Best sunrise/sunset locations

Question

Husband and I are visiting October 20-25. What are your favorite locations for enjoying sunrise? Sunset?

Answer

Ellijay and Gilmer County are beautiful spots for experiencing stunning sunrises and sunsets, especially in October when the fall foliage adds an extra layer of beauty to the scenery. Here are some great locations to enjoy both sunrise and sunset during your visit:

Sunrise Locations: The morning light over the mountains and valleys can be mesmerizing, and these spots offer great views:

Amicalola Falls State Park: This is one of the best spots for both sunrise and sunset in the area. For sunrise, head up to the lower falls area, or even to the Amicalola Falls Lodge for a panoramic view of the cascading falls and the mountains in the early morning light.
Rich Mountain Wilderness Area: Rich Mountain offers great hiking opportunities and breathtaking views. The views from the higher points in the area are perfect for catching the first light of day over the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Cartecay River: For a peaceful, riverfront sunrise, the Cartecay River provides a lovely backdrop. You can enjoy the reflections of the trees and the mountains as the sun rises over the valley.
Mountain View Road (near Cherry Log): This road runs along the ridges, offering some great sunrise views over the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s a bit of a hidden gem with less foot traffic, so you can enjoy the peace and quiet of the morning.

Sunset Locations: The sunsets in the Ellijay area are equally stunning, and there are several places that provide beautiful backdrops for the setting sun:

Fort Mountain State Park: Fort Mountain State Park is known for its scenic views, especially at sunset. You can hike up to the overlook and watch the sun set over the mountains, with the colors of the sky reflecting off the forests and valleys below.
Ellijay Apple Orchards: During October, the orchards are in full swing, and you can catch a gorgeous sunset with rows of apple trees in the foreground. The rolling hills make for a lovely setting as the sun dips behind the mountains.
Salacoa Creek Park: This park offers a tranquil setting, with a lake surrounded by trees. As the sun sets over the water, it creates a peaceful and beautiful atmosphere. It’s an ideal place for a quiet evening.
North Georgia Overlook (on Hwy 52): If you're looking for an expansive view of the Appalachian Mountains at sunset, this overlook is perfect. From here, you can watch the sun slowly disappear behind the peaks and valleys, casting stunning colors across the landscape.
Blairsville: From the scenic byways and ridges around Blairsville, you can enjoy incredible sunset views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The wide-open spaces make it a perfect spot to take in the changing colors of the sky as evening falls.

Whether you're looking to watch the sun rise over a quiet valley or set behind the mountain peaks, these locations in Ellijay and Gilmer County will offer some unforgettable moments. Enjoy your time in this beautiful part of Georgia!