Fannin County - 13 Attractions You Must Visit

Aska Trails is a network of hiking trails full of unexpected beauty. With two different trail networks to choose from, hikers can explore seven miles of picturesque oak and pine forests, waterfalls cascading down rugged rock formations, deep gorges with trout streams running through them, and breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Perfect for those looking for a relaxing stroll or thrilling adventure - Aska Trails offers something for everyone.

The Blue Ridge Dam, is an incredible example of civil engineering. Built between 1930 and 1933 as part of the Tennessee Valley Authority's construction efforts, this dam produces hydroelectric power for the entire region. Standing at 210 feet tall and 988 feet wide, it has a water surface of 1,500 acres and can produce almost 50 million kilowatt-hours of electricity every day.

Blue Ridge Lake is an outdoorsman's paradise. A hub of outdoor activities such as water sports, camping, and wildlife viewing, Blue Ridge Lake is a great spot for enjoying all that nature has to offer. Whether visitors want to take a leisurely boat ride around the lake or enjoy a more adventurous day of fishing or kayaking, there's something here for everyone. The lake is also teeming with wildlife and plants. Bird watchers can enjoy views of birds while visiting the lake.

The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is a unique and exciting experience. Offering two main types of excursions, the historic line allows visitors to choose between different viewing perspectives of the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. The Toccoa Valley Express Tour offers a roughly four hour, 26-mile scenic ride from the Blue Ridge Station in downtown Blue Ridge to the town of McCaysville and back again.

The Blue Ridge WMA provides a unique wildlife viewing and recreational experience. Covering more than 4700 acres of heavily forested mountains, this area is a haven for many species of birds, mammals and other wildlife. Visitors to the area can enjoy activities like hunting, fishing, hiking and camping while taking in the picturesque surroundings, which include waterfalls and rolling hills. The WMA also offers access to trout streams, hunting camps, rustic roads and so more.

The Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery is filled with marvelous sights and sounds. Here, it's possible to get close up with some of the most abundant fish species native to the area, including Rainbow and Brook Trout, Striped Bass and Brown Trout. Guided tours and educational programs provide fascinating insight into this unique ecosystem. Visitors can also explore a seventeen-acre historic building located on site, that was once used for hatching eggs.

This two-million-acre park provides recreational opportunities for thousands of visitors every year, from hiking and kayaking to fishing and archery. Along with its spectacular trees, shrubs and wildlife, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is also part of the longest section of the Appalachian Trail – the 3 million acres that stretch from Maine to Mountain City, GA. With 15 designated wilderness areas complimentary camping sites around lakes and streams.

Jacks River Falls is a stunning sight. Located near the Cohutta Wilderness in North Georgia, it is the highest volume falls in the state, with an impressive 44-foot drop over the rugged and rocky terrain. Visitors can access the falls from multiple trails that range from 2-10 miles long before taking a steep descent down to the banks of Jacks River. For those brave enough to enter its icy depths, swimming at Jacks River Falls provides a truly exhilarating experience.

Lake Blue Ridge Recreation Area is a picturesque spot for campers and hikers alike. With stunning rolling hills and crystal clear waters, it's no wonder why so many flock to this area each year. The recreation area has something for everyone: from beach access along the lake's shoreline, to camping sites tucked away beneath tall trees, to hiking trails leading around the reservoir with breathtaking views. Boating and fishing are also popular activities here as well as swimming and picnicking.

Mercier Orchards is a family-run pick-your-own fruit orchard that has been producing delicious apples, peaches, and blackberries for over 80 years. Visitors are welcome to take a stroll around the orchard's rolling hills and have the chance to pick their own fresh fruit. In addition to selling fresh fruit, Mercier Orchards also offers an array of delicious pies, jams, cider donuts, and hard ciders for purchase. It also proudly supports local farmers by offering homegrown sweet corn in season.

Rich Mountain Wilderness is an incredible outdoors experience. Boasting more than 17,000 acres of lush green forest, this region will astound you with its sheer beauty and grandeur. From hiking trails to camping spots, fishing to swimming in various creeks, visitors are left with a sense of serenity that is hard to replicate anywhere else. The Rich Mountain Wilderness also boasts some magnificent animal life with deer, raccoon and river otter amongst the wildlife commonly seen by visitors.

Shallow Ford Bridge is an iconic bridge, well-known due to its structure, being built entirely out of wood 115 years ago. The bridge stands 270 feet long and 78 feet high above the Toccoa River. While there have been a few maintenance updates over the years, it remains true to its original design which is supported by four wooden trusses. Some local legends claim that a train car was built to go across the river at this location however there is no proof this actually occurred.

Springer Mountain is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor recreation enthusiasts. The mountain is most well-known as the southern terminus of the well-traveled Appalachian Trail. At 3,780 feet above sea level, Springer Mountain offers sweeping views from its summit, making it an ideal spot for photography. Its rolling slopes are also covered in thick foliage along with evergreens like white pines and table mountain pines.