So You Want to Go to Carter Mountain Orchard

Just minutes from downtown Charlottesville and Monticello, Carter Mountain Orchard offers a variety of fun things for the family season to season. From ticketed entry for peach or apple picking, drive thru scenic views, face painting, and an on site Bold Rock taproom, there are plenty of options to keep your visit fun and exciting.

Ticketed entry is a Covid Precautionary measure to keep capacities at a safe level, predominantly during their busy periods (weekends). I also found the time slots (three hours a slot) and pre-pay bag selection options beneficial to keeping things safely separated for social distancing.

The Orchard is open year round, but I typically take my yearly visit mid to late September to help me kick off my favorite fall festivities. The hours and offerings vary seasonally, so make sure you check out their website to see what is the best time of year for what you are looking to pick during your visit.

During my trip the options were Jonagold and Golden Delicious Apples. After a brief intermission with a Orchard Facilitator, we had our directions on where to go to find each variety, and we were off!

After a few hours of filling apple bags, we made our way back uphill to the epicenter that is the Gift Shop, Food Offerings, Bold Rock Taproom, and even Food Trucks. I couldn't leave without a crab cake sandwich from the Food Trucks, Apple Butter & Cider, Bread & Butter Pickles, and of course Apple Cider Donuts! I promise the gift shop is just as much fun as the apple picking itself. Make sure you add Carter Mountain into your seasonal festivities, with plenty to offer for all age groups, you are sure to return again and again.

When you consider going:

• Be sure to read the visitor guidelines on the site: They have plenty of information about "Before Picking" and "While Picking" that includes insider tips to help you make the most of your visit.

• Rain or Shine: The Orchard is typically open rain or shine unless noted on the site for serious conditions. Be diligent on when you decide to go, as you may not be able to change your ticketed date based on the weather.

• Dress Properly: With those weather conditions in mind, you will want to be dressed for what you may encounter. Mud, dust, uneven ground and hilly areas etc.. sturdy, closed toed shoes are recommended.