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    Carter Mountain Orchard

    4.1 (525 reviews)
    Closed 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

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    Zion H.

    [[HIGHLIGHT]]If you want to get together with friends and have a peaceful time, have a drink, have some food and just hang out. Then definitely come to Carter mountain orchard.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We were looking for something different to do and decided to stop by with some friends who were in town. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Overall it was first beautiful, second peaceful and third enjoyable.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]There is a lot of seating up on the mountain and many people were apple picking and going on hayrides as well.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The only downfall while we were there were the red lantern flies are taking over but hardly can be blamed on the business as they are everywhere nowadays.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

    Popitos pizza, fries, apple cider slushie and donuts! With this view!!
    Rachel K.

    A quintessential Fall activity in Charlottesville! A must. Go. You do need to reserve timed tickets in advance for the busy season (Sept-Nov). Parking is rough but pretty well organized! You can buy the donuts by single, 6pack, or dozen. If you purchase them and they're warm, you must open and eat one immediately. I don't make the rules! :) Also please get the slushie- trust me.

    Apple tree
    Tom S.

    Best apple cider donuts. I want to two other places in Virginia and Juan in Maryland and this is definitely the best so far. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Beautiful scenery on the mountains right overlook of the mountains in the city very cool Orchard.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]I enjoyed walking around good food good vibes.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Everything was cool. Staff is friendly no complaints.

    Bakery
    Ericka G.

    As someone who worked in an orchard for over 10 years... I was shocked that visiting an orchard on a mountain wouldn't be a better experience.. F O O D They had a tent serving Wood Fired Pizza - upon ordering they told us it would be 30 minutes for two wood fired pizzas. We set our timer and came back in 25 minutes. The guy taking the orders was all over the place. We got one of our pizzas while somebody else got our other one. And I'm pretty sure our pizza we got might've belonged to someone else waiting longer than us. And then a lady walked up, ordered, and got her pizzas immediately?! Trash service. S E R V I C E Every single employee here, except for one, that we interacted with had a bad attitude and were rude. Customer service training is essential to a create a thriving business... this business felt so cold and you could tell they are only about making money here. A T M O S P H E R E [[HIGHLIGHT]]The environment is obviously beautiful because you're on a mountain with a view! But the lack of customer service and coziness taints the entire experience.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]And not to mention their restrooms are porta potties and look like they haven't been cleaned in weeks and there's trash all over the place with not a single employee picking up anything..[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We literally drove an hour and a half today for my birthday... and we're now driving elsewhere because I refuse to give this business any more of my money.

    Kassidy K.

    Me & Fall are made for one another. [[HIGHLIGHT]]I love going to this orchard because it's just so beautiful during the fall.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] They always have YUMMY food and drink options. I stock up on apple cider donuts, apple cider, apples, and some of their canned goodies inside I'm not the best for hiking so I may not hike it next year - but I'll forever keep going back for the other adventures. [[HIGHLIGHT]]With how beautiful it is - they get super busy so buy your tickets in advance ![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Bring your hiking shoes and be prepared to wait in line. They move so quick but there are so many people you'll be waiting a minute for anything. The staff are also super friendly with having to deal with so so many people. So please respect them regardless of how long the wait is.

    Vibes
    Jean W.

    Cheers to 7 years of picking apples here! Started a fall tradition after moving to the east coast, and now I look forward to coming here every fall! --------------------------------- [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's funny how moving to Virginia made me actually like apples again. There must be something in the apple. Something about picking an apple from a tree, with the backdrop of gorgeous mountains surrounding you, blue skies, the sun in your face...[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Unfortunately this year, it was a bit hot. Still 80 degrees in October?? Make sure to check the weather[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Apples: they have a varied selection, recommend checking the website to see what's available. Only at the end did we discover there was a patch of Jonagolds. We got granny smith, stayman, staymans. They also had Fuji, but that requires you to walk up a very big hill Food: we split some fire oven pizza from Popitos, got the apple cider donuts which are a classic, and split a bold rock blackberry hard cider Recommendations: apples, apple cider donuts, bold rock cider Affordability: costs about $10 to book a ticket (unfortunately we had to cancel because of the rain), and $35 for a box, overall it's probably more expensive than buying apples from a grocery store but the experience is so worth it! Service: buy your tickets in advance!! They sell out, do not be, apple-less [[HIGHLIGHT]]Good for: cute dates, hangouts, family[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

    James M.

