Location, climate, beautiful scenery and good neighbors create a quality of life that is enjoyed by newcomers and lifelong residents of Gilmer County . Nearly half of the county’s 439 square miles lies within the Chattahoochee National Forest . The foothills of the Appalachian Mountains house forests, lakes, rivers and streams that teem with abundant wildlife. Carters Lake and nearby Fort Mountain State Park and Amicalola Falls State Park offer swimming, fishing, boating, camping and hiking for the outdoor enthusiast. Other recreational facilities include an 18-hole golf course, lighted tennis courts and a complex with an Olympic-sized swimming pool, baseball and softball fields and a walking path along the Coosawattee River .

The county seat of Ellijay is home to the Georgia Apple Festival, the Apple Classic Auto Show and the Gilmer County Fair. The Gilmer Arts and Heritage Association (GAHA) sponsors the BEST Series, bringing Ellijay sensational talent. GAHA has hosted performances of musical and choral ensembles, as well as drama and improvisational comedy. Civic organizations sponsor events, offer services to others, and most importantly, give opportunities to make new friends with a variety of interests and backgrounds.

Apple and peach orchards along with chicken and dairy farms dot Gilmer’s landscape. Pilgrim's Pride, an agri-business poultry processing plant, is Gilmer County ’s largest single employer. Other major employers are the textile industry, carpet and garment fabrications, plus a growing retail sector. Individual business people and companies cooperate with and offer support to Gilmer County Schools.