Beauty, relaxation, and natural fun can all be found in the mountains of North Georgia (Blairsville and Blue Ridge, GA). The large variety of outdoor activities lead many visitors to become residents (or at least part-timers) before they have had a chance to explore all of the lakes, rivers and streams in the area.
Many water lovers in the area head for Lake Blue Ridge and Lake Nottely, two of Georgia's most picturesque mountain lakes. Both are man made and controlled by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). Lake Nottely is 4,180 acres and Blue Ridge is 3,290 acres. Swimming, boating and fishing on the crystal blue waters are very appealing. Both lakes have an abundance of National Forest land, camping & picnic opportunities, boat ramps and full service marinas. Because so much of the shoreline borders on National Forest, the lakes remain unspoiled by commercial development. Fisherman can enjoy fishing for bass, bream, catfish, crappie and perch. Lake Blue Ridge is the only lake south of the Great Lakes where walleye are caught. Blue Ridge is also known for small mouth bass fishing and Nottely has some of the finest striped bass around.
Those looking for flowing water, don't have to look far. Several area rivers, including the Toccoa offer canoeing and kayaking opportunities. Fast paced whitewater rapids, for the more adventurous are just right down the road on the Ocoee River. The Ocoee was the site of the Olympic white water rafting during the 1996 summer games. Many of the area rivers also offer a trout fisherman's dream. Winding in and out of National Forest land, the rivers are wide enough in most areas that you can cast a line without catching a tree. The streams and rivers are regularly stocked with beautiful rainbow trout.
Comments(2)