Top 5 Hikes in Ellijay, Georgia
As spring blooms and the mountain air turns crisp, there’s no better time to hit the trails in Ellijay. Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Ellijay offers a central location to some of the best family- and pet-friendly hikes in the region. Whether you’re chasing scenic overlooks, peaceful forests, or the perfect spot for a picnic, Ellijay is the perfect destination for your next outdoor adventure. Here are five must-try hikes to add to your list!
1. Springer Mountain
Did you know? Georgia is home to 78.6 miles of the Appalachian Trail, winding through lush hardwood forests and offering stunning summit views. It all begins at Springer Mountain, right here in Gilmer County! Just a 25.5-mile drive — a little over half an hour — takes you to the Appalachian Trailhead parking lot. From there, a moderately challenging 1.9-mile hike leads you to the breathtaking summit of Springer Mountain. (Source: AllTrails)
2. Tumbling Waters Nature Trail
Georgia’s deepest lake, Carters Lake, is home to many trails including the Tumbling Waters Nature Trail, and only a 20 minute drive from Downtown Ellijay. Located in Ridgeway Day Use Area, Tumbling Waters is a hike featuring lush mountain vegetation and an overlook of the cascading waters of Tails Creek. The trail is one way for .35 miles and then splits. The left fork leads to the 150 foot long bridge that crosses 30 feet above Tails Creek and continues upriver to an overlook right on the creek. The right fork also leads upriver and proceeds to an overlook. This trail is a little over 1.0 miles walking distance and is approximately an hour to hike.
3. Big Acorn Trail
Another family favorite hiking trail is Big Acorn Trail at Carters Lake. This trail starts at the Carters Lake Visitor Center which also serves as a nature center. They have plenty of educational, fun, and free things for kids at the Visitor Center. The hike is 2/3 mile round trip to the lake view overlook and back. This trail is short, easy and great for small children who just want to be trail leaders.
4. Bear Creek Trail
The Bear Creek Trail is located just 5 miles west of Downtown Ellijay. This trail provides some of the most beautiful woods and trees around, including the Gennett Poplar, the state record Tulip Poplar, the second tallest tree in Georgia! This family hiking trail offers a variety of options in length but if you are simply wanting to hike to the tree and back, it is 1.8 miles. Bring extra shoes for the creek crossings!
5. West Overlook Trail
Just 25 minutes from Downtown Ellijay, the West Overlook Trail at Fort Mountain State Park offers a scenic 0.8-mile hike leading to a stunning mountain view overlook deck. This pet-friendly trail (leashes required!) provides a gorgeous natural backdrop, perfect for Instagram-worthy photos. Don’t forget, Georgia State Parks require a $5 daily park pass. After your hike, relax and enjoy lunch at one of Fort Mountain’s many picnic areas, or make your way back to Downtown Ellijay to continue exploring unique shops and eateries.
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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