Orchard at Altapass History

The Orchard at Altapass, despite being located at Mile Post 328 on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway in the mountains of North Carolina, actually has a history that started well before the parkway (which began on September 11, 1935) came along. 

The orchard, as it is now, is only a small fraction of its original size and scope of operations. Originally, it was started in 1908 by the Clinchfield Railroad due to its location.

The orchard is located along the lowest point of the Eastern Continental Divide, which is the dividing line of where rain water eventually ends up; in the Atlantic Ocean on the Eastern side, or the Mississippi River on the Western side.

Due to this, the orchard is nestled in the valley and protected on all sides by mountains which act as a buffer and insulators to hold in warmer air and protect against freezing during the cooler springtime nights.

Originally, the orchard held over 30,000 apple trees planted across a massive 600 acres. However, it now only has about 3,000 apple trees across 70 acres. 

One cause of the decrease came just eight short years after its beginning. In July 1916, two hurricanes (a category 2 and a category 3) came together over Western North Carolina and led to over 10 straight days of rain that would devastate several mountain areas and leave marks behind that can still be seen to this day.

The converging of storms and their seemingly never-ending rainfall would later become known as the Great Flood of 1916 which broke records all over the Southeast US. One such record was for the highest amount of rainfall in an area within the continental US in a 24-hour period; which the area of Altapass claimed with a staggering 22.22 inches.

Because of this massive down pouring of rainwater, every part of Western North Carolina became inundated and triggered several deadly landslides and dam failures in the region [1].

However, despite the damage caused by this historic event, the orchard persisted and the act of replanting began. To this day, there are still several trees that are believed to be from that original replanting. That would make some of them 108 years old this year! 

What is an orchard, and why is this one special?

Orchards are often large areas of land that are used to grow and raise one particular type of fruit bearing tree. In this case, it’s all apples!

The production of apples is one of North Carolinas top crops and is consistently in the top 10 list of apple producers in the US. Because of the climate, soil, and pollinators (more on a few of them below) that call NC home, there are around 200 apple orchards or commercial apple growers located here [2]!

Despite all these orchards though, there are several things that make the one in Altapass unique. The main one being the variety of apples that are grown here; heritage heirloom apples.

Some of which can be traced back to the beginning of our nations history when Europeans first began colonizing the area. 

On average, it takes around five years before apple trees begin to produce quality apples. Once they produce, most apple trees have a lifespan of about 70 years until they slow down. However, as mentioned above, there are some here that are well past that 70-year mark and still producing! 

All apples begin their life as just a small bloom in the springtime before spending the next few weeks to several months (depending on variety) growing larger and juicier until it’s time for them to be picked. During this harvesting season, another example of how this orchard sets itself apart is that it is a “Minimum Spray” orchard.

Minimum spray means that during the harvest season, they only spray their orchard 4-5 times and only using organic compounds. This is in contrast to some commercial growing operations, which conduct over 20 sprayings.

This means you get a healthier and a more environmentally friendly product and operation.

Finally, at the end of the season and toward the end of the year, when the cold weather returns to the region, the caretakers begin pruning the trees. During pruning, they take the time to shape and trim as many trees as possible so that they grow outward and downward, almost in the shape of an opened-up umbrella. 

An umbrella shape is important, as it helps ensure that water and sunlight access each apple. It also makes the apples more accessible for picking.

Orchards also play many roles or exist for several different reasons. For example, some are for commercial growing, some are for fun events like apple picking, and some, such as the one here, play a very important role: preserving and protecting these historical heirloom varieties so that they can be enjoyed for generations to come.

While there are thousands of different apple varieties, the Orchard at Altapass focuses on growing the ones listed below.

The vast majority of these are original heirloom varieties that the orchard has preserved. One example of which is the Limbertwig, a very hard to find variety that is native only to the Southern Appalachian region.

Pollinators abound!

Another distinguishing difference of this orchard is their approach towards local pollinators, such as honey bees and several types of butterflies. They recognize that without them, there would be no orchard; or for that matter, no humanity either.

