Discover the top things to do in Sky Valley Georgia. This charming town is on the border between the States of Georgia and North Carolina.
Sky Valley is Georgia’s highest incorporated city and one of the highest municipalities in the eastern United States.
WIKIPEDIA
Nestled amidst the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, this very small but extremely charming town has a lot to offer to active seniors seeking an enriching vacation.
Sky Valley is a delightful blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. Immerse yourself in the
Take in awe-inspiring landscapes by embarking on scenic hiking trails that lead to breathtaking waterfalls, such as Mud Creek Falls and Estatoah Falls.
Play a round of golf at the renowned Sky Valley Country Club, boasting stunning vistas and well-manicured fairways. It claims to be the highest golf course in Georgia!
Get out of your comfort zone by trying horseback riding at nearby Dillard Stables or ziplining above the forest canopy at the Highlands Aerial Park in neighboring North Carolina.
Things to Do in Sky Valley Georgia
1. Rabun Bald via Beegum Gap Trail
Rabun Bald via Beegum Gap is a 3 ½ mile moderately challenging loop trail worth taking on. The complete loop will take you a little over 2 hours.
The challenge comes from the elevation gain of 900 feet to the top, but the views are totally worth it.
Venturing up Rabun Bald, you may encounter a slight haze at the summit, but don’t let that deter you.
There is an observation tower at the top that lets you go above the tree heights and soak in the majestic surroundings.
The trail itself is well-maintained, guiding you through rolling hills in the beginning and a manageable incline thereafter.
Since this trail is quite popular, you can expect to encounter fellow nature enthusiasts along the way. The trail is open year-round, inviting you to immerse yourself in its beauty anytime.
2. Mud Creek Falls to Estatoah Falls
Mud Creek Falls to Estatoah Falls is a 3.2 mile trail located near Sky Valley. It is an easy and enjoyable hiking experience.
Beginning at the mesmerizing Mud Creek Falls, the trail takes you through a serene and picturesque woodland area.
As you make your way down the trail, you’ll come across a charming old covered bridge. Keep in mind that you must only admire it from afar as it’s on private property.
Although there are a few muddy spots along the path, they are easily navigable.
While the endpoint of Estatoah Falls may not live up to your expectations, the overall beauty and tranquility of the trail make it a worthwhile excursion.
3. Highlands Aerial Park
Embark on a World Class Canopy Tour, soaring through the trees with exhilarating speed. However, you will need to drive 5 – 10 minutes north and into North Carolina to reach Highlands Aerial Park.
The Highlands Aerial Park is the ultimate fusion of Europe’s zipline alpine adventure courses and Central America’s rainforest canopy zipline tours. It is an unrivaled experience you won’t find anywhere else.
The Highlands Aerial Park is situated within a lush, virgin, old-growth forest adorned with peaks, knolls, gorges, and waterfalls, creating a truly awe-inspiring natural terrain.
There are several zipline options. Take on the Brave Indian Family Challenge and Zipline Course or brace yourself for heart-stopping thrills on the Giant Mountain Swing.
You can also explore pristine nature trails that wind through the temperate rainforest. Witness the beauty of the 300′ long cascade at Upper Middle Creek Falls.
4. Dillard House Stables
Experience breathtaking views, lush forests, and the joy of riding alongside a cool mountain stream. It doesn’t even matter if you have never been on a horseback before!
Their skilled guides and well-trained horses are ready to be your trusted partners on their well-maintained trails. Some rides worth trying are:
One Hour Scenic Farm Ride: Enjoy stunning mountain vistas and abundant natural greenery on this relaxing ride through Dillard House pastures, tracing the Little Tennessee River.
One Hour River Ride: Journey alongside Dillard House Pasture, navigate the middle of the Little Tennessee River, and venture through lush green forests. Approximately half of the ride is spent in the water.
5. Sky Valley Golf Club
Set amidst North Georgia’s classic mountains, Sky Valley Golf Club has the highest golf course in Georgia. Originally designed by Bill Watts in the 70s, the course has been renovated and now boasts a championship layout crafted by Bill Bergin.
With lush fairways and greens, it stretches over 6,900 yards, offering seven sets of tees for all skill levels. When you’re done playing, savor drinks and lunch at the Turn Cafe or Clubhouse Patio.
The Clubhouse, with its stunning architecture and scenic terrace, provides an idyllic setting for events. Explore the Farm-to-Table Capital of Georgia in Rabun County, where the club’s kitchen offers scrumptious cuisine and delightful craft beverages.
