North Carolina is a hidden gem for apple lovers. The mountain regions, especially Hendersonville and Flat Rock, produce some of the sweetest, crispest apples in the Southeast. These orchards are perfect for family outings, fall photography, and seasonal treats. Here’s a detailed guide to the best apple orchards you can visit in 2026, with all the info you need for a perfect day trip.
Website: skytoporchard.com
Location: 53 Sky Top Lane, Flat Rock, NC 28731
Opening Season: Late August – Early November
History: Family-owned since 1969, Sky Top Orchard is one of the oldest in the region. Its legacy comes from combining apple farming with family-friendly activities.
Apple Varieties: Over 20 types, including Honeycrisp, Gala, Golden Delicious, and Fuji. (skytoporchard.com/u-pick)
Activities: Hayrides, bee train, gem mining, pumpkin patch, corn maze, and a farm market.
Food & Drinks: Famous for apple cider, cider donuts, apple pies, and local jams.
Tips: Weekdays are less crowded. Bring cash for small purchases at the farm market, though they accept cards too.
Experience: Beautiful mountain backdrop for fall photos, perfect for couples and families.
2. Justus Orchard – Hendersonville, NC
Website: justusorchard.com
Location: 1005 4th Ave W, Hendersonville, NC 28739
Opening Season: Early September – Late October
History: Operating since the 1960s, Justus Orchard is known for blending old-fashioned apple picking with modern agritourism.
Apple Varieties: Gala, Honeycrisp, Jonagold, and Arkansas Black.
Activities: U-pick and we-pick options, playground, wagon rides, apple cannon, and weekend entertainment.
Food & Drinks: On-site bakery serving cider donuts, pies, ice cream, and apple fritters.
Tips: Check the we-pick schedule if you want the orchard to pick apples for you.
Experience: Perfect for families with children; the farm atmosphere feels authentic and rustic.
3. Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill – Morganton, NC
Website: applehillorchard.com (for reference)
Location: Morganton, NC
Opening Season: September – November
History: A peaceful orchard located in the foothills, combining apple picking with traditional cider-making.
Apple Varieties: Granny Smith, Fuji, Gala, Golden Delicious.
Activities: Cider mill tours, tasting sessions, farm store, and scenic picnic areas.
Food & Drinks: Fresh-pressed apple cider, cider donuts, baked goods, and jams.
Tips: Best for photography and quiet orchard experience; weekends are busier.
Experience: Visitors enjoy hands-on cider-making demonstrations and fresh tasting opportunities.
4. Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard – Hendersonville, NC
Location: Hendersonville, NC
Opening Season: September – November
History: Family-run orchard with over 50 years of experience in growing high-quality apples.
Apple Varieties: Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, Gala, Fuji, Jonagold.
Activities: Apple cannon, hayrides, corn maze, food trucks on weekends.
Food & Drinks: Fresh baked pies, cider donuts, caramel apples.
Tips: Bring comfortable shoes for walking the orchard and check their website for seasonal events.
Experience: Stepp’s Hillcrest combines traditional orchard charm with seasonal fun, making it ideal for group visits or school trips.
5. Jeter Mountain Farm Apple Orchard – Hendersonville, NC
Website: jetermountainfarm.com (for reference)
Location: Hendersonville, NC
Opening Season: Late August – Early November
History: One of the largest orchards in the region, Jeter Mountain Farm offers hundreds of acres of apple trees and seasonal crops.
Apple Varieties: Over 25 varieties including Fuji, Gala, Honeycrisp, Jonagold, and Winesap.
Activities: Pick-your-own apples, pumpkin patch, weekend live music, farm market, and corn maze.
Food & Drinks: Fresh cider, cider donuts, and locally sourced baked goods.
Tips: Arrive early during weekends to beat the crowd. Combine apple picking with nearby hiking trails for a full day trip.
Experience: Offers both adventure and relaxation with plenty of space for exploration.
6. SkyLine Orchards – Flat Rock, NC
Location: Flat Rock, NC
Opening Season: Late August – Early November
History: A family-run orchard nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, known for its scenic mountain views and peaceful atmosphere.
