Blue Ridge, GA or Asheville, NC?

[smilejenn]

We're looking to plan a family trip in a couple months to see the fall colors. We went to Asheville last year and loved the scenery, and the easy hikes that we could take our children on in the Blue Ridge Parkway area.

While I loved Asheville and am considering another trip up there this year, I've heard some recommendations for Blue Ridge, GA. Has anyone been there? Could you share any information on the area or if you would recommend it over Asheville? For what it's worth, we'll be traveling with a 5 and 2 year olds.

Thanks!

[frlcb]

I have been to both and would choose Asheville.

[smilejenn]

Thanks for your reply! It's very helpful since you've been to both locations!

[gt7301b]

Asheville!

[smilejenn]

Aug 26, 2012 15:28:32 GMT -5 sexycarrot said:

You may also want to consider the Blowing Rock/Boone/Grandfather Mountain area of NC. (Further north up the Parkway.) Tweetsie Railroad is a small amusement park that is perfect for that kids that age. They would probably also enjoy the animal habitats at Grandfather Mountain.

Although, of course Asheville is great too. Haven't been to Blue Ridge, GA.

Thanks for the info! I've heard Boone is a great area of visit! But we're driving up from Central FL and it might be a little too far of a drive for a 4 night trip with two kids in tow... But I'll check it out and do a little research! Thanks again!

[Deleted]

I vote Blue Ridge! We went there a few years ago, and we are going back next week! We always rent a cabin, then can take day trips to the Amicalola falls, or Mercier Orchards, or hiking, or go into the town. The area is gorgeous, it's not all built up & touristy. There is a scenic train ride, but we haven't done it yet. The views are gorgeous, and the kids will have fun exploring...

[smilejenn]

Aug 27, 2012 11:54:12 GMT -5 @4cats4us said:

I vote Blue Ridge! We went there a few years ago, and we are going back next week! We always rent a cabin, then can take day trips to the Amicalola falls, or Mercier Orchards, or hiking, or go into the town. The area is gorgeous, it's not all built up & touristy. There is a scenic train ride, but we haven't done it yet. The views are gorgeous, and the kids will have fun exploring...

Thanks for the info! Is there a cabin or property owner that you recommend? I've never rented a cabin or condo before, and it makes me nervous that I could potentially have the bad luck of getting one with bed bugs or one that someone has smoked in. I couldn't just complain to the manager and get assigned a new room like you could in a hotel.

[mrsd2006]

Aug 27, 2012 15:46:04 GMT -5 smilejenn said:

Aug 27, 2012 11:54:12 GMT -5 @4cats4us said:

I vote Blue Ridge! We went there a few years ago, and we are going back next week! We always rent a cabin, then can take day trips to the Amicalola falls, or Mercier Orchards, or hiking, or go into the town. The area is gorgeous, it's not all built up & touristy. There is a scenic train ride, but we haven't done it yet. The views are gorgeous, and the kids will have fun exploring...

Thanks for the info! Is there a cabin or property owner that you recommend? I've never rented a cabin or condo before, and it makes me nervous that I could potentially have the bad luck of getting one with bed bugs or one that someone has smoked in. I couldn't just complain to the manager and get assigned a new room like you could in a hotel.

Check out Sliding Rock Cabins. We have a cabin around this area, and there's tons to do. Also, in addition to Amicola Falls, Ft Mountain State Park isn't too far away either. We went hiking there this weekend and it was awesome.

Be forewarned that OCT is super busy around there due to the changing colors of the leaves, so book ASAP. Same for the train- buy your tickets online when you know what you want to do. Also in October, the Apple Festival is in Ellijay.

[Deleted]

Aug 27, 2012 15:46:04 GMT -5 smilejenn said:

Aug 27, 2012 11:54:12 GMT -5 @4cats4us said:

I vote Blue Ridge! We went there a few years ago, and we are going back next week! We always rent a cabin, then can take day trips to the Amicalola falls, or Mercier Orchards, or hiking, or go into the town. The area is gorgeous, it's not all built up & touristy. There is a scenic train ride, but we haven't done it yet. The views are gorgeous, and the kids will have fun exploring...

Thanks for the info! Is there a cabin or property owner that you recommend? I've never rented a cabin or condo before, and it makes me nervous that I could potentially have the bad luck of getting one with bed bugs or one that someone has smoked in. I couldn't just complain to the manager and get assigned a new room like you could in a hotel.

The cabin rental company was www.avenairmtncabins.com
They have a big selection, and some of them are very inexpensive. We stayed at one that was only $99 per night, with a mountain view, outdoor hut tub, fireplace, etc. No bugs, very clean and nice!
If you look up on VRBO, most of the cabins will have "reviews" by former guests... I will have to look up the paperwork to find the name of the guy we are renting from this time...