They have started several programs and placed additions around the orchard to ensure these pollinators have plenty of options for habitats. One example is the transparent observation beehive inside the visitor’s center. Don’t worry, it’s entirely enclosed with only a small tube that goes through the wall for the bees to come and go safely.

There are also several other beehives located around the property. However, there is just something fascinating about being able to watch the inner workings of a beehive and all the activity that goes on inside of one. Also, it’s right next to the fresh honey that’s for sale, and what’s better than watching bees make honey? Eating some while watching them make more! 

Bees alone are not the only pollinators that the orchard has worked hard to ensure the safety of; butterflies are the other main attraction and big stars at the orchard.

They have planted butterfly friendly plants such as milkweed all around the orchard and even have an established butterfly garden which is full of pollinator friendly plants, flowers, and bushes.

On top of these efforts, every year they lead a program to help protect the Monarch Butterfly, which is on the brink of being declared an endangered species again. The staff constantly search the property and when they discover monarch eggs, they remove the entire plant and place it inside for protection. Once they are then placed in the enclosure, visitors can observe and learn more about them, and if lucky, see multiple stages at the same time! I did this last year and got to observe several of them shortly after they emerged from their chrysalis’ (the butterfly equivalent of a cocoon).

I then got to see and learn something new; did you know that monarchs have furry edges along their wings? I had no idea until then! 

Ensuring their protection until they emerge as a gorgeous, golden-orange butterfly is not the end of their program though. Once a butterfly is ready to go free, the orchard tags their wing (it does not hurt or bother them) so that it can be traced on its long journey south. 

Some of their monarchs have successfully made the trip from the orchard in Altapass all the way down to Mexico, a staggering distance of over 1,000 miles!

Things to do at Orchard of Altapass

There are so many fun activities here and something for everyone (and even the pets) to enjoy no matter the age!

Walking Trails

Come and just enjoy the outdoors and walk one of the many trails that are located throughout the orchard. See some of the heritage heirloom apple varieties and many other sights along the way. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a hike down to the original form of transportation (before the Parkway), the train tracks! Trail maps and detailed information about each trail are available at the Red Barn and online. Also, it’s free!

Map of trails, buildings, and sights around the orchard. (Taken from website)

Photo opportunities

No matter where you look there are plenty of wonderful photo opportunities! There are several peek-through standing props placed around the orchard for fun and creative pictures. On top of these, there is the natural beauty that can only be found in the mountains of North Carolina and particularly along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Which leads me to one of my personal favorites; taking in the view of the setting sun while relaxing on the back-porch area! Be sure to bring your camera! 

Dining

The on-property restaurant, The Apple Core Grill, serves several types of sandwiches such as BBQ, Chicken Salad, Pimento Cheese, and even hotdogs. Also, in the general store, there are more options available including: fresh baked apple pies (my recommendation), Hershey’s ice cream, homemade fudge, fresh honey, and so much more!

Apple Picking

Come take a guided tour among the orchard with some of the many knowledgeable staff who will guide you to some of the freshest and tastiest apples in the orchard. Get your chance to see and pick the apples you want (and maybe enjoy one or two along the way). Be sure to bring your close-toed shoes and questions for this fun experience! (Prices range from $10, $15, to $24 depending on size of bag or basket you choose)

Prebagged Apples

Don’t have time for picking your own? Weather isn’t cooperating? Or if you just want some apples to take home with you- There are several varieties that are already picked, bagged up, and ready to go available for purchase. (Prices range from $8 for a half peck, $14 for a full peck, to $45 for a full bushel)

Live Music

Throughout the season, there are constantly unique artists and bands playing at the music and events pavilion.

Be sure to check the website and Facebook page to get the most up-to-date information. 

“Heyrides”

Similar to a normal hayride, however, this one is missing the “hay” on the wagon. During these, you are treated to a 45-minute ride that is packed with stories of local lure and history, including those about the first settler of the orchard: Charlie McKinney.

