Hello again! I'm back today to share the other portion of my weekend with the ladies. While we thoroughly enjoyed our relaxing time at the cabin last weekend, we also had fun taking Sunday to explore more of the beauty that our state has to offer. I've blogged about Amicalola Falls previously, but it's a spot that's worth a second look at a slightly different time of year.
There are lots of great spots to hike in this part of the state, but given we had a few things on the agenda that day we kept it easy and went with a spot convenient to loading up on some of the delicious seasonal apples before they disappear until next year and the gals wanted to hit up a winery, as well. You can find all of those spots along Highway 52 beginning in Ellijay, Georgia. It was just a short drive from our cabin in the direction of home, and the drive itself was gorgeous with the fall leaves!
It was a little bit cloudy when we first arrived, but the views did not disappoint on the way up! The main ascent to the waterfall starts on a trail, then you hit the first set of stairs to make your way to the bridge right in front of the falls.
It is definitely a good little workout. Luckily they have access from above if you have kiddos that can't make the climb on the stairs or even dogs. We did see a few people trying to make it up with dogs, but one man was carrying his because the poor pup couldn't walk very well on the open grates. For those with a good aerobic base the main set of stairs isn't too taxing (in my humble opinion). The up close view of the waterfall is definitely worth it!
There's another set of stairs about three times as long to get all the way up to look out over the falls. Definitely more of a calf burner making your way up all of those. Some more great views through the trees at that higher elevation to take your mind of your quivering legs.
Just like at the cabin, I couldn't help but get multiple pictures of the same gorgeous scenery. The photos just don't quite do it justice, but they're pretty darn close.
One of the gals woke up with a bit of neck pain, so we only stayed at the park for about an hour before heading out. It really was plenty of time anyway as it was starting to get crowded by the time we were leaving. Thank goodness we hit it first on our list because if we had waited until later we may have given it a miss due to the crowds!
Next up on the list was procuring some apples. Many of the orchards didn't do U-pick this year, and even the ones that did are done with it for the season at this point. A few of the orchards weren't even open yet, but we found one that was to grab some different varieties.
It's always nice to get locally grown fruit of course, but I also love grabbing some varieties that you can't find in the store. It is also much cheaper to buy in bulk to have plenty to make homemade applesauce, apple butter, muffins, pies and the like! I settled on a half peck each of Stayman Winesap, Mutsu and September Wonder.
Almost too pretty to eat. Almost.
We finally finished out the afternoon with a stop at Cartecay Vineyards. The day was really stunning, so I wasn't complaining about another opportunity to spend more time outside. The gals decided to each order a flight of wines to taste, while I mostly enjoyed the views and the sun on my face since I was driving.
They had a little barn set up where you could order wine and some snacks if you wanted. There was a small nook with couches and seating inside, but also lots of seating outside.
They had some live music for entertainment and a few local artisans were set up selling some goods. My friend found some lovely handmade coasters to purchase for holiday gifts. The bees finally chased us off after my other friend got stung (luckily she isn't allergic). We hopped in the car for the easy ride back home.
A weekend for the memory book for sure. Lots of time outside. Laughter with friends. Good food and drinks. And plenty of much-needed relaxation. Can I go again this weekend?
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