Crisp autumn air is rolling into the High Country of North Carolina, and apple picking is one of the region’s most cherished traditions. With its rolling hills, stunning fall foliage, and abundance of local orchards, the High Country offers the perfect backdrop for a family-friendly day of apple picking. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this seasonal activity is a must-do and a wonderful way to experience the region’s bounty. It’s really the ultimate way to kick-off the fall season!
The Tradition of Apple Picking in the High Country
Apple picking has been a beloved fall tradition in North Carolina for generations. Each year, families and friends head to local orchards to harvest fresh, crisp apples straight from the tree. It’s a time to slow down, embrace the beauty of the season, and get back to doing something outdoors while the weather is cool and comfortable. The High Country’s cool mountain air and fertile soil make it an ideal location for growing a wide variety of apples, from sweet Winsap to tart Granny Smiths to bright Galas.
Stay at White Fence Farm Vacation Rentals for your Apple Picking Getaway:
The Farmhouse – located just 15 minutes from Downtown Boone, NC – close drive to orchards and attractions. Book a stay, average rate is $150 a night, check out availability here! Sleeps 6 (1 Queen, 2 Full).
- 105 private acres
- Dishwasher / Microwave / Mini Refrigerator / Coffee Maker
- WiFi
- Dog friendly with additional fee
The Appalachian House – located on King Street in the heart of Downtown Boone, NC. Sleeps 4 (1 King, 1 Sofa Bed)
- Microwave / Coffee Maker / Refrigerator
- WiFi / Cable TV included
- Dog friendly with an additional fee
The Downtown Boone House – located on King Street in the heart of Downtown Boone, NC. Sleeps 6 (2 Queen, 1 Sofa Bed)
- W/D / Dishwasher / Microwave / Coffee Maker / Refrigerator
- WiFi / Cable TV included
- Dog friendly with additional fee
Top Orchards for Apple Picking:
If you’re planning an apple-picking adventure, here are some popular orchards in the High Country to visit:
Located along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, The Orchard at Altapass is a historic site offering not only apple picking but also live music, storytelling, and local history. It’s a great spot to learn about the region’s rich agricultural heritage while picking apples.
A bit farther south, Justus Orchard offers a wide variety of apples and other fall activities like hayrides, a corn maze, and homemade apple cider doughnuts. It’s a fun destination for families and apple lovers alike.
Other Outdoor Farms & Cideries to Visit this Fall:
Apple Hill Farm (Banner Elk, NC) A hidden gem in Banner Elk. This Apple Orchard offers a unique experience where you can enjoy apple picking, farm tours, and see the live animals that graze the land. Nestled in the mountains, the orchard produces a selection of apples perfect for fresh eating or baking.
Molley Chomper Hard Cidery (Lansing, NC) They make ciders and fruit wines that people love to drink – locals rave about this brand. They use whole fruit and ingredients and low intervention wine making techniques. The cidery began as an extension of the farm and a desire to make a new way of life that kept the farm closer to home, family and food. It has grown into a community of orchards and small farms. Visit the cidery for a delicious experience!
A Simple Orange & Apple Pie Recipe to Enjoy Your Harvest
After spending the day at the orchard, there’s nothing better than coming home and baking a delicious apple pie. Here’s a simple recipe that will fill your home with the sweet aroma of fall:
Ingredients:
- 6-8 medium apples (Granny Smith, Winesap, or Honeycrisp work really well)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 tbsp butter cut into pieces + 2 tbls butter melted
- 1 package of pre-made pie crusts
- The zest of one medium to large orange
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F
- Peel, core, and slice the apples. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and flour until well-coated. Then sprinkle zest from an orange over the apple mixture.
- Roll out one of the pie crusts and place it in a 9-inch pie pan. Fill the crust with the apple mixture.
- Dot the top of the apples with small pieces of butter.
- Place the second pie crust over the apples fold, and then crimp the edges together. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the top pie crust lightly with melted butter.
- Bake on center rack with a cookie sheet on lower rack below the pie for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Let cool on the counter for at least 20-30 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your homemade apple pie warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and orange zest for the ultimate treat!
Apple picking in the High Country is more than just a fun outing; it’s a chance to connect with nature, embrace local traditions, and enjoy the simple pleasures of the season. Whether you visit for the fresh apples, the breathtaking views, or to bake your favorite fall recipes, apple picking in North Carolina’s High Country is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Written by Andrea Morton, Creative Blogging + Marketing Strategies
Apple Picking
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