
Welcome to our cabin! We’ve put together this guide to help make your stay as easy and enjoyable as possible. If you need anything, we’re always happy to help. You can always message us on your booking platform or text us anytime at (813) 417-7533.
Now, go ahead and settle in, relax, and make yourself at home.

Scott & Tera
Meet Your HostsWelcome to our cozy cabin in Ellijay, Georgia! We’re an adventurous couple who love discovering new places, whether it’s trekking through the scenic trails of the Blue Ridge Mountains or uncovering hidden treasures in our travels. Our passion for the outdoors is woven into every detail of this cabin, and we’re thrilled to share that spirit with you.
As proud parents of two, family is at the core of everything we do. We’ve thoughtfully designed this space to offer both relaxation and adventure, creating the perfect backdrop for you to make lasting memories with your loved ones.
There’s something truly magical about the mountains—a place to unwind, reconnect with nature, and cherish time together. We can’t wait for you to experience the beauty of Blue Ridge and hope our cabin becomes the perfect retreat for your unforgettable getaway.
Guest Access
The road to the cabin easy to traverse. Coosawattee Resort maintains the roads throughout the resort year round. A 2-wheel drive vehicle is sufficient to drive around the resort property. Our driveway is suitable to park 2 vehicles. Please approach slowly and with caution. The entrance to our driveway is steep, but easy if you take it slow.
Other things to note
- We provide towels, linens, hand soap, two rolls of toilet paper for each bathroom, two rolls of paper towels, two dishwasher pods, two laundry detergent pods, trash can liners, and a coffee starter kit (four Keurig cups). Think of these amenities as a starter kit—we recommend you bring additional supplies as appropriate for the duration of your stay.
- All TVs are Roku TVs with streaming capabilities. BYOP (bring your own passwords)! We do not have cable TV.
- Our cabin is on a community well. We recommend bringing bottles of water if you are not accustomed to well drinking water.
- In an effort to maintain secure premises, the cabin is equipped with two exterior cameras (one on the front porch and one on the back porch) and a doorbell camera. There are no cameras on the cabin’s interior; all cameras face away from the house.
Here are clear driving directions from Ellijay Square in downtown Ellijay, to 32 Dawn Lane, Ellijay, GA:
- From Ellijay Square on South Main Street.
- Head south on South Main Street for about 2.5 miles.
- Turn right onto Ellington Road and continue for .4 mile.
- Continue onto Rimcrest Road for .3 mile.
- Make a slight right onto Riverview Drive and continue for .8 mile.
- Turn right onto Dawn Lane and our driveway is the first driveway on the right.
We take our guest’s safety and well-being very seriously and have rules in place to ensure that no one gets hurt while you enjoy your stay with us.
- Check-in/Check-out: Check-in is at 4:00 p.m., and Check-out is at 10:00 a.m. unless prior arrangements have been made.
- No Smoking: We have a strict no-smoking policy in the home or on any of the covered porches
- No Guests: No unregistered guests. Please notify the host if you’d like to add any additional guests to your rental agreement.
- No Parties: Absolutely no parties, events, or large gatherings of unregistered guests.
- No Pets: Please no pets, wildlife, or animals of any kind in the cabin at any time.
- Noise: We want to be great neighbors. Please keep the noise level down between the hours of 10pm and 8am.
- Damage: Report any damage or malfunction to the host right away so that we can repair or replace the damaged item.
- Septic System: Our cabin is on a septic tank. Please do not flush ANYTHING but toilet paper down the toilet, and do not dump any grease down the sink.
- Fire Places: Do not move or adjust the logs or knobs inside the fireplace. Doing so could result in a service call and an extra charge for your stay.
- Maximum Occupancy: Our house has a maximum occupancy of 5 guests allowed.
- Fire, Fireworks, and Fire Arms: The discharge of firearms, uncontained fires, the lighting of fireworks and all other activities which create a threat to the health, safety or welfare of other residents are strictly prohibited.
Hot Tub Rules
If a maintenance call is necessary due to non-compliance with these instructions, an additional fee will be charged. Thank you for your cooperation.
- Do not use the hot tub cover as a table or a seat
- Please turn off the jets and put the hot tub cover back on after use
- No more than 4 people at a time
- No sex or nudity allowed in the hot tub
- Please do not pee in the hot tub
- No soap or oils are allowed
- Chlorine is used as a sanitizer. Do not use the hot tub if you are allergic.
- Use the stairs to enter and exit the hot tub
- Do not use the hot tub alone
- Do not use the hot tub if the water temperature is more than 104˚F
- Absolutely NO glass of any kind allowed in or around the hot tub
- Anyone under 18 must be supervised by an adult. Children under 13 are not allowed
- Elderly or pregnant women should not use the hot tub
- People with heart disease, high or low blood pressure, diabetes or other illness should not use the hot tub
- People using alcohol or other drugs should not use the hot tub without consulting a physician
- Limit your time to 15 minutes and cool off before re-entry
Hot Tub Waiver
There is a hot tub on the property, it poses a risk to any and all guests on the property. These risks may result from a variety of circumstances including, but not limited to, the use or misuse of the equipment or facilities, from the activity itself, from the acts of myself or others, or from the unavailability of emergency medical care.
Guest specifically accepts ALL liability for use of the hot tub on the property and understands that Owner, shall have no liability from any accidents, injuries, or death that may result from the proper or improper use of said hot tub. Guest accepts said liability by voluntary use of said hot tub.
