Apple Picking in Georgia 2025: Your Complete Guide to Ellijay's Best Apple Orchards
As autumn's crisp air signals the arrival of apple picking season in Georgia, visitors flock to the charming mountain town of Ellijay for one of the state's most beloved fall traditions. Known as the "Apple Capital of Georgia," Ellijay apple orchards offer an unforgettable experience with over 20 varieties of fresh apples, family-friendly activities, and breathtaking North Georgia mountain views.
🍎 2025 Georgia Apple Festival 🍎
October 11-12 & 18-19, 2025
Join thousands of visitors for Georgia's premier fall celebration featuring local crafts, live music, delicious fair food, and of course, everything apple!
Discover Apple Orchard Alley: Georgia's Premier Apple Picking Destination
Apple Orchard Alley stretches along Georgia Highway 52 East, featuring eight distinct apple houses just outside Ellijay. This scenic corridor offers visitors an incredible variety of experiences, from traditional u-pick orchards to modern agritourism destinations complete with petting farms, hayrides, and entertainment.
The region's apple heritage dates back generations, with family-owned orchards like BJ Reece Orchards (operating since the 1960s) and Hillcrest Orchards (growing apples since 1946) preserving the traditional art of apple farming while embracing modern visitor experiences.
With apple varieties including Honeycrisp, Gala, Granny Smith, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Rome Beauty, and seasonal specialties like September Wonder, visitors can experience the full spectrum of apple flavors and textures that North Georgia's unique climate produces.
Top Apple Picking Farms in Ellijay, Georgia
Each orchard offers unique experiences, from traditional apple picking to full-scale family entertainment. Here's your complete guide to the best Georgia apple farms for 2025:
🍎 Mercier Orchards
Address: 8660 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA 30513
Phone: (800) 361-7731
Monday-Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday-Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Closed: Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Christmas Day, New Year's Day, Easter
About: This fourth-generation, veteran-owned apple orchard has been delighting visitors since 1943. Featuring over 40 varieties of apples across 80+ years of farming expertise, Mercier Orchards offers u-pick events, a famous bakery, farm market, and Georgia's only on-site hard cider production with tasting room.
🍎 BJ Reece Orchards
Address: 9131 Highway 52 East, Ellijay, GA 30536
Phone: (706) 276-3048
September & October Hours: Daily 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Market & Bakery: Open year-round
July 27 - December 22: Mon-Sat 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Sun 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM
About: Family-owned since the early 1960s, BJ Reece Orchards spans 120 acres with 20 different apple varieties. Famous for their world-renowned fried apple pies, this pet-friendly orchard offers comprehensive farm experiences perfect for all ages.
🍎 Hillcrest Orchards Apple Pickin' Jubilee
Address: 9696 Highway 52 East, Ellijay, GA 30536
Phone: (706) 273-3838
October Hours: Daily 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
November Hours: Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About: Home to the South's first Apple Tree Maze! This fourth-generation family farm (since 1946) offers the annual Apple Pickin' Jubilee on weekends during September and October, featuring live cloggers, music, and carnival-style entertainment.
🍎 Red Apple Barn
Address: 3379 Tailscreek Road, Ellijay, GA 30540
Phone: (706) 635-5898
Monday-Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday: 1:00 PM - 5:30 PM
U-Pick Season: Weekends in September & October
Saturday: 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
About: Family-owned since 1927, Red Apple Barn offers an authentic farm experience 3 miles west of Ellijay. U-pick admission includes tractor ride to orchard, one apple, apple cider, apple cider doughnut, three flowers, and access to games and picnic areas.
🍎 R&A Orchards
Address: 5505 Highway 52 East, Ellijay, GA 30536
Phone: (706) 273-3821
Daily: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
U-Pick Season: Weekends in September & October
Cafe Hours: Daily 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
About: Operating since 1947, R&A Orchards features 160 acres with 38 varieties of apples, plus peaches and nectarines. Their on-site restaurant serves 18 different varieties of homemade fried pies, chicken and dumplings, and famous cider slushies.
What to Expect During Apple Picking Season 2025
Apple picking season in Georgia officially runs from late August through October, with peak harvest occurring in September and early October. Each orchard offers different varieties that ripen at various times, ensuring fresh picking opportunities throughout the season.
Popular Apple Varieties Available:
- Early Season (August-September): Gala, Granny Smith, September Wonder
- Mid Season (September-October): Honeycrisp, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious
- Late Season (October-November): Rome Beauty, Mutsu, Arkansas Black
Essential Apple Picking Tips:
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven orchard terrain
- Bring sunscreen and water, especially for September visits
- Most orchards provide picking bags or containers
- Check individual orchard websites for current apple availability and weather conditions
- Arrive early in the day for the best selection and cooler temperatures
- Many orchards offer hayrides rain or shine, so dress appropriately
Beyond Apple Picking: Complete Family Experiences
Modern Ellijay apple orchards have evolved into comprehensive agritourism destinations offering experiences far beyond traditional fruit picking. Visitors can enjoy farm-to-table dining, artisanal products, educational farm tours, and seasonal entertainment that make these destinations perfect for full-day family outings.
Popular additional activities across the orchards include petting zoos with friendly farm animals, playground areas designed for children of all ages, and specialty food items like fresh-baked apple cider donuts, caramel apples, apple butter, locally sourced honey, and homemade jams and jellies.
Many orchards also feature scenic picnic areas with mountain views, making them ideal for family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or simply enjoying the peaceful rural atmosphere that North Georgia is famous for.
Planning Your Visit to Georgia's Apple Capital
Located in Gilmer County, Ellijay is easily accessible from major Georgia cities, with Atlanta approximately 90 minutes south via Highway 515. The scenic drive through the North Georgia mountains is part of the experience, offering stunning fall foliage views during peak season.
For the best experience, consider visiting during weekdays when crowds are smaller, or arrive early on weekends. Many orchards offer group discounts for parties of 15 or more, making them popular destinations for school field trips, church groups, and family reunions.
The nearby town of Ellijay offers additional attractions including antique shops, local restaurants, and the historic downtown square, making it easy to extend your apple picking adventure into a full weekend getaway in the North Georgia mountains.