McCaysville Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Northeast High Country, Georgia with our comprehensive guide to McCaysville. Discover the best attractions, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to McCaysville

Located in Northeast High Country, in the state of Georgia, USA, McCaysville is a charming town that sits on the border with Tennessee. The town is well-known for its scenic river views, outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage. The area surrounding McCaysville is dotted with lakes, waterfalls, and hiking trails that offer plenty of opportunities for adventure seekers. Whether you’re looking to escape the city or want to explore a new part of Georgia, McCaysville is the place for you.

List of Places to Visit in McCaysville

McCaysville has something for everyone, from history enthusiasts to outdoor adventurers. Here are some of the top places to visit in McCaysville:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Toccoa River Swing Bridge: This bridge spans over the Toccoa River and connects McCaysville, Georgia with Copperhill, Tennessee. Built in 1911, the bridge was originally used by trains to transport copper ore from the mines in Tennessee. Today, it’s a popular spot for scenic views and photos.
  • Copper Basin Railway: A historic railway that operated from 1898 to 2001 and transported copper from the mines to the smelters. Today, you can take a tour of the railway and learn about the history of the area.
  • Fannin County Heritage Foundation: This museum showcases the history of Fannin County and features exhibits on Native American heritage, the Civil War, and local industry.
  • The Art Center: This art studio offers classes and workshops and showcases the work of local artists.

Natural Attractions of McCaysville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Blue Ridge Scenic Railway: This scenic railway offers a ride through the picturesque Appalachian Mountains. The route passes over the historic Toccoa River Bridge and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Ocoee Whitewater Center: This center offers a range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, hiking, and mountain biking. It’s also the site of the 1996 Olympic whitewater events.
  • Chattahoochee National Forest: This forest covers over 750,000 acres and offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives.
  • Mercier Orchards: This orchard is one of the largest apple orchards in the southeast and offers tours, tastings, and a café.
  • Helton Creek Falls: This waterfall is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking and offers stunning views of the natural surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of McCaysville

McCaysville is a hub for outdoor recreation and offers plenty of hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore. Here are some of the best routes to try:

  • Benton MacKaye Trail: This trail is named after Benton MacKaye, the founder of the Appalachian Trail. It spans over 300 miles and offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains.
  • Aska Trails: This network of trails spans over 17 miles and offers a variety of routes for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. The trails offer scenic views and access to the Toccoa River.
  • Hemp Top Trail: This trail is a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching and offers views of the Cohutta Wilderness. The route includes a loop through a hemlock forest and follows along a creek.
  • Lake Conasauga Trail: This trail is a moderate, 2-mile hike that takes visitors to the highest lake in Georgia. The route offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in McCaysville: Activities and Tours

McCaysville offers a range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in the area:

  • Toccoa River Tubing: This activity is a popular way to beat the summer heat. Visitors can float down the Toccoa River in an inner tube and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
  • Zipline Tours: This activity gives visitors a unique perspective of the area’s forests and mountains. Zipline tours are available for all skill levels.
  • Horseback Riding: McCaysville offers a range of horseback riding tours for visitors to enjoy. Tours range from short treks to all-day excursions.
  • Wine Tasting: There are several wineries in the area that offer tastings and tours. Visitors can sample local wines and learn about the winemaking process.
  • Fly Fishing: The area’s rivers are known for their trout, making fly fishing a popular activity. Local outfitters offer guided fly fishing tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for McCaysville

If you’re planning a week-long trip to McCaysville, here’s an itinerary to get you started:

Day Activity
1 Explore downtown McCaysville and visit the Toccoa River Swing Bridge
2 Take the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and explore downtown Blue Ridge
3 Visit the Ocoee Whitewater Center and go on a guided hiking or rafting tour
4 Go horseback riding or zip lining through the local forests
5 Tour local wineries and enjoy a wine tasting
6 Explore the Chattahoochee National Forest or go fly fishing
7 Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of McCaysville

McCaysville offers a range of dining options, from local favorites to international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • BBQ: Georgia is known for its delicious BBQ, and McCaysville is no exception. Local favorites include pulled pork, BBQ ribs, and smoked brisket.
  • Fried Catfish: This southern classic can be found at several local restaurants and is served with hushpuppies and cole slaw.
  • Pimento Cheese: This cheesy southern spread is a staple in many local dishes. Try it as a topping on a burger or sandwich.
  • Apple Pie: McCaysville’s apple orchards mean fresh pies are always in season.

Local Beverages

  • Southern Sweet Tea: This refreshing iced tea is a southern classic and can be found at almost every restaurant in McCaysville.
  • Moonshine: This beverage has a rich history in the south and is still popular today. McCaysville has several distilleries that offer moonshine tastings.
  • Local Craft Beer: Several local breweries offer a range of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers.

