Blue Ridge in November: What to Expect

It’s really hard to top visiting the North Georgia mountains in November. Just one hour north of Atlanta, you’ll find fall festivals, outdoor adventures, and family fun, which are all in abundance in our mountain town of Blue Ridge, Georgia.

Downtown Blue Ridge is lined with lights for the upcoming holiday season, and the fall colors are on full display in the Blue Ridge mountains. We can’t think of anything more magical. If you’re planning a trip to Blue Ridge this Fall, Blue Sky Cabin Rentals are the perfect landing place for all of your adventures.

We’ve put together a guide to help you plan the ultimate November getaway to Blue Ridge, Georgia.
 

November Weather in Blue Ridge

November brings crisp weather to the North Georgia mountains. The highs are in the 60s during the day, while the lows reach down to the 30s. The chance of a cloudy or rainy day increases slightly, but plenty of sunny days are still expected during the month of November.

November weather is perfect for exploring the outdoors during the day and cozying up in your cabin rental at night.
 

Best Things to Do in November

1. Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Photo Credit: Lucy Kowalski

The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is a family-friendly train that starts in Downtown Blue Ridge. Families have been enjoying this fun activity for decades.

The train ride takes 4 hours, spanning a whopping 26 miles. Starting in Blue Ridge, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway takes you along the Toccoa River to the mountain town of Mccaysville. The small town borders Copperhill, Tennessee, giving guests the chance to be in two states at once! There are plenty of fun things to explore in Mccaysville before you make your way back through the mountains and finish in Downtown Blue Ridge.

Riders can choose between multiple coach options when purchasing their tickets. The railway is not pet-friendly, but service animals are permitted.

2. Visit Local Wineries and Breweries

Photo Credit: View Apart

North Georgia is full of incredible local wineries and breweries, and November is the perfect time to enjoy both the harvest and beautiful scenery.

Many of the local vineyards offer mountain views, live music on the weekends, and wine tasting throughout the week. Serenberry Vineyards and Bear Claw Vineyards are two options located just a short drive from Downtown Blue Ridge. Roo Mountain Vineyards is a new vineyard just 30 minutes from Blue Ridge in neighboring Ellijay. Each vineyard offers a different atmosphere, one-of-a-kind wines, and an incredible experience.

If you’re more of a craft beer enthusiast, you’re also in luck. Blue Ridge is known for its endless brewery options. Some local favorites include Grumpy Old Men Brewing, Angry Hops Brewing Company, and Tipping Point Brewing Company.

3. Go Hiking in Chattahoochee National Forest

Photo Credit: Anne Elle

Blue Ridge is conveniently located just a few minutes away from the Chattahoochee National Forest, a 750,000-acre protected forest buried in the North Georgia mountains. This national forest is home to multiple lakes, recreational areas, a variety of wildlife species, and over 500 miles of hiking trails.

The beginning of the Appalachian Trail is located in the Chattahoochee National Forest as well, making this the perfect place to go hiking during your November stay.

Some of our favorite nearby hikes include:

• Long Creek Falls, a 2-mile roundtrip hike along the AT
• Stanley Gap, a 3-mile trail that is popular for the whole family.
• If you’re up for a longer drive, head to the infamous Preacher’s Rock for incredible mountain views.

4. Explore Downtown Blue Ridge

Photo Credit: blueridgedrone

There is nowhere more festive than Downtown Blue Ridge during the Fall season. November is the ideal time to enjoy a stroll down bustling Main Street, as it is still decorated for Autumn, but signs of Christmas are emerging. You’ll find plenty of mom-and-pop restaurants, local stores, unique art, and more.

There are plenty of local restaurants to enjoy, including cozy coffee shops, lunch cafes, and upscale dining. We recommend visiting:

• Mountain Mama’s Coffee for coffee and breakfast before hitting the shops.
• Pop in local favorites like Blue Ridge Adventure Wear, High Country Art, and Huck’s General Store.
• Finish your day at Black Sheep Restaurant for delicious cocktails and Appalachian food.

2024 November Events

1. Holiday Show & Sale

Photo Credit: OlhaTsiplyar

• Dates: November 16, 2024 - December 20, 2024
• Address: 420 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA

The Holiday Show & Sale is an annual event put on by the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association (The Art Center). This holiday market is the perfect time to stock up on unique Christmas gifts for your loved ones. There are a variety of handmade items for sale from local artists, ranging from pottery to paintings to jewelry.

2. Blue Ridge Turkey Trot

Photo Credit: JaySi

• Dates: Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024
• Address: 241 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513

If you’ll be visiting for Thanksgiving, there’s nothing more festive than the annual Blue Ridge Turkey Trot. Come out to Downtown Blue Ridge and enjoy this family-friendly race. Open to all ability levels, it's a great opportunity to get outside and enjoy Blue Ridge before feasting on your Thanksgiving meal.

Tickets can be found here.

3. Light Up Blue Ridge

Photo Credit: Leohoho Photos

• Dates: November 30, 2024
• Address: 733 E Main St, Blue Ridge, GA 30513

Light Up Blue Ridge is an annual festival to usher in the Christmas season. Taking place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving Day, Light Up Blue Ridge is an all-day event that includes live music, pictures with Santa, a Christmas parade, and finally, lighting of the Great Tree in Downtown Blue Ridge. This festive celebration is the perfect event for the whole family to enjoy.

Packing for Your November Trip

Photo Credit: Art_Photo

With chilly weather and plenty of outdoor and indoor activities waiting for you, you might be wondering what to pack for your Blue Ridge getaway. We want to make sure you are as comfortable as possible, so we recommend packing:

• Warm jacket
• Gloves, scarves, and beanies
• Layers for outdoor activities
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hiking gear
• Rain jacket and umbrella

You’ll Love Blue Ridge in November

We can’t say enough how much we love Blue Ridge in November. It’s the perfect blend of savoring Fall while anticipating the upcoming Winter season. Everywhere you go, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful fall colors, festive family fun activities, outdoor adventures, and cozy spots to relax at the end of the day.

We can’t wait to host you at Blue Sky Cabin rentals for your Blue Ridge getaway. We hope our November itinerary gets you excited for all of the fun experiences headed your way.