By booking this property, you are automatically acknowledging that you have read and understood these rules and guidelines and will be responsible for ensuring that all members of your party follow the same.
Parking
Our driveway is suitable to park 2 vehicles. Please stay on the driveway, no parking in the yard or gravel.
The road to the cabin is 100% paved or gravel. A 2-wheel drive is fine for the spring, summer, and fall months; if snow is in the forecast (December & January), we would recommend a 4×4.
A Tesla charger is on site and available for guests if needed.
Access
Check-in is at 4:00 pm & Check-out is at 10:00 am unless prior arrangements have been made.
Accessing the property is easy with our keyless entry system. The day before check-in, you will receive your unique code for the Schlage Encode smart lock.
To use the lock:
- Wake the lock: Tap the bottom left icon (the house with a checkmark) to wake the lock and see the number pad.
- Enter your code: Punch in the four digits on the keypad.
- Check the lock: You’ll see a green checkmark and hear the door unlock if the code is correct.
To lock the door when you leave:
Press the Lock icon on the exterior side of the lock to secure the deadbolt from the exterior touchscreen.
If you have any trouble with the lock, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Fireplace
Our cabin has a gas fireplace with a quick-start remote mounted on the wall. PLEASE DO NOT TOUCH OR REARRANGE THE LOGS, BURN ANYTHING, OR COOK IN THE FIREPLACE. An additional fee may be charged if a maintenance call is necessary due to non-compliance with these instructions. Thank you for your cooperation.
It’s ready to light when you arrive – to start a fire, locate the white remote switch on the wall to the left of the fireplace. Press one of the top three buttons (30, 60, or 120 minutes) to select a time to run. The fireplace turns off automatically after the chosen time. Please turn it off before leaving (bottom button on the wall remote).
In the event of a fire, a fire extinguisher is located under the kitchen sink.
TVs
There are 3 TVs in the cabin. All are Roku smart TVs, so you can log in to any service you prefer. When you turn the TV on for the first time, it will ask for your checkout date. The checkout date you enter will be the date you will automatically log out of all of your streaming accounts.
To watch free channels without a subscription, the “Roku Channel” app has many options.
To watch any TV, all you need is the Roku remote to power on/off, adjust the volume (the side buttons on the remote), and navigate the TV menus.
Thermostat
The cabin is equipped with a nest smart thermostat. The thermostat is located behind the TV in the living room. It should be comfortable when you arrive, but you’re welcome to adjust the temperature to your comfort level. To adjust the temperature, tap the display to wake it, turn the face dial to select heating or cooling and press again to select. Turn the dial to raise or lower the temperature and tap again to select.
Coffee Bar
We have a full coffee bar with both a pod maker and a regular drip coffee maker (as well as a pour over in the cabinet). We will supply a starter pack of four coffee pods, cream, and sugar. Please plan on supplying your own coffee and pods for extended stays.
The Grill
A gas barbecue is on the back porch for your use. Turn the gas on prior to use and back off at the tank once finished. Please be respectful of the gas usage for future guests.
Hot Tub
To use the hot tub, first remove the cover by folding it back on itself (over the bar), then lift the bar. The cover will hang on the bar behind the hot tub. The cover is lightweight enough for one person to lift, but it can be a bit awkward, so assistance may be necessary if available.
If the cover is locked, a key hangs on a hook beside the hot tub. No need to lock the cover when you’re done. We leave it unlocked.
The temperature is always set and locked to 100 degrees. With the control panel you’ll be able to turn on the bubbles and lights – all other controls are locked. The button on the left side of the screen turns on lights. Each time you press the light button, it will change the color. The button to the right of the screen turns on the jets. There are plastic knobs around the edge of the tub that control the waterfall and the air for the jets.
Note: Upon arrival, you may notice that the hot tub water appears slightly cloudy or cooler than usual. Our cleaning crew often drains and refills the water between guests – and it takes 2-3 hours for the water to warm to the desired temperature. Additionally, the chemicals used to sanitize the well water can cause temporary cloudiness, which is a sign that the chemicals are effectively working. Rest assured, the water will clear up as the chemicals do their job!
Trash
All trash must be bagged and placed in the wooden trash can enclosure next to the driveway with the lid securely closed. This will prevent animals from being attracted to the property. Our cleaning crew will collect the trash after you check out.
Pool & Amenity Access
As guests of Dawn Lane Escape, you’ll have access to Coosawattee River Resort’s community amenities, including the pool. Here’s what you need to know before you go:
Amenity Pass Cards
Two RFID amenity pass cards are provided with your stay — you’ll find them in the cabin. Each card covers up to 4 people (regardless of age), so if your group is 5 or more, make sure to bring both cards with you for entry.
Pool Rules
- Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult at all times
- Amenity pass cards must be presented for entry
- Lost or unreturned amenity pass cards will incur a replacement fee of $125 per card
Food & Drink
If we could only choose one spot for our favorite lunchtime option, this is the spot. Cantaberry Restaurant in Ellijay, GA, is known for its comforting, homemade meals served in a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s a favorite among both residents and visitors seeking hearty soups, fresh salads, and satisfying sandwiches. Pro tip – save a little space for a piece of cake!

