A Summer Tradition at The Old Store
If you’re searching for blueberry picking near you in Ashe County, NC, Shadow (our resident store cat) has a few opinions.
Summer in Grassy Creek, North Carolina is one of his favorite times of year—long days, mountain breezes, and plenty of folks stopping by The Old Store after filling their buckets at the blueberry patch.
And if you ask Shadow, a good summer day should always include a little wandering, a little picking, and a good long sit on the porch.
🐾 Stop One: The Blueberry Patch
Shadow will admit—he’s not much of a picker himself—but he’s observed enough to know what makes a good blueberry patch.
At The Old Store in Grassy Creek, NC, our pick-your-own blueberry patch is set up to be easy and enjoyable for everyone:
- The field is flat and easy to walk
- The grass is kept neatly mowed
- Bathrooms are nearby, so you can take your time
We grow three different varieties of blueberries, which means the season stretches across much of the summer:
- The first berries begin ripening in late June to early July
- A second variety follows soon after
- The final berries ripen closer to August
So whether you're visiting early or later in the season, there’s a good chance the berries are ready.
🐾 How to Know When Blueberries Are Ready
Shadow doesn’t use a calendar—but he does have a system.
The best way to stay updated is to follow along on our social media, where we share when berries are ripening and ready for picking.
But if you’re already in Ashe County, here’s a simple local tip:
🫐 When you start seeing U-pick blueberry signs around the area, you can bet ours are ready too.
🐾 Stop Two: The Old Store Porch
Once your buckets are full (or you’ve decided that’s enough for the day), Shadow recommends heading back to The Old Store.
Some folks browse the shop for local goods. Others grab a cold drink—maybe a Cheerwine—and settle into a rocking chair on the porch.
And for those in your group who are done picking early? The porch is the perfect place to relax while everyone else finishes up.
Shadow, naturally, thinks this is the best part of the day.
🐾 Shadow’s Official Summer Recommendations
If Shadow were planning your visit, it would look something like this:
- Drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains with the windows down
- Stop for blueberry picking at The Old Store
- Fill a bucket (or at least supervise closely)
- End the day with a Cheerwine and a Moon Pie on The Old Store porch
It’s simple. But that’s what makes it special.
Plan Your Visit for Blueberry Picking in Grassy Creek, NC
Blueberry season is one of the most beautiful times to visit Grassy Creek, North Carolina. The mountains are green, the days are long, and the pace of life slows just enough to enjoy it.
Buckets are simple and affordable:
- Full bucket: $10
- Half bucket: $5
If you’re looking for:
- Blueberry picking near me
- U-pick blueberries in North Carolina
- Things to do in Ashe County NC in the summer
We hope you’ll spend part of your day with us at The Old Store—where the porch is always open.

