5 Ways to Play Outside in Blairsville

Escape to the Northeast Georgia Mountains for a quick weekend getaway or just an afternoon exploring the trails. Here are five ways to play outside in Blairsville, one of North Georgia's beautiful mountain communities.

1. Hike in Blairsville

One of the reasons people head to North Georgia is for the spectacular hiking. Blairsville is an Appalachian Trail community with lots of wonderful side hikes, too. At Vogel State Park, hikers can choose from a variety of trails, including the popular 4-mile Bear Hair Gap loop, an easy lake loop that leads to Trahlyta Falls, and the challenging 13-mile Coosa Backcountry Trail. One of the local favorites is the Meeks Park Nature Trails.

2. Visit Meeks Park

In addition to hiking trails, Meeks Park is a sports lover's paradise. There are batting cages, disc golf, a skateboard park and outdoor exercise area.

3. Fish in Blairsville

Lake Nottely is well-known by locals for its incredible fishing, especially bass. Book a guided trip, or go it on your own. There are several public boat launches, or you can rent a boat from the Nottely Marina. There is also a new hiking trail around the lake.

4. Go Horseback Riding Blairsville

Take a guided horseback ride with Trackrock Stables to explore land adjacent to the Chattahoochee National Forest in the beautiful North Georgia Mountains. On your guided trail ride, keep a lookout for wild turkey, deer and many other types of wildlife and lush, colorful foliage.

5. Listen to Local Music at the Courthouse

Discover some good old fashion mountain music every Friday night May through October at the historic Union County Courthouse. Get there early, though; seats fill up.