Best Things to Do in Ellijay this Spring
Head to this North Georgia town this spring for mountain adventures, family-fun events, and great places to eat, drink, and stay.
Known as the Apple Capital of Georgia, Ellijay is a prime destination in the fall for all things apples. But, did you know it’s spectacular in the spring, too? That’s when the apple trees blossom, and the mountain scenery fills in with flowers and lots and lots of green foliage. The North Georgia town comes alive in spring with tons of outdoor activities in the mountains and water activities on the lake.
Head 80 miles north of Atlanta to explore Ellijay this spring. Hike the mountain trails, go boating on Carters Lake, go to wine tastings at area wineries and much more. You’ll find plenty of things to do for the whole family, unique community events, great places to eat and drink, and accommodations to suit any style from campgrounds to luxury cabins.
Keep scrolling to find some top things to do in Ellijay this spring, or jump to:
Outdoor Activities
Hiking
Springer Mountain is world famous as the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail (AT), a 2,100-mile foot trail leading north to Maine. Three trails converge on this mountaintop: the AT, the Benton MackKaye Trail, and the AT Approach Trail. Many northbound thru-hikers on the AT begin their journeys here in March and early April, so expect plenty of company on the trails. Learn more about thru-hiking the AT.
Other popular trails nearby include the Aska Trail System, which features loops in distances from 2 miles to 6 miles, and the Tumbling Waters Trail at Carters Lake. Learn more about family hiking trails in Ellijay.
For experienced hikers who enjoy a challenge in an isolated environment, the Cohutta Wilderness Area’s 85 miles of trails offer prime adventures. With scenic views from mountain ridges, waterfalls and wild rivers, the area’s trails are worth a well-prepared trip.
Mountain Biking
Known as the "Mountain Biking Capital of Georgia," Ellijay is a prime destination for cyclists. Make your home base at Mulberry Gap - Adventure Basecamp and roll right out of the gates for a day on the trails. Check out the social rides, classes, bikes and gear at Cartecay Bike Shop, a must-stop in town.
Tubing
The rivers around Ellijay offer a cooling respite when the temperatures start to rise. Float the days away with Cartecay River Experience, which opens on Memorial Day weekend or possibly warm weekends in May.
Boating & Fishing
Rent pontoon boats from Carters Lake Marina and spend time with family and friends exploring the lake's 62 miles of shoreline. And book a trip with Reel 'Em In Guide Service to go fly fishing in area streams.
Horseback Riding
Experience Ellijay's beautiful mountain scenery on horseback with Picture Perfect Adventures or Appalachian Equestrian Academy.
Golf
Play a few rounds surrounded by views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Cohutta Wilderness at Whitepath Golf Course, located 5 miles north of Ellijay.
Wineries, Breweries & More
Ellijay is home to 14 wineries and vineyards, a brewery, a distillery, and a hard cidery. Get your free Ellijay Sips Mobile Pass and earn points for every purchase you make at participating locations. Win fun prizes through the Sips Trail!
Events
Woofstock Ellijay, April 13
Bring Fido to Woofstock Ellijay, a very special pet-focused event that features a pet parade, pet costume contest, a dock diving competition and pet vendors.
North Georgia Mountain RV Show, April 12-14
Shop for RVs and enjoy live music at the free North Georgia Mountain RV Show at Talona Ridge RV Resort.
Georgia Mountain Trail Fest, April 20
Join fellow trail enthusiasts at Georgia Mountain Trail Fest, which features educational trail talks, vendors, food trucks and local hard cider from Reece's Cider Company.
First Day of Ellijay Farmers & Artisans Market, May 4
Shop for locally grown produce, handmade crafts and a wide variety of freshly baked goods, jams, jellies and much more at the Ellijay Farmers & Artisans Market.
Ellijay Songwriters Festival, May 20 - June 2
Hear hits written by Nashville and Georgia songwriters performed live and Ellijay's wineries and music venues during the 14-day Ellijay Songwriters Festival.
Georgia Apple Blossom Festival, May 25-27
Celebrate the beginning of apple-growing season at the pet-friendly Georgia Apple Blossom Festival with food, music, arts and crafts, and lots of family fun.
Eat & Drink
From barbecue to sushi, wood-fired pizza to craft beer, you’ll find amazing food and drink in Ellijay. Start your day with coffee and scones at Hemlock Bazaar, and in the evening, head to The Roof for a cocktail and a bite with a scenic view of town. Spend a day touring area wineries like Cartecay Vineyards, Ott Farms and Vineyard and Engelheim Vineyards, and be sure to stop into local orchards for freshly baked goods, produce and treats for the road.
Stay
You’ll find a variety of cabin rentals in Ellijay to suit any size group with amenities like hot tubs, screened porches and fire pits that everyone will love. If mountain biking is your passion, a stay at Mulberry Gap Adventure Basecamp is a must. Plan a unique stay in a geodesic dome or an Airstream at North Georgia Glamping. There are even farm stays at Wagging Tails Farm and Gingershack Farms, where you can escape city life and make friends with chickens, goats and bunnies.
