Fall in the Carolinas is a time of crisp air, vibrant foliage, and the irresistible allure of apple picking. The region boasts several orchards where you can enjoy this delightful activity, making it a perfect weekend getaway for families, couples, and friends. Here are some of the best places to go apple picking in Charlotte and the surrounding areas for the 2024 season.

1. Carrigan Farms

Location: Mooresville, NC
Distance from Charlotte: ~35 miles
Website: Carrigan Farms
Picking Season: Tuesday, September 3rd - Sunday, September 22nd

Carrigan Farms offers a variety of seasonal activities, including apple picking. Operating since 1975, this family-owned farm is a go-to for the authentic pick-your-own experience. Their orchard features a range of apple varieties, ensuring that you’ll find your favorites. The farm also offers hayrides, a petting zoo, and a pumpkin patch, making it an ideal spot for a full day of fall fun. Reservations are required for apple picking and hayride to the orchard; see their website for details. 

2. Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery

Location: York, SC
Distance from Charlotte: ~28 miles
Website: Windy Hill Orchard
Picking Season: TBD (Early September)

Just a short drive south of Charlotte, Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery offers a unique apple-picking experience. This family-owned orchard specializes in heirloom apple varieties and provides an array of apple-based products, including hard cider. After picking apples, you can enjoy a cider tasting, making it a perfect spot for adults looking to unwind. Check their website for updates on the picking season and make your reservation to visit. 

3. Sky Top Orchard

Location: Flat Rock, NC
Distance from Charlotte: ~100 miles
Website: Sky Top Orchard
Picking Season: Early August - Mid-November

Sky Top Orchard is a bit of a drive from Charlotte, but it’s well worth the trip. Located in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, this orchard offers stunning views and a wide variety of apples. In addition to apple picking, visitors can enjoy wagon rides, a bamboo forest, a playground, and a farm store stocked with delicious treats like apple cider doughnuts. The orchard is open daily from 9am to 5pm; no reservation needed.

4. Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard

Location: Hendersonville, NC
Distance from Charlotte: ~110 miles
Website: Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard
Picking Season: August 16th - November

Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard is a fourth-generation apple orchard offering an amazing 25 apple varieties for picking. The orchard also provides family-friendly activities like a corn maze, wagon rides, and a pumpkin patch. Don’t forget to visit their farm market for homemade apple pies, cider, and other delicious goodies.

5. Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill

Location: Morganton, NC
Distance from Charlotte: ~75 miles
Website: Apple Hill Orchard
Picking Season: Mid-August - November

Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill is a charming destination for apple picking, nestled in the South Mountains of Western NC. The orchard offers a variety of apples throughout the season, and their cider mill produces fresh apple cider for sample and purchase. The orchard also features a bakery, where you can indulge in apple pies, fritters, and other treats. Be sure to purchase "picking passes" on their website before you go to reserve your U-Pick time!

6. Perry Lowe Orchards

Location: Moravian Falls, NC
Distance from Charlotte: ~60 miles
Website: Perry Lowe Orchards
Picking Season: August 31 - November

Perry Lowe Orchards is a sixth-generation family farm known for its extensive variety of apples and its welcoming atmosphere. The orchard offers U-pick apple options and a farm store where you can purchase fresh apple cider, apple butter, and other homemade products. They also provide educational tours, making it a great learning experience for kids. Reservations are required for U-Pick activities. 

Tips for a Great Apple Picking Experience

• Check the Website: Before heading out, visit the orchard’s website or call ahead to confirm the availability of apple picking and any special events or activities.
• Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy, close-toed shoes that are suitable for walking in orchards on uneven ground. Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen for protection.
• Bring Bags: Some orchards provide bags for picking, but it’s always a good idea to bring reusable bags just in case.
• Arrive Early: To get the best selection of apples and avoid the crowds, plan to arrive early in the day.
• Enjoy the Extras: Many orchards offer additional activities like hayrides, petting zoos, and corn mazes. Make the most of your visit by exploring these extra, fun activities! 

Apple picking is a beloved fall tradition that provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the season while creating lasting memories with loved ones. So grab your baskets and head out to one of these top spots for apple picking in 2024!