10 Incredible Things to Do in Ellijay GA

By Alice Ross | NORTH AMERICA

Oct 01
things to do in Ellijay GA

If you’re getting tired of your busy city life and craving a chance to slow down in nature, then a getaway to Ellijay, Georgia is a great idea. Not only is this mountain town in Gilmer County a perfect destination for honeymooners and family trips, but the things to do in Ellijay GA can also make for a fantastic solo travel experience. Famously known as Georgia’s Apple Capital, this area is easily accessible from Atlanta. 

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The city’s charming old-world downtown area is full of different restaurants, small boutiques, and antique shops. And thanks to Ellijay's great transportation system, getting around town is not a problem.

The amazing natural beauty of this hilly region offers a lot of opportunities for those interested in outdoor adventures. Notably, Ellijay has a great climate all year round. The area also receives an annual rainfall of more than 60 inches, which keeps the forest green and vibrant.

The summer season sees an average temperature of 80ºF, while in the winter, temperatures revolve around the 30s.

But all in all, no matter what time of the year you decide to go, you will surely find yourself entertained by the many activities Ellijay has to offer.

Things to Do in Ellijay GA

1. See the Beauty of the Jacks River Falls

things to do in ellijay ga jacks river falls

The Cohutta Wilderness offers a lot of things to do, which makes it a perfect place to go for families with young children. You can explore the core of this 37,000-acre untamed forest to search for the Jacks River Falls, where you will find a famous swimming hole.

Along the way, you'll enjoy a picturesque trek in nature, before reaching the refreshing pool, which features a 20-ft high jump that is perfect for daredevils looking for a rush of adrenaline! If you're not quite up to the challenge, simply relax in the swimming hole, or make the most of the photo ops next to the waterfalls.

2. Do Some Hiking and Camping

hiking camping

One of the best things to do in Ellijay GA is to hike and camp. Given the natural beauty of the area, this shouldn’t come as a surprise. Be sure to visit the North Georgia Outfitters. Whether you’re here on a short day trip or looking to immerse yourself in nature on a multi-day stay, Ellijay is a great place to go.

So, if you're seeking to escape the bustle of daily life, you may want to take advantage of the fact that there are many agencies here that can help you find camping or RV sites where you can set up your temporary lodging. Most of these have picnic tables and fire pits to round up the experience.

If you're looking for something more comfortable, you can also rent a cabin. Many of them are spacious and rustic, with beautiful wide porches to enjoy your wild, peaceful surroundings. Whichever you pick, you're bound to have a delightful home away from home experience!

Our top picks for cabins to rent around Ellijay

Ellijay Resort Cabin with Private Hot Tub & Mountain Views: As its name suggests, this 3-bedroom holiday home adds a touch of luxury to the traditional cabin stay, with privileged mountain views and your own hot tub to relax in after a day enjoying the outdoors.

cabin with hot tub and mountain views

Fitted with beautiful wood and stone work, this tastefully-decorated property also comes with a large living-room set around a fireplace, a spacious deck area and private yard, a covered front porch, a fire pit, and thoughtful little extras including board games and kayaks.

ellijay ga cabin

Your stay at the cabin also gives you access to the resort's facilities, which include an Olympic-size swimming-pool, a fitness center, a mini golf, and more. It's the perfect base for an active family or a group of outdoor-loving friends!

The Lazy Bear Lodge: Looking for a truly secluded stay in the heart of nature and a great option for a slightly lower budget? The 3-bedroom Lazy Bear Lodge is set in an idyllic location, perched on a small hill right in the middle of the forest.

Lazy Bear Lodge Ellijay

You can enjoy the warm, cozy atmosphere of this wooden cabin full of character and antique furniture, listen to the birds singing while swinging in a rocking chair on the front patio, and share stories around the fireplace or a good barbecue.

Lazy Bear Lodge

Browse more top cabin options in Ellijay at the best price guaranteed.

