Stone Mountain, GA to Nantahala; best route and place to stay
Jun 8th, 2005, 04:53 PM
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Stone Mountain, GA to Nantahala; best route and place to stay
I am trying to plan my route from Stone Mountain, GA to the rafting centers east of Bryson City, NC. The one outfit I'm thinking of going with is actually in Topton, NC. I have used a half a dozen map sites and/or programs, and they all give me different directions. We are going to spend the day next Wednesday at Stone Mountain Park. We will leave early evening and head north towards our destination for the next day, a rafting trip on the Nantahala. Originally, I had planned to take the 23/441 north and stop overnight in Clayton, GA. I think the total route to the river this way would be about 3 1/2 hours. An MSN map provided a quicker route, north on the 129 to the 75/17, which is only supposed to take about 3 hours total. I was thinking of stopping overnight in Helen, GA if we go this way. I've read mixed reviews about Helen, but it appears to be close to my route, and interesting enough for a one night stopover. What do you think? What is the best route? Are there other towns at least midway on my route that I have overlooked that would be more interesting?
Jun 8th, 2005, 05:34 PM
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Definitely the 1st route you mentioned through Clayton. Be sure to consider Atlanta traffic. You say you plan to leave "early evening" and that's a good plan. The other option would be to get on the road by 3:30. Don't even try to drive out of Atlanta during rush hour!
The route will be interstate or 4 lane all the way until right before you reach Clayton. Be careful on the stretch of 441 just before Tallulah Falls and the city limits of Tallulah Falls. Both are speed traps.
Going via Helen from Stone Mtn is not a good route.
I don't know if you plan to eat in Stone Mountain before you leave, or in Clayton when you get there or midway - perhaps in Gainesville. There's a nice little family Italian restaurant in the little village of Stone Mountain, some places off the interstate in Gainesville and I can recommend several places in Clayton.
Without traffic, the trip from Stone Mountain to Clayton should take 2 hours - maybe just a bit over.
As far as "more interesting" towns, you aren't going to have time to visit the towns if you are leaving Stone Mtn in the early evening.
The route will be interstate or 4 lane all the way until right before you reach Clayton. Be careful on the stretch of 441 just before Tallulah Falls and the city limits of Tallulah Falls. Both are speed traps.
Going via Helen from Stone Mtn is not a good route.
I don't know if you plan to eat in Stone Mountain before you leave, or in Clayton when you get there or midway - perhaps in Gainesville. There's a nice little family Italian restaurant in the little village of Stone Mountain, some places off the interstate in Gainesville and I can recommend several places in Clayton.
Without traffic, the trip from Stone Mountain to Clayton should take 2 hours - maybe just a bit over.
As far as "more interesting" towns, you aren't going to have time to visit the towns if you are leaving Stone Mtn in the early evening.
Jun 8th, 2005, 05:46 PM
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Hey, valleykat. People have different views on Helen, that's true. Some view it as being a bit tacky. I've gone there many times since I was a kid and enjoyed it. It's in a beautiful area and Anna Ruby Falls (not the Ruby Falls in Chattanooga) is nearby, well worth a visit. There are plenty of hotels, too. I think it would be a good place to stop.
I don't know much about Clayton in terms of things to see or do.
Enjoy your rafting. I did the Ocoee years ago and it was a blast.
I don't know much about Clayton in terms of things to see or do.
Enjoy your rafting. I did the Ocoee years ago and it was a blast.
Jun 8th, 2005, 05:54 PM
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Thank you for your quick reply. So do you think that the MSN route is just totally off base? Both routes start out the same, but you turn off towards Helen on the one. According to the MSN site, it's 90 minutes from Stone Mountain to Helen and about 90 minutes to Tompton from Helen. I understand that this route is likely more mountainous. Why is it that you would avoid it, or do you just not think that it is quicker? I had not really thought about rush hour. Ideally, we would probably be leaving Stone Mountain around 5 pm after a day of sightseeing, but I can see how that is not such a good idea. Do you think we can see enough of Stone Mountain by 3 pm? We are staying in the park and will arrive the previous night in time to eat and see the light show.
