Top things to do in the Northeast Georgia Mountains
If you're planning a day-trip to visit Apple Mountain Alpaca Farm, you should definitely enjoy some of the other attractions surrounding us in the Northeast Georgia Mountains. There are so many awesome places to experience, but most people up here are so busy enjoying them, we forget to tell visitors.
Below is a list of the top 10 experiences for visitors that will make your trip complete. Whether you're looking for a long hike, or a nice lunch, there's something on this list for everyone.
Every one of these is certified "locals approved" and within 30 minutes of our alpaca farm.
Minutes from the farm
Your PIELocated in the middle of downtown Clarkesville, Your PIE is the perfect place to grab a quick bite to eat. The food is excellent and service is quick. Pick your own crust and toppings, take a number, and they'll bring your pie to you.
Panther Creek Trail & WaterfallIt’s one of North Georgia’s favorite waterfall hikes, and for a good reason: this 7-mile adventure travels to a series of cascading falls set in a beautiful forest, framed by towering trees and mossy boulders. This adventure hikes to Panther Creek Falls, a series of broad, multi-tiered waterfalls that tumble into a deep pool on a sandy beach.
Heading north up highway 365 toward Franklin, NC
Tallulah GorgeTallulah Gorge State Park is one of North Georgia’s most popular destinations for outdoor adventure. The gorge, a giant two-mile-long gash in Georgia’s rolling terrain, drops nearly 1000 feet deep over near-vertical walls to the remote canyon floor below. Walk down the steps of the gorge, visit the man-made beach, or walk the Shortline Trail.
Goats on the RoofIf you're coming to see alpacas, why not goats on a roof? Goats On The Roof is a fun family stop! Lots to do, and they sell Amish foods, Amish Furniture, unique gifts, T-Shirts, homemade fudge, best nitro homemade ice cream, gem mining and rock crushers!!
Restaurants and shops in downtown ClaytonDowntown Clayton has an eclectic variety of distinctive restaurants. Have barbecue ribs at the Wicked Pig, fine dining at Fortify, or grab a beer outside while you listen to live music at Universal Joint. In downtown Clayton you'll find those restaurants and many more.
Heading north up to lake Rabun
Minnehaha FallsThis is a local favorite waterfall that is relatively unmarked and hard to find. The best part is the "hike" to the falls is only 1/5 mile from the road. The next best part is the drive around Lake Rabun as you approach the trail head. For a beautiful drive that ends in an absolutely gorgeous waterfall, don't miss this one.
LaPrades Marina: Rent a boat or have lunch on lake BurtonLaPrade's Marina has two fuel docks, boat ramp, The Chophouse and Hawg Wild restaurants, and The Boat Shop with complete marine service on premise. Nearby is the Lake Burton Fish Hatchery and Moccasin Creek State Park.
Heading west through Clarkesville, on highway 17
Restaurants and shops in Saute NacoocheeSautee Nacoochee features shops like The Gourd Place and Lavendar Cottage, excellent restaurants, and wine tasting.
Helen GeorgiaThe Chattahoochee River flows gently through Helen, a re-creation of a Bavarian Alpine village, complete with cobblestone streets. Local history is linked to the Cherokee Indians and early settlers who came to mine for gold and work in the lumber industry. Helen now has more than 200 specialty and import shops offering everything from candle making and glass blowing to cuckoo clocks and quilts. Dining options range from traditional German fare to traditional Southern.
Heading south toward Atlanta
Jaemor FarmsJaemor Farms, located in the beautiful North Georgia Mountains, is an authentic Fresh Produce Market for the freshest locally grown peaches and produce available from their northeast Georgia farm.