Best Hikes in Ellijay, GA: Tumbling Waters Trail
Located in Ellijay’s Carters Lake, Tumbling Waters Nature Trail is one of our family favorite hiking trails. This trail includes a bridge with amazing views and is the perfect outdoor adventure for a family trip to Ellijay!
Trail Overview
Looking for a more challenging hike after exploring the Big Acorn Trail? Tumbling Waters Trail is on the other side of Carters Lake at the Ridgeway Recreation Area. The total walking distance of this trail is slightly over one mile, and it has many scenic stops along the way! It includes a 150-foot-long bridge that crosses 30 feet over Tails Creek and ends at the cascade’s peak, but don’t miss the other part of the trail that leads to an overlook featuring a view of the gentle cascade.
Getting There
From Downtown Ellijay Welcome Center:
- At the roundabout, take exit to S. Main St [1.1 mi]
- Turn right to Hwy 76 [7.4 mi]
- Turn left to Dotson Rd [0.9 mi]
- Continue onto Ridgeway Rd [2.3 mi]
Good to Know
A $5.00 per vehicle use fee is charged at most day-use areas at Carters Lake. Fees can be paid at self-deposit fee vaults or at staffed entrance stations. Visitors may also purchase an Annual Pass that allows vehicles to gain access at no cost to all U.S. Army Corps of Engineers day-use areas.
Want to learn more about Carters Lake?
Visit their website for more about camping, fishing, and more things to do!
Carters Lake Website