Day trip from Cartersville

Question

My teenage son and I want to see the town of Blue Ridge. We have to be back in Cartersville at 5:30 for a baseball game. Any cool spots we could stop on the way that wouldn’t be long hikes? Any swimming holes or easy spots to fish in a lake or river? Just hoping to find some things to occupy our day without too much exertion before his game!

Answer

If you're planning a relaxing day trip from Cartersville to Blue Ridge with minimal exertion and some fun outdoor activities, there are several great spots to check out along the way that are easy to access, with opportunities for light hiking, swimming, and fishing. Here are some suggestions:

Lake Blue Ridge
Lake Blue Ridge is a scenic spot where you can enjoy some light fishing or just relax by the water. The lake has several easy-access points for fishing, and you can rent a boat if you want to explore further. There are also areas to swim, though the water can get a bit chilly depending on the time of year. The Blue Ridge Lake Recreation Area has a beach for swimming, and it’s a great place to spend some time without much effort.
Blue Ridge City Park
Located in the heart of Blue Ridge, this park offers a relaxing spot to stretch your legs without the need for a long hike. The park has a peaceful pond, a playground, and walking paths, making it a good place for a casual stroll. It’s close to downtown Blue Ridge, so you can grab lunch at a local restaurant afterward.
Toccoa River
The Toccoa River runs through the Blue Ridge area and is a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, and tubing. You can easily find access points along the river where you can fish from the bank or wade into the water. A short, easy fishing trip would be a fun, relaxing activity for you and your son before heading back. The Toccoa River Swinging Bridge is a popular stop and offers some scenic views if you want to walk across it (it’s a short walk, no long hikes).
Mercier Orchards
If you’re looking for something fun and easy to do, stop by Mercier Orchards on the way to Blue Ridge. This family-owned orchard offers apples, fresh produce, and homemade goods. While you’re there, you can take a short stroll around the orchard, grab some homemade cider, or pick up snacks for the rest of your trip. It’s a low-effort stop but definitely a fun and scenic place to visit.
Aska Adventure Area
While this area does have more hiking trails, there are shorter and easier trails that offer beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, rivers, and streams. If you’re feeling up for a very light hike, consider checking out the long, easy loop trails, such as the Bear Paw Trail or the Toccoa River Swinging Bridge Trail. These are both short, scenic walks that offer some great views without much exertion.

With these stops, you’ll have a mix of water activities, scenic views, and low-key exploration that will fit into your day before heading back to Cartersville for the baseball game. Enjoy your trip to Blue Ridge!