WALKING TRAILS
The Eric L. Gressel Memorial Trails
In early 2012, Bill and Judy Carson gathered a team of experts in trail building, graphic design, and the natural and cultural history of the Orchard at Altapass. Together they designed a new trail network that would wind through the rows of apple trees and adjacent mountain cove forest overlooking the “high pass” for which Altapass was named. The project was made possible by generous funding from the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area, a matching grant from Progress Energy, and contributions in memory of Eric L. Gressel, a long-time Orchard volunteer. Dubbed “A Guided Nature Walk through History,” the trail network provides a self-guided walking tour through the property using trail maps and strategically placed trail signs to highlight the agricultural, natural, and historical significance of this unique Blue Ridge destination.
Trails are open year-round.* Please check with the Blue Ridge Parkway site for Parkway closure updates.
Trails are open year-round.* Please check with the Blue Ridge Parkway site for Parkway closure updates.
Trail Guidelines
Visitor Behavior: All visitors are expected to act with respect and courtesy as permitted guests on private land. Please do not enter restricted barn area behind the red barn. Open year round, please look and enjoy!
NO climbing on Orchard equipment
NO collecting or picking (except apples, with purchase of bag)
NO ladders or tree climbing allowed
NO horses, bicycles or motorized vehicles allowed
NO hunting
Please stay on the trails. Remember this is a working orchard.
Pets must be on leashes (Please pick up after your pet.)
NO climbing on Orchard equipment
NO collecting or picking (except apples, with purchase of bag)
NO ladders or tree climbing allowed
NO horses, bicycles or motorized vehicles allowed
NO hunting
Please stay on the trails. Remember this is a working orchard.
Pets must be on leashes (Please pick up after your pet.)
* All trails are open to the public year round. Please restrict your walking to the main trails when Orchard is closed for the season or it is before/after open hours. Please download or refer to the map at the trail head for locations/markers for main trails. Thanks.
View or download our Trails Brochure
In addition to the trail itself and the fun walking into a simpler time, the Orchard partnered with the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation’s Kids in Parks to provide nature activity brochures for visiting children all year round.
Fun Kids in Parks Adventure brochures to download, print and bring to The Orchard for your visit.
(click the images to view/print/download)
