HICKORY, N.C. (WHKY) — Fall has arrived, and several apple orchards and scenic destinations within an easy drive of Hickory are giving western North Carolina residents a reason to head outdoors.

One of the closest places to pick your own apples is Apple Hill Orchard and Cider Mill in Morganton. The fifth-generation family orchard offers pick-your-own apples during the season, weather and crop conditions permitting. The orchard grows 23 varieties and also operates a farm market and bakery with fresh-pressed cider, cider doughnuts, fried apple pies, apple cakes and other fall treats.

Another option is Perry Lowe Orchards in Moravian Falls. Its U-Pick operation offers different varieties as they ripen through the fall season. Visitors are encouraged to check current picking conditions before making the trip because availability changes throughout the season.

For residents more interested in leaves than apples, Bakers Mountain Park in Hickory provides a close-to-home option with wooded hiking trails and elevated views.

A drive farther into the mountains offers even more dramatic scenery. The Blue Ridge Parkway around Linville and Grandfather Mountain is among the region’s most popular fall destinations. Higher elevations generally begin changing before the foothills, with much of the mountain color developing during October.

Beacon Heights near Linville offers a relatively short hike to broad rock overlooks with sweeping mountain views. Wiseman’s View provides another spectacular look across Linville Gorge, although visitors should be prepared for an unpaved access road.

Fall color varies with elevation and weather. Higher mountain elevations generally change first, followed by lower mountain communities and then the foothills around Hickory later in the season.