Charlotte is ideally situated for day or weekend trips to the mountains. Drive about two hours west and you’ll find yourself at higher altitudes, cooler temperatures, and more mountainous terrain. One of our favorite fall activities is to head into the mountains to pick apples.
For years we went to Apple Hill Orchard in Morganton, mostly because it was the closest. The kids always had fun there and the apples were good, but with so many other choices nearby, we decided it was time to explore somewhere new. With the kids a little older, we were ready to check out some of the region’s apple picking options that are slightly farther from Charlotte. For two years in a row now, we’ve gone to Sky Top Orchard in Flat Rock, NC. Located about 2 hours and 15 minutes from Charlotte in Henderson County, Sky Top is higher in the mountains and has beautiful views as a result.
Our favorite apple is the Honeycrisp, and we had learned the hard way in the past that these are the earliest apples of the season. They actually start picking in August and are usually gone by Labor Day. August in North Carolina is not very fall-like yet so we have to make the tough decision between picking our favorite apples when it is still hot or waiting for a more fall-like experience and picking different varieties of apples. We’ve done it both ways and as much as I love a good Honeycrisp, I enjoy the apple picking experience much more when it is truly fall-like weather. (Tip of the day: you can get amazing fresh-picked Honeycrisp apples from the farmer’s markets in Charlotte for a really good price and get your fill that way.)
With over 20 varieties of apples available for picking over the course of the 3 month picking season, you can find something you like at almost any time. The Sky Top website has both a ripening and a picking schedule so you can see what is available before you head up there. Their website also includes descriptions of each type of apple and what they are best for (e.g. cooking, baking, sauces, salads, etc.). You actually prepay to pick – each small basket you purchase will fit about a peck (10 pounds) of apples.
You can grab your basket and a wagon (if available) and head into the mountain orchard with a map to guide you to your favorite varieties. (A note on the wagon: to me, it’s a toss up if these are worth it. If you plan to pick more than one basket of apples, it probably is. But the terrain is sloped, uneven and covered with dropped apples so sometimes hauling the wagon seems like more work than just carrying the basket.) There are two main sections of the orchard so after leaving the fruit stand area, you’ll either turn left, where there are about 2 dozens rows of apple trees, or go straight ahead and past the pond where there are more than 40 rows. Consult your map to find the variety you want. In general, the further you walk, the better the picking will be. The closer rows are always more picked over.
When you return to the fruit stand, they will transfer your picked apples from the basket to a plastic bag to take home. Do not miss a chance to buy some freshly made cider donuts. They are amazing. No matter how many we buy, they never seem to survive the car ride home. You can also buy other types of fresh produce, cider, slushies, and other homemade treats in the fruit stand. Everything is delicious.
Aside from picking apples, there are lots of fun family activities at the farm so you can make a day of your visit. The kids play area is fun for younger kids. There are several different swing sets and play structures. And the view is unbeatable.
They have a small petting zoo and if you bring quarters, you can buy a handful of feed for the animals. The boys loved the goats. There is also a small duck pond nearby where you can feed the ducks.
And like every self-respecting farm, they have playful wooden cutouts for you to commemorate your visit with pictures of your kids as scarecrows and other fun farm settings.
We find Sky Top to be well worth the longer trip into the mountains. This is a true mountain orchard experience. The drive there ends with a long road that climbs up Mt. McAlpine and you’ll be treated to some stunning views along the way. If you time your visit right, you’ll also see some gorgeous fall foliage. The variety of apples are great and so is the quality. With beautiful views, delicious apples and treats, and lots of different forms of family entertainment, Sky Top is a great choice for your family apple picking adventure.
