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Sky Top ranks third in USA Today poll of best orchards

Wagon rides are among the attractions at Sky Top Orchard in Flat Rock. [SKYTOP ORCHARD PHOTO]

By Lightning Reports, Published: September 25, 2025

Sky Top Orchard is one of the best apple orchards — and best fall destinations to visit — USA Today readers say.

The orchard on Pinnacle Mountain in Flat Rock is ranked third in the Top 10 poll of U-pick farms.

"Less than an hour south of Asheville, North Carolina, Sky Top Orchard offers its guests the chance to celebrate a nostalgic fall on the mountain," USA Today said. "The cool summer nights and warm days create perfect conditions for growing over 22 varieties of apples, with the u-pick season lasting from July through the end of October. Gala, Honeycrisp, Fuji, Red and Golden Delicious, Granny Smith and Pink Lady are just a few available varieties."

Sky Top, which has wagon rides, bakery, apple cider, jams and jellies and other merchandise, was the only orchard in North Carolina to make the Top 10. No. 2 is in Phillipston, Mass., and No. 1 is in Middlefield, Connecticut.