This one is easy to miss. It’s a southern charm, laid-back, no-frills spot with seriously good food. Chili Dog in Ellijay is the place to go. We love coming here for breakfast—it’s easily one of our favorite morning stops. A cinnamon roll is a must (any time of day). Their biscuit sandwiches are insanely good. Their chili dog is on point (obviously). Our family is hot dog snobs. Only the best for us – and these definitely qualify.
The vibe here is super casual, and the service is always fast and friendly. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite before heading out to explore or just need some good old-fashioned comfort food, this spot never disappoints. If you’re in Ellijay and haven’t tried it yet, do yourself a favor and stop by—you won’t regret it.

Every town needs a great pizza spot. We definitely have ours! Ellijay Wood Fired Pizza, nestled at the corner of River and Main Streets in the heart of downtown. This is our go to spot for great wood-fired pizzas (get out of here Pizza Hut).
This spot has the atmosphere (and smell) you want in a pizza place – that combined with a great staff, makes it a great spot.
The pizza to start with is the Margherita Autentico pizza. It’s the simple, standard combination of crushed tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, all drizzled with extra virgin olive oil.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the Spicy Calabrian pizza is great choice. The pizza is topped with Genoa salami, spicy Italian sausage, Calabrian peppers, and a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheeses, it offers a satisfying kick that’s perfectly balanced by the rich flavors.
The drink selection here is thoughtfully curated, with wines on tap and a range of craft beers, including local favorites.

La Catrina Tacos & Margaritas in Ellijay, GA, is a delightful spot offering authentic Mexican cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. We’ve enjoyed everything we’ve had here (and this is a regular spot for us). The carne asada, chimichangas, and birria tacos are great places to start. The margaritas are creative and fresh. This is the spot for anyone craving delicious Mexican fare while you’re with us!

