Backroads transport us to the places in between. This regularly occurring feature takes you to and from two southeastern destinations via winding rural roads lined with charming small towns, captivating landscapes, historic structures and, in this particular journey, holiday events across the mountains of North Georgia, Western North Carolina, and Eastern Tennessee. Whether you go before, after, or during the holiday season, it’s a trip worth taking.
Below is a condensed weekend rural backroad journey from Dahlonega, Georgia, to Copperhill, Tennessee, that prioritizes scenic backroads, small towns, and festive experiences with Southern Appalachian charm. Pack warm layers, a thermos for hot cider, and a camera for the festive scenery. Be sure to check websites for updated information or schedule changes.
At the end of this post, our Explorer and Voyager subscribers will find Google Maps links for all three days, plus bonus info about unique accommodations to consider staying at.
GET THERE, Day 1
Dahlonega to Ellijay, Georgia
Backroad Route:
52 minutes; 39 miles • 3 stops
Dahlonega > Ellijay
STARTING POINT:
Dahlonega’s Old Fashioned Christmas
Main Street, Dahlonega, Georgia
dahlonegachristmas.com
If journeying during the Christmas holiday season, kick off the weekend with this annual seasonal event in downtown Dahlonega that runs from November 28 to December 31. Activities include the Lighting of the Square, a Christmas Parade, a Candy Cane Kids Day, and holiday shopping. Enjoy Santa visits, photo ops, and festive events in a charming, historic setting.
Bourbon Street Grill
90 Public Square N., Dahlonega, Georgia
thebourbonstreetgrille.com
After exploring downtown Dahlonega, head over to Bourbon Street Grille for a meal with New Orleans flair. Enjoy Cajun and Creole dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and blackened red snapper; a weekend brunch; a full bar with craft beers and cocktails; and a vibrant atmosphere with patio and balcony dining.
Accommodations of Your Choice
We suggest Blue Sky Cabin Resort in Ellijay, Georgia. Read more in our “Where to Stay” section at the end of this post.
KEEP GOING, Day 2
Ellijay, Georgia, to Copper Hill, Tennessee
Backroad Route:
1 hour 6 minutes; 40 miles • 4 stops
Ellijay > Blue Ridge > Copper Hill
STARTING POINT:
Mercier Orchards
8660 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, Georgia
mercier-orchards.com
Start your day at Mercier Orchards, a fourth-generation family and veteran-owned farm that hosts festive holiday events in November and December. Participate in the Winter Wine Run 5K on December 6 and enjoy a “Santa on the Farm” event on December 14. Participate in cookie decorating and wreath-making workshops, and savor fresh baked pies and hot apple cider tastings, all amidst a cozy, holiday-decorated market.
Downtown Blue Ridge
Downtown Blue Ridge City Park, Blue Ridge, Georgia
blueridgemountains.com/events/light-up-blue-ridge
While you’re in Blue Ridge, head downtown to take in the holiday lights, drop a letter in Santa’s Mailbox, and explore the gingerbread village at The Arts Center. (Don’t forget to vote for your favorite.) You can also shop for handmade holiday gifts at local shops. If you happen to be there the weekend after Thanksgiving, don’t miss the Light Up Blue Ridge event and Christmas parade.
The Black Sheep
480 W. Main Street, Blue Ridge, Georgia
blacksheepblueridge.com
While you’re downtown, enjoy a memorable dinner at the Black Sheep Restaurant, offering refined dining under a 200-year-old oak tree, as well as the largest outdoor bar and covered patio space in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Open for dinner Tuesday through Friday and brunch on the weekends, guests also enjoy craft cocktails, local ingredients, and New Orleans jazz.
Accommodations of Your Choice
We suggest Treehouse Mountain in Copperhill, Tennessee. Read more in our “Where to Stay” section at the end of this post.
AND BACK, Day 3
Copper Hill, Tennessee, to Dahlonega, Georgia
Backroad Route:
2 hours 47 minutes; 119 miles • 3 stops
Copper Hill > Brasstown > Gainesville > Dahlonega
John C. Campbell Folk School
One Folk School Road, Brasstown, North Carolina
folkschool.org
The John C. Campbell Folk School celebrates its centennial anniversary this year with various events that started with a fall festival October 4–5. A Forge After Dark blacksmithing event and auction are scheduled for November 7-8. Attend a Fireside Sale on December 13 accompanied by live holiday music in a festive atmosphere. The school encourages visitors to explore its campus, craft shop, and history museum year-round.
Chattahoochee National Forest
1755 Cleveland Highway, Gainesville, Georgia
fs.usda.gov/r08/chattahoochee-oconee
The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests offer diverse outdoor activities including camping, reservable via recreation.gov. Activities include biking, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, off-road trails, scenic drives, boating, swimming, geocaching, and educational programs. For passes and information, visit the supervisor’s office (at the address above). Check the forest’s website or contact ranger districts for specific parking and site details.
Three Sisters Vineyards
439 Vineyard Way, Dahlonega, Georgia
threesistersvineyards.com
End your holiday weekend with a glass of wine at Three Sisters Vineyards, which offers handcrafted, estate-grown wines in a scenic setting. Enjoy tastings and live music in a dog-friendly environment. Holiday events include festive wine tastings and Christmas markets that feature local crafts and seasonal pairings.
