8 of the Best Places to Pick Apples in NC this Fall 

The autumn months in the Blue Ridge Mountains are some of the most extraordinary. As more and more people visit the area to catch a glimpse of the vivid colors that blanket the mountaintops, the region bustles with activity. Every year, visitors come from all over to enjoy the season’s festivities, including apple picking. With this in mind, we’ve consolidated the eight best places to pick apples in North Carolina this fall. 

When is Apple Picking Season in North Carolina? 

The apple-picking season in North Carolina typically begins in late August or early September and can last through October, depending on the specific orchard and the variety of apples it offers. Different apples ripen at different times; therefore, the exact timing may vary throughout the season. 

Early varieties, such as Gala and Honeycrisp, are often available for picking in late August or early September. Mid-season varieties, such as Fuji, Golden Delicious, and Jonathan, can usually be picked throughout September and even early October. Late-season varieties such as Rome and Stayman Winesap are typically available from September through late October. 

It’s important to remember, however, that weather conditions and the specific location of the orchard also play an important role in the timing of the apple-picking season. It’s a good idea to check with the individual orchards you’re interested in visiting to get the most accurate and up-to-date information about their season. 

The Historic Orchard at Altapass 

Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, The Historic Orchard at Altapass is one of the area’s most well-known apple orchards. As the seasons change, so do the varieties of apples available for picking. Some of the most common heirloom apples to pick here are King Luscious, Grimes Golden, and Virginia Beauty.  

The grounds, however, are home to much more than just apple orchards—there are walking trails, a butterfly garden, model trains, and the beloved Apple Core Grill restaurant. There’s also a General Store filled with favorite local jams, honey, and other fresh products. To really get into the fall festivities, they host several local artists for live performances and dancing on the pavilion. With sweeping views of the mountains as your backdrop, this Appalachian experience is unparalleled—and if you have a sweet tooth, you’ll want to taste their warm apple pies with hand-scooped ice cream.   

Sky Top Orchards 

Another one of the best places to pick apples in NC is Sky Top Orchards. Since 1967, this orchard has been a family tradition, featuring activities such as hayrides and apple cannons. On the farm, there are various types of apple and fruit trees, orchard ponds, a bamboo forest, and a barnyard home to many farm animals. Throughout the orchard grounds, picnic tables are available for taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. 

Some of the varieties available at Sky Top are Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Fuji, and a limited supply of Cameo. Before you leave, be sure to try their fresh apple cider and apple cider doughnuts and savor the rich fruit flavors in a different form. 

Apple Hill Orchard and Cider Mill 

Next on the list is Apple Hill Orchard and Cider Mill, located in the South Mountains of Western North Carolina, just south of Morganton. This charming orchard boasts a rich history, dating back to the 1700s. Over the years, the farm has grown to offer 22 varieties of apples, available from mid-August through October. Also, be sure to check out the Farmers Market, with fresh apples and cider, alongside freshly baked goods, honey, jams, fruit butter, and more. 

Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard 

For nearly 50 years, Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard has been providing the Carolinas with memories of crisp fall afternoons spent in the countryside. The grounds feature a 70-acre working farm and apple orchard, along with an impressive 5-acre corn maze, wagon rides, a picnic area, and nature trails. 

Here you will find a wide selection of apples, including Granny Smith, Pink Lady, Everycrisp, Fuji, and many more. Aside from apples, pumpkins, grapes, sunflowers, zinnias, and tulips are also available for picking. The farm’s market has an array of delicious pumpkin donuts, apple cider, t-shirts, and other keepsake souvenirs to remind you of your memorable travels to Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard.   

Justus Orchard 

Fresh apples, baked goods, and beautiful views—Justus Orchard is truly a hidden gem. Located in Hendersonville, one of the many charming towns in North Carolina, this farm is one of the best orchards to visit. Some varieties of apples grown on the farm include Crimson Crisp, Red Cameo, Late Fuji, Granny Smith, and more. The farm also grows blackberries, pears, peaches, and pumpkins, which are also available for picking. 

Stop by the Apple House Bakery to try their famous fried apple pies and an array of other fresh seasonal fall treats. On the weekends, they serve barbecue from a local restaurant, so there is never a need to pack a lunch. If you’re a fan of cider, visit their Taproom and enjoy seasonal hard fruit ciders, local craft beers, and local wines. 

Creaseman Farms

While their roots are in apple growing, Creasman Farms offers much more. With fields of vegetables, berry bushes, and other fruit trees, the farm’s produce is often found at local tailgate markets, restaurants, and bakeries in the area. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, you can see their produce at the Asheville River Arts District Farmers Market, as well as the Asheville City Market, found right in the heart of the city. 

To go apple picking yourself, plan to visit the farm on a Sunday. They have more than 40 varieties of heirloom and new apples. Some of the types available for selection are Gala, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Mutsu, and many more.  

Coston Farm and Apple House 

Rooted in Hendersonville’s agricultural heritage, Coston Farm and Apple House is a cherished destination for an authentic farm experience. Guests can embrace the season’s bounty by hand-picking apples such as Gala, Fuji, Honey Crisp, Mutsu, Shizuka, Stayman, Cameo, and many more. 

The Farm’s traditional apple house exudes rustic charm, and its dedication to preserving time-honored practices adds a sense of nostalgia. They are also home to a gift shop and bakery, so be sure to check out their apple-inspired treats to take home.  

Jeter Mountain Farm 

Just outside of Hendersonville, Jeter Mountain Farm is a family favorite with more than 25 varieties of apples, including Fuji, Winecrisp, Red Delicious, Red Cameo, and Rome, just to name a few. Hop on a tractor ride through the orchards, explore the market full of local goods from garden salsas to hand-poured candles, or just enjoy a fresh brew from the Orchard Coffee House. 

If you want the festivities to continue, don’t miss their on-site cider barn, where small-batch hard cider is crafted from their very own apples. No matter how you enjoy Jeter Mountain Farm, you’ll enjoy it with some of the area’s finest bluegrass music supplied by local musicians. 

Experience the Charm of the Carolinas Mountains All Year Long 

From the fiery hues of fall and the quiet beauty of winter to the vibrant blooms of spring and the golden, sun-drenched days of summer, the Blue Ridge Mountains always remind you of life’s small pleasures. Apple picking is just one of the many traditions that celebrate the richness of this Western Carolina region, each season holding its own variety of magic. 

At The Cliffs, that magic is a part of everyday life. Waking up to mountain views, savoring farm-to-table freshness, and spending the days exploring hiking trails, teeing off on world-famous golf courses, or navigating the waters of Lake Keowee are just a few ways our members capture the very best of every season. With seven vibrant communities, each filled with their unique natural beauty, The Cliffs has something to offer for any interest.

If you’re ready to make the Blue Ridge Mountains your backyard and call The Cliffs home, connect with a Cliffs Realty sales executive and explore the available properties today—where the beauty of the mountains and comfort of traditions are right outside your doorstep.

This post was originally written in October 2021 and rewritten in October 2025.