Carter offers trip that's in very good taste

Want to make some wholesome autumn memories with the ones you love? Just say those three little words: Apple cider doughnuts.

The way the folks at Carter Mountain Bakery make them, the deep tan rings are just right with a cup of fresh apple cider, either hot or cold. Not overbearingly sweet, with gently crisped edges and a touch of granulated sugar on top, they’re even tastier after an active afternoon of strolling, picking apples and playing outdoors at Carter Mountain Orchard.

History buffs will be interested to learn that the orchard nestles into land that once belonged to John Carter, who was secretary of the colony of Virginia in 1729. His son, Edward, represented Albemarle County in both the House of Burgesses and the House of Delegates. These days, the Chiles family keeps the apples rolling in and the welcome mat rolling out for visitors.

The orchard’s entrance is tucked into a woody hillside on Route 53, just three-quarters of a mile from Route 20 south of Charlottesville as one heads up the hill toward Monticello and Ash Lawn-Highland. If you reach the Michie Tavern entrance, you’ve gone too far, so keep an eye out for the Carter Mountain Orchard signs on your right. On a recent Sunday afternoon, a sandwich board in the driveway helped make the turn an easy one.

Four orchards were open that day, giving folks the choice of picking their own apples from the trees or making selections from ones that were picked ahead of time. Quite a few pumpkins remained near the gathering point for hayrides, forming a wide orange stripe that proved to be a toddler magnet.

Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, because even if you don’t pick your own apples, you won’t be able to resist hiking around the orchards and taking in the panoramic views of Charlottesville, Albemarle County and Fluvanna County from the mountain. The wind can whip up in a hurry, so dress in layers and keep a jacket, and maybe a hat, within reach in the car.

An observation deck makes it easy for amateurs to take calendar-worthy photos of fall color.

If fun and outdoor beauty aren’t enough to get you outside, just think of the health benefits. If you’re bored with your treadmill routine, try a refreshingly hilly walk at the orchard and make those opposing muscle groups happy. If getting your family to make healthier food choices has been a struggle, a stroll among the trees might help make a game out of literally picking more wholesome snacks.

Visitors of all ages enjoyed the apples and the atmosphere. One small boy happily walked along with a stick that was twice his height, while other children and teens helped parents load fresh apples into bags for next week’s school lunches.

Extensive apple choices offer the opportunity to try different kinds. If only your favorite apple variety will do, Carter Mountain’s Web site, www.cartermountainorchard.com, has an availability guide to help you decide when to go.

On a recent afternoon, the pick-your-own varieties included Pink Lady, Granny Smith, Fuji and Winesap, and there were 11 pre-picked varieties to choose from — including plenty of Albemarle pippins for folks who’d like to try a snack with a rich local history.

If you’re planning to bake pies or other holiday treats with your apples, glance over your favorite recipes before you head out to find out which varieties will suit your needs. The Web site also offers plenty of recipes, which can be found under the “In the Kitchen’’ tab. If flour power isn’t your thing and you’d rather serve the orchard bakery’s own apple pies at your Thanksgiving feast, be sure to place your orders by Nov. 23.

And while you’re loading apples in your trunk, save a little room. Before you head out, you’ll want to pick up some more doughnuts to serve with tomorrow morning’s coffee.

What: Carter Mountain Orchard

Where: 1435 Carters Mountain Trail

Directions: On Route 53, three-quarters of a mile from Route 20

Hours: Through Nov. 30: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Closed on Thanksgiving Day.

Carter Mountain Wine Shop and Tasting Room open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

December hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Info: 977-1833 or www.cartermountainorchard.com

Tips:

If you want to pick your own apples, be sure to arrive an hour before closing time.

Plastic bags will be available, and it’s fine to bring your own bags.

Dogs on leashes are welcome.

GPS alert:

According to the Web site, most GPS systems and mapping software will lead visitors to a spot that’s several miles away, so the orchard staff recommends using the directions on the Web site or calling for directions.