Fall in Western North Carolina is one of the most beautiful times of the year. The trees slowly shift from green to brilliant hues of red and yellow. As the leaves begin to fall, you can see their stunning colors being carried through the crisp autumn air. The changing of the season brings in one of our favorite autumn activities: apple picking! When you stay at The Orchard Inn in Saluda, you’ll have the opportunity to choose from many places to go apple picking near Asheville, NC.
5 of the Best Orchards for Apple Picking in Asheville, NC
1. Grandad’s Apples N’ Such
Grandad’s Apples N’ Such has been a top apple-picking destination for four generations. It’s only a 20-minute drive from The Orchard Inn. Here, you will find varieties like Granny Smith, Candy Crisp, Arkansas Black, Braeburn, Pink Lady, and Gold Rush across a gorgeous 70-acre farm. Not only are they known for their apples, but they also have an impressive selection of gourds in their pumpkin patch!
2. Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard
Located in our neighboring town of Hendersonville, Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard is just a 25-minute drive from our property. This is one of our favorite spots for apples because you can see breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains as you pick. Plus, you will have the chance to experience more fall fun with activities such as a five-acre corn maze, an apple cannon, and a pumpkin patch!
Fun Fact: Did you know that Hendersonville is the Apple Capitol of Western North Carolina? In addition to being home to a variety of orchards, the town also hosts an annual Apple Festival every year during Labor Day Weekend!
3. Wilkie’s Orchard
Wilkie’s Orchard is a pick-your-own-farm that can be found in Edneyville, North Carolina. They also have a roadside market that is the perfect place to pick up some harvest-inspired goods to take home after your trip! Find apples, jams, jellies, specialty gifts, and more. You will find this market open throughout the months of September and October.
4. Justus Orchard
Witness sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains as you enjoy apple picking at Justus Orchard! This orchard and farm combination creates the perfect outdoor experience; children enjoy rides on the cow train, and everyone loves visiting the farm animals and the ducks at their pond. Make sure you go to their bakery to get freshly made apple-based goods.
5. Sky Top Apple Orchard
At Sky Top Orchard in Flat Rock, you’ll find panoramic mountain views, orchard ponds with ducks and geese, a barnyard, lots of picnic areas, and a mountaintop of fragrant apple and fruit trees! Pick your fill of apples, then make sure to end the day with a freshly fried apple cider doughnut. It’s like a true taste of fall!
Book Your Fall Getaway Today
There is no better place for a fall getaway than The Orchard Inn! Located near countless spots for apple picking near Asheville, NC, we even have a small orchard of our own. We use our orchard and gardens for our farm-to-table restaurant, Newman’s. We invite you to make a reservation during your stay! Browse our cozy accommodations, then book your fall getaway. We look forward to seeing you!
