Camping gear in general can easily get out of hand with expenses and the shear amount of camping supplies. This also applies to getting your dog’s camping gear too. I’m guilty of both.
Remember that what you get for your dog on trips, you will have to carry along with your gear. As much as you want to ensure your pups comfort, just being with you is comforting to them, so don’t over load yourself. Dogs love being around you and that’s all that matters to them.
Dog Camping Gear Checklist
Just a list of camping gear for your dog or dogs.
Dog food
Dog food storage
Dog bed or pad
Water and food dish
Leash, collar, harness
Tie out
Dog backpack (for them)
Waste bags
Cooling pad (summer or hotter spring and fall days)
Clothes (if winter and if they are shorter hair)
Emergency kit – tick remover etc
Take Your Dog Camping With You
You’re bound to find many articles that will suggest the best dog camping gear. They are the best for a reason, but alternatives also exist. It seems like when you do your research, reviews suggest the top of the line. There’s nothing wrong with these recommendations, but for me it doesn’t make logical sense to spend $30 and up for one dog bowl when a $10 or less will be just as good. I like to stay practical and budget friendly, for me and my dog.
Whether you’re beginning to take your pup with you or are thinking about it, I’m not here to bombard you with the best camping gear for dogs, just the most practical gear you’ll actually use, and the gear that Sam and I have used on our camping adventures.
Start with basic camping dog gear and build from there when you’re ready.
Camping Gear for Dogs
In my compiled list, the ones that have an asterik ( * ), are what I consider the bare minimum to take. Many of the items on the list, are useful, but you don’t have to buy them. You can also utilize things that you may already have.
Dog Food*
For Sam, when we are somewhere new it takes him a few days to get use to the new surroundings. He typically eats dry food, but I have added wet food to his meals more tempting. The extra wet food provides the necessary calories that he has consumed throughout the day on hikes and during other activities.
We haven’t gone on a backpacking trip that lasted for more than one night so the weight hasn’t been an issue yet. When we go on a longer trips, I’ll definitely get dehydrated dog food for a much lighter load and leftover garbage weight.
Dog Food Storage*
There are many special camping dog food storage kits out there and vary in price range. I’ve always brought his everyday dog food in grocery bags or zip lock bags.
I was looking at the different storage containers, but as an alternative, I’m considering buying a pack of dry bags and using them for his food. Dry bag packs typically come in a range of sizes and should do a good job at keeping ants out and the dog food smell in. I already have so many bags it’s almost an obsession and I need to be certain that it would be used.
Collapsible Food and Water Bowls*
I use collapsible bowls and have backup of backups. In a pinch I have used plastic containers as well. When Sam and I are hiking, these will go into his pack to carry.
There are typically two types of dog bowls, silicone and water proof fabric. Both are great and packable.
Which one is better? It depends on your preference.
I have both styles and don’t have a preference with one over the other and neither does Sam. They both get used.
Harness*
A harness is much better than a collar. In my experience, There have been a few times where an unleashed dog has came around the corner and I have had to grab Sam, He has no neck neck and the collar and leash slipped off. With a harness, I am able to grab him much easier. When we went to Falls Creek Falls in Tennessee, we did some bouldering. He could get down to the falls, but getting up was a bit difficult. With his harness, I could easily pull him up. Mind you he weights about 65 pounds and the dog harness distributes his weight much better in situations like this.
Leash and Tether*
This is a big one. A tree runner is a great way to keep your pup in his own area so they don’t get in the way. I brought a tether but he kept getting wrapped around. I am currently waiting on a tree runner in the mail and will see how that works. I’m sure a lot better.
Waste Bags and Storage*
I recently got a 3 pack that can easily attach to his hiking leash. It’s made from a more durable material vs the plastic ones. It Velcro’s on his leash and the pouch can carry a few small things as well.
Dog Water Bottle
A water bottle for your dog isn’t necessary, but they are very convenient and easier to use. Your dog doesn’t care how they get their water when they are thirsty. This is strictly a dog owner must have and will make your life so much better.
Before I had Sam, I had a Standard Poodle named Sake, and I swore by the water bottle. After her passing, I donated most of her things and forgot about the water bottle. After the first year of camping and hiking with Sam, I purchased another one and asked myself why I didn’t get one before.
