Ellijay Your Way: Natural Surroundings
Whether it’s outside pursuits, indoor activities like shopping and creating, or indulging your taste buds, this town has all the options!
Given its natural surroundings, it’s no surprise Ellijay offers an abundance of outdoor experiences. If you prefer to play outside, a great starting point is Carters Lake, where you can try your luck at catching the big one. Covering more than 3,200 acres, Carters Lake is home to many fish species, including bass, crappie, walleye, bream, and catfish. At the Doll Mountain Day Use Area, you can cast your reel from the fishing pier to your heart’s content. When you’re ready for a break, enjoy a picnic at one of the many tables overlooking the water. Just remember to get your fishing license at gooutdoorsgeorgia.com before you head to the lake.
For a bit of outdoor exploration, hit the Tumbling Waters Trail at the Ridgeway Recreation Area at Carers Lake. This family-friendly hike is a moderate one-mile in-and-out trail that features a 150-foot-long bridge over Tails Creek. It ends at the cascade’s peak, but that’s not the only view of the water. You’ll also find the Upper Overlook trail, which takes you above the waters for a scenic view. It’s a worthy outing that provides ample photo opportunities.
If pickleball is your game-or you’ve been wanting to try it-head to the Gilmer County Parks and Recreation pickleball courts located on South Main Street, There are eight asphalt courts free to use to the public, and they are quite active, particularly in the mornings. That could be good news if you’re looking to join a game or pick up an extra player for your group. Bonus: The park also has a paved riverside walking track that’s easily accessible from the courts.
Dive into our featured articles in the 2025 Ellijay Visitors Guide and discover everything you need to know to plan your next trip to Ellijay, Georgia!
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Adventure Awaits In Ellijay, GA!
We love that you are even closer to visiting Ellijay! With the 2025 Ellijay Visitors Guide, you’ll get the chance to dig a little deeper into what makes Gilmer County the place to visit all year long.
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