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U-Pick

​Our warm days and cool summer nights create conditions perfect for over 22 varieties of apples. Many of our guests are surprised to learn that their favorite apples are not available all season. Early apples like Early Macs, Ginger Golds, and Honeycrisps start us off in August but are long gone by the time Pink Lady and Arkansas Blacks make their appearance near the end of the growing season. Check out our variety page so you don't miss out on your faves.

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  • What hours are you open?
    Once we open for the season, we are open 7 days a week except for Thanksgiving Day and will remain open until early December. Our last entry to the orchard for u-pick is 5 PM. Our hours are 9am - 5pm until Labor Day Weekend then 9am - 6pm until Daylight Savings Time (DST) ends. After DST ends, we're open daily from 9am - 5pm.
  • Are reservations or admission required to visit your orchard?
    No, we do not currently require reservations or charge admission for our orchard.
  • When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
    Weekends are typically our busiest days. If possible, visit on weekday afternoons to avoid crowds.
  • What forms of payment do you accept?
    We accept cash and credit cards.* *Please note: Because of our rural location, our wifi service can sometimes be spotty, causing delays in our credit card machines. In this case, please bring alternate payment forms, just in case!
  • Do you have an ATM on site?
    We do! It is located near our jams and jellies.
  • Where can I park?
    Parking is free at Sky Top. On busy days, you'll be directed where to park so watch for attendants upon your arrival. As you can imagine, weekends are our busiest time with most arrivals happening from 10am - noon making 10am-3pm the busy time. We have added additional parking areas located across the street from the entrance of the orchard. If this area is open for parking, you will be directed there when necessary. If our parking lots reach capacity, please plan to return on another day. Do not park on the side of the road outside the orchard entrance. If you want to avoid our most crowded times, we advise you to visit on a weekday or to arrive when our gates open at 9am on weekends. If you visit on an off-peak day, you are generally able to just park where you find a spot inside the gates.
  • Are there restrooms?
    We have new bathroom facilities located near the Picnic and Playground area for your convenience.
  • Are dogs allowed?
    Dogs are welcome at Sky Top however, we ask that they are kept outside of the Fruit Stand when possible. Dogs should remain on a leash at all times and we ask that you please pick up after them. We are not a public park so dog walkers and packs of dogs are not allowed in the orchard.
  • Are there food options available at your farm?
    Sky Top offers a selection of snacks including kettle corn, baked apple goods, drinks, and other snacks. You are also welcome to bring packed lunches to eat at our picnic tables near the Playground. We ask that you limit your time at a table so all guests can use them. On weekends, there is a food stand that offers hot dogs, tamales, and other options.
  • Do you offer field trips?
    Yes, we do! Learn more here.
  • Can we get photos taken at the orchard?
    Photography sessions are by appointment only and not available after hours. Please email us at info@skytop.com for inquiries.
  • Do you rent space for parties and corporate meetings?
    Yes, we have a new space for private events. Please email info@skytoporchard.com for inquiries and availability.
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Tips & Tricks

Choosing apples

Ideally, look for little or no bruising but if you plan to cut apples up for recipes, don't let a few marks stop you from selecting perfectly tasty apples that may just be a little blemished.

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Generally, select apples with a firm texture though golden and red delicious varieties are slightly softer to the touch

Storing apples

Apples ripen 10x faster at room temperature than when kept in a refrigerator. Chilled apples should last 90 days.

 

Some varieties are better for storing long-term than others. Typically, late-season apples last longer than early ripening varieties. Arkansas Black is a particularly good keeper and Honeycrisp, though a favorite, is a notoriously poor keeper so buy those sparingly and eat quickly.

Cooking with apples

Baking: In general with baking breads, muffins, pies, and tarts you want to choose an apple that will maintain its shape/ texture when heated.  

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Pies:  We prefer to use a mix of apples for a more complex flavor and texture and often choose apples that are firm. 

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Sauces and Butters: You want an apple that falls apart easily when cooked.  It is also important to combine a mixture of apples for a better flavor profile.

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