Guide to Rabun County and the North Georgia Mountains

Guests are always asking us, “What is there to do while in Rabun County?” We have compiled a non-exhaustive list of our past guests’ favorite things not to miss while visiting our area of the North Georgia Mountains. While numbered, they are in no particular order.

Things to Do in Our Corner of the North Georgia Mountains – Rabun County

An Innkeeper’s Guide to the North Georgia Mountains

1. Enjoy a picnic at Minnehaha Falls. We consider Minnehaha Falls to be the best waterfall in Rabun County. The 60-foot high falls widens as it cascades to a wide pool at its base. Surrounded by rhododendron, this is an exceptionally beautiful and short hike. View Map
2. Raft the Chattooga River. This designated Wild and Scenic River offers peaceful beauty in Section III and adventure in Section IV. More Info
3. Visit Black Rock Mountain State Park. Just a short drive from Beechwood Inn, this is Georgia’s highest state park with trails, a lake, picnic spots, and cooler temps. Visit Site
4. Hike Tallulah Gorge. This nearly 1,000-foot deep canyon offers hiking trails, a suspension bridge, waterfalls, and an interpretive center. Learn More
5. Visit the Foxfire Museum. Explore Southern Appalachian pioneer culture through cabins, tools, and history. Foxfire Museum
6. Visit a Nearby Winery. North Georgia vineyards produce quality wines rivaling California and France. Local options include:
   • 12 Spies Vineyard
   • Hightower Creek Vineyards
   • Stonewall Creek Vineyards
   • Tiger Mountain Vineyards
7. Have dinner at the Dillard House. A true Southern culinary tradition, served daily “family-style.” Menu
8. Hike to the top of Rabun Bald. At 4,696 feet, it’s the second highest peak in Georgia with views stretching 100 miles. Trail Info
9. Visit historic downtown Clayton. Lined with specialty shops, art, antiques, and cafes—this charming downtown is a must-see. Explore
10. Visit a working farm. Favorites include:
    • Osage Farm – Fresh produce and heirloom tomatoes
    • Hillside Orchard Farm – Jams, jellies, corn maze, and more
11. Float a lake on a pontoon boat. Our pristine mountain lakes offer pure water and stunning views. Boat Rentals
12. Catch a mountain trout. Whether fly fishing the Chattooga or visiting Andy’s Trout Farm, it’s a classic North Georgia experience.
13. Visit the historic shops in Lakemont. An early 1900s artisan village filled with galleries, boutiques, and gourmet provisions. Visit
14. Take a scenic drive to the Upper Tallulah River Basin. Discover waterfalls, old mining towns, and remote trails. Guide
15. Go horseback riding. Local stables include:
    • Dillard House Stables
    • Equus Meadow Riding Stable
    • Sunburst Stables
16. Take a zip line forest canopy tour. Zip over canyons and lakes at:
    • North Georgia Canopy Tours
    • Wildwater
17. Visit Black Bear Creek Antiques. A hidden gem filled with vintage gear, arcade games, motors, and more. Visit
18. Enjoy lunch at Fromage or Grapes and Beans. Two quirky local cafés offering fresh, flavorful menus. Fromage / Grapes and Beans
19. Golf in the North Georgia Mountains. Courses include:
    • Kingwood Resort
    • Rabun County Country Club
    • Sky Valley Resort
20. Get pampered at The Amara Center. A luxury medi-spa in Clayton offering health and beauty treatments. Services
21. Enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience at Beechwood Inn. Featuring produce from our own Grow, Cook, Eat Culinary Garden. Learn More
22. Participate in a seasonal festival. From wine tastings to live music, there’s always something happening. Events Calendar
23. Drop in at Timpson Creek Gallery. Local art, twig furniture, vintage signage, and curated jewelry. Gallery
24. Drive North Georgia’s Whiskey Road. This scenic route features artists, rustic shops, trout fishing, and local dining. Scenic Drive
25. Set up camp. Rabun County offers everything from luxury RV parks to backcountry tent sites. Campground Guide

Guide to Rabun County and the North Georgia Mountains by Innkeepers David and Gayle Darugh