Saluda, North Carolina, is a charming mountain town perfectly positioned for fall adventures, especially apple picking. With its quaint downtown, local shops, and proximity to some of the best orchards in Western North Carolina, Saluda serves as an ideal base for exploring the region’s fall harvest. Here are the top apple-picking spots near Saluda, including their distances, tips for making the most of your visit, and links to their websites.
1. Sky Top Orchard – Flat Rock, NC
Distance: 9 miles
Website: Sky Top Orchard
Sky Top Orchard is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering pick-your-own apples, wagon rides, an apple cannon, a petting zoo, and more. Enjoy their famous apple cider donuts, fresh cider, and stunning mountain views as you explore over 22 varieties of apples throughout the season.
2. Justus Orchard – Hendersonville, NC
Distance: 17.5 miles
Website: Justus Orchard
Justus Orchard provides a great apple-picking experience with a variety of apples, including Honeycrisp and Fuji. The farm also features a playground, farm animals, fresh apple cider, and homemade treats, making it a fun family outing.
3. Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard – Hendersonville, NC
Distance: 16.9 miles
Website: Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard
Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard offers traditional apple picking, along with corn mazes, wagon rides, and a pumpkin patch. Enjoy a beautiful day picking apples while taking in the gorgeous mountain scenery.
4. MacGregor Orchard – Travelers Rest, SC
Distance: 14.5 miles
Website: MacGregor Orchard
MacGregor Orchard provides a charming pick-your-own experience with apples and other seasonal fruits like peaches and nectarines. Known for its friendly atmosphere and beautiful setting, it’s a great spot for a quiet apple-picking adventure. The drive to MacGregor Orchard takes you through the scenic Greenville Watershed, offering breathtaking views of lush forests and serene landscapes—making the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself.
5. Grandad’s Apples N’ Such – Hendersonville, NC
Distance: 13.8 miles
Website: Grandad’s Apples N’ Such
Grandad’s Apples N’ Such is a fun, family-friendly orchard offering apple picking, a corn maze, hayrides, and a farm market with freshly baked apple pies and ciders. It’s a lively spot that captures the essence of fall.
6. Jeter Mountain Farm – Hendersonville, NC
Distance: 16.7 miles
Website: Jeter Mountain Farm
Jeter Mountain Farm is known for its breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and its on-site taproom, where you can enjoy local ciders. Located near DuPont State Recreational Forest, it’s perfect for a day combining a scenic fall hike with apple picking. Enjoy the trails in the morning, then relax at the farm with fresh apples and craft beverages.
Where to Buy Local Apples in Saluda, NC
While Saluda doesn’t have pick-your-own apple orchards, you can still enjoy fresh, locally grown apples at a couple of charming spots in town. Atkins Orchard, located just outside of downtown on Highway 176, offers a variety of fresh apples along with delicious ciders, jams, jellies, apple butter, and honey. This family-run orchard is a great stop to pick up some local produce and enjoy a taste of Saluda’s apple heritage. Similarly, The Apple Mill in Saluda provides a selection of locally grown apples, fresh apple cider, apple butter, and other delightful apple-based products, making it a convenient place to bring home a piece of fall.
Why Saluda is the Perfect Place to Stay
Saluda’s central location makes it an ideal spot to stay while exploring these nearby orchards. After a day of apple picking, you can unwind in Saluda’s historic downtown, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, or simply relax and take in the small-town charm. For great lodging options, check out Places to Stay in Saluda to find the perfect accommodations for your visit. With easy access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and beautiful mountain views, Saluda offers everything you need for a perfect fall getaway.
Make the most of your autumn adventures by experiencing the best apple picking near Saluda, NC. Enjoy the crisp mountain air, vibrant fall colors, and delicious local apples—creating memories that capture the magic of the season.