Two popular tourist sites in Northeast Georgia are teaming up to offer one big outdoor adventure. Anna Ruby Falls and Hardman Farm State Historic Site in White County will host a “Falls to Farm Hike” on June 4 to celebrate 150 years of shared history between them.
The entire event will begin and end at historic Hardman Farm, just outside of Helen, with shuttle service provided from the farm to Anna Ruby Falls, located deep within Unicoi State Park. Participants will meet at Hardman Farm at 7:30 a.m. for pre-hike information and check-in before loading up the bus for Anna Ruby Falls. Pre-registration is required for this special event and anyone interested is encouraged to purchase a ticket.
FIND Outdoors, a nonprofit that oversees the daily operations at Anna Ruby Falls, is one of the event organizers.
“This is the perfect opportunity for FIND Outdoors to showcase our amazing partnership with Hardman Farm,” says Liberti Gates, Georgia Program Manager for FIND. “The history between these two sites dates back generations, and this hike perfectly captures the feel and routine visits of Captain Nichols and Anna Ruby to the falls.”
MORE: Exploring the Hardman Heritage Trail
The hike itself is comprised of an 11-mile, moderately strenuous walk along Smith Creek Trail, named after the creek that runs from the base of Anna Ruby Falls through Unicoi State Park and ultimately into Unicoi Lake. Four aid stations will offer hikers water and snacks along the way, and participants will also be treated to a swag bag and post-hike meal at the finish line.
Hardman Farm and Anna Ruby Falls educators will explore the natural history of North Georgia during the hike while pointing out historical features such as the Sautee Ditch, a hand-dug water supply for two gold stamp mills dating back to the 1800s.
Hikers are expected to arrive at the farm around 4 p.m. where they will receive a private tour of the site and learn about the fascinating history of the farm and house, built in 1870 by Captain James Nichols. A grand example of Italianate architecture, the home contains a massive 19th- century parlor, original lighting, pre-telephone-era communications system, and a homemade method of climate control. In addition, participants will hear stories of the Sautee Nacoochee Indian Mound and the Native American Trail that passes directly through the site.
“North Georgia holds some of the most fascinating legends and stories in the southeast,” Gates says. “From the history of the Cherokee people and gold-panning to the Nichols family and their innovative farm, there are boundless opportunities for our visitors to learn about everything this area has to offer.”
The Falls to Farm Hike is $40 per person, and pre-registration is required to participate. To register, visit https://gofindoutdoors.org/falls-to-farm-hike/.
