20 Attractions to Explore Near Sharp Mountain Vineyards

Grandview Lake is a stunning, natural lake which adds an extra layer of beauty to the area's rugged, mountainous terrain. Grandview Lake is the largest reservoir in Pickens County and many visitors take advantage of camping and hiking opportunities at the lake. Boating, kayaking, fishing and swimming are also popular at this location and anglers frequently target largemouth bass among other types of fish.

Lake Tamarack, is a beautiful piece of nature that attracts people from all over the state. The lake has been a major outdoor recreation destination for nearly 100 years. It offers boating, swimming, fishing, and camping to its visitors. A popular attraction is the Lake Tamarack Lodge which offers several amenities including picnic tables and fire pits. There are also plenty of opportunities for bird watching with over 130 species of birds spotted near the lake.

The Funk Heritage Center is a vibrant learning center dedicated to preserving the history and culture of early Appalachian settlers. Located on the Reinhardt University campus, the Funk Heritage Center houses an expansive collection of artifacts, documents, photographs and art that tell the story of indigenous people like those who originally populated this region. The Center also offers educational programming that delves deeper into local history through lectures and events.

Mount Oglethorpe stands as the highest peak in the state. Its summit lies at an elevation of 1,774 feet and provides breathtaking views of the nearby Chattahoochee Forest and surrounding area. Located on a popular hiking area, many hikers flock to this spot for its stunning vistas and unique habitat. In addition to being home to various different types of vegetation, the mountain is also rich in history with artifacts that date back nearly 4,000 years.

Lake Arrowhead, is a lush paradise featuring stunning rolling hills, lush forests and mountains. It's a popular destination for hikers, bicyclists and anglers looking to take advantage of the many trails and wilderness areas found within the area. The lake is the perfect spot for boating with friends or family; its beautiful still waters provide a peaceful atmosphere to relax during warm summer days. Other activities around Lake Arrowhead include visiting nearby historic sites.

Lake Petit is the ultimate destination for a lakeside adventure. Located at the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this stunning lake offers all types of activities from swimming to fishing, boating and sailing. With its crystal clear waters and lush green landscape, Lake Petit is a popular destination for kayaking, as well as camping, hiking and picnicking. The lake also offers a great environment for numerous wildlife species such as deer, bear and fish.

Lake Petit is a breathtaking sight. It's located among dense forested areas and its pristine waters reflect the beauty of the seasons. In summer months its waters sparkle like diamonds and in winter it glistens with hues of pale blues and greens. This serene lake offers countless activities for all types of visitors including boating, fishing, wake boarding, and scuba diving. Many travelers flock to its shoreline just to enjoy the tranquility that Lake Petit provides.

The Hickory Log Creek Reservoir is an invaluable natural resource. It stands out thanks to its oxygen-rich waters and broad range of wildlife, making it a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, and other recreational activities. In addition, the reservoir provides the nearby community with clean drinking water from deep aquifers located beneath it. The reservoir also has flood protection benefits and is home to a diverse array of birds and other wildlife species.

Pine Log Mountain is a special place boasting breathtaking views and trails for hiking, camping and more, it's not hard to fall in love with this picturesque location. Standing at 1,624 feet above sea level on the highest point in the county, you can experience stunning panoramic vistas from its summit surrounded by lush forests. And if that weren't enough, Pine Log also has plenty of outdoor activities for adventurers--from creek-side fishing and rock hunting to ATV riding and birding.

Gibbs Gardens, is an amazing place to experience the beauty of nature. With over 220 acres of breathtaking landscapes, it features 20 awe-inspiring garden areas filled with sculptures, fountains, and walking paths. Guests can marvel at vibrant blooming gardens with more than 50,000 azaleas in thirty varieties that make up the world's largest azalea garden during springtime. They can also celebrate each of the four seasons among thousands of camellias, daylilies, magnolias, and rhododendrons.

Carters Lake, is truly a unique destination. Nestled within the Appalachian foothills, it offers breathtaking views of the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains. The lake itself covers over 3,200 acres of glassy clear water, perfect for fishing and recreational boating. It's also popular with hikers and campers due to its abundance of trails and public camping sites. Birdwatchers can spend leisurely days scoping out ospreys, bald eagles and wood ducks among other species of birds.

Etowah River Park is a natural oasis boasting lush forests, mountain views, and the cool waters of the Etowah river, this park is a great spot for a quick stroll or an afternoon of relaxation. The park features two miles of trails that are perfect for walking and biking. Amenities include several picnic areas, playgrounds and ample parking. Nature enthusiasts can take advantage of the abundant birdwatching opportunities or catch a glimpse of local wildlife.

Heritage Park is a sprawling park area with something for everyone. From hiking trails that take visitors past creeks and old homesteads, to expansive playgrounds and picnic areas perfect for a family outing, Heritage Park is an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The marina provides canoeing, fishing and other recreational boating activities while the amphitheater offers numerous outdoor performances throughout the year.

Canton, is a delightful town steeped in historic charm. Once a Native American settlement, Canton slowly developed into a thriving industrial center by the mid 20th century. Home to numerous parks and award-winning cultural hubs, Canton has grown to be one of the best places to live in not only the County but the State as well. With its many bustling markets, lively festivals and spectacular scenery, you can easily fall in love with everything this gem of town has to offer.

The Canton Theatre has been entertaining audiences for over 80 years. Built in 1943, its beautiful Art Deco façade was a classic from the start. Inside, patrons are greeted by state of the art digital projection and sound that rivals any major theater. In addition to popular movie releases, it also hosts concerts, plays and special events throughout the year. Its concession stand offers handcrafted sodas and snacks made right at the theatre.

The Dawson Forest Wildlife Management Area covers over 12,000 acres of rural terrain composed of loblolly and short leaf pines, as well as some hardwoods. It is well known for its deer and turkey hunting that is available to the public year-round. The area also serves as a sanctuary for endangered species like the gopher tortoise, indigo snake and timber rattlesnake. In addition there are several great places to explore such as the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site and Cohutta Wilderness.

The Georgia National Cemetery is a special place of respite and remembrance. Opened in 2007 to honor the nation's veterans, the cemetery is located on 97 acres of hills and valleys that are perfect for reflection. It features winding roads, memorials, statues, and flags as well as ceremonial gardens where visitors can pay tribute to their country's heroes. The cemetery also includes several designated areas to accommodate various religious and civil services.

Rich Mountain Wilderness spans 12,000 acres of stunning beauty, framed by the peaks of the Chattahoochee National Forest and sweeping down 2,000 feet to the Coosawattee River, this area is a haven for wildlife. The terrain offers gorgeous vistas with lush vegetation including hardwoods, hemlocks and pines. For those seeking a deeper exploration, 160 miles of trails will lead ambitious outdoors adventurers across the creeks and rivers of the region in search of waterfalls.

Carters Lake, is a popular destination for viewers and adventurers alike. The lake has a 65-mile shoreline and offers activities such as camping, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking and picnicking. Hikers can experience the nearby Cohutta Wilderness area or explore the trails at the dam's observation deck. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their rod into waters filled with largemouth bass and striped bass - but make sure to obtain a valid fishing license first!

Amicalola Falls State Park is an incredible place to explore and experience. There is more than 729 acres of rolling mountains, woodland forests, and stunning waterfalls, providing the perfect backdrop for activities like hiking, camping, fishing, or even enjoying a picnic. Visitors can also make their way up to the top of Amicalola Falls via a staircase or a nearby trail located along the edge of the park. There they can take in views of Springer Mountain before descending back down.