10+ Secret Things to Do in Ellijay GA Only Locals Know About

Ellijay is a peaceful and charming North Georgia’s mountain town, known as “Georgia Apple Capital”. This lavish town welcome tourist with hiking trails, wineries and unique food experiences so there are a lot of famous things to do in Ellijay GA for everyone.

Not only this mountain town is filled with heritage farms everywhere but also fun-filled festivals and family-friendly activities have their own worth. Read this blog post till end to know what you can do in Ellijay, Georgia and make your trip extra-ordinary & memorable.

10+ Best Things to Do in Ellijay GA

Want to create core memories in Ellijay that will cherish forever? Sure, here is a list of 10+ unique things to do in Ellijay ga.

1. Explore the Hidden Waterfalls of Ellijay

We all know that Ellijay is famous in its scenic beauty and most of the tourists go to renowned waterfalls like Amicalola Falls.

There are some other hidden waterfalls in the area that only locals know like Tumbling Waters Trail & Falls, Clear Creek Falls and Fall Branch Falls. Mix up of scenic beauty and nature.

2. Visit a Private Vineyard for an Exclusive Wine Tasting

Ellijay, GA is home to award-wining wines, artisan wines and boutique wines. There are various private and lesser-known winery places where you can do wine tastings with farm winery and wine varieties.

Also, these private vineyards allow you to admire beautiful places with views and enjoy relaxed atmosphere.

3. Hike to an Overlook with Stunning Views

North Georgia mountain beauty is worth exploring with crisp mountain air and mountain biking trails. Most of the visitors go to famous mountain landscapes named as Amicalola Falls or Fort Mountain State Park but we bet you will enjoy more joyful experience with fewer crowds.

Bear Creek Hiking Trail

Bear Creek hiking trail is a peaceful trail that will let you enjoy beautiful views of Cohutta Mountains. This trail features beautiful & unique trees named as Gennett Poplar.

Location: Cohutta Wilderness

Length of Hike: 3.5 miles round trip

Tumbling Waters Trail

This is a short and easy hike that leads you to Carters Lake & beautiful waterfalls. Tumbling Waters trail is well-maintained with wooden bridges and forested walk.

Location: Rich Mountain Wilderness

Hike Length: 5 miles round trip

4. Explore the Apple Orchards

Visiting apple orchards in Ellijay GA is one of the best things to do in Ellijay GA in February. Ellijay is known as the apple capital of Georgia because of fresh apples, apple forests, apple fritters, apple products and apple orchard alley etc. this is a fun & family-friendly experienced filled with mountain beauty.

B.J. Reece Orchards

One of the most popular apple orchards with a bakery, u-pick apples and petting farm market. You can enjoy various family-friendly activities like apple cannons, hayrides, and a corn maze.

Location: 9131 Highway 52 East, Ellijay, GA

Hillcrest Orchards

A family-owned orchard with apple picking, wagon rides, and pig races. One fall apple festival named as “Apple Pickin’ Jubilee” held every year here. Do not forget to try their apple fritters and cider slushies.

Location: 9696 Highway 52 East, Ellijay, GA

Other Apple-Related Experiences

• Apple cider
• Acclaimed apples
• Acres of apple trees
• Apple arts
• Apple balms
• Apple cider varieties
• Apple donuts

5. Paddle Down a Secluded Section of the Cartecay River

Going to Cartecay River is one of the best things to do in Ellijay ga this weekend. This is not only an Ellijay hidden gem but also a peaceful and scenic place to enjoy outdoor fun with friends or family. You will enjoy exciting ride through lush forests and amazing activities like kayak, tubing, and canoeing.

Best Sections for a Secluded Paddle

• Lower Cartecay River
• Stegall Mill to Blackberry Mountain
• DNR Access Point to Cartecay River Preserve

Best Time to Paddle the Cartecay River

• Spring and summer are ideal times of the year to paddle here.

What to Bring for Adventure?

• Dry bag
• Water shoes
• Sunscreen & hat
• Waterproof camera

6. Go to Secret Fishing Spots

Fishing spots in this North Georgia’s place is normally overcrowded with tourists but what if we tell you about secret fishing spots where only locals go.

For peaceful experience and secluded water fun, these spots are ideal for families and solo travelers. On these spots, you can find trout, bass, and catfish.

Hidden Fishing Spots

• Mountaintown Creek
• Lower Cartecay River
• Carters Lake
• Tails Creek

Best Time for Fishing

• Spring and fall months are ideal because of trout and brass activeness.

