Mobile Homes, Springer Mountain, and the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Plus, the Georgia Mountain Scottish Festival and Highland Games
This week, we’re back in Georgia. Discover the “original mobile homes” in historic Washington, a hidden treasure near the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail at Springer Mountain, and the Georgia Mountain Scottish Festival and Highland Games in Hiawassee. Plus, take a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway.
The Original Mobile Homes
By Tom Poland
In the 1800s, the plagues of old age made going to see the doctor too much of a challenge. For others, fashionable excursions such as going into town, say, to enjoy the opera spurred changes. The solution? Well, it was something near impossible to do today.
They moved their home into town.
Upgraded subscribers will receive the full story in a separate email. Free subscribers can preview this email. Upgrade your subscription for full access.
Springer Mountain, Georgia
The Southern Gateway to Adventure
The Appalachian Trail officially begins at Springer Mountain in northern Georgia, a 3,782-foot summit nestled in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. This remote peak marks the southern starting point of the 2,200-plus-mile trail that stretches to Mount Katahdin in Maine. Most northbound hikers reach it via the challenging 8-mile Approach Trail from Amicalola Falls State Park.
Under-the-radar gems: While the bronze plaque and summit register mark the spot for that first official hiking photo, a hidden spot via an easy detour known as Three Forks lies 4 miles north of Springer Mountain at the peaceful confluence of Stover, Long, and Chester creeks into Noontootla Creek. It also marks the spot where the Appalachian Trail meets the Benton MacKaye Trail.
Framed by lush rhododendrons, scenic Long Creek Falls connects directly to Three Forks via a 1.1-mile hike from the Three Forks parking area.
Click below to read a South Carolina couple’s firsthand account of hiking the Appalachian Trail.
Georgia Mountain Scottish Festival and Highland Games
June 6-7, 2026
Hiawassee, Georgia
This vibrant celebration in the North Georgia mountains showcases traditional Highland games, pipe bands, Scottish dancing, clan societies, and Celtic music. Held at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, it features cultural demonstrations, athletic competitions, children’s activities, and Scottish food in a scenic lakeside setting—perfect for experiencing Celtic heritage in the Appalachian foothills.
