Hendersonville, North Carolina sits in the heart of apple country, where the Blue Ridge Mountains create perfect growing conditions for these beloved fruits.
The area around this charming mountain town hosts more than 20 apple orchards that grow many different types of apples.
I've compiled a guide to the top apple orchards in Hendersonville where you can pick your own apples, taste fresh cider, and enjoy family-friendly farm activities.
Each orchard offers its own unique experience, from scenic mountain views to fresh-baked apple treats. My guide covers what makes each location special, along with practical tips about what to expect during your visit and how these farms grow their apples using sustainable methods.
1) Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard
I found Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard to be one of the most authentic apple picking experiences in Hendersonville. This fourth-generation family farm sits on 100 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains with 40 acres dedicated to apple orchards.
The farm offers 26 different apple varieties across six separate orchards. I appreciated the clear "Ready to Pick" signs that made it easy to find ripe apples.
They provide boxes and baskets for picking, so I didn't need to bring my own.
Beyond apple picking, I enjoyed the 5-acre corn maze and watched kids have fun on the jump pad. The farm also offers wagon rides on weekends and has an apple cannon for target practice.
The covered picnic area near the orchard made for a perfect lunch spot.
I was impressed that the farm allows leashed dogs throughout the property except in the Apple House and on wagon rides. The farm operates Friday through Sunday from 9 AM to 6 PM, with shorter weekday hours.
There's no admission fee—I only paid for what I picked.
Rating: 4.8 (754 reviews)
Location: 170 Stepp Orchard Dr, Hendersonville, NC 28792
Contact: (828) 685-9083
Website: Visit Website
2) Grandad's Apples
I found Grandad's Apples to be one of the most complete orchard experiences in Hendersonville. The 120-acre family farm offers both pre-picked apples from daily-stocked bins and you-pick options on select weekends.
The pumpkin patch opens in late September and features pumpkins of every size and shape for jack o'lanterns. I enjoyed exploring the corn maze, which adds extra entertainment beyond just apple picking.
Their bakery impressed me with fresh hot cider donuts made throughout the day. I tried their apple pies and cookies, plus the apple cider slushies which were perfect for a warm day.
The hot cider was also excellent.
The barn and country store stocks fall decorations, apple peelers, apple bakers, and various apple-themed gifts. I appreciated that they welcome leashed pets, making it easy to bring the whole family including furry members.
Rating: 4.7 (1,679 reviews)
Location: 2951 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792
Contact: (828) 685-1685
Website: Visit Website
3) Justus Orchard
I found Justus Orchard to be a true family operation that has been growing apples for over four generations. The Justus family knows their craft well and it shows in the quality of their fruit.
The orchard offers both u-pick and pre-picked options for apples and pears. I appreciated being able to sample different varieties before deciding what to take home.
They grow multiple apple types that ripen at different times throughout the season.
What impressed me most was the variety of activities beyond just apple picking. The kids enjoyed the Cow Train ride through the orchard and the jumping pillow.
The apple cannons were a unique touch that added extra fun to the visit.
The bakery is a must-visit spot on the property. Their fried apple pies and apple cider donuts were fresh and delicious.
I also tried their apple cider slushie which was perfect for a warm day. They sell local honey, jams, and other homemade items too.
Rating: 4.7 (1,363 reviews)
Location: 187 Garren Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792
Contact: (828) 974-1232
Website: Visit Website
4) Sky Top Orchard
I was amazed by Sky Top Orchard's location high up in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The views from this mountaintop farm are incredible, and the fresh mountain air makes apple picking even better.
This family-owned orchard has been running since 1967. I found many apple varieties to pick from, plus pears and peaches when they're in season.
The staff knows a lot about their fruit and helped me choose the best apples.
My favorite part was trying their famous cider donuts—they taste amazing fresh and warm. The kids loved the tractor rides and play area.
There's also something called a bee train that children enjoy.
I spent most of the day here without getting bored. The orchard has plenty of space to walk around and explore.
Even when it gets busy, the place feels peaceful and relaxing.
