ATL Apple Picking Guide 🍎🍂

Fall is here, and so is apple season! There’s nothing quite like a sunny day spent apple picking with friends or family. In Georgia, apple season runs from September through October — just two golden months to enjoy the harvest. Most of Georgia’s best orchards are up north, especially around Ellijay. I’ve put together a list of top U‑Pick farms near Atlanta. Grab your basket and let’s go! 🧺 🍎 1. Mercier Orchards 📍 8660 Blue Ridge Dr, Blue Ridge, GA 📅 Through late October | Daily 9AM–5PM The largest apple orchard in Blue Ridge, Mercier is a true hidden gem 🏞️. Famous across Georgia, it offers not just apples but breathtaking views. Picking starts Labor Day weekend and runs through October. On weekends, enjoy live music while you pick! 🎵 🍏 2. Hillcrest Orchards 📍 9696 Hwy 52 E, Ellijay, GA 📅 Sep 3–Oct 31: 9AM–6PM | Nov: 9AM–5PM A perfect weekend spot throughout October! Pick from varieties like Rome Beauty, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Candy Crisp & more. Beyond apples, enjoy the cow train 🚜, giant slides, and a petting farm where you can try milking a cow! 🐄 🍎 3. Red Apple Barn 📍 3379 Tailscreek Rd, Ellijay, GA 📅 Sat 10:30AM–5PM | Sun 1PM–4PM Pick Detroit Red, Gala, Honeycrisp, Jonagold & other tasty apples! By late September, their pumpkin patch opens — super Instagram‑worthy and full of Halloween spirit 🎃. I went last year and loved it! 🍏 4. R & A Orchards 📍 5505 GA-52 East, Ellijay, GA This 150‑acre orchard also has a farm market, bakery, café, and gorgeous flower fields 🌸. Don’t miss their fried pies, chicken & dumplings, sandwiches, and fudge! U‑Pick starts Labor Day weekend and continues while supplies last (usually until early November). Hop on a tractor ride to the orchard fields! 🚜 📌 Tips to Note: Wear comfy shoes and bring sunscreen & a hat 👒 Check orchard social media for variety availability before going Apples keep best in a cool, humid environment — store in a perforated bag in the fridge 🍎❄️ Gather your crew and savor the flavors of fall! 🧡🍂 #AtlantaLife #ApplePicking #FallInGA #Ellijay #UPCick #AutumnVibes #FarmFun #HalloweenSeason #PumpkinPatch #GeorgiaOrchards