    As someone who enjoys a nice hard cider at a summer arbecue as much as I enjoy it a on a crisp fall evening, I can say this was one of the nicest places that I've sat and had a drink in many years. The photos do not do justice to the view that we are looking at while sat at the orchard, we saw a picnic benches and enjoyed views from miles and miles across the rolling hills and mountains of Virginia. Not only did we enjoy trying the Bold Rock Cider, but we also enjoyed getting apple cider donuts from the store inside at the orchard. On top of this there was also some wines available too, alongside other food options and fun trinkets in the shop. The road is a little windy to get up but that is implied by the name Carter 'Mountain' Orchard. All of the stuff they were very friendly, and I'll bartender is very helpful with our cider selections. We actually ended up going for one of the hard cider flights, unlike them all so much that we bought them from the small shop there as well to enjoy when we got back later.

    Pam W.

    Peach picking! We drove from Richmond to pick peaches and have a little outdoor time. We've been here before for apples and had a great time, so When we heard they have peaches we were excited. We ended up buying 2 medium bags, which was more than enough. Some advice: Wear tennis shoes and something cool if you're coming peach picking in the summer No large bags or purses are allowed and no outside drinks or food. The store is cute and has some nice things but it's pricey. I know they need to make money so I get it. Take your time and have fun'! Stop for a snack and cider and relax a bit.

    Theresa E.

    Good old fashion fall fun. This apple orchard is so sweet we got a large bag of crunch a bunch. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It was rainy the orchard was muddy but still a great time.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Everyone should visit this place this fall.

    View
    Racquel H. D.

    So excited to go back to Carter mountain. Haven't been on some years. The winding road up the mountain is so adventurous. They had chili and it was so good. It was warming for the cold day we were there . The bold rock area was so good. Nice selection of Bold Rock ciders and Brent was so nice and knowledgeable of Bold Rick itself. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The ambiance is festive and of course the apple cider donuts are the absolute best![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]There view is spectacular[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

    Ashley C.

    [[HIGHLIGHT]]Such great views!![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Always make sure to grab a flight from Bold Rock, and a wine slushy! Their apple cider donuts are to die for! Always accommodating as well

    Wine list
    Lucy L.

    The wine for an orchard that specializes in other things was very decent. They have a variety of options to choose from. The Chardonnay was crisp and light. The petit manseng was on par for the area. Meritage was also on par for the area. Merlot was ok. I will say I thought they would all be sweet because of it being an orchard but they were all pleasantly in the middle. The staff were all friendly. They have plenty of seating and parking. The store has lots of cute items and jams and sauces. I greatly enjoyed the vibes. The apple cider donuts are ok a little too greasy for my personal taste. Overall would recommend for a fun family outing or a cute day out in nature.

    Peach soft serve on the patio with a beautiful view
    Meryl K.

    I dream about their peach soft serve sometimes. Beautiful stop if you're passing through Charlottesville or staying in the area. Highly recommend shopping in their store. I got fun gifts for friends last time I was there.

    Peaches

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    Page 1 of 14

    Ask the Community - Carter Mountain Orchard

    If picking during the week, what is the cost? Or do they charge by the pound you pick?

    They have 4 size of containers to choose from ranging from $12 to $50. You purchase the container and fill it up as much as you want.

    Is this place pet friendly? Wondering if I could take my small dogs.

    Carter Mountain no longer can allow Pets because of a food safety certification requirement.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - Carter Mountain Orchard

    There are numerous tables outside for your group to enjoy Carter's famous cider and apple cider doughnuts.