River Street Tavern is our favorite pub food spot. It’s unassuming with seriously good food and drink.
The Gettin’ Figgy With It Chicken Sandwich and the Tavern Bear Creek Burger are our standout favorites.
The Tavern has a great selection of drinks, too, with plenty of local craft beers on tap. The service is always friendly, and the whole place has a relaxed, welcoming vibe that makes you want to hang.

The Butcher & Bottle is a spectacular spot in Ellijay for an incredible meal. It’s a great date night spot with excellent food and a great wine selection.
For appetizers, we’d highly recommend the Diablo Shrimp, the B&B Meatballs , or the Tuna Stack. Honestly, you could make a meal out of just the starters!
If you’re in the mood for a sandwich, the Butcher’s Burger (really all of their burgers are great) and the Salmon BLT are standouts. For heartier entrees, their steaks and salmon are always on point. The last time I went, I tried the Pan-Fried Trout, and it was absolutely fantastic!
Dessert? The Apple Crumb Bread Pudding is SO good!

If you’re looking for a “wow” factor for a special night out, this is the place. It’s an upscale spot with a rustic-meets-elegant vibe and a massive waterfall right on the property. We love sitting out on the patio or at the Conservatory Bar to soak in the mountain views with a cocktail in hand—the atmosphere is just incredible.
They do a fantastic job with seasonal, farm-to-table dishes (the short rib and trout are usually standouts), and their Sunday brunch is a local favorite if you’re in the mood for a full gourmet spread. It’s a bit more of a “dressed up” experience than some of our other local haunts, but still feels warm and welcoming. We’d definitely recommend making a reservation, especially if you want a table with a view!

One of our favorite spots in Ellijay is The Roof. My wife and I love coming here for a date night or just to kick back and enjoy some great food and drinks. Perched right in the heart of downtown, it’s a great rooftop dining experience.
We love the Fresh Appalachian Trout and the Shrimp & Grits. It’s comfort food done right. Their mixed drinks are fantastic! Whether it’s a classic Old Fashioned or something fruity and fun, they always have something great to sip on.
If you’re visiting Ellijay or just looking for a great place to enjoy dinner and drinks, The Roof is a must-try. Just keep in mind that they don’t take reservations, so if you want a prime rooftop spot, try to get there early.

Hikes
This hike is just 20-25 mins away and is my favorite in the area. It’s definitely a longer day hike (6.2-mile out-and-back trail) and offers a challenging adventure that rewards hikers with the sight of two stunning waterfalls. There are 10-15 river crossings, so go prepared for wet feet. The first one is the most challenging – it takes a little searching to find the best spot; everything after that one is ankle deep.
The trail begins near Holly Creek and meanders through a lush forest, following the banks of Emery Creek. Along the way, you’ll encounter approximately 20 creek crossings, so be prepared to get your feet wet. These crossings add a fun and refreshing element to the hike, especially during warmer months.
As you progress, the sound of rushing water becomes more prominent, leading you to the first of the two main waterfalls. This lower falls cascades beautifully over a series of rock ledges, creating a serene spot to rest and take in the scenery. Continuing further, the trail leads to the upper falls, which boasts a more dramatic drop and a tranquil pool at its base. Both falls offer picturesque settings that make the trek worthwhile.
The trail is well-marked with green blazes, but due to the numerous creek crossings and some rugged terrain, it’s essential to stay attentive to the path (helps to have the map downloaded if you use online maps). Keep in mind that parking at the trailhead is limited, so arriving early is a good idea, especially on weekends.

