Blog & travel tips
Stories, tips, and news from the North GA mountains.
Ellijay Apple Season 2026: 10 Things to Know Before You Hit the Orchard (And How to Get There Stress-Free)
Apple season is in full swing in Ellijay, GA! From U-pick days at Hillcrest and BJ Reece Orchards to the Georgia Apple Festival (Oct 10–11 & 17–18 at the Lions Club Fairgrounds), this guide covers the 10 things you need to know before you go — including the parade date, parking realities, and Highway 52 traffic. With rideshare unreliable in the mountains and cell service spotty in orchard country, a pre-booked ride from Northern Star Taxi LLC takes the stress out of the day. Enjoy the apples, cider, and fall fun — and let a local driver handle the parking and the mountain roads.
Who's the Designated Driver? Your 5-Step Plan for a Safe North Georgia Winery Tour
Planning a North Georgia winery tour? Follow this 5-step plan for a safe, stress-free day: decide who's driving before the first tasting, keep your itinerary comfortable, confirm pickups and reservations, eat and hydrate, and always have a backup plan for the ride home. Northern Star Taxi LLC offers private winery excursions and scenic mountain tours through Blue Ridge, Ellijay, Blairsville, and Jasper — so everyone can enjoy the tastings and leave the mountain driving to a local pro.
Uber Won't Come to Blue Ridge? Here's What to Do When Rideshare Lets You Down
offers a reliable local alternative with pre-confirmed rides, flat-rate airport pricing to ATL and CHA, comfortable Jeep Compass transportation, and family-friendly car seats. Skip the spinning wheel and book with a local who knows the mountain roads.