through Young Harris. Turn left at first stoplight as you enter Hiawassee (Hwy. 17). Follow about 3 miles and restaurant on left. Other locations - Georgia Brasstown Valley Resort. East of Young Harris on Hwy. 76. About 25 miles from MM. Take Hwy. 19/129 to Blairsville. Turn left at stoplight onto Hwy. 76 East. Follow through Young Harris and turn right into Brasstown Valley Resort. Open 7 days a week. Has a main dining room and sports bar. Call 706-379-9900. http://www.brasstownvalley.com Watercrest at Fieldstone Restaurant - Hiawassee, GA. Next to marine and the Fieldstone Inn. Take Hwy. 76 east from Blairsville through Young Harris to Hiawassee. On left off Hwy. 76. Call 706-896-4141. http://www.fieldstoneinn.com Smith House - Dahlonega, GA. Excellent family style restaurant located downtown. Call 800-852-9577. Dillard House - Dillard, GA. North of Clayton, GA. Good family style restaurant. Great stop after a day on the Chattooga. Call 800-541-0671. Tanglewood Restaurant - Sautee, GA. Located 4 miles from Helen on Highway 356, 1 mile from Unicoi State Park. Call 706-878-1044. Turner's Corner Cafe - Located at the intersection of Hwy. 19 and Hwy. 129 approximately 23 miles south of Blairsville or 13 miles north of Dahlonega. Call 706-865-6150.   ROCK CITY GARDENS Rock City Gardens is located atop Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, TN. Self guided tour along the trail to see spectacular natural scenery. See seven states from Lover's Leap. 2 hour drive from MM. Take Hwy. 64 West and follow past Ocoee River to Interstate 75. Call 706-820-2531.    http://www.seerockcity.com   RUBY FALLS Located at Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, TN. Cavern tour with 145 foot multicolored waterfall inside. Open every day but Christmas. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. rain or shine. Take Hwy. 64 west to Cleveland, TN. South on I-75 to Chattanooga. West on I-24 to Exits 174, 175 or 178 and follow signs to Lookout Mountain. While in area, visit Rock City Gardens, Incline Railway, Southern Belle, Riverboat, Tennessee Aquarium. Call 423-821-2544.    http://www.rubyfalls.com   RUBY MINES Franklin, NC. Only natural ruby deposits in North America. Buy buckets of mining earth and wash the contents in the flumes provided. Garnets, sapphires, rubies, etc. Take Hwy. 64 East from Murphy to Franklin. Follow signs to mines. Call Chamber of Commerce at 800-336-7829.   SANTA�S LAND Cherokee, NC. Family park and zoo. Call 828-497-9191.    http://www.santaslandnc.com   SKIING Snow skiing at Cataloochee Ski Area in Maggie Valley, NC. 2 1/2 hours from MM. Beginner chair lift and slope, tow rope, and J Bar. 9 slopes and trails. Ski school. Call 800-768-3588 for ski report or 800-768-0285 for office.    http://www.cataloochee.com   SLICKROCK CREEK Backpacking and canoeing in the Joyce Kilmer - Slickrock Wilderness is an excellent day trip. Joyce Kilmer Park is near Robbinsville, NC and Slickrock is on the back side of it.   SLIDING ROCK Take Hwy. 64 East to Hwy. 74 to the Blue Ridge Parkway in Waynesville, NC. About 2 1/2 hours from MM. Giant rock formation that you can slide down with the water into a large pool at the bottom. Also, hiking trails, fish hatchery, and Looking Glass Falls are nearby continuing south on Hwy. 276. Wear old sturdy shorts and take a picnic. Bathhouse available to change. Call Chamber of Commerce at 706-745-5789.    http://ncnatural.com/NCUSFS/Pisgah/lkglass.html   SORGHUM FESTIVAL Blairsville, GA the last 3 weekends in October. Annual road run, car show, parade, biscuit eating contests, square dance, greased pig contest, pole climbing contest, and tobacco spitting contest. Have the BBQ! Watch the cooking and jarring of pure golden brown sorghum syrup. Call Blairsville Chamber of Commerce at 706-745-5789.   SPRING FESTIVAL Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in May. Lively music, singing, clogging, and local competitions.   TENNESSEE AQUARIUM In Chattanooga. Wonderful aquarium and educational experience. All ages! Follow water life from swamp to stream to lakes to rivers to the ocean. Over 7000 animals in one of the world's largest aquariums. Self guided tours that can be done in 2-3 hours. Call 800-262-0695.    http://www.tnaqua.org   TENNIS City courts in Murphy. 5-6 lighted courts. Free. Turn left at McDonald's and follow a mile to courts on left. Courts also at Cherokee Hills Country Club in Murphy, Tri-County Community College behind building B, Union County Recreation Park on Hwy. 19/129 toward Blairsville, Young Harris College, and Pied Piper Campgrounds.   THEATRE The Reach of Song - Appalachian Mountains Drama at Young Harris College, GA. Music, history, and culture. A spectacular drama and multi-media event is a must-see. Dinner on the grounds is available with reservations. Mid June through Mid August. Call 800-262-7664.    http://www.reachofsong.org Unto These Hills - Fantastic outside drama in Cherokee with the story of the Trail of Tears about the Cherokee Indians. Open mid-June to late August.    http://www.untothesehills.com Peacock Playhouse in Hayesville offers plays throughout the year. Call 828-389-8632.   TROUT Carolina Mountain processing plant in Andrews has raised salmon and trout. Call 800-722-9477.   