One of our favorite hikes in the area is the Amicalola Falls via East Ridge Loop Trail, located in Amicalola Falls State Park. This 2.2-mile loop offers a moderately challenging trek that rewards hikers with stunning views of Georgia’s tallest waterfall, cascading over 729 feet.
Starting at the Visitor Center, the trail ascends through a series of switchbacks, providing glimpses of the surrounding hardwood forest. As you climb, the sound of rushing water grows louder, hinting at the breathtaking sight ahead. Upon reaching the base of the falls, you’re greeted with a mesmerizing view of the water tumbling down the rocky cliff face.
The trail then leads you up a series of stairs—over 600 steps in total—that run alongside the falls. While the climb can be strenuous, the frequent overlooks make it worthwhile, offering panoramic vistas of the cascading water and the lush valley below. For those who prefer a less steep ascent, the East Ridge Trail provides an alternative route to the top, featuring a more gradual incline.
At the summit, a bridge spans the crest of the falls, presenting an opportunity to marvel at the expansive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s a perfect spot to pause, catch your breath, and soak in the natural beauty. The descent follows the East Ridge Trail, which winds gently back down to the Visitor Center, completing the loop.
This hike is particularly popular during the fall months when the foliage transforms into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. However, each season offers its own unique charm, making it a trail worth revisiting throughout the year.
Before setting out, it’s advisable to check the weather conditions, as parts of the trail can become slippery after rainfall. Also, be prepared for a workout—the combination of elevation gain and numerous steps can be demanding, but the views are undoubtedly worth the effort.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a scenic day trip, the Amicalola Falls via East Ridge Loop Trail provides a memorable adventure that showcases some of Georgia’s most spectacular natural scenery.

Tumbling Waters Trail is a scenic one-mile loop about 25 minutes away. This is a family-friendly hike that offers beautiful views of cascading waterfalls along Tails Creek and a wooden bridge overlooking Carters Lake. The trail meanders through lush forests filled with ferns and pines, providing a serene nature experience. Its easy-to-moderate difficulty level makes it perfect for hikers of all ages.

The Cartecay River Loop Trail is a 3.4-mile loop about 22 minutes away. This moderately challenging trail offers a diverse experience, winding through open fields, dense forests, and along the picturesque Cartecay River. On this hike, you’ll encounter varying terrains, including a couple of moderately steep sections and creek crossings, making it an engaging adventure for those seeking a bit of challenge. A couple of notes here, though…
- A land access permit is required to utilize this Wildlife Management Area. You can’t buy them there – they must be purchased ahead of time. There are two options to get a permit: a Georgia fishing/hunting license or a Land Access Permit. A fishing license costs $15 annually or $5 for one day. Land Access Permits cost $30 for a year (no short-term available). If you plan to hike any of the 80+ WMAs that require a permit/license in the state, then the annual fishing license is the most cost-effective option. Licenses can be purchased at these locations or online.
- It’s easy to find yourself on the wrong trail here! From the parking area, you will walk around a “Road Closed” gate. Follow the gravel road until it forks – stay left at the fork. The trail will lead you through an open field and eventually down to the river.

The Bear Creek Trail is about a 25-minute drive from the cabin and offers a beautiful hike through lush, moss-covered forests. This moderate to hard hike is just over six miles long and guides adventurers along the serene banks of Bear Creek, across gentle stream crossings, and up to a nearby summit that presents panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Just a heads up – there are a few river crossings. Plan to have wet feet or take of your shoes.
A highlight of the trail is the Gennett Poplar, the second-largest living tree in Georgia. And for those seeking a shorter hike, a two-mile round trip to the Gennett Poplar offers a family-friendly option without compromising on the scenic beauty.

This is the longest of our recommended hikes. It’s a lengthy day hike and a challenge, but a spectacular hike. The hike is in the Fort Mountain State Park ($5 entrance fee). There are many other hiking options inside the park.
The best part of the hike is on the west side. The view is spectacular. On a clear day you can see Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Lookout Mountain. We’ve done the hike clockwise, but if you’re only doing a portion, we’d suggest going counter clockwise to enjoy the views.
The last time we did this hike we saw a bear on the trail. It ran away as soon as it saw us.

Things to Do
Ellijay Mushrooms is a charming, family‑owned sustainable mushroom farm nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, set on 171 acres of inspiring Georgia farmland. The farm cultivates gourmet shiitake and oyster mushrooms, harvested daily and quickly refrigerated to maintain peak freshness and flavor.
At the cozy farm store, visitors can explore self-guided farm tours, pick seasonal flowers (while they last), and browse an artisanal selection of mushroom products and local treats. It’s a delightful spot to linger for an hour—whether you’re curious about the craft of fungi farming or just looking for something unique to bring home.
It’s a great stop to pair with Roo Winery as it’s just minutes away.