Dog Treats
As Sam gets older, treats tend to give him extreme gas so I tend not to do too many treats on nonadventure days. When we do go camping, I’ll give him a small bone or rawhide to occupy himself with. He also gets the leftovers that I won’t eat. My thought is we are outside so if he farts a lot it’s outside and dissipates and it’s less garbage to take out. I try to limit our trash in general.
Dog Bed
Many will bring a bed which is fine, but typically I’ll just bring a fleece blanket just for Sam. It’s less that I have to carry and it takes up less space. Plus, he knows that is his place when we are out. I typically have one in the car unless I’m washing it and forget to store it there. Otherwise, I’ll use a towel.
On a recent weekend backpacking overnight trip, I brought a rolled up fleece blanket that I carried and Sam knew that was his place when we gathered around the campfire that night.
Backpack
The Ruffwear and Highlands are popular brands for dog backpacks. Sam doesn’t have one of these, he just has 2 basic ones from Amazon that I found on sale. His pack is the Himal Outdoors pack that I found on Amazon for about $25 or so.
Extra Towels
I have an absorbent towel, but I usually forget to bring it with us.
Dog first-aid kit
You don’t have to purchase a kit, what you would use for yourself, is applicable for your pups. I’m bad about bringing a first aid kit for myself even, so there’s that. But I do bring is a Mushers Paw for him.
Outdoor toys
My dog doesn’t really play with toys, but to keep him occupied I may bring a rawhide style chewable to keep him occupied.
Consider your dogs age and attention span. Does keep themselves occupied with new smells and environment, so it may not be necessary for short trips. Plus with the high excitement they are also guaranteed to sleep the boring parts of camping away.
A current photo
If you don’t have a current photo of your dog, does your
Vet records and medical information
At least a copy.
ID Tag
Please have your phone number on it, for easy contact.
Cooling Pad
If you’re out during the hot and warm months of the year, a cooling pad is a must. Dogs don’t sweat like us to keep cool during the summer. If you have noticed your dog laying on tile floors more during the summer even with the A/C on, this is what the cooling pad does.
Clothing for Winter
Yes dogs have fur, but if they are shivering during the winter, then they are cold. Sam is short haired and I have different clothing for him. During the winter he has a fleece full body outfit that helps to get him warm at night and in the early morning. I bought it in the fall for less than $25 and it’s one of the best things that I have bought for him.
Dog Hiking Boots or Booties
Get these if you plan on hiking or camping in rougher terrain. Also consider these if you will be around hot asphalt, concrete, or open areas where the ground will be hot.
Trust me it is not fun having to carry your dog, because they have cut or burned the bottoms of their feet. No matter the weight of your dog, the extra strain and weight on you will not be fun. Those pounds add up.
Rain Jacket
This is something that most may not consider until it happens. There is nothing worse than being in a tent during the rain, and your dog shakes off to dry. Wet dog is never a pleasant thing.
Dog attachable leash to your waist
From my experience, this would not work and I would be afraid that if he falls off a trail cliff, Sam would take me as well.
I love him, but I need to ensure my safety as well.
Dog Play Pen
At 65 pounds, Sam is just too big and would knock it down. Plus it is too cumbersome to lug around.
If you have a smaller dog, it would be great option instead of a tether.
Dog Sleeping Bag
I haven’t tried this, but a friend of mine does a lot more backpacking than I do and got one for her pup. Her pup just wanted to sleep near her and wouldn’t use it. I feel like Sam would do the same.
Dog Tent
I’ve seen some campers get these, but for my use, it would be one more thing to carry and setup. I don’t think Sam would stay in it like other dogs would. When I take Sam, he is tethered and he would just himself wrapped with the tent.
Dog Goggles
It’s not because I don’t like them, Sam just doesn’t. Everything that goes over his head or face, He immediately takes off.
Conclusion
As a dog parent and adventurer, it’s important to do things with them. Leaving your pet at home or boarding them is fine when necessary, but bringing your dog creates memories for you and them. Dogs like to be outdoors just like you.
An adventure lifestyle is all about having a great time, enjoying life no matter what in order to the fullest and living a balanced lifestyle. But it’s not always going to be a vacation either.
The best way to start an adventure lifestyle is to think big and do small. This will give you a goal to work toward and will give you the motivation and desire to push yourself to take and make a home away from home.
