Ellijay, GA in April: What to Expect

Looking for a great destination to usher in warmer weather? The mountain town of Ellijay, Georgia, is the perfect spot.

Located in the North Georgia mountains just an hour north of Atlanta, Ellijay is known for its picturesque mountain views, award-winning wineries, and charming Downtown square. The town might be small, but it packs a punch in activities for the whole family to enjoy. From pet-friendly hikes to quirky local stores to delicious restaurants, you won’t run out of fun things to do when you stay at Blue Sky Cabin Rentals.

Come enjoy Ellijay, Georgia, in the Spring - it’s magical here! Below, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to enjoying your Ellijay getaway in April.
 

Ellijay Weather in April

Ellijay in April typically presents a delightful transition into warmer weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Expect average daytime highs around 70°F with cooler evenings dipping to around 50°F. This "mildly cool" climate often comes with a pleasant breeze, adding to the refreshing atmosphere. While rainfall is possible, it's generally not excessive, and you can anticipate a good amount of sunshine.

The longer daylight hours also allow for extended enjoyment of the beautiful natural surroundings, making it a popular time for hiking and exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains.
 

Best Things to Do in April in Ellijay

1. Go Waterfall Chasing

Photo Credit : Sandra Burm 

There is no shortage of beautiful waterfalls in the North Georgia mountains. Early Spring is the ideal time for waterfall chasing due to the high levels of rainfall around this time of year.

With countless waterfall trails around Ellijay, it can be hard to choose where to go first. One of our favorites is Long Creek Falls, an easy 1.9-mile hike accessed via the Appalachian Trail. This family-friendly trail follows a wooded pathway before exposing the tiered waterfall in the middle of the hike.

Looking for a longer, more challenging waterfall hike? Jacks River Falls is a 10-mile hike in the Cohutta Wilderness, about an hour from Ellijay along the Tennessee border. This rugged hike is best for experienced hikers. Featuring a beautiful double waterfall and water hole, it’s definitely worth the adventure.

2. Enjoy Wine Tasting at Local Vineyards

Photo Credit: AnanaMarley 

April is the perfect month to take advantage of the many award-winning wineries nearby. They each offer incredible views of the North Georgia mountains and unique wine tasting experiences.

Cartecay Vineyards is a popular local vineyard known for its wine-tasting barn and live music on the weekends. With both indoor and outdoor tasting options, it's a perfect spot no matter what the weather holds.

Roo Mountain Vineyards is another one of our favorite local wineries. Roo Mountain is known for its delicious wine, zero-proof drink options, and incredible views from its back patio.

3. Hit the Appalachian Trail

Photo Credit: Jonathan A. Mauer

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Ellijay is surrounded by incredible hiking trails. But one of the best parts of visiting Ellijay is getting access to the infamous Appalachian Trail, which runs from Maine all of the way down to Georgia.

The southern tip of the Appalachian Trail begins at Stringer Mountain. If you’re looking for a challenging hike, we recommend heading to the Appalachian Approach Trail, a 16-mile hike that begins at Amicalola Falls State Park and ends at the top of Stringer Mountain. It’s a rewarding, pet-friendly hike with incredible views at the end.

Pro tip: Many thru-hikers begin their long trek up the Appalachian Trail in April at Stringer Mountain, so you may get to witness the beginning of their journey on your hike!

4. Go Kayaking on Carters Lake

Photo Credit: marekuliasz

Looking for a peaceful activity to enjoy on a beautiful Spring day? Kayaking is the answer.

Located just a short drive from Ellijay, Carters Lake is a 3,200-acre man-made reservoir that offers a range of water activities, from boating to kayaking to fishing and more. You can bring your own kayak and launch it at the public dock or head to Carters Lake Marina, where kayak rentals are waiting for you.

The marina also houses a full-service restaurant, so be sure to enjoy a good meal after your fun day of kayaking.

5. Go Shopping in Downtown Ellijay

Photo Credit: SunCity

Downtown Ellijay is a charming square full of historic buildings, unique local shops, delicious restaurants, and fun events. April offers the perfect weather to stroll the streets of Downtown Ellijay while searching for local treasures.

Some of our favorite local shops include Artful Ellijay, Misty Hollow Antiques, and The Loving Bull. And be sure to come back in the summer for the Ellijay Farmers & Artisans Market, the perfect place to shop for unique, handmade goods while enjoying food trucks and live music.

P.S. Head to one of our favorite Downtown Ellijay restaurants once you’ve had your fill of shopping.
 

April 2025 Events in Ellijay

Sasquatch Strut 5k

Photo Credit: ellijay-ga.gov

• Date: April 19th, 2025
• Address: Harrison Park, McCutchen St, Ellijay, GA

The Sasquatch Strut 5K, a fun and spirited race, takes place mid April at the scenic Harrison Park in Ellijay.

This isn’t your average run; it's a full-blown, foot-stomping, forest-themed adventure! Imagine starting the race with a "Bigfoot sighting" send-off, perhaps a costumed character or playful sound effects echoing through the trees.

Runners and walkers alike are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the event, with many sporting Sasquatch-inspired attire, from furry vests to oversized footprints painted on their cheeks. Along the course, expect whimsical surprises – maybe a "Sasquatch crossing" sign or strategically placed "evidence" of the elusive creature. T

Georgia Mountain Trail Fest

• Date: April 12th, 2025
• Address: Reece’s Cider Co, 9110 GA-52, Ellijay, GA

The Georgia Mountain Trail Fest in Ellijay is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a day packed with adventure and community spirit. Expect a variety of activities catering to all levels, from guided hikes and trail runs showcasing the region's scenic beauty to workshops on outdoor skills and gear demonstrations.

You'll find vendors offering the latest in hiking and trail running equipment, educational takes, and local artisans and food stalls. And don’t miss the cider provided by the event’s host!

Spring Ghost Hunt

Photo Credit: Larry Duncan

• Date: April 26th, 2025
• Address: Tabor House Museum, 138 Spring St, Ellijay, GA

The Spring Ghost Hunt, Paranormal Investigation at the Tabor House Museum in Ellijay, hosted by the Gilmer County Historical Society on April 26th, 2025, offers a unique and spine-tingling experience for those interested in the paranormal.

Participants will delve into the historical Tabor House, a location known for its rich history and reported ghostly activity. Guided by experienced paranormal investigators, the event provides an opportunity to use specialized equipment, learn about investigation techniques, and potentially encounter the spirits said to reside within the museum's walls.

This immersive experience combines local history with the thrill of the unknown, making it a captivating evening for ghost enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
 

Packing for Your April Trip

April offers a wide variety of weather, from the last cooler days of Winter to warm Spring days. There is also a fair share of rain mixed in with sunny days. Below is our packing list to make sure you come prepared for all possibilities:

• Rain jacket and umbrella
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Plenty of layers
• Outerwear for cooler days
• Hiking gear
• Bathing suit for your cabin’s hot tub
• Water gear for kayaking
   

Enjoy Ellijay, Ga, in April

April is the perfect time of the year to take advantage of all that Ellijay, Georgia, has to offer!

The early Spring weather allows you to participate in the fun outdoor adventures that Ellijay is known for, from kayaking to hiking to biking and more. The smaller crowds make it easier to stroll Downtown Ellijay and enjoy its many shops and restaurants.

Come live like an Ellijay local and enjoy Ellijay in spring. We promise it will be a memorable getaway. It’s a great time to enjoy the relaxing amenities that our Blue Sky Cabin Rentals offer.