Jun 8th, 2005, 06:05 PM
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Well, I just found Topton, NC on the map and see what you mean.
I don't know which company runs from there, but I've only done the Nantahala from outside Bryson City. I've used NOC and Wildwater.
I don't think the drive time for the second route is accurate at 3 hours. The route will be curvy mountain roads and I drive fast in the mountains but couldn't make it in that time.
Any particular reason you like the Topton company?
Also, if you want rigorous rapids, the Chattoga is Class 4 and just outside Clayton, GA. It's where the movie Deliverance was filmed. It's not the best for a first rafting experience and can be dangerous - but is an absolute blast.
I don't know which company runs from there, but I've only done the Nantahala from outside Bryson City. I've used NOC and Wildwater.
I don't think the drive time for the second route is accurate at 3 hours. The route will be curvy mountain roads and I drive fast in the mountains but couldn't make it in that time.
Any particular reason you like the Topton company?
Also, if you want rigorous rapids, the Chattoga is Class 4 and just outside Clayton, GA. It's where the movie Deliverance was filmed. It's not the best for a first rafting experience and can be dangerous - but is an absolute blast.
Jun 8th, 2005, 06:30 PM
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I think if you're arriving the night before to see the laser show, you can see most of the park in order to leave by 3:30 p.m. And that is something I agree on with Starr. You don't want to get stuck in that traffice mess leaving town.
Personally, these map programs usually flummox me. How they come up with these trip times is beyond me.
Personally, these map programs usually flummox me. How they come up with these trip times is beyond me.
Jun 8th, 2005, 06:38 PM
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If you leave the park by 3:30, the route through Helen would work. I'd go the route toward Gainesville (285 to 85 to 365), exit toward Cleveland then on to Helen. The roads will be 2 lanes, but no traffic and a pretty drive. You could then spend the night in Helen and then drive on north the next day. It's a beautiful drive. But, again on curvy roads. Can't imagine it in 3 hours - and I've driven those roads all my life (literally).
If you decide to use another company out of Bryson City, then do the Clayton route.
If you decide to use another company out of Bryson City, then do the Clayton route.
Jun 8th, 2005, 07:58 PM
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the best way to Topton is to take Georgia 400/US 19 all the way through Dahlonega.
Then follow US 19 to Toptpm/
If you are in Stone Mountain, I would take the Stone Mountain freeway to I 285, take I 285 to where it intersects with Ga 400 and follow it north. Ga 400 will cease to be a designation, but US 19 will continue all the way.
If you go through Clayton you are (1) going out of yur way and (2) you will need to take NC 28 which is a winding road. Then you would have to double back to Topton.
I doubt if the boat is put in the water at Topton.
If you want to stay overnight, stay in Dahlonega or Blairsville.
There is also extensive construction between Clayton and Franklin which could slow you down. When I drove that road a few days ago, traffic was backed up and moving slowly for several miles.
There is no really good set of roads in those mountains in many places.
They all wind around to some extent.
Then follow US 19 to Toptpm/
If you are in Stone Mountain, I would take the Stone Mountain freeway to I 285, take I 285 to where it intersects with Ga 400 and follow it north. Ga 400 will cease to be a designation, but US 19 will continue all the way.
If you go through Clayton you are (1) going out of yur way and (2) you will need to take NC 28 which is a winding road. Then you would have to double back to Topton.
I doubt if the boat is put in the water at Topton.
If you want to stay overnight, stay in Dahlonega or Blairsville.
There is also extensive construction between Clayton and Franklin which could slow you down. When I drove that road a few days ago, traffic was backed up and moving slowly for several miles.
There is no really good set of roads in those mountains in many places.
They all wind around to some extent.
