Tips for the Perfect Pet-Friendly Vacation in Ellijay
Are your pets part of your family? With secluded cabins on the creek banks, easy-to-moderate hiking trails, wineries open to dogs, and downtown businesses and restaurants that have pet owners in mind, Ellijay has enough pet-friendly offerings to allow you to pamper your pooch for the whole weekend. Here are some tips to help you get started planning your perfect adventure in Ellijay:
Book the Perfect Cabin
The perfect cabin is the foundation of any good trip to Ellijay. Whether you’re looking for riverside stays or a gorgeous view of the mountains, location really is everything! With over 1500 cabins in the area, its easy to get overwhelmed. Never fear: there are plenty of cabins in Ellijay that were designed with your furry friends in mind! Known as the “Pet Friendliest Cabin Company in the Whole Universe,” Sliding Rock Cabin Rentals is all about pets. In business since 2001, Sliding Rock knows exactly how to speak pet owners’ language. Their entire portfolio of cabins are all geared towards pet owners. For even more pet friendly cabins, check out Blue Sky Cabin Rentals. They have a page dedicated to pet-friendly rentals right on their site.
Hit the Trail
Does your pup have boundless energy? Take them on a trail! Dog lovers can’t get enough of Tumbling Waters Trail. Located on the banks of Carters Lake (Georgia’s deepest lake!), Tumbling Waters Trail is a moderate hike with plenty of slight inclines, twists, and turns to keep your pup interested. Looking for another fun hike? Bear Creek Trail offers Fido the opportunity to cross several small creeks. There are even camp sites favorably located to Bear Creek Trail for those looking to camp with their pup.
Head Downtown
Downtown Ellijay is a pet-lovers’ paradise. Many restaurants have patios and covered, temperature controlled porches where you can bring your dog while you dine. Ellijay Coffeehouse even invites you to bring your dog to their local living room and enjoy seriously good craft coffee blended to perfection. Dog parents will love shopping at Mountain Hounds, a pet boutique that has just as much for cats as they do for dogs. If your pet needs a little pampering while you’re in Ellijay, make an appointment with Pets on Main before you head our way and make a grooming appointment for your dog.
Visit a Local Vineyard or Brewery
If you’re looking to visit some of Ellijay’s amazing area wineries, breweries, or cider houses (there’s 12 and counting), don’t leave out your pup! Many of these locations are pet-friendly and invite you to bring your four-legged friends. Just be sure to check ahead and make sure the vineyard you want to visit allows pets. If you’re looking to add a dog or cat to your family, follow the Friends of Gilmer Animal Shelter on Facebook: they often host adoption events at local vineyards and breweries.
Stroll a Local Park
Did you know that dog-led walking has tremendous benefits for your dogs health? Harrison Park and River Park are the perfect places to spend some time letting your dog’s nose be your guide. These “sniffing walks” help your dog decompress and engage both their body and their brain. Both parks feature walking trails, wooded areas, and run along one of Ellijay’s three gorgeous rivers.
Give Your Dog a Day Out
If you’re looking to visit an upscale restaurant or visit a location that doesn’t allow pets, you don’t have to miss out. Pet’s Night Out is an awesome boarding and doggy daycare service that will let your dog have their day while you have fun. The Pet’s Night Out team are serious animal people who will spoil your pup just like you would while you’re out having fun.
Mark Your Calendar for Pet-Friendly Fun
Ellijay is a pet lover’s paradise for visitors and locals alike. Many local events are centered around celebrating our furry friends and the joy they bring our lives. Coming up in April, the first-ever Woofstock Pet Party will feature a pet parade, pet costume contests, and a dock-diving competition. The first week of every May, East Ellijay is home to the Georgia Apple Blossom Festival, a pet-friendly arts and crafts festival. Leashed dogs are also welcome at Apple Arts festival in Downtown Ellijay on the 2nd and 3rd weekends of every October.
No matter when you visit with your pet, there is so much to see and do in Ellijay, Georgia! Click here for more ideas on how to best adventure in Ellijay!