Take The Scenic Route Through Mountain Towns And Farmland On This Glorious Georgia Day Trip

Kick off your day at Mercier Orchards, a 300-acre family farm that's been a big part of Blue Ridge since 1943. As soon as you arrive, you'll see rows upon rows of fruit trees with the North Georgia mountains as a backdrop.

Start at the farm market, where you can try all sorts of fresh, local produce. Don't skip their famous fried apple pies – they're a real Southern treat sure to hit the spot. If you want to see more, hop on a tractor tour of the orchard. It's a great way to learn about the farm's history and how they grow their crops.

Mercier isn't just about apples, though. Depending on when you visit, you might find strawberries, blueberries, or peaches! Before you leave, swing by the bakery for some apple cider donuts or check out the farm winery to try their homemade hard cider and fruit wines.

After your orchard adventure, head to downtown Blue Ridge to catch a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. You've got two options here: a quick two-hour tour or a four-hour trip that includes a stop in the twin towns. Both take you on a 26-mile round trip along the Toccoa River, revealing some of the prettiest countryside around.

The train winds through truly beautiful landscapes, giving you lovely views of the Chattahoochee National Forest and the cute twin towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee. You can buy snacks and drinks on the train, or pack a small picnic to enjoy on the way.

When you're done with your train ride, it's time to take the wheel again for a scenic drive to Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia. It's about 35-40 miles from Blue Ridge, but the views are worth every mile.

At 4,784 feet, Brasstown Bald provides a 360-degree look at Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and South Carolina. You can hike the steep 0.6-mile trail to the top or take a shuttle if you're not feeling up for a climb. Once you're there, check out the visitor center and soak in the amazing views from the observation deck.

Round out your day with a meal at Black Sheep Restaurant. The restaurant’s located in a historic house from 1914 in downtown Blue Ridge, and they specialize in what they call "New Americana" food—basically, local favorites with a modern twist.

Black Sheep has an extensive wine list and uses lots of local, seasonal ingredients. You might try something like ahi tuna tacos or lamp lollipop chops—they've got all sorts of interesting dishes. After dinner, take a stroll through downtown. There are many unique boutiques, galleries, and shops where you can pick up a souvenir from your mountain trip.

For the full mountain experience, book a night at the Modern Treehouse, a stylish and luxurious treehouse just 10 minutes from downtown Blue Ridge. With nearly perfect reviews, you know you're in for a treat.

The treehouse has big windows that look out over the forest, immersing guests in Georgia’s glorious naturescape. The rental is close to hiking trails, bike paths, Lake Blue Ridge, and the Toccoa River and is the perfect mix of outdoorsy and comfortable.