Apple Varieties: Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, Golden Delicious.
Activities: Hayrides, u-pick apples, picnic areas, seasonal festivals.
Food & Drinks: Fresh cider, baked apple goods, farm stand with jams and preserves.
Tips: Great for photography and small family outings; weekdays are less crowded.
7. Biltmore Apple Orchard – Asheville, NC
Location: Asheville, NC (part of Biltmore Estate)
Opening Season: September – November
History: Located on the historic Biltmore Estate, this orchard combines apple picking with estate tours and gardens.
Apple Varieties: Fuji, Honeycrisp, Pink Lady.
Activities: Estate tours, u-pick apples, scenic walks, photography opportunities.
Food & Drinks: Estate bakery, fresh apple cider, and seasonal treats.
Tips: Perfect for combining a day of apple picking with sightseeing and historic tours.
8. Raffaldini Farms – Hendersonville, NC
Location: Hendersonville, NC
Opening Season: September – Late October
History: Known for combining apple orchards with a working vineyard, offering a unique farm-to-table experience.
Apple Varieties: Gala, Honeycrisp, Fuji.
Activities: U-pick apples, farm tours, vineyard tours, picnic areas.
Food & Drinks: Farm market, fresh cider, baked goods, and wine tasting for adults.
Tips: Great for couples or family trips, especially if you enjoy scenic vineyard views with apple orchards.
9. Skyline View Orchards – Hendersonville, NC
Location: Hendersonville, NC
Opening Season: Late August – Early November
History: Family-owned orchard with over 50 years of apple-growing tradition.
Apple Varieties: Granny Smith, Gala, Honeycrisp, Fuji.
Activities: Apple picking, hayrides, picnic areas, educational farm tours.
Food & Drinks: Cider, apple donuts, pies, and jams.
Tips: Popular with school trips and large groups; early arrival recommended for best apple selection.
10. Grassy Creek Orchard – Boone, NC
Location: Boone, NC
Opening Season: September – November
History: A small mountain orchard offering a quiet and authentic apple-picking experience.
Apple Varieties: Honeycrisp, Gala, Golden Delicious.
Activities: U-pick apples, scenic walks, farm market.
Food & Drinks: Fresh cider, seasonal baked goods.
Tips: Ideal for visitors who prefer a quieter orchard experience, away from the crowds.
Final Thoughts
North Carolina is a paradise for apple lovers, offering a mix of historic family orchards, scenic mountain views, and fun fall activities. From Hendersonville’s apple-growing region to Flat Rock’s scenic orchards, there’s something for everyone — whether you’re visiting for a day trip, a weekend getaway, or a full fall adventure.
Visiting these orchards in 2026 is not just about picking apples — it’s about creating lasting memories, tasting fresh local products, and experiencing the charm of North Carolina’s countryside. Make sure to check each orchard’s website for seasonal updates, bring your camera for autumn photos, and plan your visit early in the day to get the best apples and avoid crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When is the best time to go apple picking in North Carolina?
The apple picking season typically runs late August through November. Early varieties like Gala and Ginger Gold are ready in August–September, while Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Jonagold peak in September–October. Late-season apples like Granny Smith and Pink Lady are best in late October.
2. Do I need to make a reservation for apple picking?
Most orchards do not require reservations, but during weekends and peak season, some may offer online reservation options to guarantee entry. Check the orchard’s website before your visit.
3. Are the orchards kid-friendly?
Yes! Many orchards like Sky Top, Justus, and Stepp’s Hillcrest have playgrounds, hayrides, corn mazes, and family-friendly events. Some orchards even have educational farm tours for children.
4. Can I buy apples if I don’t want to pick them myself?
Absolutely! Most orchards offer we-pick options or pre-picked apples at their farm stores, along with baked goods, cider, and preserves.
5. What should I bring when visiting an apple orchard?
Comfortable walking shoes, water, a camera, cash for small purchases, and a basket or bag for apples if you plan to pick your own. Don’t forget a jacket in the fall — mountain temperatures can be cooler than expected!
