After retirement, you will have lots of free time to pursue your interests. Many older adults love being outdoors as it has proven to have a healing effect on physical and mental wellbeing. Spending time in nature helps to rejuvenate the mind and improves your mood. You can also increase your vitamin D intake by being under the sun, and this helps to build strong bones and reduce the risk of falls. If you enjoy spending time in nature, you may be wondering what the next best place is to explore. Here are our suggestions for the top forests in Blue Ridge, GA that you will definitely have a great time at:
Amicalola Falls State Park
Named after the famous Amicalola Falls, the highest waterfall in Georgia, Amicalola Falls State Park is a great place for a getaway with your loved ones. The park’s name means “falling waters” in Cherokee, and you will be blown away by the magnificent view that Amicalola Falls State Park has to offer. Not only does the park have a beautiful natural landscape, but there is also a wide array of exciting activities there such as 3-D archery, guided hikes, and GPS scavenger hunts. In addition, the park has abundant amenities such as dining options, campsites, cabins for rent, and many more.
Vogel State Park
Vogel State Park is one of Georgia’s oldest parks and boasts a picturesque landscape and many interesting activities. You can find streams, a waterfall, and a reservoir called Lake Trahlyta in the park. Vogel State Park is also a great place to go camping, hiking, backpacking, boating, and fishing. It is extremely popular during fall as you can get a stunning view of the Blue Ridge Mountains dressed in red, yellow, and gold. There is even a Civilian Conservation Corps Museum that operates seasonally.
Chattahoochee National Fish Hatchery
If you love fishing and want to learn more about conservation and the environment, take a trip to Chattahoochee National Fish Hatchery! The hatchery is well known for its beautiful and natural environment located in the heart of the North Georgia mountains and is encircled by the Chattahoochee National Forest. Chattahoochee National Fish Hatchery monitors the state of aquatic habitats, helps to implement environmental education programs, and offers recreational fishing opportunities for visitors. Fishing is also a great way to socialize and bond with family members.
Blood Mountain
Being the sixth-highest mountain in Georgia, Blood Mountain features scenic views and is accessible from Vogel State Park by trail and road. The Walasi-Yi Center at the bottom of the mountain houses a store and provides hostel services. There is an additional hiker’s shelter at the top of the mountain supported by the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club.
Keep Active with Blue Ridge
Want to spend time outdoors with ease? Blue Ridge is the perfect senior living community for you! At Blue Ridge, we believe that our residents should lead active, independent lives, and we are always ready to support you. Our concierge team can help you plan for your own outdoor trips and recommend the best places, or you can rely on our full-time activities director who will schedule fun local outings and other activities according to your interests.