Rating: 4.6 (3,917 reviews)
Location: 1193 Pinnacle Mountain Rd, Zirconia, NC 28731
Contact: (828) 692-7930
Website: Visit Website
5) Jeter Mountain Farm Apple Orchard
I found Jeter Mountain Farm to be one of the most complete orchard experiences in the area. This family-owned farm sits in the Blue Ridge Mountains just minutes from downtown Hendersonville.
The u-pick apple experience here goes beyond just picking fruit. I enjoyed exploring their farm market filled with fresh produce and local goods.
The indoor play area kept families with young children entertained between picking sessions.
What impressed me most was the variety of on-site attractions. The 1813 Smokehouse serves in-house smoked BBQ, while The Cider Co. offers small batch hard ciders.
I also tried their locally roasted coffee at the Orchard Coffee House and homemade ice cream at The Orchard Scoop.
The farm has been operating since 2014 when they planted their first apple trees. Live bluegrass music plays each weekend, adding to the authentic mountain farm atmosphere.
Rating: 4.8 (875 reviews)
Location: 1126 Jeter Mountain Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28739
Contact: (828) 513-0656
Website: Visit Website
6) Mountain Fresh Orchard
Mountain Fresh Orchard sits on Chimney Rock Road and offers a complete fall experience. I found their Apple Express train ride to be the main attraction, taking families through the orchards while kids enjoy the scenic tour.
The bakery serves hot apple cider donuts and warm fried apple pies that taste fresh from the oven. I tried their apple fritters and 10-inch apple pies, which use apples from their own trees.
Their fresh-squeezed apple cider stands out among the many varieties they offer.
The farm market stocks pre-picked North Carolina apples, local vegetables, and fall decorations like pumpkins and gourds. I noticed they carry apple butter, honey, jams, pickles, and other homemade goods.
Their selection of canned items and preserves makes good gifts to take home.
The orchard welcomes large groups with plenty of parking for RVs and buses. Families can easily spend a few hours here between the train ride, shopping, and eating fresh baked goods.
Rating: 4.6 (459 reviews)
Location: 2887 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792
Contact: (828) 435-0020
Website: Visit Website
7) J&M Farms
J&M Farms is way more than just a spot for apple picking. When I stopped by this family-run place on Chimney Rock Road, it felt like a full-on entertainment destination—fresh produce, live music, and community events all mixed together.
The farm grows apples and peaches, plus seasonal stuff like heirloom tomatoes and bell peppers. Their on-site bakery? It’s cranking out apple cider donuts, fried pies, and apple fritters every day, and they even make their own heirloom hard cider.
What really makes J&M Farms stand out is the weekly lineup of events. Cornhole leagues, live music, dance nights, waterslide parties for the kids—you name it, they probably do it.
The farm has 16 beers on draft and a full bar, so it turns into a popular evening hangout, not just a daytime stop. I saw families doing everything from sip-and-paint sessions to catching live bands, and honestly, it looked like a blast.
Rating: 4.8 (76 reviews)
Location: 3016 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792
Contact: (828) 685-3311
Website: Visit Website
8) Coston Farm & Apple House
I swung by Coston Farm & Apple House on Chimney Rock Road, and I’ve got to say, it’s one of the most complete orchard experiences around. You get u-pick apples, a bakery, and a gift shop—all bundled together.
In the u-pick orchard, I wandered through rows of apple trees and picked whatever varieties were ripe that day. The staff was happy to point out which apples were at their best, which helped a lot.
The bakery is a highlight. I tried some freshly baked treats made from their own apples, and the gift shop had local souvenirs and apple goodies to take home.
There’s also a playground, so it’s a solid family-friendly spot. Parents can chill while the kids burn off energy after apple picking.
Rating: 4.6 (229 reviews)
Location: 3748 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792
Contact: (828) 685-8352
Website: Visit Website
9) Holt Orchards
Holt Orchards is a total switch-up from the big commercial apple farms. It’s run by a brother and sister duo on 60 acres near Flat Rock, keeping their stepdad’s dream going strong.
What really got me was their focus on fresh, daily harvesting. The apples I grabbed were picked just the day before—makes you realize how old grocery store apples really are.
They’re into sustainable growing, skipping heavy treatments and long-term storage. I liked learning about their local approach and how their apples don’t travel thousands of miles to get to you.
