Ellijay

Beautiful Mountain Community in North Georgia

Catercay River

A great place to get inspired, Ellijay is just over one hour north of Atlanta. There is something for everyone whether you are the outdoors type or more laid back.

Apple Capital

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Ellijay is in the heart of Georgia's Apple Country. From late August to December, roadside markets are bursting with the best, tree-ripened mountain apples you can imagine. Apple Orchard Alley is the picturesque valley that runs along Hwy 52 East. Eleven of the country's 18 apple orchards are dotted along the highway. Don't miss Georgia's Apple Festival, Apple Arts on the Square and the Parade. Always the second and third weekends in October. Make your reservations early!

Leaf Peeping - Middle to Late October/November

Beautiful leaf color throughout the region, crisp mountain air, pristine fall days and breath taking scenic shows by Mother Nature.

Dogwood Shows - Early Spring

Beautiful wild dogwoods dotted throughout the woods coming alive after a long winter. Not only dogwoods, but redbud's, cherry and pear trees. Stick around for the mountain laurels, wild azaleas and rhododendron. All too pretty to miss.

Lakes, Boating & Fishing

Located just out of town is Carters Lake. The lake is more than 450 feet deep with 3,200 surface acres. The dam is the tallest earthen dam east of the Mississippi River. The scenery is spectacular with mountain and valley views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Its sparkling waters and rugged shoreline provide a beautiful area for all sorts of recreational activities including fishing, picnicking, boating, hiking, mountain biking and hunting. Carter's Lake is stocked with Walleye, Hybrid and Striped Bass.

State Parks Amicalola Falls - 20 miles Southeast of Ellijay on Hwy 52 East. Amicalola is a Cherokee Indian word meaning tumbling waters and cascades 729 feet. An eight mile approach trails leads from the park to the southern end of the Appalachian Trail. Fort Mountain - 18 miles north of Ellijay on Hwy 52W. An ancient 855 foot long rock wall stands on the highest point of the mountain. The mysterious wall is thought to have been built by the Indians.

Hiking - Benton MacKaye Trail

A less tame path than the Appalachian Trail, was conceived by Benton MacKaye who started the Appalachian Trail. The Benton MacKaye Trail starts at Springer Mountain and goes north through the Chattahoochee National Forest, crosses The Appalachian Trail several times throughout its 93 mile journey to terminate at the Ocoee River in Tennessee's Cherokee National Forest.

Golf - Whitepath Golf Course. Tee Times: 706-276-3080

Biking - Lots of great mountain bike trails.

Tennis - Picturesque recreation complex on the banks of the Coosawattee River, the park offers picnic areas, tennis courts and a walking trail. Lighted tennis courts.

Wildlife Rehab Sanctuaries

Ellijay Wildlife Rehabilitation Sanctuary 5 miles east of Ellijay. A 50 acre facility that cares for all species of orphaned and injured wildlife indigenous to North Georgia.

Burt's Pumpkin Farm

There is no more colorful place to go in the autumn with more pumpkins than you and count ranging in weight from 1 pound to 150 pounds. Enjoy hay rides and field trips taking you through a winding trail filled with natural beauty.

Historic Sites Chieftain's Trail - 200 mile driving tour through what the Cherokee called the "enchanted land". Ellijay City Cemetery - Best view in town Old Cartecay United Methodist Church dating back to 1834. Kell's Farm built in 1867 by James Kell The farm is occupied by his descendants.