Tucked away in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Ellijay is a vibrant town where mountain beauty meets Southern charm. Located in Gilmer County, where the Cartecay and Ellijay Rivers converge to form the Coosawattee River, Ellijay is well-known as the Apple Capital of Georgia. Home to eleven family-owned orchards and over twenty-two varieties of apples, Ellijay’s rolling hills come alive each fall with crisp air, ripe fruit, and the sweet scent of cider.

 

Each October, the town proudly hosts the Georgia Apple Festival, a celebration of heritage and harvest that draws thousands of visitors for two weekends of arts, crafts, music, local food, a parade, and an antique car show. The region’s apples, fried pies, fresh-pressed cider, and homemade apple butter are a must for anyone visiting during the season.

 

Ellijay is not just about apples—it’s a gateway to outdoor adventure. As a designated Appalachian Trail Community, the area offers hiking, mountain biking, and camping in every direction. Whether you're exploring nearby trails, kayaking the rivers, or teeing off at White Path Golf Club, there's no shortage of fresh-air fun.

 

Downtown Ellijay has experienced a renaissance in recent years, with a beautifully restored town square, locally owned shops, antique stores, and art galleries that welcome visitors with a warm, small-town feel. Local restaurants, wineries, and cozy accommodations complete the experience, making Ellijay a popular getaway for families, adventurers, and those looking to slow down and savor life in the mountains. With a population of just over 1,600 in town and roughly 29,000 residents in Gilmer County, Ellijay remains a close-knit community where neighbors know each other and visitors are treated like locals. From its scenic rivers to its seasonal celebrations, Ellijay captures the heart of North Georgia living.