Ellijay, Georgia is a quaint and charming town perfect for reconnecting with nature.
Surrounded by lush green forests and several accessible hiking trails that take you to
picturesque views, Ellijay is a coveted nature’s gem.
From the mossy and sun-kissed Bear Creek valley to the tumbling cascades of Amicalola Falls, North Georgia offers magical outdoors that are waiting to be explored. Enjoy a relaxing stay at our riverside, luxury Bed and Breakfast in downtown Ellijay and head onto our favorite easy hiking trails to experience nature’s beauty up close.
Carters Lake: Big Acorn Trail
Nestled in a lush green, mossy forest adorned with ferns and pines of all shapes and sizes,
Carters Lake’s sweet-smelling air is all you need to rejuvenate yourself. The best way to explore the lake and the surrounding settings is by hiking on the Big Acorn Trail of Carters Lake. The path starts at the Carters Lake Visitor Center and is a round-trip hike measuring roughly two-thirds of a mile. The trail runs down to the lake presenting an unrestricted view of the clear calm waters. The trail is short, easy, and doubles as a stroll through nature.
Carters Lake: Tumbling Waters Nature Trail
While the Big Acorn Trail focuses on Carters Lake, the Tumbling Waters Nature Trail travels
across a towering bridge that offers views of Carters Lake, a series of dropping waterfalls, and a whole lot of natural beauty. The trail is relatively short and fun, stretching across a mile in a round trip, and is made of gently rolling terrain. The trail opens at the Ridgeway Recreation Area at Carters Lake and dives into a shady forest following a small creek and grassy meadows.
The River Loop on the Cartecay River
The longest easy hike on our list at 3.5 miles is the Cartecay River Loop Trail. Offering picture-perfect sceneries with the Cartecay River and Clear Creek Falls with a flawless natural background. The best way to start your hike is by heading down to the trail early in the morning to get the most out of the area.
The Bear Creek Trail
One of the most popular trails of North Georgia for mountain biking and hiking is Bear Creek
Trail. The forested area is covered by towering old-growth trees that provide comfortable shade down the path, big boulders, densely packed vegetation along the creek valley, and the famous Gennett Poplar - the second-largest living tree in Georgia. The creek trickles through the green forests lying west of Ellijay and forms one of the most beautiful valleys in the state. The landscape is decorated with an abundance of wildflowers, soft green moss, and Georgia’s
natural beauty making Bear Creek Trail both a local and tourist favorite.
Amicalola Falls Trail
The Amicalola Falls Trail runs alongside the 730 feet high falling waterfall. Amicalola Falls is a popular tourist destination that features cascades of white, misty water falling from a towering cliff in Georgia’s Chattahoochee National Forest. The hike is a mile-long journey from the crest of the giant waterfall and descends along the bridges and stairs. The views from the top of the falling water are simply breathtaking with the horizon filled with the park’s natural beauty. The path is a great choice year-round with snowflakes draping the ground or wildflowers framing the magnificent views.
Fort Mountain State Park: The Old Fort Trail
The Old Fort Trail in Fort Mountain State Park is a 1.6-mile trail that features rock walls and
stone towers. The path is aligned with natural and geological wonders like the heart-shaped
stone near the tower. The scenery makes for the perfect backdrop for a family portrait worthy of the fireplace mantle. A bonus of the Old Fort Trail is the Fort Mountain State Park, which is also a great spot for a nice, quiet outdoor picnic.
Fort Mountain State Park: Lake Loop Trail
In the heart of the pine and hardwood forest of Fort Mountain State Park lies the Lake Loop
Trail. This trail surrounds the lake and neighboring forest area and is bordered by the park’s
sandy beach, docks, and campgrounds. The popular Lake Loop Trail runs through shaded
forests, a quiet creek valley, and several breathtaking views of Fort Mountain Lake. The path
stretches over 1.2 miles and is lined with descriptive signs marking the flora and fauna, making for an educational and easy hike. The terrain is mostly flat and short. The hike begins at the park’s lakeside picnic pavilions and follows the blue clear lakeshore.
Come Enjoy These Easy Hiking Trails in North Georgia
Looking for something a bit more challenging? Try these North GA Hiking Trails
Tallulah Gorge
With rugged terrain, steep walls, and deep waterfalls, Tallulah Gorge is a stunning place to hike. The two-mile-long, 1,000-foot-deep gorge offers breathtaking views. Most visitors stick to the open trails, but for a more immersive experience, try the Sliding Rock Trail. Though challenging, it offers access to the gorge floor, making the effort worthwhile. Be sure to get a permit before setting out.
Blood Mountain Loop
Blood Mountain offers one of North Georgia’s best views. This popular hike on the Appalachian Trail delivers both stunning scenery and a vigorous workout. As the trail’s highest-elevation summit, the ascent is steep but rewarding. Fall is especially beautiful here, with vibrant leaf colors painting the landscape.
Raven Cliff Falls
For a hike through waterfall-filled valleys, the Raven Cliff Falls Trail is ideal. Lush with moss and wildflowers, it’s one of Georgia’s most scenic routes. The highlight is a 40-foot waterfall cascading through a cliff, creating a stunning scene you won’t forget—truly worth the trek!
Discover Ellijay, Georgia’s natural beauty, with these favorite North Georgia easy hiking trails while spending your stay at the Ellijay River House Bed and Breakfast. Our North GA Bed and Breakfast is located in downtown Ellijay and is within close proximity to all these beautiful hiking trails, it's the perfect way to plan your weekend getaway.