Grape Season Is Almost Here at Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard
One of our favorite times of year is just around the corner—U-Pick Grape Season!
At the beginning of our fall season, our vineyard takes center stage as guests visit the orchard to harvest fresh, juicy grapes straight from the vine. It’s a short but sweet season that gives families, friends, and visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the orchard in a whole new way.
A Sweet Tradition Worth the Wait
Every August, our one-acre vineyard comes alive as grape season begins. While many people know us for our apples, our grapes have become a beloved tradition for guests who return year after year to enjoy the experience of picking their own fruit.
There’s nothing quite like walking through the vineyard on a warm summer day, filling your basket with ripe grape clusters, and taking in the mountain views that surround our farm.
Pick Fresh Grapes Straight from the Vine
This season, we’ll once again be offering our popular Steuben, Fredonia, and Sunbelt grapes. We’ve also added Mars grapes to the vineyard, and while the young vines are still getting established, we’re excited about what they’ll bring to future harvest seasons.
These purple-seeded grapes are known for their sweet, rich flavor and are perfect for snacking, making jelly, juicing, freezing, or sharing with family and friends. Many guests tell us they’re surprised by how different fresh-picked grapes taste compared to what they find at the grocery store.
We provide clippers and a picking box, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the harvest experience.
More Than Just Grapes
For us, grape season isn’t just about the fruit—it’s about creating memories.
Whether you’re visiting with young children, planning a weekend outing with friends, or continuing a family tradition, the vineyard offers a chance to slow down, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and reconnect with nature.
It’s also one of the most beautiful times to visit the orchard. The vineyard rows, rolling hills, and Blue Ridge Mountain views provide the perfect backdrop for photos and unforgettable moments.
Kick Off Fall at the Orchard
As August arrives, the orchard begins to transition into one of our favorite times of year. Grape season offers an early opportunity to get outside, enjoy the farm, and start making fall memories while apple season is just getting underway. Before long, the orchard will be filled with U-Pick apples, fresh baked treats, family activities, and all the traditions that make fall at Stepp’s so special.
Many of our guests make grape picking one of their first visits of the season and return again and again throughout the fall.
Plan Your Visit
Because grape season typically lasts only a few weeks, we encourage guests to keep an eye on our website and social media channels for opening dates and picking updates.
We can’t wait to welcome you back to the orchard and share another wonderful harvest season with you. Gather your family, bring your friends, and join us in the vineyard for one of the sweetest experiences of the year.
We’ll see you at Stepp’s!