A Guide To Apple Season in Blue Ridge

In the lush landscapes of North Georgia, Blue Ridge is not just a gateway to the mountains; it’s a haven for apple enthusiasts and autumn adventurers. Every fall, the area transforms into a vibrant palette of red, yellow, and gold. Apple season in Blue Ridge is a cherished time, offering a plethora of activities, from apple picking and festivals to scenic drives and cozy autumnal experiences.

If you’re interested in moving to Blue Ridge, read on. This comprehensive guide will dive into the heart of apple season in Blue Ridge, detailing the best orchards to visit, local apple festivals to check out, and other fall activities that make this region a magical place during the autumn months.

Apple harvest season in Blue Ridge typically begins in late August and can last through early November, peaking in September and October. During these months, the air is crisp, and the mountains are painted with the fiery colors of fall, providing a perfect backdrop for apple picking and other autumn adventures. 

Blue Ridge and its surrounding areas are home to several beautiful orchards that offer a variety of apples, each with its own unique taste and texture, making the region a perfect destination for apple enthusiasts. 

A true gem of Blue Ridge and one of the most popular destinations, Mercier Orchards is a family-owned and operated establishment that has been growing apples since 1943. This sprawling orchard offers a variety of “U-pick” apples, including favorites like Honeycrisp, Gala, and Fuji. 

Beyond apple picking, Mercier Orchards also features a farm winery, fresh bakery, and market store where you can purchase vegetables, fruits, and homemade apple products like pies, ciders, and jams. After picking apples, visitors can stop by the farm market to purchase homemade apple pies, apple butter, and their famous apple cider donuts.

The Red Apple Barn, located just outside Blue Ridge in Ellijay, allows visitors to pick their own apples and enjoy a scenic tractor ride through the orchards. With a wide selection of apples, the Red Apple Barn offers a fun-filled day for the entire crew. They also host a pumpkin patch in October for those looking to combine their apple picking with some Halloween fun. Don’t miss the farm market for jams, jellies, apple pies, donuts, cider, and more.

A modern apple orchard with a rich history, Panorama Orchards in Ellijay has been a beloved destination for decades. Visitors can pick from a wide variety of apples and enjoy other seasonal fruits and vegetables. The farm market offers a range of gourmet food products, homemade fudge, baked bread, and an extensive selection of apple goods, including fresh apple cider.

Beyond picking apples, one of the joys of apple season is the delicious dishes you can prepare with your bounty. Here are a few recipes to consider:

The highlight of the apple season in the Blue Ridge region is the annual Georgia Apple Festival, held in Ellijay, a short drive from Blue Ridge. This energetic October festival runs for two weekends and celebrates the apple season with craft vendors, apple-themed foods, homemade root beer, a parade, and antique car show. It's a perfect outing to immerse yourself in the local community and history while enjoying the fruits of the season.

Beyond apple picking and fun-filled festivals, Blue Ridge offers a host of other autumn activities that make the most of the season’s crisp weather and beautiful scenery.

The North Georgia mountains are known for their vineyards and wineries, where the fall season brings its own special charm. Many wineries in the region, such as Serenberry Vineyards and Bear Claw Vineyards, offer wine tastings and special events throughout the fall, providing a perfect pairing for the crisp autumn air and a relaxing way to wind down after a day of apple picking.

Don’t miss a visit to historic downtown Blue Ridge. This charming mountain town offers boutique shopping, fine dining, art galleries, and the famous Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. The train ride is especially popular in the fall when the surrounding mountainside is ablaze with autumn colors.

Apple season in Blue Ridge, GA, offers a delightful escape into the heart of Georgian agriculture, filled with scenic wonders, culinary adventures, and old-fashioned fun. Whether you're picking apples, savoring homemade apple treats, or participating in festivals, Blue Ridge provides a memorable experience that celebrates the best of fall. 

If you’re ready to get started in Blue Ridge, GA, real estate, look no further than Thomas Echea @echearealty.com for guidance. Connect today to begin your journey.