So you want to be the Adventurer
You want to be on the go, seeking new and exciting experiences. You thrive on change and enjoy pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. You are confident and courageous, always up for anything.
You are always looking for new challenges to conquer. You are fearless and bold, never backing down from a good time. You are always up for anything. Your adventurous spirit is infectious, and you always manage to get others to join in on your fun. You are spontaneous and impulsive, never saying no to a good time, but are centered with a strong sense of self and an even stronger sense of adventure.
You live life to the fullest and make the most of every moment.
I get it, you want to be an adventurer.
A few years ago, I came across Matthew McConaughey’s Commencement Speech that he did at the University of Houston in 2015. In the last portion, he talked about going a 21 Day expedition. I clipped the video into sections. You can watch it here, it’s not long but it does set the tone of an adventurous lifestyle.
Getting Started living more Adventurously
Let’s start with some motivation and desire.
First, decide what kind of adventure you want to have.
Are you looking for an active adventure that gets your heart pumping?
Are you more interested in relaxing with friends and family or want to expand your mind or food pallet?
Are you interested in all extreme sports or just waterfall chasing?
Are you interested in a combination of a few or if you’re like me you want a taste of it all?
There isn’t a wrong answer. Your answer depends on what makes you happy and what you want isn’t going to be same as what others may want. You can always adjust want you want as well. It’s all up to you as long as you take the first step and onto the next. Progress is progress.
Once you’ve decided what type of adventures fits into your life, it’s time to take the big ideas start small.
Take the big ideas that you are interested in and turn them into small steps.
Here’s an example:
Let’s say that that you desire to try new foods and expand your mind.
Start by making a list of all the things you want to do in your life. Here’s a few to get you started:
check out local museums.
international cuisines that have a local presence.
Take a painting class.
Meet an old friend once per week or month.
Learn something new. (I consider reading an adventure that you can get lost in.)
The list can go out, but you get the point. There is nothing holding you back.
Now, start planning how you can make those things happen. Remember start small or within your comfort zone and this will lead you towards your goal. If you want to travel the world, start by saving up money for a plane ticket and researching where you want to go.
You don’t have to go out and buy a houseboat or travel around the world right away, big leaps are not the point, but if you can then you can.
An adventure lifestyle is one where you’re always on the move, exploring new places and meeting new people. It’s about living a life that’s not just about work or school or family — it’s about living life on your own terms. You make sure that you are doing something exciting every single day, big or small. It may sound like a lot of hard work, but it doesn’t have to be!
If you start small, take things slow and find ways for everything you do to be fun, then it won’t feel like work at all — it’ll just be your new way of life.
The big picture is that you want a life of travel, exploration and adventure. The small details are how you get there.
Living an adventurous life is not difficult!
Getting adventure into your life is not hard. It’s something that you can do even if you have a 9-5 career or job. I wish I didn’t have to work and be completely nomadic, but I haven’t gotten there yet. The 9-5 isn’t stopping me from adventurous things. I try to do it in my everyday life and discover new things.
What works for me are having several extended weekends for road trips instead of one yearly lengthy vacations. I’d rather do it that way, so I’m not so burnt out during the rest of the year. I take time to plan a few things while leaving enough freedom to be spontaneous.
During the week, try to do something new. A few months ago, a college friend and I went for a quick and easy hike near the Chattahoochee River and had dinner afterwards to catch up. It was a surprise that the restaurant had a guy performing. A few weeks ago, I went kayaking with a group on a Wednesday evening. It was relaxing and great to socialize with experienced and newbie kayakers.
Your adventurous life is just waiting for you to activate it!
Let’s get our mindset of we can’t do something. Let’s just go ahead and unleash our fear and once we have done it, we can say that it wasn’t so bad after all. I just think that people are afraid of new possibilities, but you can’t be that way if you want to try something new. After a while, you’ll find that the only barrier is really you.
Your life of adventure is waiting for you to start it!
The Cons of Being Adventurous
This is something that people don’t talk about, but there are ways around them.
If you travel, it can be expensive considering fuel, food, and lost luggage. People can make judgements about you that may or may not be true, like think you inherited money to travel even though you worked your ass off, budgeted, and saved.
