Place · 1 mi away
Why go
Set right off the Parkway at Milepost 328.3, this non-profit, century-old orchard blends panoramic Blue Ridge views with Appalachian culture. It’s more than apples: think live music and clogging on the pavilion, storytellers, “heyrides,” and hands-on exhibits about bees, butterflies, and the railroad that shaped this hillside.
What you’ll do
- Pick from heirloom apple varieties in season, then linger at picnic tables with mountain vistas.
- Browse the big red-barn General Store for warm apple pie, hand-scooped ice cream, homemade fudge, preserves, and regional crafts.
- Catch weekend music and dance, stroll the grounds, and pop into the model train room that recreates the orchard’s landscape.
Trails and views
Multiple walking paths weave through the orchards and nearby woods, offering relaxed rambles and wide-open scenery. Expect rolling, sometimes steep hills—great for stretching your legs between Parkway overlooks.
Wildlife
Look for barn swallows swooping from the back deck. The pollinator garden, Monarch butterfly displays, and a working honeybee apiary make this a smart stop for nature-curious kids. Along the paths you may spot songbirds and the occasional deer.
A bit of backstory
The orchard dates to the early 1900s (tied to the Clinchfield Railroad). Today it’s preserved as a mission-driven cultural landscape—protecting heirloom trees, mountain traditions, and the views you came for.
Food and shopping
The General Store is the hub for treats (pie, ice cream, fudge), jarred goodies, and local artisan wares. Simple grill fare is available seasonally, and there are plenty of spots to sit and savor it.
Know before you go
- Operations and U-pick are seasonal; fall weekends can be extremely popular.
- Terrain is hilly—wear shoes you don’t mind getting dusty.
- Pet-friendly vibe (leash up) and very family-ready.
Best time to visit
- For apples: mid-summer through late October—check which varieties are ripe before you go.
- For music and storytelling: plan a weekend afternoon.
- For fewer crowds: arrive near opening, especially in September–October.
- For photos: late-day light warms the orchards and long ridgelines.
Pros
- Seasonal U-pick heirloom apples
- Weekend live Appalachian music, storytelling, and heyrides
- Fun pollinator and model-train exhibits
Cons
- Seasonal operation (generally May–October)
- Crowded on fall weekends and during harvest
Tips
- Confirm seasonal hours and U-pick availability before you drive up.
- For music and heyrides, target weekend afternoons but arrive early to beat crowds.
- Check which apple varieties are ripe the week you visit.
- Wear sturdy shoes—the orchard hills can be steep and uneven.
- Save room for warm apple pie and ice cream at the General Store.