Jun 8th, 2005, 09:32 PM
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Thank you for your replies. The construction situation is one that I am definitely glad to be made aware of. In rereading my posts, I noticed that I said the rafting outfitters were east of Bryson City; I meant west, which is why Clayton seems out of the way. That probably mislead people; sorry. Most of the rafting outfitters are about 10 miles west of Bryson City, give or take a few, but the Topton one is more like 20 miles west. If I choose another outfitter a little closer to Bryson City, is the route suggested by "brookwood" still the best choice? I would think so, given the contruction delays. I have heard that Dahlonega is a nice place to visit. Any recommendations on lodging there?
Jun 9th, 2005, 04:09 AM
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Yes, Dahlonega is a nice place to visit. They have a pretty town square. The old courthouse in the middle of it has a museum about the gold rush days.
You can also walk from the town square to the Smith House, a great family-style restaurant. When I say family style, I mean that you're seated at a long table with others and pass bowls/plates of food around. Good Southern food!
You can also walk from the town square to the Smith House, a great family-style restaurant. When I say family style, I mean that you're seated at a long table with others and pass bowls/plates of food around. Good Southern food!
Jun 9th, 2005, 05:55 AM
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Okay, I'll bow out after this one, but just one more comment.
The routing without traffic is one question. Atlanta traffic adds a whole different story.
I lived off 400 for years and have a place north of Clayton. I also lived in Stone Mountain for 20 years. If you are going to Stone Mountain, over the top end of the Perimeter to 400, then 400 north to Dahlonega and on north just be sure to get on the road early. 400 traffic is one of the worst parking lots in Atlanta. It can take an hour to go 4 exits on 400 in traffic - and that includes north AND south at both morning and afternoon. Headed that way from Stone Mountain looks good on the map, but you are headed straight into the worst traffic backup in Atlanta.
Stone Mountain is on the east side of Atlanta. I'd still get on the road early and then head north on 85 (but not after 4:15) and then either head north around Gainesville or head back west if you are going that route.
Yes, they are doing construction on the remaining 2 lane road south of Clayton. But, if you leave Stone Mountain at 3:30, then you won't hit Clayton until 5:30 and it shouldn't be a problem then. There may be a little backup at the Wal-Mart light south of town, but that should be about it.
If you leave Stone Mountain around 6:30 or 7, then head whatever way you like. Traffic should be over by then - unless there's a wreck somewhere.
I would only direct my worst enemies to try to navigate 285 west, merging on 400 north and then 400 north especially between Haynes Bridge and Cumming exits during traffic hours. If you want to go "straight" that way, be sure to pack a lot of patience.
If you do go that way, there's a great upscale outlet mall just south of Dahlonega.
The routing without traffic is one question. Atlanta traffic adds a whole different story.
I lived off 400 for years and have a place north of Clayton. I also lived in Stone Mountain for 20 years. If you are going to Stone Mountain, over the top end of the Perimeter to 400, then 400 north to Dahlonega and on north just be sure to get on the road early. 400 traffic is one of the worst parking lots in Atlanta. It can take an hour to go 4 exits on 400 in traffic - and that includes north AND south at both morning and afternoon. Headed that way from Stone Mountain looks good on the map, but you are headed straight into the worst traffic backup in Atlanta.
Stone Mountain is on the east side of Atlanta. I'd still get on the road early and then head north on 85 (but not after 4:15) and then either head north around Gainesville or head back west if you are going that route.
Yes, they are doing construction on the remaining 2 lane road south of Clayton. But, if you leave Stone Mountain at 3:30, then you won't hit Clayton until 5:30 and it shouldn't be a problem then. There may be a little backup at the Wal-Mart light south of town, but that should be about it.
If you leave Stone Mountain around 6:30 or 7, then head whatever way you like. Traffic should be over by then - unless there's a wreck somewhere.
I would only direct my worst enemies to try to navigate 285 west, merging on 400 north and then 400 north especially between Haynes Bridge and Cumming exits during traffic hours. If you want to go "straight" that way, be sure to pack a lot of patience.
If you do go that way, there's a great upscale outlet mall just south of Dahlonega.
Jun 9th, 2005, 06:49 AM
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I'm not going to give any route advice, but I will say you should listen hard to advice about Atlanta traffic. There have been times when I have wisked through Atlanta at rush hour and thought "what's the big deal?" and then there are times when I have just wanted to weep.
