CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QC Life) - Autumn has officially arrived in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and Hendersonville’s iconic apple orchards are buzzing with seasonal excitement. As the leader of apple production in North Carolina and one of the top 20 apple-producing counties in the United States, Henderson County is a premier destination for fall getaways.
At the forefront of that tradition is Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard, a pioneer in the U-pick movement that has welcomed visitors to wander its groves for nearly six decades. For Danielle Stepp McCall, who grew up on the land and works alongside her parents and family, sharing their generational orchard is all about creating lasting memories for the community.
This year’s crop is thriving, featuring 26 distinct varieties of apples that ripen at different stages throughout the season. Beyond U-pick apples, flowers, and a sprawling pumpkin patch, the farm is packed with family fun - from wagon rides and a five-acre corn maze to an apple cannon, jump pad, and interactive hayground.
No trip is complete without stopping by the Apple House farm market for prepicked produce, warm apple cider doughnuts, cider slushies, and fresh-pressed cider. Located just two hours west of Charlotte, Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard offers an easy, picture-perfect day trip for families looking to savor the best of fall through October.
To learn more visit steppapples.com and follow @steppshillcrestorchard.
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