    Mentioned in 158 reviews

    Read more highlights

    Chiles Peach Orchard

    Chiles Peach Orchard

    4.0
    (87 reviews)
    15.8 mi
    $

    We spent a gorgeous September afternoon at Chiles Peach Orchard, and it turned out to be a perfect…read moreday for apple picking. The staff greeted us with warm smiles and helpful tips, making the experience feel welcoming from the start. Their marketplace has a wide selection of apple varieties, most of them are ready for sampling. While wandering the rows, we stumbled upon a few new favorites--crisp, sweet, and just the right amount of tart. If you're looking for a family‑friendly outing with fresh fruit, friendly faces, and plenty of tasty discoveries, Chiles Peach Orchard is a must‑visit. Notes: This maybe not in their control - lantern flies were everywhere, they don't bite, but they are invasive bugs, be careful not to get hitchhikers. Also, they sometimes add an admission fee on specific picking days, so check their website beforehand to avoid surprises.

    As summer was ending, we decided to stop by Chile's Peach Orchard…read more We were excited to try the peach soft serve and peach donuts. The soft serve was pretty good. It had some peach flavor, but honestly, nothing out of the ordinary. I was told the peach donuts were just all right, not as standout as others (apple cider donuts). What did stand out was the peach Bellini, which was really good, especially because it was such a hot day. We wanted to check out the peach orchard, but unfortunately, they had sold out for the day, so we weren't allowed to go. It was probably around two or three in the afternoon, so we were surprised they had shut down so early. We did enjoy the views and live music, which was really cool. Definitely check out their weekly events!

    Photos
    Chiles Peach Orchard
    Chiles Peach Orchard
    The peach trees in the fall

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    The peach trees in the fall
    F. T. Valley Farm

    F. T. Valley Farm

    5.0
    (6 reviews)
    42.4 mi

    What a gorgeous orchard tucked away in Sperryville. It's family owned and they have a beautiful…read moreopen barn with all sorts of goodies including peach slushies made on site, local beef, baked goods, eggs, many varieties of apples, peaches and other fruits to PTO! Friendly service, bathrooms on site and Adirondack chairs in the shade or sun to relax!

    I have been to this orchard twice. It's about a two and a half hour drive from me, but…read moreunquestionably worth it! The drive itself is gorgeous, peaceful, therapeutic even. You get to enjoy rolling hills, blue mountains, farms with their herds, and the wonderful Yoder's Amish market. You'll also pass tons of distilleries, wineries, and what seems like never-ending festivals in Gordonsville. Why drive out to this orchard? First off, they actually choose their apple varieties based on taste and texture, as opposed to familiarity alone. You can tell that they really work hard to get the best of the best as soon as you taste one. Their apples are so crisp and so packed with flavor! The varieties are amazingly unique, and many of them are difficult to find. Some varieties are not available at any other orchard here, much less in the stores. Now, don't miss this--their unpasteurized apple cider is insanely delicious!! Just don't give it to wee ones two or younger. You can taste all of the ridiculous variety of apples the goes into them. The flavor is so complex, and it is not in the least overly sweet. If you go, get some! You won't regret it at all. They tend to keep samples available for different apples and for their cider. I'm told the pasteurizing crocks the flavor. You can definitely taste the difference. Maybe bring a cooler for this as well. Right now in October, you can find the amazing Ambrosia apple pre-picked (delightful floral notes, immense coconut-like flavor, citrus notes, almost doesn't taste like apple with your eyes closed. I've even had some of these that taste spicy like cinnamon. They're quite amazing! I swear it actually reminds me of the old ambrosia salad haha), crimson crisp EverCrisp (my personal favorite--a gigantic apple with crunch and immense tangy flavor and juiciness for days that is said to last 6 months under refrigeration without degrading in texture and even stays crunchy after baking!), Gold Rush, Candy Crisp, Rome, and more. As far as the common varieties--golden delicious, red delicious, pink lady, stayman, Albermarle Pippin--you will find those here too, but they still have an out of this world flavor. Their trees are grown on dwarf rootstock, meaning that even your youngest kids can easily pick their own apples, and you can pick easily from the entire tree because they don't get but so tall. What makes this orchard stand out is truly an endless list. So, another factor is that they charge the exact same price ($2/lb) for all apple varieties, pre-picked or not. Don't worry, the varieties are not a result of genetic modification. Everything has been thought of here. They have wagons for carrying your apples as you pick. They pack your apples in paper bags that are super sturdy. They actually live in Northern VA and donate their apples to homeless shelters, food banks, and DC area charities. They also don't sell you messed up apples just because you picked it. They encourage you to taste because, to know what you like. The customer service is phenomenal. The people are so friendly, sincere, passionate, and helpful in every way possible, be it for choosing apples, finding things to do in the area, or really anything they can help with. It's a family business filled with love. The actual orchard itself is gorgeous with amazing views. The great thing is that it is still new, so it's not swarmed with people at any point. You can leisurely enjoy your time. Even the furthest fruits didn't feel excessively or unpleasantly far of a walk. I loved that they did not clear grasses out on the path for navigating the orchard, so it doesn't get muddy, slimy, or sludgy in the area where you walk. They are still expanding, and they are planning to add a baked goods portion of the business, refrigerators, indoor bathrooms (they have portable potties with the outdoor portable sinks with soap and water now.). They encourage you to bring a picnic with you. They do have picnic tables onsite. One very important detail--you MUST bring food with you for the drive. You will hit some spots that do not have food options if you're coming from Richmond. It happens right around the time you'll be super hungry. The people at the orchard did recommend me a restaurant in their area along a local river walk called Before and After, but pretty much everything closes at 5, Yoder's included. I was also told Yoder's sandwiches and ice cream are really great. I can attest to some amaaazing artisan style jams in the most inventive flavors. Going in the same direction, you can find an animal rescue zoo, Shenandoah River State Park (about an hour away), Shenandoah National Park, a water park, and more. Ready to go yet?! I hope so!