This is a great educational experience and way to learn more about the orchard, its history and mission, the apples, and the wildlife found there.

Be sure to visit the orchard website for days, times and cost.

General Store

Make this both your first and last stop of your trip, get your trail maps here, see the enclosed beehive, explore the model train set up, and get a overview of the orchard before going exploring or apple picking.

Then come back for some great food, delicious deserts, fresh honey, and find some unique gifts to take home for friends and family.

Finally, finish your visit off by spending some time on the back deck taking in the awe-inspiring views of the mountains and valleys that surround you. 

Know before you visit

Here are a few tips that will make your visit to the Orchard at Altapass more enjoyable!

• The orchard is mostly outside, so be prepared for the weather and plan ahead if necessary. 
• Pet/animal policy: All pets are welcome as long as they are leashed and well behaved. Also, please remember to clean up after them. 
• The orchard has some steep areas, roots, and uneven ground, so watch your step. However, there are still several areas that are easily accessible and allow for the use of wheelchairs, strollers, etc. 
• While the orchard has a set season and hours of operation, the walking trails located around there remain open year-round! 
• Don’t be surprised if you see or learn something new. 
• Most importantly, HAVE FUN and enjoy making memories!

Orchard Information

Address:

Orchard at Altapass, Altapass Foundation, Inc

1025 Orchard Road

Spruce Pine, NC 28777

Milepost 328 on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Website: http://www.altapassorchard.org

Phone: (828)-765-9531

Opens: May 4th, 2024

Closes: End of October. However, the walking trails stay open year-round! 

Hours:

Weekends only in May (10a-5p)

Starting in June, Wed-Sun (10a-5p) 

(The Apple Core Grill opens June 1st and operates on Saturday’s and Sunday’s from 11a-4p with more dates to be announced)

How to get to the Orchard at Altapass

From Spruce Pine/Marion: Follow NC Route 226 North, toward to the Blue Ridge Parkway, turn right across from the NC Museum of Minerals, then make a left onto the Parkway. Go 3 miles to Orchard Rd. Turn Right (VERY TIGHT TURN), then right again at the intersection. Follow the signs to the Orchard.

Note: If you are driving an oversized vehicle such as a motor home or attached trailer, please continue past Orchard Rd. to the next overlook (North Cove Valley Overlook, about a half mile away), turn around there, then come back making a left onto Orchard Rd. 

Special thanks

I need to do a special thanks to Sam McKinney, the Mission and Sustainability Manager, who has graciously assisted me with compiling extensive amounts of information and helping make this article happen. 

Also, listed below are just a few of the individuals who need special mention for their work, assistance, and dedication in making sure that the Orchard at Altapass stays one of the top attractions to visit along the parkway: 

Beth Hilton: Executive Director

Alicia Sillman: Retail Operations Manager

Germaine Galjour: Bees, Blooms, Butterflies

Michael Fortner: Field Lead

Ramiro Chavez: Field Specialist

Kit Trubey and Bill and Judy Carson: Founders 

Sources

1. Neufeld, R. (n.d.). Visiting Our Past: A harrowing tale of the great flood of 1916. The Asheville Citizen Times. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from https://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/local/2020/07/12/visiting-our-past-harrowing-tale-great-flood-1916/5414920002/
2. Apple Facts | NC Apple Growers Association. (n.d.). Ncapplegrowers.com. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from https://ncapplegrowers.com/apple-facts/#:~:text=How%20many%20apple%20producers%20are

Earth to Sky Park - Burnsville NC

The Earth to Sky Park (ESP) was founded in 2016 at the old Mitchell/Yancey county landfill and was originally called the EnergyXchange. It was a project by MCC to make use of releasing methane gases and has since grown into quite the attraction. 

With the creation of the BareDark Sky Observatory (2017), the Glenn and Carol Arthur Planetarium (2021), and recently their pollinator meadow and hydro/aquaponics laboratory (currently underway), this place excels in educating visitors about the not only the world around them (such as local pollinators-even the nighttime ones!) but also, the sights and even sounds of the vast universe around us!

