Day After Thanksgiving Hike at Terra Incognita Vineyard
This year’s LRA Annual Day After Thanksgiving Hike at Terra Incognita Vineyard was a wonderful success. The weather was perfect, and the combination of sunshine, mountain air, and great company made for a memorable afternoon.
The Ernst family, owners of Terra Incognita, welcomed everyone at the Tasting Room before the hike began. Torsten Ernst, with support from his wife Sarah, led the group on a scenic 3.5-mile route through the vineyard and surrounding forest. The hike offered opportunities to explore the historic settler house ruins, visit the still-active springhouse, and come upon the old County Line Road, once used by horse-drawn sleds. Torsten and Sarah also shared insights into the vineyard’s grape varietals, their new orchard plantings, and the ongoing work and experimentation required to cultivate what thrives on their land.
Sarah guided the group to overlooks with views of both Seed Lake and Lake Rabun, and later led hikers into the valley where cider apple trees and Christmas trees have recently been planted. One adventurous group continued on the final ridge section, a narrow “cat trail,” and made their way to a hidden cave encased within rock formations believed to have served as a lookout platform. Their exploration ended abruptly after hearing a distinct hissing sound deeper inside.
After the hike, everyone returned to the Tasting Room, where Torsten’s brother Chris and his wife Alaqua hosted with warm hospitality and Glühwein as families relaxed and enjoyed the views.
The Ernst family’s story of developing and caring for their 120-plus acres over nearly three decades is one of vision, perseverance, and deep appreciation for the land. We are fortunate to have them as part of the Lake Rabun community.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make this year’s hike such a special day.
