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The
Orchard at Altapass is a unique Blue Ridge experience. This is a great place to take the
kids and enjoy an afternoon of Appalachian culture, music, and fun. In addition
to the splendid apple orchards, activities include hay-rides,
storytelling, clogging, performances by local mountain musicians,
cider and apple butter making, picnic lunches and craft exhibits.
Located on land right next to the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Orchard has always
been an important economic base for the local folks. In the 1930s, the Orchard
was split in two by the building of the parkway. Because of that proximity, it
is the only private business with direct access to the parkway. Nearby railroad
lines bring up to thirty trains a day to the area and train whistles are part of
the Orchard experience. The trees grown at Altapass are heritage varieties
including the much-prized Virginia Beauty, King Luscious, and Stayman Winesap
apples.
Website:
Orchard at Altapass
Location: Milepost 328.3 at Orchard Rd. near
Spruce Pine, NC
Distance: 2 hours by way of the
Blue Ridge Parkway
Address: 102 Orchard Road, Spruce Pine NC
Telephone: 888-765-9531, 828-765-9531
Hours: May 1 to November 1, Monday, Wednesday- Saturday: 10
a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday: 12 -6 p.m., Closed Tuesday
Fees: Orchard: None. Various fees for other activities.
Allow: 2-3 hours
Nearby:
Grandfather Mountain,
Linville Caverns
Directions: Take the Blue Ridge Parkway! Hard to find, even with directions by
any other route. Get off 3 miles north of the Spruce Pine exit at Milepost 328.3
onto Orchard Rd. Look for little brown signs.
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