Exploring Pumpkin Patches in the Mountains of North Carolina: A Seasonal Tradition
As the leaves change colors and a crispness fills the air, autumn arrives in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina. Along with the scenic beauty, this season brings a cherished tradition that captures the essence of fall – visiting pumpkin patches. Join us on a journey to discover the best pumpkin patches nestled in the heart of North Carolina’s mountainous terrain.
The Great Tradition of Pumpkin Patches: Why do we do this?
The tradition of pumpkin patches is deeply rooted in American culture. Families venture to these rustic havens to choose the perfect pumpkins for carving, decorating, and baking delicious pies. It’s an opportunity for cherished memories, from hayrides to navigating corn mazes, all set against the backdrop of vibrant autumn landscapes. How did it all start? It was the Celtic tradition of Ireland and Scotland to carve turnips and other veggie gourds on All Hallows Eve and place an ember in it to ward off evil spirits. Pumpkins were here in America long before the Irish first settled; once they arrived the tradition continued and grew into large pumpkin carvings…Today the activity of picking pumpkins each fall, slicing into them, and creating lantern art keeps going. Making the most of this tradition by seeking out a local farm to pick your pumpkins from is worth it. Skip the grocery store gourds and go for the real thing!
PRO TIP: Wear comfy shoes so you can tromp through the pumpkin patches with ease, and bring your favorite flannels to stay warm, as the temps can drop on fall days!
1. Pumpkin Patch: Harvest Farm – Valle Crucis, NC
3287 NC 194 Valle Crucis, NC 28691
Our first stop on this pumpkin patch adventure takes us to Harvest Farm, a special spot for families and pumpkin enthusiasts alike. Situated in quaint little Valle Crucis, NC, Harvest Farm offers an ample pumpkin selection in The High Country! Walk amongst the pumpkins and harvest the pumpkin of your choice right from the vine. Don’t have time…pick from our freshly picked pumpkins at the barn. Bring your fur babies too, and don’t forget the camera…the scenic mountain surroundings make for the perfect fall photo op! From here, you must visit the iconic Original Mast General Store, as well as, the Annex and Candy Barrel – just down the road a bit. Plenty of parking available.
2. Pumpkin Patch: New River Corn Maze – Boone, NC
660 Laurel Gap Ridge, Boone, NC 28607
Just along the mountains, we find New River Corn Maze in Boone, NC. This incredible family farm is set beside the New River and it transforms into a festive pumpkin patch every fall. Here, you can visit for Halloween hayrides! It’s the perfect place for families to embrace the season. NR Corn Maze is known for its wide array of pumpkin varieties – find unique colors and shapes.
3. Pumpkin Patch: Hickory Nut Gap Farm – Fairview, NC
57 Sugar Hollow Rd, Fairview, NC
Venture to Fairview, NC, and you’ll discover Hickory Nut Gap Farm. This scenic farm offers not only pumpkins but also an opportunity to explore their picturesque orchards and pastures. Kid Cart Rides, Hay Rides, and Horse Rides are offered every weekend. Visit the apple orchard and head home ready for apple pie baking. For those looking to make a day of it, the farm features a farm store where you can purchase grass-fed meats and other farm-fresh products. Something for all ages here!
4. Pumpkin Patch: New Castle Farm – Ronda, NC
2812 Clingman Rd, Ronda, NC 28670
Nestled just under an hour away from Boone, NC, you will discover New Castle Farm. This small family farm offers a unique pumpkin and gourd experience. Picking starts in late September and ends the last weekend in October. The pumpkin patch has over 15 different pumpkin and gourd varieties! They provide wagons that you can take out in to the patch if you need and offer a selection of smaller pumpkins that the little ones can go pick as well! Find picnic tables and yard games that you are welcome to use when you and the fam take a break after pumpkin pickin!
Embrace Autumn’s Bounty: And do it in the NC Mountains
The tradition of pumpkin patches in the mountains of North Carolina not only provides an opportunity to select the perfect pumpkin but also offers a chance to immerse oneself in the beauty of autumn. These scenic locations, from Harvest Farm to New Castle Farm, provide a magical escape from the everyday, allowing families and friends to create cherished memories amidst the splendor of fall. So, pick your favorite patch, embrace the season, and let the tradition continue.
Comment below with your favorite pumpkin patches if we missed it on this list!
Book a fall getaway at White Fence Farm. The property is just about 20 minutes away from Boone, NC – an easy drive to the top 4 Pumpkin Patches listed above. Check off “American Pumpkin Patch Picking” on your Fall Bucket List. White Fence Farm offers a historic farm house, rolling mountainous hills with neighboring cows, a rustic barn and wide open spaces – it’s the perfect place to get into the autumnal mood. Check out the farm HERE. And give us a call to book your stay OR BOOK HERE!
Written by Andrea Morton, Creative Blogging + Marketing Strategies
