The Best Trail Running Routes in Ellijay

Trail 301 is the the two best ways for trail runners to explore Fort Mountain State Park - the other being the Gahuti Trail. Just over 13 miles in length, this loop follows old roadbeds around the perimeter of the mountain and offers multiple vistas, beautiful flora, and several landmarks from historic mining operations....

Translated as 'Mother Mountain' in the Cherokee language, the Gahuti Trail is one of the best trail runs within the state park. Compared to Trail 301, another popular route, this is a foot-traffic only trail that highlights Fort Mountain's best features....

Less than an hour from Ellijay or Chatsworth, Emery Creek Falls is a beautiful trail run through historic logging areas leading to a large two-part waterfall. Summertime offers the best weather to visit the falls, but they are still accessible year-round....

With backcountry hiking trails, historical landmarks, mountain biking, horseback riding, and plenty of camping, Fort Mountain State Park is sure to have something for everyone. This short loop is often paired with the Gahuti Trail and explores several of the park's iconic landmarks including a lush overlook, 40' stone fire tower, and the ruins of a ancient rock wall....

If you're an experienced trail runner looking for a challenge, you've found it. This loop offers big mountain elevation, plenty of views, endless wildflowers, and follows part of the Conasauga River Trail through one of its most beautiful sections....

The Conasauga River Trail slices through the heart of the Cohutta Mountains and offers trail runners an epic run through the wilderness with opportunities for loops, shuttles, or out-and-backs. There are no known FKT (Fastest Known Time) attempts of the trail, but that shouldn't sway you away from enjoying this spectacular section of North Georgia wilderness....