Never been to Helen, hear it sucks.
Dahlonega is a cute town, but very small, i don't think you'd need long to browse the square.
If you wind up in the Blairville/Hiawassee area, Brasstown Valley resort was very nice and had a good buffet (those mountains aren't exactly chock-full of cutting-edge dining).
North of Clayton, and a bit out of your way to the east is Highlands, a cool town w/ lots of Inns and B&Bs and better food than you will find in N. Georgia, IMO.
The Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is a pretty cool complex for rafting...have you looked at that one? There are a couple of decent restaurants there. Once you get west of Asheville, dining gets scarce in WNC as well.
I can't imagine spending a whole day at Stone Mountain unless I were a high school kid looking to hang out and get a tan. You should be ready to leave in plenty of time to avoid rush hour.
Never been to Helen, hear it sucks.
Dahlonega is a cute town, but very small, i don't think you'd need long to browse the square.
If you wind up in the Blairville/Hiawassee area, Brasstown Valley resort was very nice and had a good buffet (those mountains aren't exactly chock-full of cutting-edge dining).
North of Clayton, and a bit out of your way to the east is Highlands, a cool town w/ lots of Inns and B&Bs and better food than you will find in N. Georgia, IMO.
The Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is a pretty cool complex for rafting...have you looked at that one? There are a couple of decent restaurants there. Once you get west of Asheville, dining gets scarce in WNC as well.
I can't imagine spending a whole day at Stone Mountain unless I were a high school kid looking to hang out and get a tan. You should be ready to leave in plenty of time to avoid rush hour.
Jun 9th, 2005, 06:59 AM
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Starrsville, you have given me a lot to think about. Thanks for sharing your first hand experience. I can't say I've really got it figured out yet, but it helps to have some more knowledge. Now I can see why the map sites are confused.
This is off topic, but I am new to the site and haven't figured out how to watch a discussion or receive an e-mail when there is a new post? In other words, is it possible to subscribe to a thread on this forum. I have just been searching for my post and others each time I get on.
This is off topic, but I am new to the site and haven't figured out how to watch a discussion or receive an e-mail when there is a new post? In other words, is it possible to subscribe to a thread on this forum. I have just been searching for my post and others each time I get on.
Jun 9th, 2005, 07:05 AM
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IF you do decide to overnight in the Clayton area, here are some restaurant suggestions.
Buckhead Tavern - downtown Clayton. As good as it gets even in Atlanta. The steaks are fabulous. The appetizers are good. The decor is rustic. You will think you are eating in the Buckhead area of Atlanta.
Mama G's - family Italian restaurant. Owned by former New Yorkers. Great Italian food. Just opened a new rest. south of town.
Oinkers - great BBQ in a nondescript building south of town.
Julia's - good and varied menu south of town. Nice "early bird" specials.
Grapes and Beans - coffee and wine store with "granola" type restaurant. The food is GREAT. The specials are alway good. The hummus is the best in the state (no kidding). My favorite is the Greek pita sandwich.
Inger's - in a small house near downtown. Fabulous bakery items and good sandwiches/ soups. Inger was a local caterer that just opened her own restaurant.
The Thai restaurant in the Bi-Lo shopping center is really very good. Just opened last year.
The Chinese restaurant is typical Chinese menu and buffet. I don't like it but is cheap and filling.
If you want to head out to the lakes, Louie's on the Lake has GREAT pizza in a simple setting. Across the little windy road the Lake Burton Inn has a nice little restaurant and bar with some outside seating.
There's a FABULOUS al fresco Italian restaurant out toward Cherokee Landing. You would think you were really in Italy. But, after driving from Stone Mountain I don't think you'd want to drive out that way.
For a wide range of menu items with just about anything on the menu the Country Cupboard in Dillard is a good choice. Good food - wide variety. The owners had a long-time favorite restaurant in Roswell before they sold it to move to the mountains.
There are two Mexican restaurants in Clayton and both are good. La Pachanga is my favorite.