Bare Dark Sky Observatory

The Bare Dark Sky Observatory opened to the public In June 2017 and houses not one, but two telescopes inside! The principal attraction is by far the 34-inch Newtonian telescope.

It was custom-built and is the largest telescope for public use in the Southeast US. With its gigantic mirror, it takes in enough light to allow viewers to peer deep into space for an amazing view of planets, nebulas, galaxies, and other astrological sights. Also at the site is a smaller 14-in Meade telescope for viewing closer and brighter celestial objects such as the moon and planets.

The observatory has received several improvements over the last few years and is now a gorgeous place surrounded by local plants and flowers that help support pollinating insects. Other recent additions are multiple “telescope pads” for personal use by individuals with their own telescopes or astrophotography setups and a paved walkway/ramp up to the observatory.

Now, while the observatory itself is not always open to the public, MCC offers multiple nights each month with their “Community Nights” and “Moon Madness Nights”. These events are often a couple hours long after dark and run by knowledgeable and friendly staff that allows for each visit to be unique from the last depending on weather and what objects are viewable that night.

The Glenn and Carrol Arthur Planetarium

The Glenn and Carrol Arthur Planetarium was opened in 2021 and features many unique features.

The main sight is the 36-ft dome that allows for an almost complete 360-degree field-of-view when looking up. Watching a show or demonstration here gives you the feeling of being able to fly through space.

The planetarium is also unique that it has a brand-new state-of-the-art projector that allows for visitors to experience shows such as the James Webb Space Telescope experience; one of only two planetariums in the country that offer this interactive experience that’s updated monthly to show the most recent images from the James Webb Telescope.

Another amazing function–what if it's too cloudy or bad weather outside? Well, now you can go inside and see the night sky clear as, well… day! You can recline back in a comfy zero-gravity chair to a view of the night sky in its full glory with no light pollution or distractions.

Zoom into your favorite celestial objects or enjoy the show about the history of the different constellations that can be seen. Like the observatory, they offer several options to come and experience weekly movies, shows/presentations, laser light shows and musical experiences, plus so much more.

Editors Note: We visited the Planetarium twice during our visit to Burnsville NC. You can read about our experience in our Burnsville Travel blog.

Other sights and Experiences

Speaking of things that can “bee” seen, the planetarium is the location of a gorgeous mural that wraps all the way from the inside to most of the outside wall.

This work of art was done by muralist Matthew Willey, who is traveling around the world with his “Good of the Hive” murals to paint 50,000 bees.

His goal is to promote honeybee health and raise awareness of how connected life is. The planetarium is the host of his 10,000th bee, a queen bee, drone bee, and a collection of other night time pollinators such as lightning bugs and a giant luna moth!

There is also an aquaponics and hydroponics lab that is currently growing tomatoes in an environment with no soil. These experiments are just one way that we can study and test ideas on Earth that may one day be the foundation for life outside our planet.

If you are looking for a place to hold a meeting, there is the Paul and Susie O’Connell Conference Center that is available.

Or if you are looking for something less work related, there is an outdoor picnic area and hiking trails you can get out on and experience. Have a group of people and looking for something unique, all areas and most events can be rented out for private parties and functions!

Light Pollution

One of the focus points that this location teaches about is the problem of light pollution and how it affects not only the night sky, but the world.

Light pollution is, simply put, the extra light shining up into the sky from unshielded light fixtures such as street lights.

This is a problem so large, you can see it from space!

Why is this a big deal? To start, it affects all life around us; from the smallest of insects to ourselves. 

This extra light disrupts the normal rhythm of the world by interfering with insect and animal activities (pollination, mating, hunting, etc.), plant activity (growing and blooming), altering sleep patterns, obscuring obstacles and hindering vision, confusing directional markers (migrating birds or sea turtles), and even increasing risks for a multitude of health issues and diseases.

