Nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains in North Georgia lies the charming and often overlooked town of Cherry Log. Boasting a population of only 120 full-time residents, Cherry Log is an ideal tiny mountain town for a secluded mountain retreat.
Just because Cherry Log is remote doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do! Learn more about our beautiful mountain town and all about things to do in Cherry Log, Georgia to start planning your mountain retreat.
Driving to Cherry Log, Georgia
Cherry Log is an easy hour and a half drive north from Atlanta, Georgia, and surrounding suburbs. The town itself is just north of Ellijay along Highway 76 along the Georgia Mountain Parkway.
From Atlanta, merge onto I-85 North/I-85 North. Keep right at the fork to continue on I-75 North and then follow the signs for Marietta Chattanooga. From there, keep right and follow the fork to continue on GA-5 North/I-575 North. Follow the signs for Canton and continue onto GA-5 North/GA-515 East/State Route 515. This will take you straight into Cherry Log.
The total trip from Atlanta to Cherry Log clocks in at 85 miles and 1.5 hours—an easy trek for area suburbs or guests flying in from other states.
Cherry Log is less than 6 hours from other southeast destinations:
- Birmingham, Alabama - 225 miles, 3.5 hours
- Nashville, Tennessee - 205 miles, 3.5 hours
- Columbia, South Carolina - 300 miles, 4.25 hours
- Charlotte, North Carolina - 260 miles, 4.5 hours
- Charleston, South Carolina - 385 miles, 6 hours
- Memphis, Tennessee - 410 miles, 6 hours
Though the drive to Cherry Log is fully paved and quite accessible, a 4-wheel drive and/or SUV is recommended for the steep mountain climb and winding hills. If you don't have an SUV, you can rent a car and go on the drive, it will be a safer and more comfortable ride.
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Things To Do In Cherry Log
Cherry Log is nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge and a great destination for travelers seeking a remote mountain getaway. Even though this tiny mountain town is best suited for visitors looking for a private and secluded vacation, there are still several things to do in and around Cherry Log. Here are five of our favorite Cherry Log recommendations!
Fall Branch Falls
Situated just an easy quarter-mile hike along the larger Benton MacKaye Trail, Fall Branch Falls is a must-see for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. This easy trek is great for beginners and families, with wide, easy-to-navigate trails through the lush, Chattahoochee National Forest. The trail on the way to the waterfall is uphill, but the hike is well worth the effort.
Fall Branch Falls is unique in aesthetics as it features a series of naturally formed cascades that eventually lead to a single, dramatic 30-foot drop into a deep pool at the base.
Visitors can easily access the trail via a short drive and then the half-mile round-trip hike or extend the hike and find the falls along the much longer Benton MacKaye Trail.
Bigfoot Expedition
- Address: 1934 GA-515, Cherry Log, GA 30522
- Hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Daily
- Phone: (706) 946-2601
- Website: https://www.expeditionbigfoot.com/
If you’re searching for North Georgia’s “Biggest” attraction, look no farther than Bigfoot Expedition. Open daily, this unique museum boasts more than 45,000 square feet of self-guided galleries and exhibits on one of North America’s biggest lores—Bigfoot.
Enjoy a short film in the “Sasquatch” Theater on the history of Bigfoot, view the world’s only Bigfoot research and tech vehicle, scope out first-hand accounts of Sasquatch sightings, tour the country’s largest display of footprint casts, and find a one-of-a-kind souvenir in the gift shop.
Whether you’re a verified yeti believer or simply a curious mountain visitor, a trip to Bigfoot Expedition is one you won’t soon forget.
Stanley Gap Loop
Hiking and biking enthusiasts seeking a nearby spot to hit the trail will appreciate the convenience of Stanley Gap. The track itself is a 14.5-mile loop rated moderate to difficult. Because of the steep hills (course averages a 5% grade, with a maximum grade of 25%) and several spots that are tricky to navigate, which makes this trail best-suited to experienced outdoor adventurers.
As part of the famous Aska Adventure Trail, Stanley Gap features scenic views through the Blue Ridge forest and plenty of spots to quickly stop and take in the picturesque vistas.
Though the trail is open year-round, we recommend the fall for stunning views of the autumnal foliage.
The Pink Pig
Photo Credit:Jeff Sents via Flickr CC2.0
- Address: 824 Cherry Log St, Cherry Log, GA 30522
- Hours: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Thursday - Sunday; Closed, Monday - Wednesday
- Phone: (706) 276-3311
- Website: http://budspinkpigcatering.com/
If you’re worried that Cherry Log is too remote for any worthwhile dining options—think again. The Pink Pig has been a Blue Ridge area staple for well over 50 years, and this locally owned and operated BBQ joint shows no signs of slowing down. Known for their pit-cooked meats, Bud’s original BBQ sauce, and the best Brunswick Stew this side of the Mississippi, Pink Pig is an absolute ‘must’ for anyone visiting Northern Georgia. Stop in for a heaping plate of BBQ, fried chicken, and country Fixin's, or order a full spread of snacks ‘to-go’ for the cabin. Either way, we promise you won’t go hungry.
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Cherry Log Cabin Rentals
The small mountain town of Cherry Log offers plenty of options for visitors seeking a private mountain retreat. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin for a romantic weekend getaway or for a spacious mountain mansion that can accommodate the whole family—including pets—there’s a rental for any group size or budget.
Endless Vistas at ‘Cozy With A View’
With tons of exposed wood and an open interior floor plan, you’re sure to feel right at home at ‘Cozy with a View’. This upgraded rental boasts two bedrooms and two full baths, stainless steel appliances and granite countertops throughout, a large fireplace that serves as the focal point of the common area, and a spacious covered patio, complete with a grill, seating, and hot tub. ‘Cozy with a View’ is the ideal mountain refuge for small families or groups.
Learn more about Cozy with a View.
This is just one of our beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain getaways. View our full inventory of Cherry Log cabin rentals to find your perfect retreat.
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The North Georgia Mountains are calling your name—isn’t it time you answered?
Cherry Log, Georgia offers the charm of a small town and endless views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s not hard to see why so many visitors fall in love with our tiny mountain retreat!