Believe it or not, there are good restaurants up that way, if you know where to look. There's big Atlanta money up in Rabun County (the most expensive real estate in the state other than the northern arc of Atlanta). Some lake concierge services start with a 3000 sq ft minimum! The food options have greatly improved in the last few years. Heck, a Chick-Fil-A opened last year!
Buckhead Tavern - downtown Clayton. As good as it gets even in Atlanta. The steaks are fabulous. The appetizers are good. The decor is rustic. You will think you are eating in the Buckhead area of Atlanta.
Mama G's - family Italian restaurant. Owned by former New Yorkers. Great Italian food. Just opened a new rest. south of town.
Oinkers - great BBQ in a nondescript building south of town.
Julia's - good and varied menu south of town. Nice "early bird" specials.
Grapes and Beans - coffee and wine store with "granola" type restaurant. The food is GREAT. The specials are alway good. The hummus is the best in the state (no kidding). My favorite is the Greek pita sandwich.
Inger's - in a small house near downtown. Fabulous bakery items and good sandwiches/ soups. Inger was a local caterer that just opened her own restaurant.
The Thai restaurant in the Bi-Lo shopping center is really very good. Just opened last year.
The Chinese restaurant is typical Chinese menu and buffet. I don't like it but is cheap and filling.
If you want to head out to the lakes, Louie's on the Lake has GREAT pizza in a simple setting. Across the little windy road the Lake Burton Inn has a nice little restaurant and bar with some outside seating.
There's a FABULOUS al fresco Italian restaurant out toward Cherokee Landing. You would think you were really in Italy. But, after driving from Stone Mountain I don't think you'd want to drive out that way.
For a wide range of menu items with just about anything on the menu the Country Cupboard in Dillard is a good choice. Good food - wide variety. The owners had a long-time favorite restaurant in Roswell before they sold it to move to the mountains.
There are two Mexican restaurants in Clayton and both are good. La Pachanga is my favorite.
Believe it or not, there are good restaurants up that way, if you know where to look. There's big Atlanta money up in Rabun County (the most expensive real estate in the state other than the northern arc of Atlanta). Some lake concierge services start with a 3000 sq ft minimum! The food options have greatly improved in the last few years. Heck, a Chick-Fil-A opened last year!
Jun 9th, 2005, 07:17 AM
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Valleykat, this forum doesn't have the feature that shows you the new posting since the last time you visited.
The quickest shortcut is to click on your name to see any threads you've posted on. When it's working, the threads that have new comments will be highlighted in blue.
Include my comments in your decision making, but make your own decision regarding routing. I can't stand traffic so I'm happier driving 30 minutes "out of the way" just to keep moving rather than sit in traffic and watch the taillights of the thousands (it seems like) of cars in front of me. I did grow up in the area, went to Girl Scout camp outside Helen, worked at Stone Mountain Park during the summers while I was teaching, lived off 400 for 10 years, travel for business in the state and have driven in and through the mountains weekly for the past 10 years. I LOVE windy mountain roads. I HATE sitting in traffic on 400. Dahlonega's setting is nice, but there's not a lot to see if you are walking around town in the evening. The shopping at the outlet mall is great. Helen was interesting when it started in the late 60's. I think it's tacky now. Lots of nice trails and camping in the area, but I've heard some really negative things about the hotels in the area. Most of the Nantahala trips leave closer to Bryson City and of course the Chattoga is right outside Clayton. Lots of rafters stay overnight in Clayton. One stop I'd recommend is Tallulah Gorge just south of town - even if it's just to stretch your legs on the nice rim walk around the gorge.
No matter what you decide, once you clear Atlanta traffic the mountain roads will be a welcome relief, pretty driving and a lot cooler too. Enjoy!
The quickest shortcut is to click on your name to see any threads you've posted on. When it's working, the threads that have new comments will be highlighted in blue.
