Apple picking in NC is a beloved tradition, offering not just a celebration of the fall season but also an opportunity to delve into the rich history and culture of the state’s apple industry. Ranked 7th in the nation for apple production, North Carolina yields over 200 million pounds of apples annually, boasting more than 40 diverse varieties.
From sweet to tart, crisp to juicy, and red to green, there’s an apple variety to suit every palate preference. Whether enjoyed fresh, baked into pies, or transformed into cider, North Carolina’s apple offerings cater to all tastes, promising a delightful experience in the heart of apple country.
When is the Best Time to Go Apple Picking in NC?
Picking apples is a fun and satisfying activity you can do in North Carolina from mid-August to late October or even November, depending on the type of apple you prefer. Different kinds of apples ripen at different times, so there’s a variety available throughout the season, like Gala, Honeycrisp, Fuji, Granny Smith, and many others.
What are the Different Varieties of Apples in North Carolina?
- North Carolina grows over 40 types of apples, ranging from sweet to tart, and they come in different textures and colors.
- The main varieties produced in NC are Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Rome Beauty, and Galas.
- Other popular types in North Carolina include Cameos, Crimson Crisp, Fuji, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Pink Lady.
- Each type of apple has its own unique characteristics like color, size, flavor, and texture, making them suitable for different purposes such as eating fresh, baking, or making cider.
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Experience the Best of NC Apple Orchards: Family Fun and Delicious Picks
Now, let’s decide where to go for apple picking in NC! Here are the 10 top orchards known for their great apples, cool history, and fun activities. Whether you’re with family, your sweetheart, or seeking adventure, there’s an orchard for you.
Enjoy wagon rides, corn mazes, petting zoos, cider mills, bakeries, and gift shops at these places. Let’s explore the best apple orchards in North Carolina.
1. Millstone Creek Orchards
For a fun family outing in North Carolina, visit Millstone Creek Orchards. Managed by Beverly Mooney, who inherited it from her parents, Byrd and Diane Isom, the orchard offers over 20 apple varieties like Gala and Honeycrisp.
Pick your own apples on Sundays from 1 PM to 5 PM in September and October, or buy fresh cider and apple products at their farm stand. Enjoy wagon rides, corn mazes, petting zoos, cider mills, and more. Special events like AppleFest and classes like jam-making make it an educational and enjoyable experience.
Millstone Creek Orchards is the place to go for family fun and North Carolina’s best apples.
Where: Locate On Google Maps
Who: +13368245263
2. Coston Farm & Apple House
Coston Farm & Apple House, a family-owned farm in Hendersonville, NC, started in the mid-1800s by William Tilford Lowe, is now run by David Coston and his wife Lola.
They grow 30 apple varieties, including Gala, Fuji, and Pink Lady, and offer fresh cider, baked goods, and more at their store. Visitors can pick their own apples, enjoy wagon rides, and take in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain views.
The farm also has a picnic area, play zone, and hosts events. For teachers and students, they provide educational kits covering topics like apple growing, crop protection, and healthy living. It’s a place to experience family tradition and quality apples.
Where: Locate On Google Maps
Who: +18286858352
3. Carrigan Farms
Carrigan Farms, a family-owned farm and orchard in Mooresville, North Carolina, has been growing fresh fruits and veggies since 1902.
Under the leadership of Doug Carrigan, who took over from his grandfather Frank and grandmother Edith, the farm grows over 20 types of apples like Red Delicious and Gala. You can pick your own apples on Sundays from 1 PM to 5 PM in September and October or buy pre-picked ones, fresh cider, and apple goodies at their stand.
Enjoy wagon rides, corn mazes, petting zoos, and more, plus special events like AppleFest and Scarrigan Farms, a spooky trail for ages 12 and up. Carrigan Farms offers fun, education, and a taste of North Carolina’s apple country.
Where: Locate On Google Maps
Who: +17046641450
4. Knob Creek Orchard
Knob Creek Orchard in Lawndale, NC, has been growing fresh fruits since 1958. Started by Raymond and Loree Crotts, it now spans 200 acres with apples, peaches, strawberries, and more.
Today, Jeff and Tara manage the orchard, which offers homemade ice cream and a gift shop. They’re eco-friendly, using pheromone traps to reduce pesticides. Customers can pick their apples from various types like Honeycrisp and Gala.
The orchard has a playground, picnic area, and bakery for visitors. It’s a beautiful place where families can enjoy nature, learn about farming, and have fun together.
