Just over an hour north of Atlanta in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains lies Ellijay, Georgia. This beautiful mountain community is engulfed in national forests, rivers, Georgia’s deepest lake, rolling apple orchards and now home to more vineyards than any other county in Georgia. Let us help you find 7 ways to explore this part of north Georgia from your RV.
The Apple Capital of Georgia is the proud home to many multigenerational apple orchards. The season peaks in the Fall but is worth visiting any time of year. Stop by any of the orchard farm stores to meet the farmers and enjoy all things apple from cider to apple cider donuts, pies, jams and jellies. Make plans to join us the second and third weekends of October for the annual Georgia Apple Festival.
Be sure to pack a few of those apples you picked in your backpack for when you take your first hike on the Appalachian Trail. Ellijay is home to the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. We are proud to be an Appalachian Trail Community and to support and educate those wishing to experience the longest hiking only footpath in the world. Take the 2 mile roundtrip hike to step across the Springer Mountain southern terminus plaque or continue on northward where you have 2,190 miles to attempt or anywhere in between.
Time to wet your whistle after that hike at one of the beautiful vineyards in Ellijay Wine Country, now recognized as the county with the most vineyards in Georgia. It seems that these rolling hills are also ripe for growing grapes and creating award winning wines to meet the palates of every type. Enjoy live music on the weekends while you learn about the varieties of wine in your tasting from the proud hardworking vineyard owners themselves.
If you’re a mountain biker you’ve probably heard of Ellijay, GA – The Mountain Biking Capital of Georgia and home to an extensive trail network (including the Pinhoti Trail) with over 100 miles of single track and no real off season. This nationally recognized biking destination supports it’s riders with our local Cartecay Bike Shop who is there to keep you out on the trails and if you’re in need of a new ride check out their extensive line of bikes and give them a spin on their new test tracks out back along the Ellijay River.
Feel like getting wet? Then head on over to Carter’s Lake (Georgia’s deepest lake) for some water skiing, jet ski rides or slow things down for a flat water paddle in your kayak right up to the falls along the Tumbling Waters Trail. If white water kayaking is your thing then you’ll want to hit one of our three rivers called the Cartecay River. Class 1,2 or 3 rapids can be found on this section of the river. Our local outfitters can provide you with all the gear needed and a local shuttle service. If you want to give our rivers a try but not sure about your kayaking abilities then slow it down on a river tube and enjoy the wildlife along the way.
When your stomach starts to grumble make your way to historic downtown Ellijay and make your selection of dining experiences from homemade soup and sandwich at Cantaberry’s, to Asian Fusion at The Shack, to finer dining at Emily’s on River Street or make your way to The Roof for a rooftop bar and kitchen experience while looking out over Rich Mountains. Top off that meal with Moo Bears Ice Cream Shop, Abby’s Frozen Yogurt or The Bavarian Chocolatier. For the shoppers out there downtown is full of unique boutiques and antique stores.
Expedition: Bigfoot. No, I’m not kidding! This 4,000 square foot complex with genuine artifacts, life size displays, mini research vehicle, full size Sasquatch, Florida and Georgia sighting maps, Sasquatch Theater and more!! Check it out!
Ellijay is an outdoor destination that meets the experience levels of everyone. Whether you want to hike up to a mountain top for a breathtaking view or travel by car to enjoy a beautiful overlook. Many describe this community as a breath of fresh air. We invite you to come park your RV at Talona Ridge RV Resort and consider that your basecamp for adventure.