Autumn has always held a special place in my heart, and for good reason. The leaves undergo their enchanting transformation, the weather begins to embrace a comforting coolness, and, of course, the apple picking season beckons with its irresistible charm! If you’re seeking an enjoyable afternoon with your loved ones, I’ve put together a selection of five nearby orchards, perfect for a delightful apple picking adventure.
So, why not grab a basket and prepare for a day of indulging in the delectable world of apples?
When Is The Best Time for Apple Picking?
There are dozens of different types of apples; some of the most popular varieties are in season during the autumn months.
The Fuji apple is at its peak from September to November, while the Granny Smith apple can be found from October to December. Other popular varieties include Honeycrisp, Golden Delicious, and Red Delicious apples.
Of course, the best time to pick any apple is when it is fully ripe. This ensures that the apple will be sweet and juicy. For most varieties of apples, this means waiting until the skin has turned a deep shade of red or yellow.
However, there are some exceptions; for instance, Granny Smith apples actually taste best when they are still mostly green. So if you’re planning on going apple picking this fall, be sure to do your research and choose a variety that is ripe and in season.
One other resource that if often overlooked is calling the orchard and getting information. They can provide you with really good tips and tricks of the best times to go.
You can find more information here.
Windy Hill Orchard and Cider Mill
This orchard is located in York, SC. It is about an hour away from Augusta. This apple orchard offers a variety of apple picking experiences, from classic apple picking to picking apples for cider making.
In addition to apple picking, Windy Hill Orchard and Cider Mill also offers several other fun activities, including a corn maze, hayrides, and face painting. They also have a country store on site, where you can purchase apple cider, jams, and other local goodies.
If you’re looking for a fun-filled day trip, Windy Hill Orchard and Cider Mill is the place for you!
Sky Top Orchard
This orchard is located in Flat Rock, NC. It is about two hours away from Augusta. The Orchard is located on top of a 5,500-foot mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
Sky Top Orchard offers apple picking, as well as a variety of other fall activities, such as hayrides and apple cider making. According to their site, they have also added a gem mine attraction.
One of the highlight of the orchard is its made-while-you-watch apple cider doughnuts. Similar to old school Krispy Cream, you can have a nice fresh doughnut during your visit. Additionally, they also have a country store on site, where you can purchase apple cider, apple pies, caramel apple, and other local goodies.
If you’re looking for a fun-filled day trip, Sky Top Orchard is the place for you!
Mercier Orchards
The fourth generation of farmers and veterans, Mercier Orchards is located in Blue Ridge, Georgia, and is just an hour away from Augusta. The orchard grows a wide variety of apples, as well as peaches, nectarines, and plums.
In addition to apple picking, Mercier Orchards also offers hayrides, a petting zoo, and a playground.
Mercier Orchards apple picking season is from August through October. With a variety of different flavors, it is also a great place to get apple cider as hard-pressed beverages are available year-round and they offer a variety of different flavors. Reservations are NOT required for tastings, so you can come and try them out at any time; children under 2 are free.
They also have a country store on site, where you can purchase apple cider, jams, and other local goodies.
Deep Roots Orchard
Deep Roots Orchard is located in McCaysville, Georgia. Yes, it is a bit of drive from Augusta, but it is well worth it. The farm is family and veteran-owned. Nestled deep in the heart of southern Appalachia, and surrounded by old-growth trees and cool mountain air, the views are breathtaking.
Deep Roots Orchard offers a wide variety of apples. The staff is always happy to help you find the perfect apple for your needs. In addition to apple picking, there are other activities to do at Deep Roots Orchard. You can take a hayride through the orchard, or visit the petting zoo.
If you are planning on going, make sure to take advantage of the picnic area overlooking the fields lush with tobacco leaves while listening to country music play far off through rustling branches overhead.
After a long day of apple picking, you can purchase some of their award-winning apple cider. The orchard also has a country store on site, where you can find local jams and honey.
Jaemor Farms
Located in Alto, Georgia, Jaemor Farms is 2.5 hours away from Augusta. The apple-picking season starts in late August through late September. Jaemor Farms only grow Ginger Gold and Arkansas Black apples. However, they offer several other types of apples from other local farmers at their store.
After a long day of apple picking and exploring the farm, you can purchase some of their apple cider, or visit the country store to find local honey and jams.
So there you have it! Five great apple picking near Augusta Georgia. What are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy the crisp autumn air!
Which orchard will you be visiting first? Let us know in the comments below!
Do you have a favorite apple-picking memory? Share it with us in the comments
Note: While the North Georgia mountains undoubtedly offer some of the finest apple-picking experiences, the journey itself can be quite lengthy, often spanning three hours or more drive. This extended travel time can deter those looking for a convenient one-day getaway.