Not many talk about the close calls and crazy things that can happen. As a female, this can happen anywhere and at any time. It can be scary and laughable later down the road. I have that dark sense of humor and 100% have done that.
If you travel alone a lot, it can be very lonely at times. Yes, you meet new people, but at the end of the day, you go on your separate ways.
First and foremost, you are going to have to put yourself in some danger. This is true for any adventure. However, the dangers are much greater when you are venturing into the unknown. When you venture into the unknown, you will have to face some risks. It’s a combination of being smart, being prepared, and knowing your limits.
The Pros of Being Adventurous
Overall, you are doing things out of the ordinary and making memories that last a lifetime. You learn and discover things about yourself that you normally wouldn’t and becoming more comfortable in your own skin. Perhaps finding a sense of purpose and fulfillment from taking on challenges.
You overcome your fears and get the thrill of going outside your comfort zone. You meet a new people along the way.
This lifestyle can also be a lot of work, but if you enjoy what you are doing then the rewards will be well worth it.
Cathy Gray is a natural adventurer in her personal and professional life. She adapts to overcome while maintaining an infectious laugh that will make you smile.
Professionally, Cathy currently works for an industrial hose and hydraulics company. While she was a green-horn in the hose business, she spearheaded the company’s eCommerce site from the ground up from a blank canvas to live and selling within 6 months. She continues to grow the company’s online and digital presence while increasing sales year over year.
Dahlonega is home to the Dahlonega Plateau and in 2018 it was recognized as a viticultural area. In layman’s terms it means that the area has unique soil characterizes, sunlight and climate that is special to growing grapes.
The Dahlonega Wineries
Etowah Meadery
The Etwowah Meadery offers a special unique wine to the Dahlonega area. Meads are a honey based wine that is made with fruits and spices from around the world, mainly China, Europe, and Africa. Mead has gained popularity in the US in recent years.
Their meads range in flavor and carry Southern Georgia naming conventions like: De Sotos Quest, Picking Up Paw Paws and Georgia Standard.
As a veteran owned business, sales from their Coop Dreams support disabled veterans.
This winery does not fall into the new category but their wines are just as delicious. This is a family ran business that sources fruits from Georgia, California, Texas and other locations which creates it’s complex flavors.
Accent Cellars offers wine tastings 7 days a week and have live music Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons. What is unique about this winery, is they explicitly state to bring your picnic and enjoy their wine, (on their website) while other places frown upon the practice.
What’s amazing is that this winery grows 25 different grape varieties and makes some of the best blended wines around.
Frogtown Cellars has a long track record of wine awards since 2010:
2 Platinum
36 Gold
82 Silver
92 Bronze Medals
These winemakers have adopted French and Italian winemaking rules as they require strict compliance which protects and assists wine drinkers in identification of terrior-based wines.
Frogtown Cellars offers dining for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch at their Italian Bistro. While their wines are made on site, so is many of their foods: pizza dough, pasta dough, and desserts. All of their meats are smoked and cured on site except for the Italian imports.
Grab a glass, a charcuterie board and enjoy their long porches with spectacular mountain views.
Kaya Vineyard was renamed from the original Blackstock Vineyards. Along with wines, serving as a retreat and wedding venue, they have craftsman style cottages to relax a weekend away in.
They offer a light lunch menu from Tuesdays to Sundays with live music on the covered patio. Offerings include simple artisanal charcuterie boards to hand-helds and plates.
This winery was the first in the region. All their fruit is Georgia grown with most on their 184 acres. The property was purchased in 1995 with the first harvest in 2000 and named after Three Sisters Mountain.
When you arrive inside, you will be greeted with their large cherry wood tasting room. On Summer Saturdays, they have live music. If weather permits, enjoy a glass on their rock wall patio.
When you are at Wolf Mountain, you will feel like you are in Europe enjoying your wine instead of North Georgia. They use French winemaking processes and the European varieties make for much different wines than the other Dahlonega wineries.
And just to fit in with the wines, Wolf Mountain is designed to resemble a craftsman cottage that sits atop of the fieldstone encased cellar.
Along with their wines, they offer farm focused menus that are carefully paired with their wine selection. Their team prepares everything on-site and menus change seasonally with local selections.
Offers tastings 7 days a week. Cavendar Creek Vineyards was started when the original owner hand planted the original grape vines and produced the first vintage in 2009.
