Fall is coming to an end (I’m still in heavy denial) and I am happy to say I have checked a few things off of my Autumn Bucket List – I’m planning on checking off a few more in the next couple weeks as November closes. One of my favorite things I did (and the one I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to do!) was visit a picking apple orchard.

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Mercier Apple Orchard is located in Blue Ridge, GA. It’s a beautiful drive full of rolling hills and crisp fall colors lining the way. The weather was absolutely perfect the day I went and made for a very enjoyable afternoon. In my mind, I pictured a simple orchard with towering trees, but I was shocked at how large the operation is. Started in 1943, the family owned orchard not only has plentiful U-Pick opportunities, classes, fishing,and cooking demos but an enormous (and, delicious smelling) store complete with a deli that makes some of the most delectable sounding sandwiches.

The views are magical – I can’t wait to go back this spring to U-Pick fruit… and maybe even do some fishing!

I picked 1/2 peck to start me off and it turned out to be plenty of apples! We got a ride out to the orchards and given some instructions of what types of apples were ready for picking and we were off! The trees weren’t the towering variety I had imagined, but more stout which was fine by me because I didn’t have to worry about falling out of any trees. Not that I would have tried climbing, but you know… a girl can dream.

The best part? Eat as you go! A sample of this, a sample of that…

I got a few apples of each variety – they were all so good! It was really everything I had hoped it would be. That sounds corny, but it was a fun experience for this gal. There were a lot of families there – it’s a great outing for friends, families, couples… you can’t go wrong. For $10 you can spend a fun afternoon walking through rows of beautifully grown creations and make some lasting memories.

You know I have to throw in if Mercier Orchard is pet friendly or not… While pets are not allowed in the orchard, they are allowed around the lake and near the store. I saw several individuals with small pups hanging outside of the store while they enjoyed their fall day walking around the property and waiting on others in their party.

Be sure to check our Mercier Orchards Events on the Farm page for upcoming events and a schedule of U-Pick varieties!

until next time… xoxo, patty lauren