With a vibrant social calendar and stunning mountain views, Sky Valley is the perfect retreat for golfers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Where to Stay in Sky Valley Georgia
Mountain Bliss at Remodeled Rental Home
Escape to a breathtaking mountain retreat in Sky Valley that has easy access to charming shops, renowned restaurants, hiking trails, and thrilling adventures like white water rafting and casino entertainment.
This vacation rental is a golfer’s dream come true! Just steps away from the prestigious Sky Valley golf course, this beautifully remodeled rental home is an ideal location.
With additional golf courses just a short drive away, including the renowned Kingwood Resort and The Orchard, your golfing adventures are boundless.
Unwind on the large, covered deck while savoring a cup of coffee and reveling in the cool mountain air. Discover a world of natural beauty and excitement right at your doorstep.
Relish the convenience of a pool, fitness center, pro shop, and even a 100 ft drop waterfall, all within walking distance. Experience a level of service that goes above and beyond.
Fire Mountain Inn – A Secluded Luxury Getaway!
Experience the ultimate mountain retreat at Fire Mountain Inn, a full-service boutique resort and bed and breakfast nestled atop a picturesque mountaintop in North Carolina, just a 5 – 10 minute drive from Sky Valley.
Choose from a variety of room types, including the luxurious Inn, cozy cabins, or charming treehouses.
From the extensive library with panoramic valley vistas to the artisan chef-prepared breakfasts, Fire Mountain Inn is a haven for seniors seeking tranquility and rejuvenation.
Discover the easy trails and fields of wildflowers, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a mesmerizing firefly display at dusk. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and explore the nearby waterfalls and hiking trails.
Experience the exceptional service and warm hospitality that sets Fire Mountain Inn apart.
Modern Resort-Style Mountain Retreat
Experience the enchanting Nantahala National Forest from the comfort of this elegant 3-bedroom, 2-bath vacation rental home in Sky Valley.
Unwind on the furnished deck with breathtaking mountain views, indulge in the luxurious resort pool, and embrace the allure of the nearby Sky Valley Country Club.
With hiking trails, rafting trips, and skiing adventures just moments away, this high-end haven is the perfect escape for seniors wanting to vacation with friends.
Enjoy a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool, soak your worries away in the hot tub, and stay active in the fitness center. The clubhouse offers additional entertainment options.
Check out things to do in the following nearby towns too!
Where to Eat in Sky Valley Georgia
Bella’s Junction Café – Scaly Mountain
Bella’s Junction Café in Scaly Mountain, less than a 5 minute drive from Sky Valley Country Club, offers a wide range of delicious dishes.
From mouthwatering Reubens and Blackened Chicken Sandwiches to delectable quiches and salmon BLTs, Bella’s serves up exceptional food that will leave you craving for more.
Bella’s Junction Café provides a low-key and friendly atmosphere. The quaint restaurant features cozy indoor seating with a small number of tables, creating an intimate dining experience.
You can also enjoy your meal on the front porch for a view of the charming surroundings of hills, pasture lands, and grape vines.
The quality of the food is unmatched and you can even BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) for enhancing your dining pleasure. The staff goes out of their way to make you feel at home and provides exceptional service.
Indulge in their delectable desserts, including mouth watering cakes like the famous carrot cake that is to die for, at the end of your meal.
A word of caution – please do check with them before going, as at times they may be fully booked by groups for a special occasion.
Cupboard Café & Gifts – Dillard
If you are driving from Dillard to Sky Valley, you will find Cupboard Café & Gifts a great place to stop for some delicious southern comfort food. Not only does the food live up to expectations, the very reasonable prices make the experience really worth it.
The prime rib, cooked to perfection, is accompanied by delectable sides like cheese biscuits and sweet potato soufflé. The creamed corn is a delightful surprise. The pulled pork and chicken breast are very satisfying too!
Seating at Cupboard Café strikes a lovely balance between comfort and charm. Service is extraordinary. You can expect the staff to take your orders quickly, and then serve the food promptly.
What sets Cupboard Café apart is the combination of a restaurant and gift store. The ambiance, exceptional food, and friendly service make it a must-visit spot.
Julep Kitchen – Dillard
Julep Kitchen, further down on the road from Dillard to Sky Valley, is a great place to pull over for lunch. The restaurant has an impressive menu range and the food quality is exceptional.
From the savory smoked salmon dip to the tantalizing ribs and chocolate martinis, every dish is crafted with precision and care.
The seating arrangements exude comfort and elegance, creating a relaxing ambiance. The restaurant’s beautiful grounds further enhance the overall experience, offering a serene setting for your dining pleasure.
The restaurant staff goes above and beyond to ensure a delightful dining experience. The attentive and friendly staff provide impeccable service, making you feel right at home.
The specialty store attached to the restaurant also features a coffee counter with mouthwatering desserts.
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