Whether you’re craving fresh air, scenic drives, or small-town charm, North 40 Lodge puts you in the heart of it all. Our peaceful retreat is the perfect home base for your North Georgia getaway, with endless options just minutes away—waterfalls, wineries, hiking trails, lake adventures, and more. Located near Lake Burton, Unicoi State Park, Helen, GA, and Clayton, we’re ideally situated for adventure. Wondering what are the top North Georgia activities? Explore the area with our curated guide and make the most of every mountain moment.
Endless Adventures
What Are the Top North Georgia Activities? See Blue Ridge Mountains’ Best!
Area Attractions & Activities
Plan your stay with our curated list of the best activities and experiences in North Georgia.
Hiking & Nature Trails
The North Georgia mountains are home to countless trails ranging from peaceful walks to challenging waterfall treks. Grab your boots and explore some of the region’s most scenic and rewarding hikes. In addition to our own nature trails on-site, here are a few recommended hiking spots nearby to explore:
- Hiking Trails – Panther Creek Falls, Hemlock Falls, and Raven Cliff Falls offer rewarding hikes with scenic views
- Waterfalls Tour – Explore nearby gems like Minnehaha Falls, Anna Ruby Falls, and Angel Falls
- Moccasin Creek State Park – Walking trails
- Tallulah Gorge State Park – One of the most spectacular canyons in the Southeast with scenic overlooks and a suspension bridge
- Unicoi State Park – Scenic trails and forest walks
Biking & Scenic Drives
Take in the beauty of the Blue Ridge foothills by bike or car. Whether you’re cruising mountain roads or pedaling forest paths, the views are worth the ride.
- Unicoi State Park – Forest biking trails
- Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway – Beautiful mountain views
- Historic Moonshine Highway – Beautiful mountain views
Water Activities
Make a splash or cast a line—North Georgia is full of rivers, lakes, and streams perfect for a day on (or in) the water. Our lodge provides guests with inflatable SUPs to use at our local lakes.
- Lake Burton & Lake Rabun – Boating, paddleboarding, fishing, and lakeside picnics
- Fishing & Fly Fishing – Trout-rich rivers and streams throughout the area
- Moccasin Creek State Park – Fishing pier and lake access
- Unicoi State Park – Lake recreation and fly fishing
- Ziplining & Tubing – Adventure parks and tubing outfitters available near Helen, GA
Adventure & Outdoor Fun
Looking to get your adrenaline pumping? From ziplining to horseback rides, there’s no shortage of outdoor fun nearby.
- Sunburst Adventures – Horseback riding and ziplining
On-Site Activities
Enjoy plenty of ways to unwind without ever leaving the property. Whether you’re grilling out, playing a game, or lounging in a hammock, North 40 Lodge has you covered.
- Cornhole and shuffleboard
- Hammocks along the walking path
- Outdoor grilling areas
- On-site market with snacks, meals, and sundries
- Indoor lounge areas and games
- Firepit with s’mores
- Coming soon: Hot tub and sauna
Arts & Culture
Soak up the creativity and history of the area with visits to local galleries, performance spaces, and historic towns.
- Sautee Nacoochee Center – Art galleries, local history exhibits, and live performances
- Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia – Celebrate the region’s rich pottery traditions
- Habersham Community Theater – Local productions in nearby Clarkesville
- Mark of the Potter – A historic grist mill turned pottery studio with local artisan goods
- Helen, GA – Bavarian-themed mountain town with cultural festivals
Food & Dining
Fuel your day with delicious comfort food, farm-to-table fare, or a quick bite at a local favorite. There’s something to satisfy every craving.
- Fortify Kitchen & Bar (Clayton, GA) – Farm-to-table dining with a refined twist
- Batesville General Store – Local favorite with comfort food and a welcoming atmosphere
- Blue Canoe – Cajun restaurant just 5 min away
- The Dugout Sports Bar & Grill – Sports, food and cold beer
- Lake Burton Grill at LaPrades Marina – Classic American cuisine
Wineries & Tastings
Sip and savor your way through the region’s best local wines, with tasting rooms tucked into mountain hillsides and vineyard-covered valleys.
- Tiger Mountain Vineyards – Award-winning local winery with tastings and events
- Stonewall Creek Vineyards – Sample North Georgia wines
- Habersham Winery – Sample North Georgia wines
Shopping & Artisan Goods
From handmade pottery to mountain-town boutiques, the area is full of creative finds and unique souvenirs.
- Shopping in Helen & Clarkesville – Browse unique shops, boutiques, and galleries
- Hickory Flat Pottery – Hand made pottery classes and artisan shop
- Mark of the Potter – A historic grist mill turned pottery studio with local artisan goods
- Helen, GA – A Bavarian-inspired mountain town with shops, carriage rides, and seasonal festivals
Wellness & Relaxation
Recenter and recharge with peaceful outdoor spaces and wellness services for total relaxation.
- Treat yourself to a massage or spa day at nearby wellness centers
- Enjoy hammocks and quiet corners for peaceful lounging on the North 40 Lodge property
Indoor Activities
Whether you’re escaping a rainy day or just craving something cozy and creative, there are plenty of ways to enjoy time indoors.
- Cooking classes and art workshops – Offered seasonally at Sautee Nacoochee Center and local farms
- Museums – Explore Appalachian history, folk art, and regional heritage in local museums
- Lounge and game areas – On-site at North 40 Lodge, enjoy games like indoor shuffleboard and yard games like corn hole
Golfing
Tee off surrounded by sweeping views of the North Georgia mountains. These nearby courses offer both a challenge and a scenic escape.
- Sky Valley Golf Club – Georgia’s highest-elevation course, featuring a championship layout, full practice facility, and public access year-round
- Valhalla Golf Club – Challenging mountain golf with dramatic elevation changes, scenic views, and affordable daily rates