The out-and-back hike on the Bear Creek Trail to the Gennett Poplar is about 1.8 miles. The tulip poplar holds the record in Georgia and is also the state’s second-tallest tree. The trail includes several creek crossings, so bringing an extra pair of shoes is a good idea. This route combines a hike with a clearly identified natural landmark.
Hiking among towering trees and flowing water
A bridge is the highlight of the Tumbling Waters Trail. The trail is in the Ridgeway Recreation Area on Carters Lake and crosses Tails Creek on a 150-foot-long bridge that runs 30 feet above the creek. On the Bear Creek Trail, the Gennett Poplar is the focal point at the end of the hike; on the Tumbling Waters Trail, the creek crossing shapes the experience. These specific features give each trail its own character.
The Rich Mountain WMA: Cartecay Tract is a 2,142-acre property in Gilmer County. Carters Lake lies at the southern end of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is the deepest of Georgia’s reservoirs. Public boat ramps are available at Damsite, Doll Mountain, Woodring Branch and Ridgeway. Along with hiking, this offers a distinct perspective on a striking waterscape.
Culture and calendar
The Georgia Apple Festival takes place over two weekends in October in Gilmer County; the exact dates change each year. Hundreds of vendors showcase handmade and craft goods. The festival puts arts and crafts at the heart of an annual event, and you can check the exact dates when planning your trip.
Gilmer Arts is dedicated to enriching the creative and cultural life of Gilmer County through a broad range of arts programs. The organization also operates an art gallery where local artists can display their work. The Tabor House Museum offers a look at history: its artifacts and donated items cover the Cherokee, early settlers, the region, the Civil War and the military.
More discoveries and seasonal experiences
At Engelheim Vineyards, you can enjoy personalized wine tastings hosted by knowledgeable staff in the tasting room. The winery produces a wide selection of vinifera wines from grapes grown on its own 15 acres of vineyards. The personal tasting experience and the origin of the grapes are two distinct aspects of its wine offerings.
At Mountain Valley Farm Store, visitors can meet Katahdin sheep, rabbits, Boer goats, Jersey dairy cows and calves. At B.J. Reece Orchards, visitors can pick their own apples each year in September and October; timing may vary with the harvest. Cartecay River Experience offers tube and kayak rentals, as well as a shuttle for visitors bringing their own equipment.
When choosing when to travel, it’s worth considering two different calendars: the Georgia Apple Festival takes place over two October weekends, with exact dates that change each year. Apple picking is offered in September and October, though harvest conditions can affect the precise timing. This can help you decide whether the festival or the seasonal apple harvest should be a bigger part of your plans.
Discover more destinations: East Ellijay, Ellijay, Bartow, Dekalb, Pulaski County, Carroll County, Forsyth, Evans County
For the broader travel overview: Georgia.
