On the day of my visit to Sky Top Orchard, just south of Flat Rock, the deluge of rain did little to diminish the incredible views and the enthusiastic hustle of owners Lindsey and David Butler as they prepared for the upcoming apple harvest season.

David and his father Everette started this family-owned business in 1967 as a commercial farm. Lindsey joined the family in 1980 and helped convert the operation to a buy-local farm that has been welcoming neighbors and vacationers ever since. Perched atop scenic Mt. McAlpine at an elevation of 3,000 ft., this 43-year-old farm has the charm and character that only time and love can impart.

“When people come to visit the farm, they come for the whole experience,” says David. “Kids just don’t get to play outdoors like we used to.” And there is plenty to do for adults and children. With 100 acres (50 of which are orchard), the farm produces 24 varieties of apples along with grapes, peaches, cherries, and Asian pears.

There are hayrides, a bamboo forest, chickens and other farm animals, scenic picnic areas, and a playground. A covered farm stand, just under 3,000 square feet, is filled with large tables overflowing with apples: —gala, honey crisp, golden delicious, Staymen winesap, red Rome, pink lady, Arkansas black, and Idared, to name a few.

Shelves are stocked with homemade apple- related goodies including apple butter, jams, jellies, honey, and gift baskets. An antique cider press is used to make their popular apple cider and visitors love to watch them make —and most definitely eat—hot cake donuts.

“I grew up on this farm,” says David. “To share that with visitors is what it’s all about.” He tells of one group of school children that got caught in the rain during a hay ride. “I was about to apologize for the rain, but they were laughing so hard and saying, ‘That was the best ever!’”

Part of the fun is grabbing a basket and heading out to the orchard. Not only can you choose different varieties, the views and the sweet smell of apple blossoms are amazing.

The apples are available by the peck (about 10 lbs.), half bushel (about 20 lbs.), or full bushel. Prices range from 50 to 80 cents per pound depending on the variety and size. Don’t leave without trying an Asian pear.

With a farm this size, the family is busy all year planting, pruning, fertilizing, weeding, and mowing. The Butlers practice Integrated Pest Management and follow the University of North Carolina Extensions Service guidelines. These practices help prevent and manage a broad variety of crop-threatening pests. More importantly, adds David, “It ensures the best protection of our crops, the public’s health, and the environment.”

What makes the farm really special, they say, is the connection to the local community. “Lindsey and I believe in that connection with the community,” he says. “People want to see where their food comes from.”

Visit Sky Top Orchard at 1197 Pinnacle Mountain Road (three miles south of Flat Rock Playhouse off US 225) or online at skytoporchard.com. The farm can be reached at 828.692.7930.
(In Photo: David Butler)