Wineries and Vineyards
Just minutes from our cabin is Roo Mountain Vineyards. If you’re only doing one winery while you’re with us, this is the spot. Not only is it very close, but it’s also spectacularly beautiful, with great wines (heads up, families – Roo Mountain Vineyards is a 21+ facility).
As you approach the vineyard, the expansive views of protected mountains and forests set the stage for a memorable experience. The vineyard’s commitment to preserving the natural landscape is commendable, providing a gorgeous setting for the tasting.
The tasting rooms are elegantly designed, offering a comfortable setting to explore their curated selection of wines and hard ciders. The staff is knowledgeable and eager to guide guests through the tasting journey, ensuring a personalized experience.
One of the highlights of Roo Mountain Vineyards is their rooftop garden bar, aptly named “The Nest.” Here, you can enjoy their beverages while taking in panoramic mountain views.
For those interested in a more in-depth experience, Roo Mountain offers VIP winery tours. These tours provide insights into the winemaking process, from grape cultivation to fermentation and aging. It’s an educational journey that deepens appreciation for the craft behind each bottle.
If you have a few more minutes, be sure to make a stop at Ellijay Mushrooms. It’s just minutes away and worth the time!

Buckley Vineyards is our all-around favorite winery in the area! The staff are knowledgeable, warm, and welcoming, and all the wine we’ve tasted here has been excellent. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with live music on the weekends. As a bonus, Buckley is located just minutes from Ott Vineyards, which is excellent in its own right. If you’re looking for a low-key, great wine/beer tasting experience, we’d highly recommend visiting Buckley Vineyards when in Ellijay!

Ott is a part of our favorite winery pairings. While Ott is an excellent Winery with great wines that stand on their own, it’s located right next door to Buckley (which is our favorite all around). Ott has great live music on the weekends (in season) and has a great outside area with an adults-only section. Standout wines here for us are the Infatuation, Desire, and Infatuation reds.

We love the wine here. Chateau Meichtry feels like a classic old-school winery. While we like everything we’ve tried here, the standouts are the Lineage Red Blend (70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 10% Zinfandel, aged in French oak for 19 months) and the dry Riesling.

Cartecay Vineyards claims to be the oldest winery in the area. Truthfully, I can’t say I’ve liked any of the wines we tasted here, but they have a large following. If I were to go back, I would give their white wines a go.
They have a very cozy tasting room and accommodating hosts. Most of their wines are from grapes grown locally. All their estate wines are grown locally.
Their vineyard starts to flourish in late April, and that’s when it’s really beautiful at the vineyards here!

Transportation
Providing solutions for all Transportation needs, including local & out of town service, including airport shuttle.
Pricing
Rough pricing is as follows and is based on our cabin location (prices based on seasonality and demand – please let us know if the rates you’re provided are much different so we can update for future guests):
- Airport Shuttle (one way): $160 (up to 4 people with luggage)
- Wine Tours: $40/hr (4-hour min, tours can last anywhere from 4-6 hours. Up to 7 people)
- Rides into town (one way): $40
John’s Transportation Services
John Beirtback
(772) 607-4397

Local and long-distance Taxi service.
Pricing
Rough pricing is as follows and is based on our cabin location (prices based on seasonality and demand – please let us know if the rates you’re provided are much different so we can update for future guests):
- Airport Shuttle (one way): $160 (up to 4 people with luggage)
- Wine Tours: $40/hr (4-hour min, tours can last anywhere from 4-6 hours. Up to 7 people)
- Rides into town (one way): $40
Cartecay Cab
Ryals Cheek
(706) 889-5180
mistercheek@ellijay.com

No need to strip beds. We just ask that you leave the dishes clean or start the dishwasher before you leave, If you could pile used towels in the tub, our cleaners would appreciate it! Please check drawers/under furniture/in closets to ensure you take all your belongings with you – we are not responsible for items left behind. Please make sure the front door is locked when you head out and leave all trash bagged in the bins out front.