On top of this, this light causes the sky to become muted and hides the stars and wonders of space from view with only the brightest of exceptions. Leading to fewer and fewer places where you can go to see the stars and astrological sights.

This also heavily affects what and where we can study the sky above and do important research on the universe around us.

Last, is the waste that it causes. All of this extra light comes from a source and what isn’t used becomes waste.

This means resources such as electricity, that could be conserved, are being used up at a higher rate for nothing. It leads to excess heat and spending more money on having to replace bulbs and light fixtures sooner due to a decreased life span if they are always on.

When you visit here, you will learn how important it is to try to reduce light pollution. By using alternatives such as timers, directional lamps and coverings, to even turning off lights that aren’t necessary, you can make an impact on not only the area around you, but the world as a whole.

Tips for Visiting the Bare Dark Sky Observatory

Here are a few tips to make your visit to the Bare Dark Sky Observatory and the Planetarium more enjoyable:

• If you are coming to one of the community night shows, be aware that to look through the large telescope, you may have to climb a couple of steps on a ladder to see through the eyepiece.
• Since most of the shows are outside after it gets dark, you may want to bring a flashlight or use your phone’s light. If so, remember to be respectful to those around you.
• Depending on the time of year, it may get cooler in the evenings. I recommend having a light jacket, just in case.
• Be sure to wear proper shoes and watch your step when walking around the park. Most places are paved or have gravel, but there are still areas in progress, plus the insects that live there.
• The shows and community night's events normally sell out in advance, so look ahead to find your time to visit. However, every night is not guaranteed and depending on weather, may be cancelled or moved down to the planetarium instead (From the Editors: This happened to us on our visit).
• Last, HAVE FUN! There is so much there to see and do, there’s something for everyone.
  of all ages to enjoy.

Final Thoughts on the Bare Dark Sky Observatory

:

This is a place of exploration and discovery for all ages. The exhibits are interesting, the planetarium can be educational, and the night shows offer a unique experience in nature. Don’t forget to take time to look up at the stars! You will thank yourself later that you did.

Where: 66 Energy Exchange Drive, Burnsville, NC 28714
Phone Number: (828)-470-7584
Website: https://www.mayland.edu/esp/

Emerald Village Gem Mine

Many don't realize, but there was a gold rush in Western North Carolina many years ago, and mines sprouted up all over, and especially in the area where Emerald Village is today.  Emerald Village contains 12 mines, and the Bon Ami cleaning agent was produced at Emerald village for many years.

Guests at Emerald Village NC can pan for gems and gold, take the Emerald Village NC Black Light Tour, visit the three-story museum, and more. Emerald Village is open every day from April 1st through October 31st and is located 3 miles from the Little Switzerland exit on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Hyalite Opal at Emerald Village

There are several reasons why this mineral and event are special and deserve a visit but, two in particular stand out:

While hyalite opal in its natural state doesn’t appear to be much to look at, mostly just a clear buildup that seems pretty boring and is seemingly just a part of the rock it’s on. However, despite its average and mundane appearances, it hides an amazing feature: when exposed to UV light it glows green!

This is caused by it being ever so slightly radioactive, but don’t fret, its not enough for you to worry about and the only negative side-effect of visiting is that you will want more time here!

Now, I said there were two reasons, so what’s the other? In a word- Location. Normally, hyalite opal is mostly found at gem shows, online, and occasionally in small quantities in privately owned or active mines and not somewhere you can easily visit.

However, the Bon Ami mine has the largest naturally forming deposit AND is the only publicly accessible underground mine where you can see hyalite opal in the world!  

Enter the Emerald Village NC Black Light Tour ..

The Emerald Village NC Black Light Tour

When you think of a “mine” you probably conjure up images of a labyrinth of tunnels and caves and think of being in small, enclosed areas.

But this mine is different.

As you enter the mine site to start the Emerald Village NC Black Light Tour, you find yourself standing in the middle of a single, large, excavated cavern.