A mainstay and mascot on the property are the donkeys, so much so that they are affectionately knows as “the winery with the donkeys”.
They offer lodging, but it is limited to two cabins. One of them being 200 years old.
They offer wine tastings and represent Georgia’s oldest winery Georgia Winery located near Ringold, GA. They offer wine and pub tours along with ghost and history tours.
19 E. Main Street, Suite F, Dahlonega, GA 30533
CANVAS AND CORK, WINE TASTING, ART GALLERY, ARTISTS STUDIOS AND CLASSROOM
Their wine selection is from Gin Creek Vineyards in Hartsfield GA and is a satellite tasting room.
Canvas and Cork has a selection of 16 wines to select from: Fine wines, muscadines, dessert wines, Moscato, dry, off dry, semi sweet and sweet, so be assured there’s something for everyone!
Stating start at $12 for 5 tastings or $20 for 5 tastings and get your choice of a hand painted wine glass!
Cork and Canvas is part of the Dahlonega Wine Walk, where participates receive discounts. Among other things to do here, are painting classes from watercolor to acrylic. Other crafts are taught here as well along with summer classes for kids. Private classes are also available.
Cathy Gray is a natural adventurer in her personal and professional life. She adapts to overcome while maintaining an infectious laugh that will make you smile.
Professionally, Cathy currently works for an industrial hose and hydraulics company. While she was a green-horn in the hose business, she spearheaded the company’s eCommerce site from the ground up from a blank canvas to live and selling within 6 months. She continues to grow the company’s online and digital presence while increasing sales year over year.
Over 100 waterfalls are located in the North Georgia mountains. Some of these waterfalls are on public lands and many are on private property.
These waterfalls are easily accessible on public lands. Remember that water levels affect the beauty of waterfalls and always use caution when around waterfalls.
These waterfalls are within a 25 mile radius of Dahlonega, GA. Even though, 25 miles may not seem like much, the drive will more than likely be longer because of mountain roads and slower traffic.
Cane Creek Falls
Cane Creek Falls is 2.9 miles from Dahlonega Square and is located on private property at Camp Glisson, but is open to the public only when the camp is not in session. At the entrance gate, there are signs that tell the public when it is closed.
Cane Creek Falls eventually falls in to he Chestatee River, which provides a good outing for kayaking, tubing or canoeing. This waterfall has a viewing platform at the top.
Clay Creek Falls
Clay Creek Falls is located on private property 2.9 miles away, but is viewable from the road.
There is not a place to park to observe the falls on foot, but it is very close to the road and well worth a drive by to see it, especially when the water is at higher levels.
Black Falls
Black Falls is at the Army Ranger training camp at Camp Frank D. Merrill. one of the higher falls in this guide. Be aware that if the gate is open, you may be able to observe Black Falls. A wooden gate across the creek makes an excellent photo opportunity.
Training facilities are located nearby, so viewing may or may not be permissible when you are here. Do not sneak onto the property.
Montgomery Creek Falls
Montgomery Creek Falls is an isolated fall located in the Chattahoochee National Forest. There are mountain bike trails nearby, so be on the lookout. It is about half a mile to get there on an old logging road. It is just over 11 miles from Dahlonega.
Dicks Creek Falls
16 miles from Dahlonega Square, Dicks Creek Falls is really a couple of waterfalls located on Dicks Creek in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
It is is a very popular swimming hole for the locals and also provides a photo opportunity while taking a break. The hike is almost 1.25 miles round trip.
DeSoto Falls
18 miles from Dahlonega, DeSoto Falls consists of an upper falls and lower falls. The upper falls is a .75 mile hike up the creek with the lower falls .25 mile downstream. The total drop of all the falls is 480 feet.
Camping is also available and there is a restroom.
Long Creek Falls
At 50 feet tall, Long Creek Falls is another waterfall with a large pool at the bottom that is used as a swimming hole. The trail to Long Creek Falls is almost 2 miles round trip on the Appalachian Trail and Benton MacKaye Trail offers a scenic view.
Helton Creek Falls
Helton Creek Falls has one of the most spectacular falls and is 25 miles from Dahlonega and is also clos o Blairsville, GA. Like many others, it is a double waterfall. Helton Creek Falls has an observation deck between the upper and lower falls.
