While many associate apple season with crisp, cool fall days and orange and yellow leaves, apple ripening season occurs in North Carolina anywhere from late August to early October. For pick-your-own, the best time of year to plan a trip is now. Wondering exactly where? These eight orchards not only provide you with sweet, juicy apples but also a one-of-a-kind experience you can only expect from the best apple orchards in NC.

1. Apple Hill Orchard and Cider Mill, Morganton

If you've begun to wonder where to pick apples in North Carolina, then look no further. Not only does this charming apple orchard offer U-pick from several varieties, it also features a cider mill, country store, group and educational tours, and a bakery. A family-run business since 1955, the scenic South Mountains make the perfect backdrop for a ride around the orchard or a day of picking your own apples ending in a cup of hot cider and an apple turnover. This is a favorite apple orchard in North Carolina. Check out the Apple Hill Orchard and Cider Mill Facebook page for more information.

Take a look at this video by @shaunandshawn2191:

2. Grandad's Apples n' Such, Hendersonville

Located in the heart of North Carolina's apple country, Grandad's Apples n' Such is more than an orchard.. Come fall, cars line the country road awaiting to park and pick. The breezy, large barn opens to a stunning mountain view and features a bakery (try the donuts or fried apple pie) and a store full of goodies. Grandad's offers U-pick as well as a pumpkin patch and corn maze come fall. Visit the Grandad's Apples n' Such website for more information.

3. Justus Orchard, Hendersonville

Featuring cider, plenty of apples, and their famous donuts, Justus Orchard is a perfect stop-by while the leaves are at their peak. The fourth-generation, family-owned farm offers multiple apple varieties. The best way to keep up with it all is to check the Justus Orchard Facebook page to see which apples are ripe for the pickin'. This is one of the best apple orchards in the state.

Take a look at this video by @surfergirl326:

4. The Orchard at Altapass, Spruce Pine

Nestled right off the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Orchard at Altapass is a great place to stop while cruising and looking at fall foliage. Of all of the farms to visit in North Carolina, this apple orchard offers phenomenal views. Located atop the Eastern Continental Divide, the orchard has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 1800s. Today, the orchard doesn't just offer apple picking in the NC mountains but also a variety of programs, like mountain music, hayrides, and a book club to educate visitors on the culture that permeates this area.

5. Sky Top Orchard, Flat Rock

Sky Top isn't just a U-pick or we-pick orchard, but an entire experience. Between orchard ponds with duck and geese, a farm area with sheep, goats, chickens, turkeys, and peacocks, a bamboo forest perfect for some stellar photography, oh, and panoramic mountain views, it's no surprise they've been nominated for a 10 Best Award by USA Today. This is another phenomenal farm for apple picking in the NC mountains.

6. Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard, Hendersonville

This fourth-generation apple orchard is situated on 70 stunning acres with panoramic Blue Ridge views. On the weekend, hayrides let you venture through the orchard as well as pumpkin patches and the grape vines. After picking up a fresh bushel, visit the country store and grab a cup of hot cider. Visit the Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard website for more information. This is one of the best apple orchards in NC.

Take a look at this video by local news station @WJHLtv11:

7. Knob Creek Orchards, Lawndale

Knob Creek isn't only an apple orchard but also a creamery! Located on the Cleveland-Lincoln County line, there's more than just your mountain varieties here. Look forward to a hearty selection of peaches, strawberries, and blackberries. While picking up some delicious apples, save room for delectable, homemade ice cream, especially the banana pudding ice cream!

Still wondering what to do in the fall in North Carolina? Picking apples is a beloved way to ring in the fall season and a tradition for many! We've just highlighted some of the best apple orchards in NC. Which one will you visit first?

While planning fall events, you'll want to hop on board for these. Also, hiking is a wonderful thing to do in the fall in North Carolina. Check out our Ultimate Hiking Packing List before you hit the trails!