Mercier Orchards Blue Ridge: Apple Picking, Cider, Bakery & A True Mountain Tradition

Mercier Orchards: A Blue Ridge Staple Just Minutes from Sunrock

If you’re spending any time in Blue Ridge, there’s a good chance you’ll hear someone mention Mercier Orchards—and for good reason.

This isn’t just a quick roadside stop. It’s one of the most well-known and well-loved destinations in the North Georgia mountains, offering everything from fresh baked goods and cider tastings to seasonal fruit picking and wide-open mountain views.

And for us, it’s even more than that.

From the Cabin: A Sunrock Favorite

From the Sunrock Mountain Hideaway, you can actually spot the orchard from the other side of the mountain—and it’s less than a 10-minute drive to get there.

That convenience has turned Mercier into one of our go-to spots.

In the summertime, it’s one of our favorite traditions with my daughter. We’ll head out for blueberry and raspberry picking, hop on the tractor ride out into the fields, and spend way more time (and eat way more berries) than we planned. Somehow, we still manage to bring enough home to justify making a fresh pie later.

It’s simple, but that’s the point. It’s one of those places that lets you slow things down and just enjoy being in the mountains.

The Market & Bakery (Don’t Skip This)

Walk through the doors and you’ll immediately understand why this place is always busy.

The market and bakery are packed with:

  • Fresh fried pies (a must)
  • Apple cider donuts
  • Breads, jams, jellies, and preserves
  • Seasonal produce and local goods

And yes—take advantage of the free samples. It’s the easiest way to try a few things before inevitably walking out with more than you planned.

Cider & Tasting Room

Mercier has built out a strong cider program using fruit grown right on the property.

You’ll find:

  • A range from sweet to dry ciders
  • Seasonal and rotating flavors
  • Tastings available
  • Bottles and growlers to take home

If you’ve got time, it’s worth hanging out for a bit, grabbing a drink, and just enjoying the atmosphere. There’s always a mix of families, couples, and groups taking it all in.

U-Pick & Seasonal Experiences

This is where Mercier really shines.

Depending on the time of year, you can head out into the orchard and pick your own fruit:

  • 🍎 Apples (fall – the busiest season)
  • 🫐 Blueberries & raspberries (summer – one of the best times to go)
  • 🌱 Other seasonal crops throughout the year

The tractor ride out to the fields is part of the experience and especially fun if you’ve got kids with you.

What to Know Before You Go

  • 🍎 Fall is peak season – expect crowds during apple picking
  • 🫐 Summer berry season is more relaxed and one of the best times to visit
  • 👨‍👩‍👧 Great for families, but just as easy to enjoy solo or as a quick stop
  • ⏱ You can spend 30 minutes here… or easily a couple of hours
  • 🚗 Parking is easy, but can fill up quickly during peak weekends

Sunrock Tip

If you’re riding or exploring the area, Mercier is one of the easiest stops you can add to your day.

It’s close, accessible, and flexible—you can swing in for a quick cider and a fried pie, or hang out for a while and take it all in.

Pair It With

  • 🍺 Grumpy Old Men Brewing
  • 🍽️ General Ledger

If you’re in town just spending a weekend in Blue Ridge, this is one of those stops that fits into just about any plan.

Location & Info