Include my comments in your decision making, but make your own decision regarding routing. I can't stand traffic so I'm happier driving 30 minutes "out of the way" just to keep moving rather than sit in traffic and watch the taillights of the thousands (it seems like) of cars in front of me. I did grow up in the area, went to Girl Scout camp outside Helen, worked at Stone Mountain Park during the summers while I was teaching, lived off 400 for 10 years, travel for business in the state and have driven in and through the mountains weekly for the past 10 years. I LOVE windy mountain roads. I HATE sitting in traffic on 400. Dahlonega's setting is nice, but there's not a lot to see if you are walking around town in the evening. The shopping at the outlet mall is great. Helen was interesting when it started in the late 60's. I think it's tacky now. Lots of nice trails and camping in the area, but I've heard some really negative things about the hotels in the area. Most of the Nantahala trips leave closer to Bryson City and of course the Chattoga is right outside Clayton. Lots of rafters stay overnight in Clayton. One stop I'd recommend is Tallulah Gorge just south of town - even if it's just to stretch your legs on the nice rim walk around the gorge.
No matter what you decide, once you clear Atlanta traffic the mountain roads will be a welcome relief, pretty driving and a lot cooler too. Enjoy!
Jun 9th, 2005, 07:21 AM
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Starr, I learn something from you every time I longon here. Thank you for the detailed list on Clayton. It has been a very long time since I was there.
The North Georgia Premium Outlet that you mention is probably the best one I've ever been to. They have the most shoe stores in one place. Williams-Sonoma has a store there along with Brooks Bros. Love it!
The North Georgia Premium Outlet that you mention is probably the best one I've ever been to. They have the most shoe stores in one place. Williams-Sonoma has a store there along with Brooks Bros. Love it!
Jun 9th, 2005, 07:40 AM
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What a nice compliment, atlswan. That's the best thing about this forum - ideas from so many different people with different perspectives. What I HATE about this forum is posters that are sure they have the "only RIGHT answer". Just drives me crazy! Almost as bad as traffic on 400! Of course, I remember 400 from when it just opened and there were NO cars on it. My family members could spot each other going north and south at any time of day - it was just 2 lanes with a huge grass median then!
I like the outlet mall too - but have to stay away. I like the Wms-Sonoma and Crate and Barrel outlets waaayyy too much! The sheet store also gets me too. I have Ralph Lauren everything - sheets, pillowcases, comforters - even on the daybed out on the "sleeping porch". They are so cheap up there on sale - why not. Talk about luxury - sleeping on high count sheets on a porch overlooking rhododendrons & mountain laurels with creek music to put you to sleep! Heaven on earth!
Of course, I remember 400 from when it just opened and there were NO cars on it. My family members could spot each other going north and south at any time of day - it was just 2 lanes with a huge grass median then!I like the outlet mall too - but have to stay away. I like the Wms-Sonoma and Crate and Barrel outlets waaayyy too much! The sheet store also gets me too. I have Ralph Lauren everything - sheets, pillowcases, comforters - even on the daybed out on the "sleeping porch". They are so cheap up there on sale - why not. Talk about luxury - sleeping on high count sheets on a porch overlooking rhododendrons & mountain laurels with creek music to put you to sleep! Heaven on earth!
Jun 9th, 2005, 07:41 AM
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Thanks again starrsville. How much off our route, assuming we go that way, is Talullah Falls? If we get off in time to beat traffic, we should be able to take it in. I had already been thinking about it.
Maybe you could help me out with our visit to Stone Mountain since you are so familiar with it. I was thinking of purchasing the pass and taking in Crossroads and the 3D theater, the skyride, scenic railroad and riverboat. Are they all worth doing? Did I miss a must see? My daughters are teenagers. Any suggestions on where to eat in the park? Can I do all this and get off by 3:30 pm?
Maybe you could help me out with our visit to Stone Mountain since you are so familiar with it. I was thinking of purchasing the pass and taking in Crossroads and the 3D theater, the skyride, scenic railroad and riverboat. Are they all worth doing? Did I miss a must see? My daughters are teenagers. Any suggestions on where to eat in the park? Can I do all this and get off by 3:30 pm?