Once inside, you can walk among some relics of a mining age that’s long past- see the old mining carts and read the information and history posted around the mine while you wait for the show to start.

One thing you will notice, however, is that while the space is very large and open, it seems plain and unassuming. That is until the lights go out… Then the view goes from ordinary, to pitch black, to a new sight: a mesmerizing world of green!

Throughout the mine there are tour guides with hand held lights giving visitors a better look at certain deposits and giving those around an in-depth presentation of the area, formations, other sights to note, as well as answering questions.

While Emerald Village NC Black Light Tour alone is worth going to see, it doesn’t just end once you’ve seen the inside of the mine.

Once you have seen the inside and start making your way out and back to the entrance, tour guides are posted along the way to point out other deposits and spots where more previously hidden sights are now illuminated by black light.

This includes other minerals, more opal, and even a form of moss that glows blue!

Other Things to do Nearby

Emerald Village is actually a collection of buildings and during the day they offer plenty of activities such as gold panning, gem mining, a museum, and more.

Just remember, the stores all close in the evening and there is a bit of downtime between those activities and when the mine store opens back up for the black light show.

In the meantime, Little Switzerland and Spruce Pine are close by, so there is plenty of other nearby places to visit during a trip to the area.

Tips for visiting:

Here are some tips to help make your visit to Emerald City Gem Mine, and specifically the Emerald Village NC Black Light Tour more enjoyable!

• It is underground (the temperature can get chilly, especially later at night), bring a jacket.
• Be careful when moving about, especially once the lights have been switched over, there are
  tracks and some uneven ground.
• Get there a few minutes early, after you check in, you can look around the gift shop and then
  go explore the museum area attached to it.
• If you bring a camera or try to take pictures with your phone, remember to turn the flash off.
  With it on, you won’t get a good shot of the green glow!
• This event only takes place on 10 Saturday evenings though the months of May-October and
  normally sells out well in advance, so some planning and looking ahead may be necessary if you
  want to come see this.

Where is Bon Ami Mine?

Bon Ami Mine is located at Emerald Village NC  

The Bon Ami Mine is located in Emerald Village, Mitchell County, North Carolina and is the mine used for the Emerald Village NC Black Light Tour. It is a former feldspar mine that was operated by the Whitehall Company from 1924 to 1950.

The mine is now open to the public for tours, and it is a popular destination for gem hunters.

The Bon Ami Mine is known for its deposits of hyalite opal, a type of opal that is found in this area. Under shortwave ultraviolet light, the hyalite opal in the mine glows a vivid lime green. The effect is stunning, and it has made the Bon Ami Mine a popular destination for photographers and mineral collectors.

In addition to the hyalite opal, the Bon Ami Mine also contains other minerals, including feldspar, quartz, and mica. The mine is open for tours, and visitors can explore the tunnels and learn about the history of mining in the area.

How do I get to Emerald Village?

Emerald Village Mine is located just off of the Blue Ridge Parkway, about 3 miles from the Little Switzerland exit (milepost 334). To get to the mine from the Parkway, follow these directions:

1. Take the Little Switzerland exit (milepost 334).
2. Loop back around and go back underneath the Parkway on Chestnut Grove Road.
3. Go one mile and turn left onto McKinney Mine Road.
4. Follow McKinney Mine Road for 2 miles and Emerald Village Mine will be on your right.

Final thoughts on the Emerald Village NC Blacklight Tour

The Emerald Village Blacklight Tour is a unique and unforgettable experience that is sure to amaze and delight visitors of all ages. The tour takes guests on a journey through the Bon Ami Mine, where they can see the brilliant colors of the Hyalite Opal under ultraviolet light.

Other minerals, such as Feldspar and Manganapatite, also glow under black light, creating a stunning and otherworldly scene.

The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who share interesting facts about the mine and the minerals that are found there. Visitors also have the opportunity to take photos and videos of the glowing minerals.

The Emerald Village Blacklight Tour is a great way to learn about the natural beauty of North Carolina and to experience something truly unique.