Best Local Farms and Orchards Near Wilderness Presidential Resort

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, fall brings with it the perfect opportunity to indulge in all the season’s delights. Whether it’s savoring fresh-picked apples, wandering through a pumpkin patch, or enjoying the simple pleasure of a warm, homemade treat, there’s no better place to experience fall’s bounty than in the heart of Virginia. Nestled near some of the region’s best farms and orchards, Wilderness Presidential Resort offers the perfect home base for your fall harvest adventures.

The Best Local Farms and Orchards to Visit This Fall

Virginia’s rich agricultural heritage is on full display in the fall, with local farms and orchards offering a variety of seasonal activities that are fun for the whole family. Here’s a guide to some of the best spots near Wilderness Presidential Resort where you can immerse yourself in the spirit of the season.

1. Carter Mountain Orchard

Located just a short drive from the resort, Carter Mountain Orchard is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the best of fall. Known for its stunning views and delicious apples, Carter Mountain Orchard offers a full day of fun and flavor.

Activities:

• Apple Picking: Spend a leisurely afternoon picking your own apples from the orchard’s wide variety of apple trees. Whether you prefer sweet or tart, you’ll find the perfect apple to suit your taste.
• Pumpkin Picking: In addition to apples, Carter Mountain Orchard also offers a pumpkin patch where you can pick out the perfect pumpkin to carve for Halloween or decorate your porch.
• Hayrides Rides: Enjoy a scenic ride through the orchard, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
• Apple Cider Donuts and Fresh Cider: After a day of picking, treat yourself to some freshly made apple cider donuts and a cup of warm apple cider—perfect for enjoying while you take in the fall scenery.
• Wine Tasting and Hard Cider: Visitors can purchase wine by the glass, tasting flight, or bottle to enjoy on our patio or deck. Sample and purchase Bold Rock’s delicious craft hard ciders and seltzers, which are crushed and crafted in the Blue Ridge Mountains using local apples (from Carter Mountain). The views compliment their wine and hard cider tasting beautifully.

2. Belvedere Plantation

Another fantastic destination for fall fun is Belvedere Plantation, located just a short drive from Wilderness Presidential Resort. This farm is packed with activities that celebrate the harvest season, making it a great spot for families and couples alike.

Activities:

• Pumpkin Picking: Wander through the expansive pumpkin patch to find the perfect pumpkin for carving or baking.
• Great Adventure Maize Maze: Challenge yourself to navigate one of Virginia’s largest corn mazes. With twists, turns, and surprises around every corner, it’s a fun activity for all ages.
• Additional Activities Included in Admission Fee:  Jumping Pillow, Pedal Carts, Trike Track, Pumpkin Mountain, Roller Bowler, Back 40, Ball Zone, Fun Barn, Little Farmer's Corral, Olde Barnyard, Racing Slides, Spider Web, Wall Ball, Great Adventure Maize Maze, Swine Speedway, Zippitydoo, Colonel's Corn Box, Barrel Train, Candy Cannon, Silo Ropes Adventure, Wagon Rides, Little Farmer's Bounce
• Attractions Not Included in Entrance Fee:  Screamin' Scarecrow's Super Slide, Punkin' Plunkin', Paint the Pests, Barnyard Blasters, Pumpkin Painting, Pick Your Own Flowers

3. MacKintosh Fruit Farm

If you’re looking for a more relaxed, farm-to-table experience, MacKintosh Fruit Farm is the place to be. Known for its variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, this farm offers a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy the best of the season.

Activities:

• Apple and Pear Picking: In addition to apples, MacKintosh Fruit Farm offers pear picking, giving you the chance to enjoy two of fall’s favorite fruits.
• Farm Market: Browse the farm market for fresh produce, homemade jams, and other local goodies. It’s a great place to pick up ingredients for a farm-fresh meal.
• Picnic Areas: Pack a picnic or grab something from the farm’s bakery and enjoy a meal surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the orchard.

4. Mount Olympus Farm Market

For those who love a good farm market, Mount Olympus Farm Market offers a delightful selection of seasonal produce and family-friendly activities. This farm is a bit of a hidden gem, offering a more low-key but equally enjoyable fall experience.

Activities:

• Pumpkin Patch: Pick out a pumpkin from the farm’s charming pumpkin patch, perfect for carving or decorating your home.
• Seasonal Produce: Browse the farm market for a variety of fall produce, including squash, apples, beets, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, collard greens, cucumbers, eggplant, fresh herbs, kale (curly, dinosaur, flat leaf, red Russian), lettuce (green, red, romaine, butter head), mustard greens, onions, sweet and hot peppers, potatoes, PUMPKINS, summer squash, sweet potatoes, spinach, tomatoes, tatsoi, turnips, turnip greens, winter squash. The market also offers homemade pies and other baked goods that are perfect for fall.

5. Graves Mountain Farm and Orchard

For a more rustic, down-home experience, Graves Mountain Farm and Orchard offers a range of activities that celebrate the best of fall. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this farm provides a stunning backdrop for your fall adventures.

Activities:

• Apple Picking: With over 75 acres of apple orchards, Graves Mountain offers one of the largest apple-picking experiences in the area.
• Pumpkin Patch: Pick the perfect pumpkin for carving, or choose a few to bring home and bake into pies.
• Farm Animals and Petting Zoo: Meet the farm’s friendly animals, including goats, sheep, and chickens.
• Farm-to-Table Dining: After a day of activities, enjoy a meal at the farm’s restaurant, which offers a menu filled with seasonal dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.

A Taste of Fall: Fire-Roasted Cornbread on the Grill

No fall adventure is complete without indulging in some delicious seasonal treats. Whether you’re planning a picnic at the farm or enjoying a meal back at your cabin at Wilderness Presidential Resort, this recipe for fire-roasted cornbread is the perfect addition to your fall menu. Made with fresh corn and cooked right on the grill, it’s a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for autumn.

Fire-Roasted Cornbread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg
• 1 cup fresh corn kernels (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to become white-hot before cooking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and egg. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the fresh corn kernels if using.
4. Prepare the Skillet: Place a cast-iron skillet on the grill and add the butter. Allow the butter to melt and coat the bottom of the skillet.
5. Cook the Cornbread: Pour the batter into the skillet, spreading it evenly. Close the grill lid and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Serve: Remove the skillet from the grill and let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter, honey, or your favorite fall preserves.

This fire-roasted cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to any fall meal, whether you’re dining at the farm or enjoying a cozy evening back at your cabin.

Plan Your Fall Harvest Adventure Today at Wilderness Presidential Resort

With so many incredible farms and orchards to explore, there’s no better time to plan a fall harvest adventure near Wilderness Presidential Resort. Whether you’re picking apples, navigating a corn maze, or simply enjoying the beauty of the season, these local destinations offer something for everyone. And with the comfort and convenience of the resort as your home base, you’ll have everything you need to make the most of your autumn getaway.

For more information on staying at Wilderness Presidential Resort and to book your accommodations, visit the Wilderness Presidential Resort website