First inhabited and named by the Cherokee Indians, Ellijay (the name means “New Ground Place”) has been captivating residents and visitors for centuries with its breathtaking landscape of mountains, lush forests, rivers and lakes.  Ellijay is the county seat of Gilmer County, and is situated where two rivers, the Ellijay and the Cartecay, come together to form the Coosawattee River. 

Just 80 miles from Atlanta and less than 70 miles from Chattanooga, the small mountain town is a popular weekend retreat.  Outdoor activities abound all year round, from hiking through the vast Chattahoochee National Forest and strolling around Ellijay’s picturesque downtown, to fishing and boating on Carter’s Lake.  These offerings, plus the availability of major retail stores, restaurants, and prime medical facilities and city services are turning more and more visitors into permanent residents.

Ellijay is a small town with a big heart and all the conveniences of a big city - come check us out! Here, the good life just gets better.

Local Links:
Georgia Apple Festival
Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce