Best Hikes in Ellijay, GA: Big Acorn Trail
Located in Ellijay’s Carters Lake, Big Acorn Trail is one of our family favorite hiking trails. This trail is beginner-friendly and the perfect outdoor adventure for a family trip to Ellijay!
Trail Overview
This trail, the shortest one that Carters Lake offers, is approximately 2/3 mile round trip, making it about a 30-minute hike. Big Acorn Trail begins at the Carters Lake Visitor Center (make sure to bring your little ones in for fun things to do), winds gently uphill from a cove of the lake, and ends at a lake-view overlook. Don’t forget to stop and read the informative postings along the trail.
Getting There
From Downtown Ellijay Welcome Center:
- At the roundabout, take exit to S. Main St [4.4 mi]
- At the roundabout, take the first exit to Hwy 382 [10 mi]
- Turn right to Hwy 136 [3.2 mi]
- Turn right to Carters Dam Rd [1.8 mi]
Good to Know
A $5.00 per vehicle use fee is charged at most day-use areas at Carters Lake. Fees can be paid at self-deposit fee vaults or at staffed entrance stations. Visitors may also purchase an Annual Pass that allows vehicles to gain access at no cost to all U.S. Army Corps of Engineers day-use areas.
Want to know more about Carters Lake?
Visit their website for more about camping, fishing, and more things to do!
Carters Lake Website