Where: Locate On Google Maps
Who: +17045381405
5. Perry Lowe Orchards
Perry Lowe Orchards, a sixth-generation apple farm in North Carolina, was started in the mid-1800s by William Tilford Lowe. Today, Ty Perry Lowe III runs the orchard, which grows over 30 apple varieties like Pink Lady and Honeycrisp.
They also have peaches and nectarines and sell yummy treats like dried apples and apple cider donuts. On weekends in the fall, visitors can pick their apples, go on trailer rides, and have fun in the corn maze and playgrounds.
The orchard also hosts school trips and groups. It’s a special place where families can enjoy history, tradition, and delicious apples.
Where: Locate On Google Maps
Who: +13369213123
6. Mountain Fresh Orchard
Mountain Fresh Orchard, a family farm in Hendersonville, NC, started in 1988 by Raymond and Loree Crotts, is now run by their son Jeff and wife Tara.
They have 12 acres of land, growing 16 apple varieties like HoneyCrisp and Gala. The orchard is eco-friendly, using pheromone traps to protect the environment. Visitors can pick their apples and enjoy treats from the store, like homemade ice cream. The farm has a playground, picnic area, and bakery.
On weekends, guests can ride The Apple Express for mountain views. The store offers delicious bakery items, apple cider, honey, jams, and more. It’s a wonderful place for families to experience nature and a farm’s tradition.
Where: Locate On Google Maps
Who: +18284350020
7. Apple House & Owenby Orchards
Apple House & Owenby Orchards is a family-run farm and market in Hendersonville, NC. For nearly 60 years, the Owenby family has grown apples and other fruits in Edneyville, with their market, The Apple House, open for 20 years.
They grow 18 apple varieties like Honeycrisp and Gala, plus peaches and Asian pears. Visitors can pick sunflowers in the field or buy local jams, ciders, and more at the store. It’s a place where customers can enjoy fresh, farm-grown fruits and meet friendly staff.
Where: Locate On Google Maps
Who: +18286859917
8. Twisted Apple Orchard
Twisted Apple Orchard, located in Hendersonville, NC, is a unique public orchard in Henderson County. They offer a variety of activities, including apple picking, seasonal fruits, baked goods, jellies, decorations, and gifts.
With over 40 heirlooms and new apple varieties like Honeycrisp and Gala, visitors can enjoy the fresh and organic fruits grown on the farm. Twisted Apple Orchard is known for its friendly atmosphere and commitment to organic practices, providing visitors with a delightful experience and high-quality farm produce.
Where: Locate On Google Maps
Who: +18287121919
9. Deal Orchards
Deal Orchards, a family-owned farm in Alexander County, NC, started by Brack and Belle Deal in 1939, is now run by their son Lindsay and grandson Alan.
They grow 20 apple varieties like Gala and Honeycrisp, along with peaches, nectarines, and Asian pears. On Sundays from 1 PM to 5 PM in September and October, you can pick your own apples or buy fresh cider, apple butter, and more at their stand. The orchard offers fun activities like wagon rides, corn mazes, and petting zoos.
They also host special events like AppleFest and PumpkinFest, making Deal Orchards a place to enjoy, learn, and savor North Carolina’s apple goodness.
Where: Locate On Google Maps
Who: +18286322304
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10. Jimmy Nix & Sons Apple House
Jimmy Nix & Sons Apple House is a family-owned farm and market in Hendersonville, NC, since 1983. Currently run by the third and fourth generations of the Nix family, they grow over 15 apple varieties like Honeycrisp and also have Asian pears, peaches, and veggies. Their market sells jams, ciders, honey, crafts, and yummy fried apple pies.
Open from mid-August to Thanksgiving, seven days a week, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, visitors can enjoy mountain views and the historic packing house while getting friendly service and quality products. It’s a place where families can experience fresh fruits and the warmth of a family farm.
Where: Locate On Google Maps
Who: +18286857222
FAQs
What is the best month to go apple picking?
September typically offers the best apple-picking experience due to the peak of apple season and favorable weather conditions.
How many apple orchards are in NC?
North Carolina boasts over 200 apple orchards, providing ample opportunities for apple-picking enthusiasts.
Do they offer any apple-related activities for children?
Yes, many apple orchards in NC offer fun activities like hayrides, corn mazes, and apple cider-making specifically catered to children.
Can we eat apples in orchards?
Yes, many orchards permit visitors to sample or purchase fresh apples directly from the trees while enjoying the picking experience.
Is there any charge to enter apple orchards?
Some orchards may have an entrance fee, while others offer free admission or charge only for the apples you pick.