The trail itself is less than a quarter of a mile to get there. Unfortunately as of May 2022, this trail is closed due to needed repairs.
Dukes Creek Falls
From the parking lot the 1.25 mile trail goes town to observation deck at the foot of the 150 foot waterfall. There is an observation deck that is wheelchair accessible and has parking available for 30 vehicles. It is about 24 miles from Dahlonega.
This area has a stunning view of Mt. Yonah, which is a popular mountain for hiking and climbing. Sometimes the Army Rangers can be seen here during their training.
Raven Cliff Falls
Raven Cliff Falls is one of the most popular hikes in the area. It’s in the Chattahoochee National Forest but is not on the Appalachian Trail. The trail to the falls is 2.5 miles one way from the parking lot. Raven Cliff Falls is a triple fall totaling 100 feet. The trail does have water crossings.
It is about 25 miles from Dahlonega, GA, but is well worth the driver for a longer hike. Other cities nearby are Helen, GA and Blairsville, GA.
Amicalola Falls, GA
Amicalola Falls is the highest waterfall east of the Mississippi River at 729 feet high and is roughly 19 miles from Dahlonega. There is an entrance fee and the Appalachian trail starts here.
You can park at the bottom for a view up the falls or you can drive to the top of the falls to get a good view of the park. There is a new viewing deck that can be reached by driving to the middle of the falls. Along the falls, there is a metal staircase that goes from the bottom to the top of the falls. Many also choose to hike from the bottom as well.
Out of these waterfalls, I have only been to one, but many times – Amicalola Falls. If you choose to take the stairs, do know that there are many stairs. 604stairs to be exact. If you bring your dog, be aware that they are metal. If I would take mine, I would make sure to bring his shoes.
Cathy Gray is a natural adventurer in her personal and professional life. She adapts to overcome while maintaining an infectious laugh that will make you smile.
Professionally, Cathy currently works for an industrial hose and hydraulics company. While she was a green-horn in the hose business, she spearheaded the company’s eCommerce site from the ground up from a blank canvas to live and selling within 6 months. She continues to grow the company’s online and digital presence while increasing sales year over year.
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Dahlonega, Georgia has plenty to offer any visitor. It’s just a little over an hour from Atlanta, Georgia in the Northeastern area of Georgia. Spend a day at one of its local vineyards, go gold panning at its historic mine, or spend some time hiking in the surrounding countryside. There’s plenty to see and do in this beautiful town!
Gold Panning
Dahlonega Georgia is the home to the first gold rush of the USA, that started in 1828. When the gold rush hit in California 20 years later, many left to seek there fortunes in the west.
Every year they have a gold rush festival in downtown Dahlonega. I went there in the Fall of 2021 by chance.
Gold panning is a fun activity for all ages and it is a great way to learn about the history of gold mining. There are several places to pan for gold in Dahlonega.
Consolidated Gold Mine
The Consolidated Gold Mine is my personal favorite. Here they have underground tours, gem mining, gold panning, and a gem studio along with offering group tours. For a family, it’s an easy afternoon of family fun.
The consolidated mines are located at: 185 Consolidated Gold Mine Road Dahlonega, GA 30533
If you want to rent equipment and try your hand at finding some gold yourself, this is an excellent place to do so! The process isn’t complicated at all and most people find that they enjoy it more than they thought they would.
Wine Tasting
The winery scene in Dahlonega is on the upswing, with 12 wine tasting rooms and 8 wineries. There are plenty of places to explore what Georgia mountain town has to offer.
The history of wine in Dahlonega goes back over 200 years, when it was first planted in 1821 by German immigrants. Many of the wineries have received hundreds of rewards over the years.
If you’re not up to traveling to the wineries yourself, try a winery tour that will leave you worry free.
If time is not on your side, there are many places to sample wines the one of the many Dahlonega tasting rooms.
Foods
There is a variety of cuisines within Dahlonega, GA.
Hiking to Nearby Waterfalls
While you’re in Dahlonega, you can hike to nearby waterfalls. There are 12 easily accessible waterfalls within 25 mile radius of downtown Dahlonega.