There’s more than just apples—think apple-based products made right there. The owners seem genuinely passionate about connecting with local families and serving up fresh food.
Rating: 5.0 (24 reviews)
Location: 17 Holt Pond Dr, Flat Rock, NC 28731
Contact: (828) 551-7266
Website: Visit Website
10) Apple House & Owenby Orchards
Apple House & Owenby Orchards is tucked along Chimney Rock Road. This family-owned roadside market serves up fresh North Carolina apples and seasonal freestone peaches, all in a rustic farm store that just feels right.
I tried their apple cider and blackberry cider—honestly, both are standouts. The homemade apple butter and fruit preserves are worth a try too, and they’ve got sugar-free jams and jellies for anyone watching sugar.
They sell more than apples: hot boiled peanuts, handmade wood crafts, cold drinks, propane—kind of a quirky mix, but it works. It’s more than just a quick apple stop.
The market’s a retail spot and a working farm. You can tell they actually grow and process a lot of what’s for sale, which I respect.
Rating: 4.3 (35 reviews)
What to Expect at Hendersonville's Apple Orchards
Apple orchards in Hendersonville run pick-your-own experiences from late summer into early fall. Besides apples, you’ll find hayrides, corn mazes, and a ridiculous number of apple treats.
Most farms go all out with family activities—think seasonal festivals and farm stores loaded with local stuff.
Seasonal Events and Festivities
Main orchard season is August through October, give or take. If you’re after the best variety, September is the sweet spot when a bunch of apples ripen together.
On weekends, a lot of farms host special events—live music, craft vendors, demos, and sometimes evening bonfires with s’mores. The Apple Festival on Labor Day weekend is the big one, but individual orchards run their own smaller fests all fall.
Common seasonal activities include:
Wagon rides through the orchards
Pumpkin patches opening in September
Halloween-themed events in October
Apple butter making demonstrations
Cider pressing shows
Definitely check each orchard’s event calendar before you go. Some weekend stuff costs extra, so keep that in mind.
Orchard Amenities and Visitor Tips
Pick-your-own apples is the main draw at most places. Usually, they hand you bags or baskets and you pay by weight or container size.
Most spots have a farm store with apple cider donuts, caramel apples, apple butter, and fresh-pressed cider. You’ll see those everywhere, honestly.
Standard amenities at most orchards:
Restroom facilities
Parking areas (often gravel)
Picnic tables or eating spots
Hand-washing stations
Farm stores with local goods
Wear closed-toe shoes, and maybe bring cash—some smaller farms don’t take cards. Pets are usually fine on leashes, but check ahead to be sure.
Henderson County orchards aren’t just about apples. There are corn mazes, hayrides, and other extras, but sometimes those cost a bit more.
Sustainable Growing Practices
Lots of Hendersonville apple orchards are big on eco-friendly methods. They focus on natural pest control and organic techniques to keep the soil and water in good shape.
Integrated Pest Management
From what I’ve seen, most successful orchards around here use integrated pest management instead of just blasting everything with chemicals. It’s a mix of natural predators, beneficial bugs, and targeted treatments when needed.
Key IPM techniques include:
Installing bird houses to attract pest-eating birds
Planting companion crops that repel harmful insects
Using pheromone traps to monitor pest populations
Applying organic sprays only when needed
Orchards like Holt Orchards practice sustainable farming on their 60 acres, keeping the soil healthy with crop rotation and composting.
Many farms also use beneficial nematodes in the soil to keep root pests in check naturally. These tiny worms attack harmful bugs but leave apple trees and good organisms alone.
Organic and Eco-Friendly Approaches
Some Hendersonville orchards have actually earned organic certification by steering clear of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers altogether. These farms focus on building up healthy soil, using compost, cover crops, and a mix of natural amendments.
Common organic practices include:
Composting apple waste and leaves for natural fertilizer
Cover cropping with clover and ryegrass between tree rows
Mulching heavily to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Hand-thinning fruit instead of using chemical thinners
Water conservation is a big deal for sustainable apple growing. I've noticed some orchards go for drip irrigation systems, sending water right to the tree roots where it's needed most.
Others collect rainwater in ponds, saving it for irrigation during dry spells. It's a clever way to take pressure off local water supplies and still keep the trees happy all season long.
