Fall is undoubtedly one of the most loved seasons, especially in Blue Ridge, GA. The leaves turn fiery shades of gold and crimson, the air is so crisp you don’t want to go back inside, the apples are ripe and juicer than ever. It’s Instagrammable and very much serves that Pinterest Gilmore Girls vibe that you’ve been craving since August (if you know you know).
Needless to say, fall is the unofficial-official time to come to Blue Ridge. Here are 12 things to do in the fall in Blue Ridge, GA that will absolutely fill your pumpkin spice soul!
1. Take a Ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
If you want to feel like you’re taking the Hogwarts Express, then you absolutely cannot miss this one. Almost anyone and everyone that visits Blue Ridge, GA in the fall rides the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. The train winds along the Toccoa River through a stunning backdrop of autumn colored mountains. You’ll feel like you’re in your own movie scene with the falling leaves as the paid actors. The best time to ride is mid to late October for peak color change.
2. Go Apple Picking at Mercier Orchards
We’re not exaggerating when we say it would be a crime to not try locally grown Apples in peak apple picking season in Blue Ridge. Georgia is one of the top 10 states known for our apples, and no these are nothing like any of the apples you can get from your local grocery store. We’re not kidding. A local favorite (and award-winning) apple orchard is Mercier Orchards. First off, It’s HUGE! We’re talking 300 acres of nothing but apple trees of over 50 different varieties! Needless to say, It’s the best place for apple picking in Blue Ridge, GA, and if apple picking isn’t your thing, they have a huge store filled with everything apple themed and even local goodies and souvenirs. Definitely put this one down on your list!
Ps: if you plan ahead, you could make it to the Georgia Apple Festival on the weekends of October 11-12 and 18-19! Yep that’s right. There’s a whole apple festival, and yes it doesn’t disappoint at all . 200 Vendors and apples EVERYTHING.
3. Festivals, Festivals, FESTIVALS!
Let’s talk festivals—because fall in Blue Ridge wouldn’t be complete without them. Fall Arts in the Park is one of the top festivals in the area, and for good reason. Downtown’s city park transforms into a vibrant showcase of local and regional artists, with rows of handmade pottery, paintings, jewelry, and more. Add in live music, crisp mountain air, and maybe a caramel apple or two—and you’ve got the perfect fall afternoon. And it’s all happening the second weekend of October!
Then there’s the Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival, coming up on September 20, 2025. It’s just one day, but don’t underestimate it—this event brings big flavor. Downtown Blue Ridge fills with the mouthwatering smell of smoked meats, the sound of live blues music, and enough Southern charm to make you want seconds!
4. Visit The Biggest Pumpkin Patch in North Georgia!
If your fall bucket list doesn’t include a trip to Burt’s Pumpkin Farm, then you absolutely need to add this one to your list! Located just outside of Blue Ridge in Dawsonville, Burt’s is basically the Disneyland of pumpkin patches. We’re talking thousands of pumpkins in every size, shape, and shade you can imagine—stacked, scattered, and perfectly staged for your next family photo or Instagram moment. The hayrides are a must, especially with the crisp fall air and rolling mountain views. And don’t even think about leaving without grabbing a loaf of their famous pumpkin bread. It’s the kind of fall outing that makes you feel like a kid again.
5. Explore Downtown Blue Ridge
Downtown Blue Ridge in the fall is what Hallmark movies are made of. The leaves crunch under your boots, the whiff of pumpkin spice lattes from Mountain Mamas Coffee, a cute vinyl shop right next door, and so many local shops filled with handmade goods! There are galleries to peek into and plenty of benches if you just want to sit and soak it all in.
And when hunger hits? We’ve rounded up our favorite places to eat in Blue Ridge in our blog
6. Firepits, Flannel, and Fall Nights
Name a more iconic fall activity than sitting around a firepit. We’ll wait.
There’s just something about that crisp mountain air, the sound of the fire crackling, and a gooey marshmallow stuck to your fingers that fills our soul.
All of our cabins in Blue Ridge, GA comes with its own firepit—because how else are you supposed to fully embrace your flannel era? Whether you’re deep in a marshmallow-toasting competition, telling dramatic ghost stories, or just staring into the flames, it’s the kind of cozy-core moment you’ll remember long after the embers fade.
7. Hike Through the Fall Foliage
Fall is when the trails around Blue Ridge really pop. Want something short and sweet? Swinging Bridge Trail is a family favorite with just the right amount of thrill. If you want something a little more adventurous, the Aska Adventure Area is packed with trails that wind through the golden forests
Need more ideas? We’ve got a whole blog on the best hiking trails in Blue Ridge, GA to help you plan your leaf-crunching adventure.
8. Sip Local Wine with a View of Reds and Orange
Blue Ridge is basically the Napa of North Georgia. Head to Bear Claw Vineyards for local pours or grab a perfectly curated bottle of wine from 34th Degree in Downtown Blue Ridge and enjoy a glass while soaking in the fall colors at your cabin.
9. Catch a Flick at the Swan Drive-In
Nothing like an open-air movie night under the stars to give your trip that old-school charm. Swan Drive-In Theater is one of the few drive-in theaters left in the East coast. Bring your coziest blanket and enjoy all the retro vibes.
You can see a list of all their showings here: https://swandrivein.com/movies-events/
10. Kayak the Toccoa River
Fall on the Toccoa River is quieter, calmer, and somehow even prettier. The cool mornings, misty waters, and gently falling leaves make it one of the most peaceful paddles of the year. Toccoa River Outfitters is our favorite place to rent a Kayak!
11. Take a Scenic Drive
If leaf-peeping from the car is more your speed, Blue Ridge has some seriously stunning drives. Fannin County has the best routes for nonstop fall mountain views. Throw on your favorite playlist and take the long way—trust us.
12. Stay in a Cabin That Screams Fall Getaway
You’ve spent the day soaking up the best of Blue Ridge—hiking under golden trees, sipping cider, breathing in that crisp mountain air. Now, you’re ready for a place that helps you fully relax.
Our cabins are more than just a place to stay—they’re intentionally designed to give you that deep exhale the moment you walk through the door. You’ll find hot tubs tucked under the stars, fireplaces ready for your coziest blanket-and-wine combo, and quiet corners thoughtfully designed for slowing down.
So if you’re looking for a fall trip that feels both restful and unforgettable, you’re in the right place. Once you’ve stayed with us, you’ll get why so many of our guests come back every year—same weekend, same cabin, same fall magic.