When deciding on a destination for any trip, be it a family vacation, a buddies golf outing or an adrenaline-seeking adventure, it’s impossible to please everyone. No place has it all, but some places have significantly more than most.

That is certainly the case at McLemore, where above the clouds luxury and world-class golf exist among the dramatic wilderness of the Tennessee Valley. With a mountain of exciting features and foliage to uncover, there’s more to McLemore than just rest, relaxation and, of course, golf.

Hike, Swim & Explore Above the Clouds at McLemore Golf Club

A tour of McLemore and the surrounding area starts with the golf. The club’s famed Highlands Course has earned a reputation as a national destination for those who love the game. The exceptional Rees Jones and Bill Bergen McLemore golf course design is known for its signature 18th hole, a challenging par-4 that drops 150 feet from tee to green, presenting players with a spectacular panoramic vista of the valley below.

And that’s just the start – the recreational activities outside of golf at McLemore are just as noteworthy. From hiking trails to rock climbing, mystifying caves and swimming holes, there’s plenty to keep you busy and active while off the course.

Explore Exhilarating Outdoor Activities in Georgia and Beyond

McLemore is also the perfect destination for nature lovers, thrill seekers and history buffs who want to experience the beauty and diversity of the Appalachian region.

Natural wonders such as waterfalls, caves, trails and abundant North Georgia wildlife surround the club. Visitors can hike, bike, kayak, fish or horseback ride in the nearby state parks or national forests, or even join guided tours and excursions that'll take them to some of the most scenic spots in the area.

On the Trail

The dramatic elevation changes of the Tennessee Valley make this area an ideal spot for some of the best hiking in Georgia. One of the most popular attractions for hikers is Cloudland Canyon State Park, which is only a few minutes away from McLemore. The park has more than 30 miles of trails that lead to waterfalls, canyons and overlooks. Perfect for hikers of varying experience, Cloudland Canyon features a multitude of trails that offer a casual stroll to a demanding challenge and everything in between.

Some of the most popular trails in the park are:

Overlook Trail
Waterfalls Trail
West Rim Loop Trail
Sitton's Gulch Trail

After a long day on the trail, a delicious meal and a cold drink at McLemore’s The Creag is just a short drive away - a relaxing ending to an exciting day trip.

On the Water

For those looking to cool down during the warm Georgia summers, McLemore is just around the bend from multiple lakes and rivers. These bodies of water are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, and many local businesses offer rental equipment for these activities.

Some of the best places to kayak or paddleboard include:

Nickajack Lake
Lookout Creek
Little River

There’s no better way to enjoy the warm Southern weather than to hit the water, and there’s no shortage of places to do so in the beautiful Tennessee Valley.

Spectacular Sights, High and Low

At McLemore, life is lived “above the clouds.” The thrilling views atop Lookout Mountain can inspire the explorer in everyone, and this mountainous area offers plenty of adventure for those bold enough to seek it out. You can find some of the best rock climbing spots in Cloudland Canyon State Park, where you can challenge yourself on sandstone cliffs and boulders. You can also explore some of the wild caves in the park such as Sitton's Cave and Case Cave.

Another option is to visit Rock City Gardens, a 10-acre botanical garden with rock formations, bridges and caves. You can walk along the Enchanted Trail, see seven states from Lover's Leap or experience the Fairyland Caverns.

Enjoy the View

With so much to do, it can be easy to get caught up in the adventure on offer in and around McLemore. But those who live here will tell you, sometimes you’ve got to stop and take it all in. The incredible views atop Lookout Mountain alone are worth the visit, but with other natural wonders in abundance, there are plenty of images to capture from your visit. You can snap a photo of the sunrise or sunset from our overlooks, the golf course or even the clubhouse. You can also take a picture of the waterfalls, canyons and wildlife in Cloudland Canyon State Park or other nearby parks.

There are plenty of beauties to explore, with the nearby waterfalls in Georgia being a favorite spot for many to snap a photo that’ll last a lifetime.

Learn About the Rich History & Culture

The outdoor activities in Alabama, Georgia and more doesn’t stop there – the cultural heritage and history of McLemore and the surrounding area is equally compelling.

Lookout Mountain and the surrounding area has some of the richest history of anywhere in the country. Northwest Georgia was home to multiple Native American tribes whose cultural influence and legacy are still felt today. This region also saw several battles during the American Civil War such as the Battle of Lookout Mountain and the Battle of Chickamauga. You can learn more about these events and their modern-day impact at the nearby museums and historic sites.

One of the most visited places is Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, which preserves the battlefields and monuments of the Civil War era. Visitors can tour the park by car, bike or foot, or join guided programs.

Make the Most of Your McLemore Visit

If you want to enjoy more of McLemore and its surroundings, the club has plenty of packages and membership options from which to choose.

Stay & Play Packages: The customized Stay & Play packages include lodging, golf and other activities at McLemore depending on your interests. You can enjoy golf on the Highlands Course and the Short Course and other exciting clubhouse amenities and activities.

Become a Friend of McLemore: If you want to make McLemore a more permanent addition to your getaway roster, you can become a Friend of Mclemore. This invitation allows you to enjoy some of the benefits of membership without becoming a full member. As a Friend of McLemore, you can play one round of golf per season on the Highlands Course and unlimited rounds on the Short Course with up to three guests. You can also enjoy discounts on lodging, dining and gear, and participate in club events and tournaments.

Memberships: For those who want to join the McLemore community and enjoy all the amenities and services that the resort offers, a membership is just for you. As a McLemore member, you can enjoy unlimited golf, and access to the clubhouse, restaurant and bar and other new and exciting amenities. Membership also opens the door to a variety of events and social gatherings hosted at the resort – great for making friends and forging lasting connections.

Lasting Memories at McLemore

Members, friends and guests of McLemore have access to a variety of exciting recreational activities that make this region ideal for the active explorer. Thrilling views, exciting hikes, relaxing amenities and rich history are all set among the hills of Northwest Georgia, McLemore has it all!

Thrilling Outdoor Adventures in Georgia Await at McLemore