TUSQUITTEE PIONEER VILLAGE Experience life in Western NC at the turn of the century. Located in Hayesville. The smokehouse has meat curing, hens in the hen house and even the blacksmith shop has a working forge. Open 10 to 5 May through October.   UNICOI STATE PARK A Georgia State Park near Helen, GA. Great quilt display, cafeteria style restaurant, and hiking. Tent, trailer, and RV sites. Cottages and 100 room lodge and conference center. 53 acre lake and beach. Canoe and boat rentals. Lighted tennis courts. Call 706-878-3982 (park) or 706-878-2201 (lodge).    http://ngeorgia.com/parks/unicoi.html   VOGEL STATE PARK A Georgia State Park south of Blairsville on Hwy. 19/129. 40 minutes from MM. Miniature golf, pond with ducks, pedal boats, beach, hiking trails, camping. See Helton Creek Waterfalls nearby (just south of Vogel on Hwy. 19/129).    http://ngeorgia.com/parks/vogel.html   WAGON TRAINS Murphy has one of the oldest wagon trains in the area with approximately 1000 participants. The wagon train circles up in Murphy or Andrews usually during the July 4th parade. It is definitely a sight to see!     WATERFALLS Anna Ruby Falls - Set high on the slopes of Tray Mountain and surrounded by the Chattahoochee National Forest, this unique set of twin waterfalls is surrounded by a 1600 acre scenic area. Formed by Curtis Creek dropping 153 feet and York Creek dropping 50 feet to form the Anna Ruby Falls. Near Helen, GA and Unicoi State Park. Amicalola Falls - Near Dawsonville, GA. The highest waterfall in the Southeast at 729 feet. Take a trip 8 miles to Springer Mountain for the start of the Appalachian Trail. 3 miles of nature trails, 3 playgrounds, 5 picnic shelters. Drive to the top of the falls for spectacular view down. Lodge with restaurant and hotel at top. "Amicalola" means tumbling waters. Approximately 1 1/2 hours from MM. Take Hwy. 19/129 south to Blairsville. Take Hwy. 76 west to Hwy. 52 east. Follow Hwy. 52 to Amicalola. Vogel State Park - South of Blairsville on Hwy. 19/129. Helton Creek Water Falls - Vertical drop of 100 feet, deep in hardwood forest with easy access. Go south on Hwy. 19/129 through Blairsville. Turn left on Helton Creek Road just before Vogel State Park. Pavement ends and parking on right. Trail leads to the right and take all the way to the end! Easy walk. Cullasaja Falls - near Franklin, NC on the way to Highlands. Take Hwy. 64 East from Murphy.   WHITEWATER RAFTING White water rafting is an adventure! Rapids are rated by class (I to VI) based on drop, water flow, danger, etc. Class IV and V rapids are intense and class VI are not passable. Chattooga River, GA - An hour and a half from MM. Border river of Georgia and South Carolina. Take Hwy. 19/129 to Hwy. 76 East. Follow east to Clayton, GA. Follow Hwy. 76 past Clayton and after 10 miles you will cross the Chattooga over a bridge (SC on the other side). The Chattooga is world famous for the movie Deliverance (see MM movie library). The river is naturally flowing and complete wilderness. Only for serious adventure seekers! No building is allowed within a 1/4 mile area on both sides of the river. The river trips are regulated with a group of 5-6 rafts going down every hour. Variety of trips and different levels for 7 hours or overnighters. Usually the trips include lunch on the river. Must be 13 years old to raft sections III and IV (Many class V rapids). Life preservers, helmets, raft, and guides are provided. Southeastern Expeditions is the outfitter I recommend. They are located 2 miles before the river on the right. Trips are approximately $80 on weekdays and $95 on weekends. Worth every penny! Call 800-868-RAFT (Southeastern Expeditions) in advance for reservations. Only two other outfitters are licensed to run the Chattooga: Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) at 800-232-7238 and Wildwater Ltd. at 800-451-9972.    http://www.noc.com or http://www.wildwaterrafting.com Ocoee River, TN - A forty-five minute drive from MM. Take Hwy. 64 west from flea market. Follow to Ocoee River (on left). Home of the 1996 Summer Olympic Kayak and Canoe competitions. Cost is approximately $30 a person with age limitations. Contact Ocoee Adventure Center at 888-RAFT-OAC. Lisa Waggoner is the sales agent and a good friend. She and her husband Brad gave me a kayak lesson and referred me to Dan Adams who sold me the property and built Mountain Majesty. Or contact Southeastern Expedition (800-868-RAFT) or Nantahala Outdoor Center (800-232-7238) for guided trips. A few class V rapids. River is regulated by a dam. During the day, you'll see many rafts and people. Hwy. 64 runs alongside the river which takes away from the wilderness effect. Nantahala River, NC - A 45 minute drive from MM. Near Topton, NC on Hwy. 19. Less intense river. One class IV rapid at the end. People are allowed to go down without a guide. Takes about 3 hours down the river. There is a 60lb. Minimum to raft. Brookside Campground is a good place to rent a raft. They'll also drop off and pick up and they provide hot showers at the end of the day. Approx. $12 per person. Call 828-321-5209.   WINERY Orr Mountain Winery in Madisonville, TN. See vineyards, see how processing is done from press to vat, to tank to bottle. Tasting room and free tours. Halfway between Knoxville and Chattanooga. Beautiful drive out Hwy. 68 . Turn on CR 117 between mileposts 8 and 9. Open July/August: 7 days a week, other months Wednesday - Sunday. Call 423-442-5340.