Best Hikes in Ellijay, GA: Tumbling Waters Trail

April 26th, 2024 in Explore the Ellijays, Hike, Outdoors

Updated: March 10, 2026

Located in Ellijay’s Carters Lake, Tumbling Waters Nature Trail is one of our family favorite hiking trails. This trail includes a bridge with amazing views and is the perfect outdoor adventure for a family trip to Ellijay!

Trail Overview

Looking for a more challenging hike after exploring the Big Acorn Trail? Tumbling Waters Trail is on the other side of Carters Lake at the Ridgeway Recreation Area. The total walking distance of this trail is slightly over one mile, and it has many scenic stops along the way.

It includes a 150-foot-long bridge that crosses 30 feet over Tails Creek and ends at the cascade’s peak, but don’t miss the other part of the trail that leads to an overlook featuring a view of the gentle cascade.

Getting There

From Downtown Ellijay Welcome Center:

At the roundabout, take exit to S. Main St [1.1 mi]
Turn right to Hwy 76 [7.4 mi]
Turn left to Dotson Rd [0.9 mi]
Continue onto Ridgeway Rd [2.3 mi]

Good to Know

A $5.00 per vehicle use fee is charged at most day-use areas at Carters Lake. Fees must be paid by credit / debit card only at the automated fee machines located in each fee park. Learn more about the Annual Pass.