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The North Georgia Mountain Area 

 
R-Ranch in the Mountains Resort is centralized to the best that North Georgia has to offer.  With close proximity to the historic downtown area of Dahlonega and the plethora of nature based destinations, R-Ranch owners have a wealth of possibilities at their fingertips. 

 
 

   Historic Downtown Dahlonega

Home of the very 1st Gold Rush, Dahlonega has been a major draw in North Georgia for decades. Located on top of the largest gold deposits found east of the Mississippi River, most of the gold that could be mined economically has been removed from the earth starting in 1828 when gold was first discovered. The earth below Dahlonega contains many tunnels dug out by miners since 1829. From canoeing in the many rivers to scenic drives along tree-lined highways to hiking the Appalachian Trail, you can find all the activities you've dreamed of doing in Dahlonega and Lumpkin County. Quaint shops around the Square are filled with regional art, antiques, unique jewelry and collectibles. Take the opportunity to enjoy casual fine dining in any of Dahlonega's many famous restaurants. The culinary delights range from gourmet to good old southern homestyle. Learn more about Dahlonega at www.dahlonega.org.


 

 

 

  Outdoor Activities   
Nestled within the breathtaking Chattahoochee National Forest, R-Ranch has a plethora of outdoor activities available to our owners.  From surrounding area waterfalls to the nearby Appalachian Trail, every outdoor enthusiast is sure to find an activity of interest.


 

   Smithgall Woods
Deep within the North Georgia Mountains lies Georgia’s most unique mountain retreat . . . and it’s best kept secret! Smithgall Woods is hidden in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and is a 5,600-acre mountain retreat that combines a unique natural setting with the seclusion and rustic charm of a private mountain estate. North Georgia's premier trout stream, Dukes Creek, runs through this spectacular mountain property and is a favorite for catch-and-release fishing. Five miles of trails and 18 miles of roads allow hikers and bicyclists to explore hardwoods, streams and wildlife. Smithgall Woods is an elegant mountain retreat perfect for family, friends and group getaways and retreats. For more information check out this website: 
www.smithgallwoods.com.

 

Canoeing and Kayaking   
Explore the Chestatee and Etowah rivers by canoe or kayak with Appalachian Outfitters.  A short instructional is followed by one of the most scenic and breathtaking tours in the region!

 

 

Click Here to Get Outfitted!


 

   Hiking and Walking Trails
Springer Mountain, the start of the Appalachian Trail in Georgia is located just a short drive from the main entrance to R-Ranch in the Mountains.  Whether you do a short day hike or traverse the rugged terrain over months, coming back to the Ranch is pure bliss.

 

 

For more North Georgia Trails, Click Here!


 

Golf Courses   
Is your idea of relaxing getting teed off?  Then R-Ranch in the Mountains is in a prime location.  Just minutes from our property is a Achasta, a Jack Nicklaus designed course as well several other beautiful courses tucked within the mountainous terrain.

 

 

Click here for the Finest Golf Courses in the Region!



   If Bike Riding Is Your Thing...
Nestled in a prime location of the North Georgia mountains, Dahlonega fosters homes to many of cycles top races such as The Tour de Georgia, the Six Gap Valley Ride, and the Dahlonega Omnium. First held in 2003, the Tour de Georgia Presented by AT&T is an international professional sporting event that brings thousands of spectators and cycling enthusiasts to the State of Georgia each Spring. The 2008 Tour de Georgia Presented by AT&T was a six-stage race, covering more than 600 miles across the State of Georgia, from the shores of Tybee Island to the mountains of North Georgia, with an exciting circuit finish in the state capitol, Atlanta. As a four-time host city for the Tour de Georgia, Dahlonega is sad to hear that the Tour will not come back in 2009, but is looking forward to its return in 2010. Tthe 2nd Annual Six Gap Valley Ride is a 35-mile valley option and a great introduction to the infamous Six Gap Century. Taking place in Georgia's Premier Cycling Venue, the Six Gap Valley Ride boasts some of the most scenic mountainside in the Southeast. This route will cast a special spotlight onto Yahoola Valley, Turner's Corner, and R-Ranch in the Mountains. The Valley Ride will take place this September 27, 2009. For more information check out this website:
www.cyclenorthgeorgia.com.


 
North Georgia Premium Outlet Mall  
Only a casual drive south on GA 400, you can embark on the numerous shops of the North Georgia Premium Outlets. You can find impressive savings in over 140 stores including everything from clothes to furniture.  The outdoor village setting of the North Georgia Premium Outlet Mall offers something for everyone in its wide range of familiar brand name outlet stores. For more information on sales and events visit
www.premiumoutlets.com/outlets/outlet.asp?id=16.