If possible, bring: water, bug spray, sunscreen, sneakers or hiking boots (the latter being required if hiking up Burnt Mountain)
If you’re looking for a way to get outside and enjoy the natural wonders of Dahlonega, Georgia, consider kayaking on the Chestatee River. It’s about a 15-minute drive from downtown Dahlonega, GA. Once there, follow signs leading to put-in points. You’ll need your own boat and gear; rentals are not available at this time.
Depending on how much experience you have with kayaking and what type of water conditions are present when you go out into the river, it’ll take anywhere between 1 hour and 3 hours to complete your trip downriver (and back).
Because public parking is limited near put-ins points along Highway 400—and because they fill up quickly during warmer months when more people are enjoying themselves outdoors—it’s best if everyone carpools together before setting out on their adventure!
Dahlonega is rich in adventure, culture and charm.
Dahlonega is rich in adventure, culture and charm.
It is a great place to go for a weekend getaway, vacation or even just for day trip. There are many things to do in Dahlonega Georgia that will make your visit memorable.
Conclusion
You may need at least three days to enjoy the area, but if you have more time, then you can spend the extra day hiking to nearby waterfalls or kayaking down the Chestatee River.
Cathy Gray is a natural adventurer in her personal and professional life. She adapts to overcome while maintaining an infectious laugh that will make you smile.
Professionally, Cathy currently works for an industrial hose and hydraulics company. While she was a green-horn in the hose business, she spearheaded the company’s eCommerce site from the ground up from a blank canvas to live and selling within 6 months. She continues to grow the company’s online and digital presence while increasing sales year over year.
The Tennessee Valley is a beautiful place to visit and can provide a great escape for families, couples, or as a solo trip looking for some adventure. It’s nestled in between mountains and offers plenty of things to do indoors and outdoors.
One thing you may not know, however, is that Tennessee offers off the beaten path attractions that go beyond the Chattanooga city limits.
Rock City Gardens
Rock City Gardens is a popular tourist attraction located in Lookout Mountain. It’s a fun place to visit, especially for families with kids and couples who want to get out of town for the day.
The gardens offer beautiful views of the mountainside, as well as some stellar photo opportunities.
There are many trails throughout Rock City Gardens that lead you further into nature. At the top of the Rock City you can 7 states at one time.
Rock City Gardens is also known for Lover’s Leap Falls and suspension bridge. These are 2 of the many famous attractions at this location.
Raccoon Mountain Walking Cave Tour
Raccoon Mountain Caverns offers walking tours through their cave system. They also offer guided caving tours as well at different difficulty levels and lengths in the cave system.
If you’re looking for an activity that’s family friendly, the Raccoon Mountain Walking Cave Tour is the best option. The tour lasts about an hour, and during that time you’ll get to see the underground caves. As you walk through the cave, your guide will explain what you’re seeing and tell stories about Chattanooga history.
The Raccoon Mountain Walking Cave Tour isn’t as touristy as Ruby Falls—which means it’s less crowded—and it also has some fun features like sitting at a table in front of a mirror so that you can pretend to be sitting right next to yourself!
Sewanee Natural Bridge
This is a very short trail from the parking lot and very unique. When I think of a natural bridge I think of Utah not the Southeast states of US.
Foster Falls
This has a steep path with a suspension bridge crossing. Foster Falls is near Monteagle, TN and is 75 feet tall.
Denny Cove Falls
This trail was a flop. On the way down there was a couple coming back up.
They said there were some fallen trees and the path after that was hard to follow. They turned around and didn’t see the waterfall.
They passed and continued. After a few minutes we decided to turn around and call it a day.
Sunset at Lookout Mountain
The sunset was beautiful. The parking was hard to come by and the trail there was a bit sketchy especially in the dark.
Buc-ee’s
I live in the Atlanta area and couldn’t pass up a stop at Buc-ee’s in Adairsville, GA.
This time I stopped, I grabbed a BBQ Sandwich and a side of their potato wedges. I’ve heard great things of them. I was not disappointed.
Chattanooga is a great place for for a short getaway.
If I could do it over again, I would leave earlier in the day. There was a lot packed in considering the drive times.
It has some really cool attractions, like the Tennessee Aquarium and Rock City, which are both awesome places.
There are also plenty of options for activities that a solo traveler or group can enjoy: kayaking on the river, hiking up Signal Mountain or driving through Lookout Mountain Caverns. There’s something here for everyone!
Hope you have a wonderful time when you get there!
