Welcome to Ellijay, Georgia!
where the North Georgia Mountains embrace you in their tranquil beauty and crisp mountain air. The name Ellijay is Cherokee for “place of green things” or “many waters.” Ellijay extends a warm invitation to all who venture into its embrace.
Known for its apples and peaches, Ellijay is affectionately labeled as the "Apple Capital" of Georgia. Stop by one of our many apple orchards and pick your own fruit, pet some farm animals, take a hay ride. Don’t forget to try one of their freshly fried apple pies!
We have crystal clear rivers, Carters Lake ( the deepest man-made lake east of the Mississippi) , Lake Blue Ridge and pristine mountainsides. The beautiful Cartacay, Ellijay and Coosawattee Rivers flow through the county. The Coosawattee was the inspiration for the best-selling book and blockbuster movie, “Deliverance.” Our rivers and lakes offer tubing, canoeing, kayaking, and boating. Anglers can find world-class trout fishing in the county and can even book a guide.
As you stroll through historic downtown, you'll be charmed by the array of antique shops, quaint boutiques, and inviting eateries that line its picturesque streets. Here, time seems to slow down, allowing you to immerse yourself in the town's rich history and vibrant culture.
But Ellijay is more than just a quaint downtown; it's an outdoor lover's paradise. Known as the ‘Mountain Biking Capital of Georgia’ , Ellijay provides ample trails for mountain biking as well as hiking. Don’t have a mountain bike? No worries, you can always rent one while visiting Ellijay. Take a day and enjoy horseback riding in these North Georgia Mountains. Golfers will find an enjoyable day on the golf course named after full blood Cherokee Indian, Chief Whitepath. Explore the legend of Sasquatch at the Bigfoot Museum.
From hiking and mountain biking along scenic trails, to golfing, to picking fresh produce at local orchards and farms, there's no shortage of adventures to be had. Take a leisurely stroll through the orchards, or unwind with a glass of wine at one of our many local wineries, soaking in the breathtaking mountain views. Not only do we have ample of wineries/vineyards, but also breweries, a cider house, and distilleries.
For the avid hiker, the Chattahoochee National Forest beckons with its vast expanse of pristine wilderness, offering hundreds of miles of trails to explore. From awe-inspiring waterfalls to panoramic vistas, each step reveals a new wonder of nature waiting to be discovered.
Just a stone's throw away lies the Cohutta Wilderness area, the largest east of the Mississippi, boasting some of the highest-rated hiking trails in the country. Here, amidst towering trees, incredible waterfalls, and untouched wilderness, you can lose yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors.
We must not forget Amicalola Falls, a magnificent 729 foot waterfall that’s the third-highest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River. It’s only 8 miles from the Appalachian Trail and within the Chattahoochee National Forest. Amicalola Falls is just a 35 minute drive from downtown Ellijay.
And of course, no visit to Ellijay would be complete without a journey along the legendary Appalachian Trail, a meandering path that stretches from Georgia all the way to Maine. Springer Mountain is the southern entrance of the Appalachian Trail and located in our very own Chattahoochee National Forest. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual adventurer, the Appalachian Trail promises an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.
In Ellijay, every corner is a new adventure, every sight a new discovery. So come, lose yourself in the magic of Georgia's Apple Capital, and let the mountains welcome you home.