Jun 9th, 2005, 07:56 AM
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If you do go 441 into Clayton, you'll be going through Tallulah Falls. Just after the bridge over the gorge, there will be a turn-off to the park on the right. Nice little walk around the one side of the rim. Should only take 30 minutes or so, but nice place to stretch your legs. A real treat is when they release the water and the gorge has natural water volume. I don't think that will be next week, but I get the paper from up there. I'll read to make sure.
Regarding Stone Mountain - the first two opened since I worked there and the kids were little. The last three are fine, but I don't know that I would do all three. I'm not sure the railroad would hold the interest of your teenagers. It's a 5 mile train ride around the base of the mountain.
One option would be to take the trail up the mountain, enjoy the view from the top, take the cable car down the mountain, visit Memorial Hall to hear the story of the carving. Walk across the road if you want to do the riverboat ride. Walk back towards Crossroads if you want to do that.
Hopefully, someone else will have input about Crossroads, movie and restaurants. There's a great German bakery and restaurant just outside the park if you wanted the makings for a picnic.
I think doing all the above before 3:30 wouldn't be a problem.
Both NOC and Wildwater do great rafting trips outside Bryson City. If you go the Clayton route, you may want to see if Black Rock Mountain State Park will rent their cabins for just one night. You'd be at 3000 feet elevation with great views. The Tennessee Rock Trail comes right behind the cabins and y'all could walk part of the trail to an amazing overlook. I just love that area of GA - can you tell?
Regarding Stone Mountain - the first two opened since I worked there and the kids were little. The last three are fine, but I don't know that I would do all three. I'm not sure the railroad would hold the interest of your teenagers. It's a 5 mile train ride around the base of the mountain.
One option would be to take the trail up the mountain, enjoy the view from the top, take the cable car down the mountain, visit Memorial Hall to hear the story of the carving. Walk across the road if you want to do the riverboat ride. Walk back towards Crossroads if you want to do that.
Hopefully, someone else will have input about Crossroads, movie and restaurants. There's a great German bakery and restaurant just outside the park if you wanted the makings for a picnic.
I think doing all the above before 3:30 wouldn't be a problem.
Both NOC and Wildwater do great rafting trips outside Bryson City. If you go the Clayton route, you may want to see if Black Rock Mountain State Park will rent their cabins for just one night. You'd be at 3000 feet elevation with great views. The Tennessee Rock Trail comes right behind the cabins and y'all could walk part of the trail to an amazing overlook. I just love that area of GA - can you tell?
Jun 9th, 2005, 08:37 AM
#20
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Join Date: Jun 2005
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That sounds like a workable itinerary for Stone Mountain. As for the rafting, I guess I'm just trying to save a few bucks. Carolina Outfitters in Topton charges $23 for a guide assisted half day trip, NOR, $33 and Wildwater, $35. Times four it's at least a $40 difference. I'll have to give it more thought. I haven't made any reservations.
I did have reservations for Quality Inn and Suites Mt. Chalet which I can rebook. I will check out those cabins. Any other suggestions? I'm not really into chain hotels, but I didn't see much else in the area that was affordable. Looking to keep this stay around $75/night.
By the way, we are going to stay at the Pisgah Inn following our rafting adventure; then we will tour some waterfalls, including Slide Rock, enroute to Chimney Rock for some hiking the next day. We're staying at Geneva Riverside Lodging between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure that night. Then we're off to a family reunion in Myrtle Beach. Any info on these motels. I know Pisgah is renowned for it's view, and Geneva just looked like a fun, reasonably priced place.
I did have reservations for Quality Inn and Suites Mt. Chalet which I can rebook. I will check out those cabins. Any other suggestions? I'm not really into chain hotels, but I didn't see much else in the area that was affordable. Looking to keep this stay around $75/night.
By the way, we are going to stay at the Pisgah Inn following our rafting adventure; then we will tour some waterfalls, including Slide Rock, enroute to Chimney Rock for some hiking the next day. We're staying at Geneva Riverside Lodging between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure that night. Then we're off to a family reunion in Myrtle Beach. Any info on these motels. I know Pisgah is renowned for it's view, and Geneva just looked like a fun, reasonably priced place.
