Farewell summer - Hello fall!

My, my, my……what a busy summer it has been!  I’ve been meaning to get back to the blog for several weeks now, but have had so much going on and really enjoying the waning days of summer.  Aside from the usual summer activities of tubing, swimming, seeing the sights of North Georgia and enjoying cool summer libations on the back deck, I have also added off-road motorcycling to my repertoire.  I recently had a TON of fun riding the trails near Lake Conasauga (Windy Gap and Milma Creek) and Beasley Knob in Blairsville.  I’m looking forward to hitting a few more destinations this fall as the weather grows a bit cooler.  There is nothing quite like climbing to the highest elevations of North Georgia and looking down thousands of feet across the peaks and valleys.  Now……speaking of fall…

So, if you have read my blog at all you know I LOVE fall.  I dare say that it is my favorite time of year and unfortunately it also seems to be the shortest season.  I’m especially excited about this fall for two reasons:  1.) the aforementioned bike riding, and 2.) it has been a bit of a dry summer this year in the mountains so that means it should be a great fall for color!  Now, I am not a farmer and probably not the best source information for anyone planning on publishing an almanac - but, if my memory serves me correct the last dry summer we had in 2013 led to one of the most striking fall color shows that we have had in a while.  A stark contrast to the ‘fall that never was’ in 2014.  Well, I shouldn’t say it never was…..the leaves turned color and fell off in about a week.  BUMMER!  I am really hoping for a brilliant color show this year.

Every time I think of the onset of fall I get a feeling of nostalgia.  It may be the trick-or-treating as a child, carving pumpkins as a kid (or very big kid), paraffining leaves, clambering around in leave piles or walking the trails near my house admiring the brief, but beautiful change of clothes that mother nature was showing off.  It won’t be long before the scarecrows begin to make their way out of their summer hiding spots and begin populating their popular haunts around downtown and throughout yards all over Ellijay.  That familiar smell of damp leaves on the ground will perfume the air with a distinct scent etched into my memory from playing in leaf piles and those cloudy days with rogue rays of sunshine cutting through the sullen grey skies to splash across the color stained mountains.  Ahh, yes!  Fall is coming and such a welcome old friend.  Shortly after that, the mountains will go quiet and rest for the winter, but the chaotic and ever invigorating get-togethers of the holidays will leave no time for us to rest.  And just when you think you have a break……the brilliant green buds will begin popping on the trees as we prepare for another activity filled, sun drenched summer.  Yes, we do live in a wonderful place and should all count our blessings for what we have.

I am beginning to lay out my plans for this fall season and thought I would share some of the things I enjoy doing this time of year.

1. Uncle Shucks Corn Maze in Dawsonville – this is a #1 MUST DO!  I don’t care if you are 7 or 70, this is a ball!  Nothing like getting turned around in a 12 acre corn maze.  And, as night approaches, the ghouls make their way into the haunted maze where you must watch your back as you navigate the dark rows of corn……yes…..you may just find “he who walks behind the rows”….. Don’t miss the regular maze, haunted maze, hay rides, marshmallow roasts, corn cannon and precious goats.  www.uncleshucks.com

2. Amicalola Falls and lunch at the Maple Restaurant at the lodge – aside from having an outstanding lunch buffet, the lodge and restaurant at Amicalola Falls provides one of the most stunning views as seen in the picture below.  It's also a blast to park the car and traverse the walk up.....and down the falls.  For fun challenge, see how many of the old wrecked cars you can find in your travels.  These cars are said to be left over from the 'rum runner' days and met their fate many, many years ago.  All that can be seen anymore are rusty frames and bits and pieces of the rusted bodies.  Enjoy!

1. A visit to Helen – You can check out my previous post on the small, quaint town of Helen.  A great spot for an afternoon trip with the family and don't forget to take a walk up to Anna Ruby Falls on a crisp day!
   
2. Pappy’s Plaza in Blairsville – What can I say about this place other than…..different!  It’s very different, but a lot of fun.  Tons of shops and a delicious restaurant built over the Nottely River.  Pappy’s harkens back to a simpler time of roadside attractions and makes for a great afternoon.  And, you can't beat getting a table 'on the water' and watch water rush by!  www.pappysriversiderestaurant.info/
   
3. Brasstown Bald Visitor Center – Brasstown Bald is just a few mile northeast of Pappy’s and provides stunning views of the mountains from Georgia’s highest peak.  Brasstown Bald looms over all other peaks at 4,784 feet.  Make sure to visit on a clear day – though the clouds can still consume the observation deck even if the sun is shining below.  A great trip, nonetheless.  You can navigate to their website by clicking here.
4. Tail of the Dragon at Deal’s Gap – Tail of the Dragon is well known by cyclists and thrill seekers across the east coast.  It is also a great drive (anytime really) once the leaves begin to change.  Just be sure to check your brake pads before embarking on 318 turns in 11 miles.  It's a bit of a drive up to Andrews North Carolina – but a great day trip.  There is a terrific observation/parking area near the top of the mountain that provides pretty amazing views.  Slay the dragon at www.taleofthedragon.com 
   

Or, simply take a drive through the country and stop by any one of the numerous apple houses or farm markets to peruse the seasonal offerings and help support the farms and orchards that make this area so great!

So – what are your plans this fall?  What activities do you recommend for the whole family?  Please post in the comments below.  I am always looking for great suggestions on new things to try and do.

Well, it’s about time find another one of those libations as we slowly wrap up another summer along the Coosawattee River.

Till next time,


Chris