September is peak apple season in Georgia – and North Georgia is home to some of the best u-pick orchards in the region. Perfect for a day trip, most of these orchards are just a short drive from Atlanta. Plus, you’ll be able to take in the fall scenery along the way.
Keep in mind that many farms have limited weekly hours for u-pick. I’ve included seasonal information for each orchard below, but these dates and times are always subject to change. To ensure a successful trip, contact the orchard beforehand and confirm their hours and offerings. Happy picking!
BJ Reece Apple House & Orchards (Ellijay): Open every day until October 31st – including holidays – this is a great orchard to visit for u-pick as well as farm activities. Some of their yearly highlights include: wagons rides, petting zoo, scavenger hunts, a zipline, and train rides.
Hillcrest Orchards (Ellijay): Hillcrest is open for apple picking every weekend from September 8th through October 28th. Titled their “Apple Pickin Jubilee,” this orchard also offers activities and entertainment on weekends – one of which is an apple tree maze!
Mercier Orchards (Blue Ridge): Mercier will be open for u-pick every weekend in September, but the hours can vary (check their website before planning your trip). They also have a deli, bakery and winery which serves their famous hard cider.
R&A Orchards (Ellijay): R&A will also be open every weekend in September for u-pick and farm tours. They also have a farm market with jellies, sauces, and spreads!
Red Apple Barn (Ellijay): Red Apple Barn has a u-pick pumpkin farm in addition to their orchard. Apple picking dates are every weekend in September and October, and the pumpkin patch is open all of October.