Reporting by Vanessa Johns, Savannah Morning News
As summer temperatures climb across Georgia, one North Georgia destination is once again earning recognition as a place to cool off.
In a recent feature highlighting places to escape the heat, Southern Living recommends Blue Ridge, Georgia as one of the state’s best mountain getaways, thanks to its higher elevation, outdoor recreation and typically cooler summer temperatures.
Here’s why the town stays cooler during the summer than other places around Georgia.
Why is Blue Ridge cooler than much of Georgia?
Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains within the Chattahoochee National Forest, Blue Ridge sits at a higher elevation than much of the state.
That elevation, combined with surrounding forests and mountain terrain, often keeps daytime temperatures several degrees cooler than cities across central and south Georgia during the summer.
Southern Living notes that Blue Ridge can be about 10 degrees cooler than nearby metropolitan areas during the hottest months of the year.
What can you do in Blue Ridge?
While cooler weather is part of the attraction, Southern Living says Blue Ridge also offers plenty for visitors looking to spend time outdoors.
Popular activities include:
- Hiking mountain trails
- Visiting nearby waterfalls
- Exploring downtown Blue Ridge’s locally owned shops and restaurants
- Riding the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
- Fishing, kayaking and boating on Lake Blue Ridge
- Exploring portions of the Chattahoochee National Forest
The town has become a popular destination for weekend trips, especially during the summer when travelers look for a break from Georgia’s hottest temperatures.
How hot does Blue Ridge get?
Blue Ridge still experiences warm summer weather, but forecasts often show lower afternoon highs than many other Georgia cities.
According to the National Weather Service forecast for Saturday July 18, Blue Ridge is expected to reach a high of about 89 degrees.
For comparison:
- Atlanta: 92
- Athens: 93
- Macon: 94
- Augusta: 97
- Savannah: 95
While temperatures vary from day to day, Blue Ridge’s elevation generally helps keep conditions more comfortable than much of the rest of the state.
Why do people visit Blue Ridge in the summer?
Beyond the temperatures, Southern Living says Blue Ridge combines scenic mountain views, outdoor adventures and a walkable downtown, making it a popular destination for travelers looking to enjoy Georgia’s mountains without leaving the state.
Vanessa Johns is the Trending Topics Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team Georgia, covering food and entertainment. Email her at Vcountryman@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News.