    Photos
    F. T. Valley Farm
    F. T. Valley Farm
    F. T. Valley Farm

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    Cross Keys Farm

    Cross Keys Farm

    5.0
    (2 reviews)
    32.4 mi

    I am pleased to write the first review for this amazing farm. My husband and I were visiting…read moreMassanutten Resort in late August, 2023, and we were looking for a local farm with "Pick-your-own" produce. We found that this farm fit the bill, with different pick-your-own options depending on season. Apple season had just started, so we headed on over. We first went into the small shop, where we were greeted by a very friendly and helpful young man. He explained how to determine which fruit was ready for picking, and sent us off with our bags to fill. The rows are well-marked, and I was thrilled to see that my favorite apple -- honey crisps -- were ripe and ready for picking. The farm has a large variety of apples -- golden delicious, gala, sweet surprise, ambrosia, etc. -- though not all were yet ripe. The trees were producing a lot of fruit, all of which was easy to reach, so our bags were filled in no time. We returned to the market, where we purchased quite a lot of additional fruits (peaches) and vegetables (okra, giant Marconi peppers, sweet banana peppers, green onions, and eggplant). They also sell other farm-fresh produce and eggs. There are also handmade wooden ornaments for sale. We didn't taste our haul until returning home -- both the peaches and apples taste amazing. Crisp and sweet. Fresh off the tree DOES make a difference! We haven't tasted the vegetables yet. -5-stars for food quality. -5 stars for staff. The gentleman in the store was very engaging, patiently answering a ton of our questions about the farm and its products. -5 stars for value. The prices are competitive with local grocery stores, but you're getting fresher products. -1 star for location. LOL. The farm is two hours away from our home! I wish it were closer to us. We would definitely be regulars there if it were! Seriously though, the location is easy to find, and convenient from Harrisonburg or Massanutten.

    Found this hidden gem on the side of the road, we walked up to the shop and were kindly greeted by…read morea lady. She explained which peaches were available, where to pick, she made the experience very easy! They also had PYO flowers, it was so fun walking around because the flowers are everywhere. The gourd tunnel was also a once in a lifetime sight haha. Truly so crazy to see irl.

    Photos
    Could apple picking be any easier?
    Could apple picking be any easier?
    Pick your own $5 flowers
    Pick your own $5 flowers
    Brochure (back). August 2023.

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    Brochure (back). August 2023.

    Carter Mountain Orchard - pickyourown - Updated July 2026

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