The Orchard at Altapass

“A Must-Stop Mountain Gem What a great place to bring your family. Even after the impact of Hurricane Helene, this orchard hasn’t lost its heart. You can still feel the spirit of the place the moment you arrive—the laughter of families, the smell of fresh apples in the air, and that small-town kindness that makes you feel instantly welcome. They may be a little weather-worn right now, but you can tell beauty is already returning, and before long they’ll be more breathtaking than ever. The apples are crisp and bursting with flavor, each variety somehow tasting like sunshine and mountain air. The products are equally impressive—thoughtfully made, beautifully displayed, and clearly crafted with pride. You can sense that everyone here truly loves what they do, and that love shows in every detail. And then there’s the food. The apple pie is, without exaggeration, the best you’ll ever eat—warm, buttery, and overflowing with fresh fruit. Pair it with a cup of their hot apple cider, and you’ve got autumn in a mug. It’s comfort in its purest form. On weekends, live music drifts through the orchard, giving the whole place a charming, relaxed vibe. Kids run around with cider donuts in hand while parents tap their feet and soak in the view. It’s simple, wholesome joy—the kind that reminds you what weekends were meant to feel like. If you’re anywhere near the area, don’t just pass through—stop. Take a deep breath of that mountain air, grab a basket of apples, and let this place remind you how sweet life can be.”

“A sweet stop along The Blueridge Parkway. The view is well worth the stop all in itself, but there's so much more to this gem. Each time we've visited, on the drive down the narrow dirt road entrance, our ears have been greeted with a down-home bluegrass band echoing through our windows. As you park, you see a pleasant mountain view that is gorgeous. There is a butterfly garden with photo props for a quick photo op. As you enter the building, you'll see nice little treasures to purchase for souvenirs; shirts, jewelry, jellies, etc. There is also a bathroom; very clean one at that. My kids' favorite section is the ice cream box! It has a good selection and is not super pricey. Also! If you're lucky enough to get there when they have apple pie, buy two slices, and thank me later! We like to take our ice cream and pie out on the back deck; it's decorated with table and chairs to relax and take in the lovely view. There are also a few games to play, and you can also hear the live band playing as well. It's totally worth a stop!”

“AUG 2025 How to get there: the section of the Blue Ridge Parkway is open between the mineral museum on 226 and the orchard. This is a much better route, because Google maps is currently routing traffic on a long, one lane gravel road, with many stretches having insufficient space for cars to pass one another. We enjoyed our visit here. After exploring the orchard and pollinators garden, we perused the shop for local honey and jam, then indulged in some (very reasonably priced) Hershey's ice cream. After you get your ice cream, walk back toward the model train and there's a door on the left to a covered deck with seating and great views. The staff was very friendly and helpful and the dog watering station out front was a nice touch. Be sure to try the apple lemonade!”

“Great venue. We went during the summer so there was no apple picking available however we had food from the grill next door and enjoyed it on the porch. Plenty of games and entertainment for the children of all ages. With free games inside and out. Bluegrass music the entire time on the upper Pavillion that had drawn quite a crowd of people and made for a great day. Ice cream served inside along with a shop with all jarred things apple and other various treats. Have your child find the Queen Bee in the live hive displayed inside for a free sticker. Will be back during picking season to get some fresh apples.”

“Such a beautiful place. The orchard is amazing. Nestled on the side of the mountain. You can pick your own apples or you can buy a bag. They will take you in a golf cart out to the orchard or you can walk to pick your own. They have many apples that they have created. When we were there a folk band was playing and singing. The general store attached had all kinds of wonderful souvenirs to choose from. They also served ice cream and fudge. I must say though, the road coming in and out was very scary. Im sure they had to have it restructured due to Helene. Still very scary lol. We'll worth the trip.”

“Wonderful location. Pulled pork sandwich excellent. Gift store with plenty of nice items and clean bathrooms. Didn't try the hot apple pie and ice cream, but they looked delicious. Music area well sheltered and clean, roomy dance floor. Fantastic music by Sam McKinney and friends. Everyone seemed to have a blast. Will return. Can't wait for next music season.”

“This orchard has it all. A 'hey' ride, bee hive, heritage apple trees, gift shopping, grill for lunch, a train, porch to relax and live music! Highly recommend for the whole family! Not to mention that the whole area is protected in perpetuity for our families to enjoy this beautiful orchard and it's rich history! Thank you for preserving Altapass Orchard!”

“The staff was as friendly as could be. The apple picking was a lot of fun!! They taste great, McIntosh apples were perfect for picking . The food was great. I loved the store inside. A definite yes to cone back. It has beautiful scenery over looking is breathtaking.”