North Georgia turns into a wonderland of color and festivity during the fall season. From the vibrant foliage to the rich culinary traditions, the area offers an abundance of activities that make a fall vacation not only scenic but packed with unforgettable moments.
If you’re considering heading to North Georgia this season, here are six activities you must add to your itinerary for an unforgettable autumnal getaway.
Autumn in North Georgia
As the temperatures begin to drop and the leaves turn to hues of red, orange, and gold, North Georgia opens its doors to a multitude of fall activities that can captivate visitors of all ages. When you’re staying in one of the charming Ellijay, Georgia cabins, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in North Georgia that cater to families, couples, and solo travelers.
The Annual Apple Festival in Ellijay
No autumn experience in North Georgia would be complete without a visit to the Annual Apple Festival in Ellijay. Held every October, this festival features a wealth of apple-related activities, arts and crafts, live music, and delicious food. It’s the perfect setting to indulge in apple-themed treats like pies, candied apples, and fresh apple cider. With many attractions to offer, it’s an ideal stop for anyone looking to experience the liveliness and small-town feel of festivals in North Georgia.
Apple Picking
Mercier Orchards
Mercier Orchards in Blue Ridge is one of the most popular apple orchards around. Established in 1943, this family-owned orchard offers a wide variety of apples, from crisp Granny Smiths to sweet Fujis. Besides apple picking, Mercier has an on-site bakery that serves fresh pies, apple cider donuts, and more.
B.J. Reece Orchards
B.J. Reece Orchards in Ellijay offers a comprehensive apple-picking experience that includes wagon rides, a petting zoo, and freshly made apple cider. It’s a wonderful spot for family outings, complete with plenty of North Georgia activities for everyone to enjoy.
R&A Orchards
Also located in Ellijay, R&A Orchards specializes in a variety of apples and even hosts special events during the harvest season. The orchard offers guided tours and a chance to explore the countryside while learning about apple farming.
Scenic Drives
Cohutta Wilderness
Start in beautiful Blue Ridge, Georgia, and make your way to Ellijay on this 3 to 5-hour trip through lush woods ending at a peaceful lake. The drive includes many great stop options, including Mercier Orchards, McKinney Crossing, Prater’s Mill, Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, Watson’s Store and Watson Gap, Jacks River Fields, Lake Conasauga – and plenty in between. The Cohutta Wilderness includes 40,000+ acres of land to explore – the largest wilderness east of the Mississippi River – so there’s no shortage of things to see on this fun scenic drive.
Georgia Mountain Parkway
Following 1-575 from Atlanta to Highway 515, the Georgia Mountain Parkway scenic drive includes apple orchards, antique stores, art galleries, wildflower fields, farmlands, and more. And if you love hiking or outdoor activities, this is a great drive for hopping out of the car and exploring!
Corn Mazes
R&A Orchards
During the fall, R&A Orchards transforms a section of its grounds into an intricate corn maze. It’s a great way to test your orienteering skills while enjoying the crisp autumn air.
B.J. Reece Orchards
Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, B.J. Reece Orchards also offers an exhilarating corn maze that will engage both children and adults. Pair your visit with some apple picking to make for a perfect day out.
Pumpkin Patches
Red Apple Barn
Located in Ellijay, the Red Apple Barn offers an impressive pumpkin patch where you can select and cut your own pumpkin. They also provide hayrides and delicious homemade treats.
Mercier Orchards
In addition to apple picking, Mercier Orchards boasts a wide-ranging pumpkin patch. You can pick the perfect pumpkin to take home and carve into a jack-o’-lantern, making it a festive spot for families.
Burt’s Pumpkin Farm
Located in Dawsonville, Burt’s Pumpkin Farm is a fall paradise featuring an extensive selection of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes. From mini-pumpkins for decorating to large ones perfect for carving, this farm has it all.
Plan Your Visit
No matter the season, North Georgia is an incredible vacation destination! Browse our entire inventory of North Georgia cabin rentals to get started on your next escape.
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
2-hour Fall Foliage Express Tour
This shorter tour provides a quick but highly scenic journey through the vibrant fall colors of the North Georgia mountains, making it perfect for those who have a packed schedule. The journey begins at the historic depot in Blue Ridge, Georgia, where you’ll board a vintage train adorned with plush seating and large windows for optimal viewing. As the train chugs along the tracks, you’ll traverse through scenic valleys and dense forests, painted in a breathtaking palette of autumn hues — from rich reds and oranges to golden yellows. During the two-hour excursion, knowledgeable guides will share intriguing tales and historical tidbits about the regions you pass through, adding an educational component to your scenic adventure. Whether you choose to relax in the climate-controlled cars or absorb the crisp fall air from the open-air coaches, this tour promises a memorable experience.
4-hour Fall Foliage Extended Tour
For those who want to take their time, the 4-hour tour extends deeper into the beautiful landscapes, offering more time to soak in the stunning views and capture incredible photos. Departing from the charming depot in Blue Ridge, Georgia, you’ll begin on a leisurely journey aboard a beautifully restored vintage train featuring comfortable seating and expansive windows designed for panoramic viewing. Throughout the trip, expert guides will provide engaging commentary on the local history, wildlife, and ecology, enriching your experience with fascinating insights. You’ll have ample opportunities to learn about the heritage of the Appalachian region, making this tour as educational as it is visually stunning. The 4-hour tour includes multiple scenic stops, where you can step off the train to explore, capture incredible photos, and perhaps even enjoy a picnic. The train features both climate-controlled cars for those who prefer a cozy environment and open-air cars for those who wish to feel the crisp autumn breeze.
Railbikes
For an adventurous twist, try the Railbikes — pedal-powered vehicles that allow you to explore the railway at your own pace while enjoying the crisp fall air and panoramic views. Ideal for those looking for a more active way to experience the natural beauty of the North Georgia mountains, Railbikes provide a unique blend of exercise and sightseeing. Departing from the same historic depot as the scenic train tours, you will be equipped with a specially designed Railbike, featuring comfortable seating and easy-to-use pedal mechanisms. These innovative vehicles let you travel along the railway tracks at your own speed, giving you the freedom to pause and soak in the stunning autumn scenery whenever you like. For those seeking a blend of exercise, adventure, and natural beauty, the Railbikes at the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway provide an unforgettable way to experience the splendor of fall.
Book Your North Georgia Cabin Rental With Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals
After a day of exploring and enjoying the various fall activities in North Georgia, there’s nothing like retreating to a cozy cabin. Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals offers an excellent variety of Ellijay, Georgia cabins and rental cabins in Blue Ridge, GA, ensuring you find the perfect home away from home. Whether it’s a rustic log cabin or a modern retreat, Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals has something to suit every taste. So why wait? Pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and head to North Georgia for an unforgettable fall vacation filled with adventure, beauty, and relaxation.
