A stand-up paddleboarder stands upright on their blow-up paddleboard, slightly deflated, floating on the gentle waves of Carters Lake in Ellijay, Georgia. They have a paddle in their hands and are actively paddling. In the background are a few shorelines lined with tall trees, and in the sky before the paddleboarder is the setting sun, which paints the entire scene in a golden glow and reflects its shine off the water.

Ellijay

Peaceful and charming, the North Georgia mountain town of Ellijay welcomes visitors with its top-tier hiking trails and wineries. Known as Georgia’s Apple Capital, it’s easy to find heritage farms here.

Get out on the water with Cartecay River Experience, where you can float along the Cartecay River by tube or kayak for a must-have Georgia summer adventure. For an adventure on foot, explore the Springer Mountain area hiking trails, home to the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, or enjoy a family-friendly hike along the Tumbling Waters Trail, where scenic waterfalls and forest views await.

A visit to Ellijay wouldn't be complete without a taste of its famous apples. Sip locally made hard cider at Reece's Cider Company, browse fresh produce and homemade treats at R & A Orchards, or embrace fall traditions at B.J. Reece Orchards with apple picking, hayrides, pony rides, a corn maze, and a pumpkin patch. For a different kind of harvest, sip locally produced wines while taking in mountain views at Cartecay Vineyards.

Ellijay’s food scene is worth a visit alone. Sample farm-to-table Southern-inspired meals and craft cocktails at The Roof, a boutique restaurant with an elevated view of the mountains. Emily's offers fresh seafood and prime steaks, while fresh-baked focaccia, sourdough and delicious drip coffee keep Arlowe’s Bakehouse buzzing. 

Save time to browse the shops and boutiques of historic downtown Ellijay, where small-town charm is around every corner. When you’re ready to call it a night, retreat to a cozy cabin with Dragonfly Dreams Luxury Cabin Rentals or Blue Sky Cabin Rentals. Looking for a home away from home? Check out The Villas at Coosawattee River Resort, where the natural beauty of North Georgia sets the scene for a relaxing getaway.

FAQs ABOUT ELLIJAY

What are the top things to do in Ellijay?

Known as the “Apple Capital of Georgia,” Ellijay is famous for its apple orchards, scenic wineries, and annual Georgia Apple Festival. Pick fresh apples at B.J. Reece Orchards, sip local wines at Cartecay Vineyards, and browse the shops and boutiques of historic downtown. For outdoor adventure, hike the Appalachian Trail near Springer Mountain or tube down the Cartecay River.

What are the best activities for families in Ellijay?

Families will find plenty of fun in Ellijay, from picking apples at Red Apple Barn to hayrides and corn mazes at Cress Creeks Farm. Enjoy outdoor play at Harrison Park, shop for sweet treats at Gumdrop Fun Shop, or head to nearby Amicalola Falls State Park for waterfalls and ziplining. For something different, explore the mysterious world of Bigfoot at Expedition: Bigfoot! in nearby Cherry Log.

What are the best activities for couples in Ellijay?

Plan a romantic getaway in Ellijay with wine tastings at Cartecay Vineyards or the adults-only Roo Mountain Vineyards and Bistro, relaxing treatments at IMBALI Wellness, and a romantic stroll to Cohutta Overlook for scenic mountain views. Unwind at one of Ellijay's cozy cabins or inns, or indulge in a special escape at Ellijay River House Bed & Breakfast, a striking 1915 Craftsman home made for romance.

What are the top festivals and events in Ellijay?

Based on its status as the “Apple Capital of Georgia,” many signature festivals center around apples, including the Georgia Apple Festival each October that features arts and crafts, delicious food, and family-friendly fun. Other favorites include Ellijay Bacon Fest, the Gilmer County Fair, and Woofstock Ellijay. During the holidays, enjoy festive lights, parades, and seasonal celebrations at Light Up Ellijay. Discover even more festivals and events in Ellijay throughout the year.

When is the best time to visit Ellijay?

Although Ellijay is a year-round destination, it is especially popular in the fall for apple-picking, orchard and winery visits, scenic hikes, and viewing colorful foliage. Spring and summer are popular seasons for outdoor activities, while winter is a great time for cozy cabin escapes.

What is the weather like in Ellijay?

Ellijay enjoys four distinct seasons in the North Georgia mountains. Summers are warm and humid, with highs typically in the 80s, while spring and fall bring milder temperatures perfect for hiking and exploring outdoors. Winters are generally chilly and short, with occasional snowfall.

What part of Georgia is Ellijay located in?

Ellijay is nestled in the North Georgia mountains near the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, approximately 80 miles north of Atlanta and within driving distance of the Tennessee and North Carolina borders.

What is the closest airport to Ellijay?      

The closest major airports to Ellijay are Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) in Tennessee and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in Georgia, both approximately 60–90 miles away, depending on your route.

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Visitor Information Center

696 First Ave.
East Ellijay, GA
30540
Local: (706) 635-7400

Ellijay Travel Guides

View and download resources for planning a vacation in Ellijay, Georgia. Find trip ideas, attractions, events, activities accommodations, maps, travel resources and much more.

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Gilmer County Mountain Biking Map
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