Georgia Outdoors
Gilmer County Businesses Offer Classes in the Great Outdoors
Gilmer County, Georgia, July 12, 2010 – Visitors throughout the state of Georgia who are looking to spend some time getting to know the great outdoors, but may be somewhat intimidated due to a lack of experience or knowledge, need not worry, as several businesses and associations in north Georgia’s Gilmer County are now offering “Get Back to the Outdoors” classes and guided expeditions designed to provide novices with a higher level of confidence to explore a host of outdoor activities.
Travelers to north Georgia can visit www.gilmerchamber.com to find a list of local businesses offering classes and guided trips for activities such as hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, camping, kayaking, canoeing and fishing.
Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, Gilmer County is blessed with a significant amount of public land, including nearby favorites such as the Rich Mountain Wilderness Area, Cohutta Wilderness Area and Chattahoochee National Forest. In fact, more than half of the county is designated as public land, making Gilmer County the perfect base camp for your next adventure.
“In addition to having plenty of room to roam, our ‘Get Back to the Outdoors’ programs, supported by local businesses and associations, are a great for getting families together for a fun outing, and a refreshing way to introduce kids to the outdoors,” says Paige Green, President/CEO of the Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce.
Mountain Biking – A walk through historic downtown Ellijay may lead you past Cartecay Bike Shop, but visitors may often find a note posted on the door by owners Mike and Terri Palmeri stating “On a ride with some new friends.” The Palmeri’s, active road and mountain bikers, often close-up shop to take visitors on guided rides along any of Gilmer County’s 150 + miles of single track trails, including the well-known and Super Epic Pinhoti Trail, Bear Creek, Mountaintown Creek, Stanley Gap, Carters Lake and River Loop, located just minutes from downtown. Scenic road rides are also offered, with Fort Mountain and Burnt Mountain loops being regional favorites among cyclists.
Hiking, Backpacking and Camping – With the Southern terminus of the 2,100-mile Appalachian Trail minutes away, hiking, backpacking and camping are a cornerstone of outdoor activities for visitors to Gilmer County. Family members Travis, Shirley and Whitney Crouch, owners of North Georgia Mountain Outfitters, are teachers of all things outdoors, offering guided group hiking and camping trips through some of the nation’s most beautiful and remote backcountry, as well as selling quality outdoor clothing, supplies and equipment.
Additionally, the Benton MacKaye Trail Association (BMTA), supporting the 300-mile Benton MacKaye Trail and celebrating its 30th Anniversary this year, frequently offers monthly Fun Hikes for any skill level. “Our Fun Hikes teach newcomers about trail navigation and safety, and we provide great fellowship with other hikers,” says Publicity Director, Marge Heller of the BMTA. Visit www.bmta.org for more information about Fun Hikes.
Kayaking and Canoeing – During the summer months, kayaking, canoeing and tubing down the Cartecay River is always a family favorite. Folks who want a little more out of the trip can turn to Woody and Jenny Janssen of Cartecay River Experience to provide instructional classes. “Kayaking is the type of sport or hobby that provides great exercise with a break-taking view,” says Janssen. Cartecay River Experience and Eagle Mountain General Store both offer calmer tubing expeditions down either the Cartecay or Coosawattee Rivers.
Numerous other outfitters, guides and rental companies are available to support each person’s specific need. “While our local business owners offer great products and services, they can also offer some excellent folk lore, and provide outdoor goers with some superb recommendations,” says Green.
For visitor information and traveler specials, visit www.gilmerchamber.com, or join our fan page on Facebook at The Ellijays.