Orchard Outlook for 2021
For the first time ever, Carter Mountain Orchard will be open to the public throughout the winter, Fridays–Sundays!* We’ll close if the weather forecast looks iffy; we’re not taking any chances with safety. PLEASE NOTE: tickets/reservations are NOT required!
*The Bold Rock Taproom will remain closed.
In the past, the orchard has closed at the end of December and reopened around Easter. You can now enjoy the crisp air, fresh cider donuts, and our spectacular mountain views all year long.
A Look Back at 2020
This year was one for the history books and we couldn’t have gotten through it without the support of our community and amazing staff. We’re so grateful to everyone on team Chiles Family Orchards for their hard work, perseverance, and overall awesomeness.
At this point, March seems like a million years ago. Here’s a look back at the Carter Mountain Orchard 2020 highlights.
April
The uncertainty in April delayed our season-opening and postponed a ribbon cutting with Sigora Solar. Hopefully, we’ll be able to celebrate our new solar panels and ongoing commitment to sustainability in 2021.
May
New times called for new service offerings. We opened a drive-thru at the Country Store pavilion and the new Ivy Road Pop-up.
June
The Virginia sun-ripened some tasty peaches for peach picking season and set beautifully behind the mountains for gorgeous Wind Down Wednesdays and Thursday Evening Sunset Series. But the sun can be a fickle friend; it also hid behind plenty of clouds, causing us to cancel events due to rain.
July
In July, we introduced your new favorite summer snack: peach sliders. The slice of fresh peach sandwiched in a cider donut topped with powdered sugar was an explosion of sweet flavors.
August
The Mountain Grill provided one of the best outdoor dining experiences in Charlottesville. With a delicious Americana menu featuring fruits and vegetables from our orchards, stunning views of #Charlottesville and the surrounding mountains, and sanitized, spaced picnic tables, it was a win-win-win.
September
Apple season looked a little different this year. To control crowd size, we started ticketing for in-person visits and opened a new scenic drive-thru.
Carter Mountain Orchard was voted #7 in the nation on USA TODAY’s “Best Apple Orchards” (2020) list!
November
We partnered with Quirk Hotel Charlottesville to give apple pies to first responders at Charlottesville Fire Department (CFD) on Ridge Street.
December
It’s a bummer that Santa has to quarantine at the North Pole this year but our gift guide made shopping local merry and easy.
