Escaping The Heat: A Day in Clayton, GA

The temperatures are climbing.  It’s now time to head for higher ground and away from the hot, congested north metro Atlanta urban sprawl.  Traditionally, warm weather weary adventure seekers have headed north to the Blue Ridge Mountains and Clayton to find relief from the heat in the cool mountain breezes. 

Of course, unique, out-of-the-way sights, restaurants and boutiques found in and around this quaint little mountain hamlet also help provide a nice escape. 

Local, one-of-a-kind art, antiques and edibles can be found just off the beaten path, which can make the trip a real adventure. 

Should you care to sample the works of local artists, then a trip to the Main Street Gallery would be a great idea.  Since 1985, artists have found a haven for their work in this three-story gallery located in historic downtown Clayton.  It’s an ever changing venue.  No two trips may result in the same artistic experience, but each trip will provide at least a few “wow” moments. 

About five miles west of Clayton, on Highway 76, is Black Bear Creek Antiques where you can find everything from rare books and antique radios to a century old Bailey, Banks & Biddle grandfather clock.  There’s even a classic 1966 Italian made Harley-Davidson Motorcycle on display in this rustic venue.

Care to see the Blue Ridge Mountains in a way that you simply can’t from your car?  Then “mount up” and get the best view you can imagine – from the back of a horse at the Sunburst Stables in nearby Clarkesville. There are a variety of trail rides ranging from a one-hour excursion through the lush green Chattahoochee National Forest to a four-hour ride down picturesque forest trails over to the town of Batesville where a great lunch awaits trailblazers.  

The staff is also very happy to show families down the trails and give the kids a real educational experience without their knowing that they’ve actually “learned” a thing or two along the way.

If you really want to see a sight, take the three-hour “sunset” ride.  You’ll mosey on up to the highest spot in the area to take in a beautiful, breathtaking vista, have a light snack and then head back through the forest as the sun is setting over the mountains.  

For a different type of family outing, try Hillside Orchard Farms.  A working farm that’s open year-round, you can check out a real “moonshine” still, a gem mine and - when in season – a pumpkin patch.  You can even try your navigational skills inside a corn maze or take an old-fashioned hayride.  If you find yourself working up a powerful appetite, you can visit a farm favorite - the Sorghum Mill Café. 

Clayton is less than two hours from Peachtree Corners.  Just head over to I-85 and go north.  At exit 113, veer left onto I-985 North toward Gainesville.  Continue north as I-985 merges into US-23 /US-441 North – for about 75 miles - all the way to Clayton.