3 Orchards to Visit in Blue Ridge

Visiting Blue Ridge in the summer or fall means picking berries and apples at gorgeous local orchards.

Visitors come for mountain views, fresh cider, and the chance to fill their baskets. This guide covers the best apple-picking spots, from local favorites to lesser-known spots.

credit@mercierorchards

Picture of apples and sunflowers with a mountain view and the apple orchard in the background.

Mercier Orchards

A Blue Ridge staple for over 80 years, Mercier Orchards grows more than 50 varieties of apples and offers seasonal U-pick for fruit like strawberries and peaches. Visitors love the fresh cider, fried pies, and scenic tractor tours.

Location: 8660 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge
Offerings: U-Pick fruit and flowers, bakery, candy shop, winery and tasting room, sample counter, holiday events, and a wheelchair accessible wagon

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The Folk Collaborative

The Folk Collaborative is a family-run Appalachian orchard offering U-pick apples, wagon rides, fried pies, and a cozy mercantile. Visitors can also browse herbal teas, salves, and mountain remedies, or join a hands-on workshop to learn traditional skills. Grab a drink at the coffee bar and enjoy the peaceful farm setting.

Location: 2984 Mobile Road, McCaysville
Offerings: U-Pick fruit, picnics, Fire on the Mountain experience, farm tours, workshops, apothecary goods, bakery, and coffeehouse

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A hand holding an apple slush with a cider donut

creditHillcrest Orchards

Hillcrest Orchards

Hillcrest Orchards in Ellijay has been family-owned and operated since 1946. It offers seasonal apple picking, baked goods, and fall fun for all ages. Visitors can shop the farm market, watch fresh apple cider doughnuts being made, or stop by for a warm fried pie. The orchard is open each fall until the apples are gone.

Location: 9696 Highway 52 East, Ellijay
Offerings: Apple picking, petting farm, wagon rides, playground, giant slides, zipper swings, a fairy trail, and the Farm Market and Bakery

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