Couple at B.J. Reece Orchards in Ellijay, Georgia. Photo by Steffy Montes, @steffyfortner

B.J. Reece Orchards in Ellijay, Georgia. Photo by Steffy Montes, @steffyfortner

5 Ways to Enjoy Fall in Ellijay

Looking for ways to make this fall extra special? Try a trip to Ellijay in Gilmer County. Here are five ways you can make memories together to last a lifetime.

Paddleboarding on Carters Lake
Paddleboarding on Carters Lake

1. Explore Carters Lake

Carters Lake boasts 62 miles of natural shoreline. Lined with trees, this 3,200-acre lake is a great place to take in the changing leaves of the mountains. No boat? No problem! Carters Lake Marina offers rentals for your family, no matter how small or large.

Pig races at Hillcrest Orchards

Pig races at Hillcrest Orchards

2. Rally behind a pig

Oink oink! Pick your favorite pig, and then cheer them on at Hillcrest Orchards famous pig races. You can also pick apples, pet the animals, or take on the South's first apple tree maze.

Photo by Lesli Peterson

Photo by Lesli Peterson

3. Shoot an apple cannon

They say one bad apple spoils the bunch, but at B.J. Reece Orchards, the bad apples bring tons of fun! On weekends, your kids can shoot apples from one of the orchard's apple cannons. They also have zip lines, pony rides and more.

Mulberry Gap mountain biking in Ellijay, Georgia
Mulberry Gap mountain biking in Ellijay, Georgia

4. Go mountain biking

Get away for a few days to explore some of the state's best mountain bike trails in Ellijay. For a rustic retreat that caters to mountain bikers, stay at Mulberry Gap. And be sure to stop into Cartecay Bike Shop for new gear and local tips on where to ride.

Female hand holding glass of wine
Engleheim Vineyards in Ellijay, Georgia. Photo by @just_amya

5. Relax at a winery

For a little adult time, visit Ellijay's wineries and taste unique varieties while you relax overlooking the vineyards. Create your own itinerary from Ellijay's list of wineries and tasting rooms. Or, pick up bottles to go to enjoy over dinner back at your cozy mountain cabin.

Published: July 2024
Written by: Lesli Peterson
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