Useful Tips to Follow

• Pack light
• Use natural bait
• Check fishing regulations of Georgia
• Leave no trace

7. Shop at Antique Stores

Unique shopping experience is one of the perfect things to do in Ellijay ga with kids. Many visitors go to crowded and well-known markets which are filled with common shopping experiences.

Antique stores in Ellijay are filled with rare collectibles, vintage items, handcrafted furniture and rustic décor items.

Antique Stores

The Ridgeway Mercantile: A small family-run shop specializes in barnwood furniture, vintage signs, and Southern collectibles.

Antiques on the River: Famous antique shop on the riverside with a mix of vintage items, handmade pottery, and folk art.

Hilltop Trading Pos: A true picker’s paradise with old tools, Civil War relics, and Appalachian artifacts.

Other Tips for Finding Antique Shops

• Ask the locals and ask them to help you in finding.
• Be ready for drive as few of them are located far away.
• Must bring cash because not all the stores accept cash.

8. Experience a Farm Stay in the Mountains

Are you looking for peaceful retreat in North Georgia Mountains in the form of best things to do in Ellijay GA today? Do not forget to experience a farm stay in the mountains.

Imagine waking up with scenic views of surrounding mountains, sipping fresh coffee and picking fresh produce of different fruits, absolutely amazing.

Which Type of Farm Stays are Available?

• Rustic cabins
• Farmhouse style lodges
• Tiny homes or working farms

Best Farm Stays in Ellijay

• Blackberry Ridge Farm Stay
• Creek Farm
• Blue Ridge Mountain Ranch
• Orchard View Farmhouse

Useful Tips for Booking a Farm Stay

• Before booking, must check farm activities.
• Book early especially during crowded season of the year.
• Ask about farm-fresh meals before.

9. Find a Secret Swimming Hole

The hidden swimming pools in Ellijay are surrounded with lush forests and mountain scenery. Some of the famous spots get crowded instantly but there are few swimming spots where you can swim comfortably or peacefully.

Whether you are in search of crystal-clear river pool, a magical waterfall or secluded lake cove, these places are best for relaxing swimming.

Famous Swimming holes:

• Clear Creek Falls
• Cartecay River Bend
• Tails Creek Pool
• Secluded Cove at Carters Lake

What to Bring for a Secret Swimming Hole Adventure?

• Towel with changing clothes
• Water shoes
• Floating tube
• Sunscreen
• Waterproof phone case

10. Attend a Small-Town Festival No One Talks About

Georgia apple festival is conducted in Ellijay every year. This festival is a popular festival in the history of Ellijay that is attended by a lot of tourists every year.

If you want to attend such festival that comes with fewer crowds and you can celebrate everything like bluegrass music, local crafts, Appalachian traditions & seasonal harvests.

Georgia Apple Blossom Festival: You can enjoy the chill version of big Apple festival with same charm and less crowds.

When & Where: Early May in Downtown Ellijay

Pro Tip: Do not miss the chance to shop for unique souvenirs and must try fresh apple cider.

Taste of Ellijay: If you are a food lover, this festival is for you. In this festival, you will see Ellijay’s best restaurants & food trucks with local eateries.

When & Where: Late May in Downtown Ellijay

Pro Tip: Try to eat or taste food that ranges between $1-5.

Ellijay Independence Day Celebration: In July start, attend independence celebrations with vintage cars, local bands & floats.

When & Where: July 4^th in Downtown Ellijay & River Park

Pro Tip: Independence fireworks illuminates the whole sky so do not forget to miss fireworks.

11. Visit a Local’s Favorite Sunset Spot

One of the best ways to try free things to do in Ellijay ga is visiting a local sunset spot where crowds are fewer so you can easily enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Visitors often go to famous spots for best sunset views but the real magic lies in the quiet places.

Here are some of Ellijay’s best secret sunset spots that only locals know about.

• Ball Ground Overlook
• Carters Lake Dam
• Engelheim Vineyards Hilltop
• Fort Mountain State Park Fire Tower
• he Secret Apple Orchard Hill

Why Watch Sunset from These Spots?

• Less crowds and no distractions.
• Amazing photo opportunities for tourists.
• Peaceful way to end your day in Ellijay.

Tips for Catching the Perfect Sunset

• Check sunset times before go any of the above-mentioned place.
• Arrive early to catch amazing real views.
• Bring a light jacket.
• Pack some snacks and must bring water.
• Leave no trace.

Frequently Asked Questions