Skytop Apple Orchard: The Best Fall Tradition

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Over the past three years of marriage, Charlie and I have slowly started trying to create intentional traditions for our family that we can continue once we have children. While some ideas have stuck better than others, one tradition that we have yet to miss is the experience of picking apples at Skytop Apple Orchard each fall. Perhaps it is because it is at the top of these special hills that we started our story by getting engaged or perhaps because each experience encompasses so many festive fall activities (think cider donuts, colorful leaves, cozy weather (if we are lucky!!), heirloom pumpkins etc), but whatever the reason, this tradition of fall apple picking has become one of our absolute favorites. As summer is coming to an end and fall is around the corner, I would be truly sorry if I did not encourage a trip to Skytop Apple Orchard, and perhaps, apple picking might become a family tradition of yours as well.

Skytop Apple Orchard 

While mid-August might seem early to be promoting fall family traditions, it actually is the beginning of apple season! Nestled in the mountains of Flat Rock, North Carolina, Skytop Apple Orchard features over 22 varieties of apples for a wonderful U-Pick experience from August to November. Originally started in 1970’s as a 70 acre commercial apple farm selling to local supermarkets, Skytop Orchard is family owned by David and Lindsey Butler who transitioned the orchards 40 years ago to the u-pick experience they are now known for. With rows and rows of beautiful apple trees rising and falling over the North Carolina mountains, Skytop makes for a sight to behold as the apple branches frame the sky. This lovely backdrop holds so many memories not only for the family that began it all, but also for me: memories of day trips with sweet friends, Charlie proposing, apple picking in the rain, taking pictures for our Christmas card, sweating through jeans when I thought it was going to be cold, laughing, dancing, enjoying life together…. While beautiful, I would note that as they are open rain or shine, be prepared to be on a working farm by wearing closed toe shoes as both the dropped apples and recent rains can make for mushy conditions. Regardless of the weather though, the views, activities and produce you find at Skytop will be an experience I believe you and your family will hope to repeat. 

Not only does Skytop feature their amazing orchards, but they also are known for their fabulous fresh made pastries, an animal barn, playgrounds, bee train, hayrides and other family friendly activities. As you arrive, you will smell their hot apple cider donuts fresh from the fryer and while I most definitely recommend getting a dozen, I would be amiss if I did not also praise their delicious apple hand pies. Truly, these apple hand pies are the best I have ever had and are a treat both Charlie and I look forward to every time we visit.

Apple Creations

While I always love the apple ciders, pies and other delights we get to experience while at Skytop, I also enjoy the many apple creations that I can begin once we are home. As apples can be used for a plethora of fall recipes and décor projects, be sure to keep your favorites in mind to ensure you pick enough apples while you are at the orchard. A few of my favorite uses for apples are:

Final Thoughts

In my mind, thoughts of Skytop Apple Orchard have become synonymous with fun fall adventures. It is such a blessing to be out in nature with so many festivities, experiencing it all with those you love. This orchard was and continues to be a joy to visit and I can’t wait to go again in these upcoming weeks. If you are looking for a fabulous day trip or fun fall family tradition, I highly recommend apple picking at Skytop! 

Happy picking!

Chloe