Where to Stay in McCaysville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

McCaysville offers a range of accommodation options, from upscale hotels to cozy guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in the area:

  • Blue Ridge Inn Bed and Breakfast: This historic inn offers comfortable rooms and a gourmet breakfast each morning.
  • Cabin Rentals: There are several local rental companies that offer cabins and vacation homes for rent. These are a great option for families or larger groups.
  • Toccoa House Properties: This local property management company offers a range of rentals, including cabins, cottages, and condominiums.
  • Majestic Mountain Getaways: This rental company offers luxury cabins with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

What to Buy in McCaysville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

McCaysville offers a range of souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some of the best things to buy while visiting the area:

  • Local Crafts: There are several local artists and craftspeople in the area, offering everything from pottery to handmade jewelry.
  • Apples and Apple Products: The local apple orchards offer fresh apples and apple products like jams, jellies, and cider.
  • Moonshine: Several distilleries in the area offer moonshine for purchase. Be sure to check local laws and regulations before bringing it home.
  • Outdoor Gear: The area’s outdoor recreation opportunities mean that there are several outdoor gear shops in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of McCaysville

McCaysville prides itself on its southern hospitality. Visitors to the area will find that locals are friendly and welcoming. The area also has a rich cultural heritage, from Native American history to the area’s mining history. Visitors should be respectful of these cultural traditions and take the time to learn about their significance.

Best Time to Visit McCaysville

McCaysville is a year-round destination, with something to offer in every season. The fall is a popular time to visit, as the leaves change color and the weather cools down. Winter activities, like skiing and snowboarding, are popular with visitors. Spring offers mild weather and beautiful wildflowers. Summer is the busiest season and offers a range of outdoor activities like tubing, hiking, and fishing.

Do’s and Don’ts of McCaysville

Do:

  • Do embrace the local culture: Take the time to learn about the area’s cultural heritage and traditions.
  • Do bring comfortable walking shoes: The area is known for its great hiking trails and outdoor activities. A pair of comfortable shoes is a must.
  • Do try the local food: The food scene in McCaysville is one of the highlights of the area. Be sure to try local favorites like BBQ and fried catfish.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter: The area’s natural beauty is one of its biggest draws. Visitors should be respectful of the environment and dispose of their trash properly.
  • Don’t ignore local rules and regulations: Be sure to follow posted signs and obey local rules and regulations.
  • Don’t forget to tip: Tipping is a custom in the service industry in the United States. Visitors should tip 15-20% at restaurants and for other services.

Safety and Health

Safety in McCaysville

McCaysville is a safe destination, but visitors should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Don’t leave valuables in your car: Like any tourist destination, McCaysville can attract thieves. Visitors should never leave valuables in their car when parked.
  • Be aware of your surroundings: Visitors should be cautious when exploring the area, especially when hiking or walking alone.
  • Check weather conditions: The area is known for occasional thunderstorms in the summer. Visitors should check weather conditions before embarking on any outdoor activities.

Health in McCaysville

McCaysville is a small town with limited medical facilities. Visitors should ensure they have all necessary prescriptions and medications before arriving in the area. In case of emergency, the closest hospital is in Blue Ridge, 15 miles away.

Getting to McCaysville: Transportation Options and Logistics

McCaysville is easily accessible by car and is located a few hours from several major cities in the southeast. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near McCaysville

  • Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA): 60 miles from McCaysville.
  • Atlanta International Airport (ATL): 100 miles from McCaysville.

Bus Stations Near McCaysville

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: The closest Greyhound station is in Dalton, 53 miles from McCaysville.

Other Options

  • Rental Car Companies: Several rental car companies operate out of the airports in Chattanooga and Atlanta.
  • Taxi and Rideshare Services: Several taxi and rideshare services operate in the area.

How to Get Around in McCaysville

McCaysville is a small town that can easily be explored on foot. Visitors may also choose to rent a car or take a taxi or ride share service to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from McCaysville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

McCaysville is located close to several other popular southern destinations. Here are some nearby places to consider adding to your itinerary:

  • Blue Ridge, GA: This nearby town is known for its charming downtown area and scenic railway.
  • Chattanooga, TN: Located just over an hour from McCaysville, Chattanooga offers a range of attractions, including the Tennessee Aquarium and Lookout Mountain.
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Located just over two hours from McCaysville, this national park is known for its stunning mountain views and wildlife.

Conclusion

McCaysville is a charming town that offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or cultural experiences, McCaysville has something for everyone. Plan your perfect trip today and discover the beauty of Northeast High Country, Georgia.