We remain under government recommendations and, physical distancing (not social—we encourage interaction) is required. All precautions have been employed—masks (in accordance with government mandate, all staff and visitors are required to wear masks inside the barn) and gloves for staff, distancing markers, sanitizer required before entering the store and recommended as you leave. Pets are permitted inside on a leash (no mask required). Bill is on premises telling tales and entertaining (although not tapping toes) visitors. He will be storytelling in coming weeks, although not on heyrides.

The trails are open, and a revised map is being installed, but please respect other walkers and continue to physical distance.

We hope that all of the above will be short term, but in the interim, the health and safety of our staff and our visitors are most important in decision making. The apples trees are still thriving and ripening. No matter what the climate of the planet, they're ready for pickin' as usual.

UPDATE: Because staff is limited, the Orchard online store is closing and the Apple Core Grill will remain closed for the remainder of the season. We hope that this won't keep folks away. The ice cream is still icy cold and the apple pie steaming hot. And the fun (U-Pick) is just beginning.

If you would like to purchase something from the store and have it shipped directly to you, just call Alicia at 828-765-9531 Thursday through Sunday from 10AM to 5PM.

We invite you to come for a visit. Bring your dancing shoes. There's room on the floor for all. And your walking shoes. You don't want to leave without a walk through the apple "forest." Bring your appetites for the apple pie alamode and Apple Core Grill delights. Pick your own apples or purchase them in our General Store (in season). Return to a simpler time for an hour or an afternoon at the family- (and pet-) friendly Orchard At Altapass.