3. Shop for Antiques

Even if you're only making a brief stop in Ellijay, you may still want to allow some time for antique shopping. Downtown Ellijay is dotted with many antique and gift shops, and every store is full of hidden treasures waiting to be purchased. So, if you're looking for some rustic decoration, this will no doubt be one of the most enjoyable things to do in Ellijay GA for you.

4. Hike to the Amicalola Falls

Amicalola Falls

If you prefer to stick to being physically active on your Ellijay visit, then you may love the idea of hiking up to the Amicalola Falls. This 600-step hiking trail will reward you with breathtaking views every step of the way. It ultimately leads to the highest cascading waterfall in the Southeast, which you can admire from a big viewing deck area.

If you don’t want to trek, don’t worry: you can easily drive up to the top and relish the beauty of the falls without having to do the hike. You will definitely fall in love with this impressive sight.

5. Relax at the Beach

Itching for some sand between your toes? Then check out the Carters Lake. At the Harris Branch Recreation Area, on the south shore of the lake, you’ll enjoy a beachfront spot where you can spend the day soaking up the sun or swimming in the water. Paddle to your heart's content, make a sandcastle, or even catch some fish. The beach has benches and umbrellas where you can rest and have a picnic under the shade if you want to take a break from the Georgian sun. 

6. Pick Some Peaches

things to do in ellijay ga pick peaches

In case you’re not aware, Georgia is well-known for its peaches. So, visiting an orchard is definitely one of the top things to do in Ellijay GA and a must on your visit. There are several orchards that give you the opportunity pick peaches to take home.

This is an amazing activity if you're planning to visit the region with young kids. Many orchards even have hayrides, which are a great bonus. There are also shops where you can try fresh peach pies and other sweets - i.e., more yummy goodies to take home!

7. Ride a Tube on the River

Also popularly known as the city of waters, Ellijay has 3 rivers that offer a great opportunity to experience tubing. Aside from a relaxing or adventurous tubing experience, you could also rent kayaks or boats from the companies that offer these activities. Make sure to wear your life vest, especially if you’re not comfortable in water!

river tube riding fun things to do in ellijay ga

8. Spend Some Time at the Mountain Valley Farm

If you and your family love animals, then you will definitely enjoy this place! One of our favorite things to do in Ellijay GA, the Mountain Valley Farm is a family-friendly destination where you can observe different types of farm animals. After touring the farm, the visitors are able to spend the rest of the day feeding the animals and learning about them. This is also a great place for you to pick up some locally-harvested produce that you can prepare for your dinner. 

9. Try a Sweet Treat

Want to satisfy your sweet tooth? Surprisingly, the Crossroads Grocery is one of the best stops to make when you visit Ellijay. This is a popular attraction that offers a range of sweet treats every day to those who are craving sugary delights. Aside from delicious ice creams and candies, you will also find tasty lunch and dinner options like sandwiches, burgers, pizza, and seafood. 

sweet

10. Attend the County Fair

If you’re planning to visit Ellijay in the month of August, you'll have timed your trip perfectly to enjoy the fun and excitement of the Gilmer County Fair. Every year, the region offers different forms of entertainment that are suitable for visitors of any age.

Browse the traditional quilt designs or try out different foods provided by local vendors. There are live shows and events that will get everyone dancing and singing. You may not want to miss out on the exhibits on display prepared by local residents, including flowers, crafts, photography, and agricultural tools.

County Fair

As you can see, you won't run out of things to do in Ellijay GA when you visit the county! It’s all up to you to choose the best activities to include on your itinerary, so you can have a great time in the area according to your interests. Make sure to organize yourself well according to the number of days you're planning to stay.

Read more:
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10 Best Vacation Spots in the US in 2022

If you need more tips about traveling to North America, then check out more posts on this blog. On the other hand, if you have any other questions on this topic, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. And don’t forget to share this article with your friends on social media to also let them know about all the fun things to do in Ellijay, Georgia!

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About the Author

Hi, I’m Alice Ross, a long-term traveler who left the corporate world to travel the world. I chose to live life on my own phase and live day by day while immersing myself in new experiences, new knowledge, and new people in a different walk of life I met along the way.

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