Fall in Blue Ridge GA

Foliage, Festivals and Fun

When sunset comes a little earlier, the leaves begin to turn yellow and gold, and there’s just a hint of coolness in the air, you know it’s time to start planning your fall getaway to the mountains.

There’s no better place to celebrate the joys of fall than Georgia’s Blue Ridge – starting with crisp mornings with a little fog over the mountains, migrating geese honking overhead, the smell of woodsmoke from a cabin fire, a warm drink and a sweater to ward off the chill. Think picking apples and sipping hard cider at Mercier Orchards, hand pies and coffee at the Folk Collaborative in McCaysville, fall leaf rides on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, s’mores by the campfire at your cabin, mountain festivals, foliage and fun!

Fall Foliage: When & Where to See the Colors

If you’ve always dreamed of seeing the mountains transform into a rainbow of reds, yellows, and oranges, Blue Ridge is the place to be. Fall foliage in this part of Georgia typically peaks from October to early November, but the vibrant colors can vary depending on the elevation and weather.

How to Experience the Best Fall Colors

By Rail: For a truly unique experience, hop aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. This nostalgic ride winds through the mountains, offering panoramic views of the fall foliage that will take your breath away. Get even closer to nature on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway’s Rail Bikes.

By Road: Take a leisurely drive through the mountains to enjoy the changing leaves from the comfort of your car. Try our curated self guided tour maps, including guides to a Daytrip to Dahlonega, Suches it Is, and Mountain Discovery. As Georgia’s highest point, the view from Brasstown Bald is nothing short of breathtaking during peak foliage.

On Foot: Trails like Long Creek Falls and the Swinging Bridge Trail offer spectacular views of the fall leaves up close. The Aska Adventure Area is a scenic area known for hiking trails that lead you through a forest of vivid autumn colors. Appalachian and Benton MacKaye Trails offers a perfect way to immerse yourself in the season's beauty.

On Horseback: Experience the mountains on horseback with one of our local stables.

Fall Festivals & Events: Celebrate the Season!

Fall is festival season in the mountains! Blue Ridge and the surrounding areas are home to some fantastic seasonal events that highlight the best of mountain culture, craft food & beverages, and family fun.

Don’t Miss These Fall Festivals in Blue Ridge

Oct 3 – 5 Cigar Box Guitar Music and Art Festival at Bear Claw Vineyards

Oct 4 – 5 – Noontootla Creek Farms Fall Festival

Oct 4 – Blue Ridge Marching Festival

Oct 11 - 12 – Fall Arts in the Park

Oct 17 – 19 – Blue Ridge Mountains Parade of Homes

Oct 18 – Pawsfest

Oct 20 – 26 – Harvest Sale of Blue Ridge

And that’s not all! There are also other regional mountain festivals, local farmers markets, pop-up events, and plenty of live music performances throughout the season. Make sure to check the Visit Blue Ridge events calendar for the full lineup.

Orchards, Cider, and Seasonal Flavors

Mercier Orchards: One of the highlights of fall in Blue Ridge is visiting the local orchards and enjoying all the delicious treats that come with the season. Start your day with a visit to Mercier Orchards, where you can pick your own apples and sip on fresh, locally made cider. Their bakery is also home to some of the best fried apple pies you’ll ever taste. Take home a pumpkin!

The Folk Collaborative: In nearby McCaysville, don’t miss Folk Collaborative—an old fashioned apple orchard that serves up incredible hand pies, coffee, and a delightful assortment of fall-inspired herbal goods. Take a wagon ride and pick your own apples.

Local Breweries and Wineries: For wine and beer lovers, the Blue Ridge area has a variety of wineries and craft breweries that offer seasonal brews, like pumpkin ales and spiced ciders. You’ll find the perfect pairing for your fall getaway!

Cozy Cabin Life: The Ultimate Fall Escape

A cozy cabin in the mountains is the perfect base for your Blue Ridge fall adventure. Picture this: cool evenings, a crackling fire, s’mores by the campfire, and starry skies overhead. Whether you’re snuggled up with a loved one or enjoying a quiet retreat with friends, Blue Ridge cabins offer all the amenities you need for a truly cozy fall experience.

Plan Your Trip: Tips & Resources

Now that you’re ready to experience the magic of fall in Blue Ridge, here are a few tips to help plan your trip:

When to Visit: For the best fall foliage, visit between October and early November.

Lodging: From charming cabins to cozy B&Bs, Blue Ridge offers a variety of accommodations to suit any budget.

Weather: The weather can vary, so be sure to pack layers, comfortable shoes for hiking, and a jacket for the cooler evenings.

Events: Check out the Visit Blue Ridge Events Calendar for the latest happenings during your stay.

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