Apple picking in North Carolina during autumn is a delightful seasonal activity that fosters a playful and lively tradition, uniting families in the joy of harvesting apples together. Whether you’re craving juicy Honeycrisps, tart Granny Smiths, fragrant Fujis, or any other of your favourite types, there’s an orchard waiting for you.

Let’s explore the world of apple picking in North Carolina!

Where to pick Apples in North Carolina?

Most of the apples produced in North Carolina come from Alexander, Henderson, Cleveland counties, Wilkes, Lincoln, and Haywood. Among these places, Hendersonville leads the apple picking in North Carolina.

1. Mountain Fresh Orchard

Mountain Fresh Orchards is a charming family-owned and operated farm in Hendersonville, North Carolina, since 1988. The orchard boasts an impressive collection of seventeen apple varieties, including popular ones like HoneyCrisp, Gala, Fuji, Shizuka, Pink Lady, and more. 

• Address: 2887 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC, 28792
• Open Hours: Every day from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Phone No: +18284350020
• Official Website: http://www.mtnfreshorchards.com/
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

2. Apple Hill Orchard (Morganton)

At Apple Hill Orchard, you can immerse yourself in the joy of picking fresh apples straight from the trees. The picturesque surroundings and the crisp mountain air make this experience truly memorable.

Whether you’re a seasoned apple picker or a first-timer, this orchard offers a delightful adventure. Grab your baskets and make your way to Apple Hill Orchard for a day filled with fruitful fun!

• Address: 2075 Pleasant Hill Ave, Morganton, NC, 28655
• Open Hours: Thursday to Saturday, 9 AM-6 PM
• Phone No: +18284197955
• Official Website: Apple Hill Orchard
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

3. Coston Farm and Apple House

Coston Farm & Apple House is a fourth-generation family-owned farm and apple orchard located on Chimney Rock Road in Hendersonville, North Carolina, and is one of the best places for apple picking in North Carolina.

Coston Farm offers a memorable pick-your-own experience against the scenic backdrop of the North Carolina mountains. Whether you prefer to pick your apples or opt for pre-picked ones, this orchard has you covered.

You’ll find delicious apples guaranteed every year. Beyond apples, they also offer wagon rides through the orchard, and you can explore their selection of pumpkins, cider, baked goods, gift items, and preserves.

• Address: 3748 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC, 28792
• Open Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8:30 AM-5:30 PM
• Phone No: +18286858352
• Official Website: http://costonfarm.com/
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

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4. Grandad’s Apples N’ Such

Grandad’s Apples N’ Such is a delightful family-owned farm and apple orchard in Hendersonville, North Carolina. You can either select pre-picked apples fresh off the trees daily from their bins or opt for you-pick on select weekends, making it one of the best places for apple picking in North Carolina.

And DON’T miss out on their hot cider doughnuts—a must-try thing at the farm.

• Address: 2951 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC, 28792
• Open Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 AM-6:00 PM
• Phone No: +18286851685
• Official Website: http://www.grandadsapples.com/
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

5. Coston Farm and Apple House (Hendersonville)

Coston Farm & Apple House is a fourth-generation family-owned farm and apple orchard located on Chimney Rock Road in Hendersonville, North Carolina. Coston Farm offers a memorable pick-your-own experience with the North Carolina mountains as a backdrop.

Whether you prefer to pick your apples or opt for pre-picked ones, this orchard has you covered. You’ll find delicious apples guaranteed every year. Beyond apples, they also offer wagon rides through the orchard, and you can explore their selection of pumpkins, cider, baked goods, gift items, and preserves. That’s why it is one of the best places for apple picking in North Carolina.

• Address: 3748 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC, 28792
• Open Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8:30 AM-5:30 PM
• Phone No: +18286858352
• Official Website: http://costonfarm.com/
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

Benefits of Apple Picking

• Physical Exercise: Picking apples gets you off the couch and counts toward your daily physical activity. Even a short, low-intensity walk among the trees can boost your mood and energy.

• Fruitful Relationships: Building bonds with family and friends enhances feelings of self-worth and creates shared memories.

• Better Cardiovascular Health: Apples contain cardio-protective pectin and polyphenols. Eating various fruits and vegetables helps ward off unhealthy cholesterol levels and atherosclerosis.

• Nutrient-Rich Apples: Apples contain health-promoting fibre, nutrients, and phytochemicals. You sink into the crunchy, juicy, delicious fruit at the end of your apple-picking adventure.

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Tips for a Successful Adventure of Apple Picking in North Carolina

If you’re planning an apple-picking adventure in North Carolina, here are some tips to ensure a fruitful and enjoyable experience:

• Wear Comfortable Shoes and Clothes.
• Bring Sunscreen and Bug Spray to protect your skin from insects and UV rays.
• Check the Weather Forecast before heading out.
• Confirm the farm’s timings. 
• While many orchards accept credit cards, having cash or a check handy is a good idea.

Conclusion 

Apple picking in North Carolina is a delightful experience combining the joy of being outdoors and the thrill of choosing your fruit for yourself and your loved ones. You’re filling your basket and creating memories as you explore the beautiful orchards, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and reach for those ripe apples.

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