Colorado’s apple harvest season runs from late August through October, offering families throughout the Front Range the chance to experience traditional farm life while gathering fresh, locally grown apples. From historic orchards near Fort Collins to family farms accessible from Golden and Cherry Hills Village, Colorado’s apple picking destinations provide scenic autumn adventures.
Northern Colorado Apple Orchards (Fort Collins Area)
Ela Family Farms Located near Hotchkiss (about 4 hours from Fort Collins) While farther from Fort Collins, Ela Family Farms represents one of Colorado’s premier organic apple operations. They offer u-pick opportunities and farm tours during harvest season.
Local Fort Collins Area Options:
- Several smaller family farms offer seasonal apple picking
- Many participate in the annual Tour de Farms cycling event
- Check with Larimer County for current u-pick farms
Apple Varieties Common in Northern Colorado:
- Honeycrisp (early to mid-September)
- Gala (mid-September)
- Red Delicious (late September)
- Granny Smith (October)
Central Colorado Apple Picking (Golden and Denver Metro)
Miller Farms Located in Platteville (30 minutes from Golden) This family farm offers apple picking, pumpkin patches, and corn mazes. They typically open for harvest season in mid-September and continue through October.
Chatfield Farms Located in Littleton (45 minutes from Cherry Hills Village) Part of Denver Botanic Gardens, Chatfield Farms offers apple picking along with their popular pumpkin festival. The farm features multiple apple varieties and educational programs.
Anderson Farms Located in Erie (accessible from all Front Range communities) Known primarily for their corn maze and pumpkin patch, Anderson Farms also offers apple picking opportunities during peak harvest season.
Western Slope Day Trips
For families willing to make a day trip, Colorado’s Western Slope offers some of the state’s best apple picking:
Eckert’s Orchard (Palisade)
- Multiple apple varieties
- Farm market and bakery
- Scenic drive through wine country
Rocky Mountain Apples (various locations)
- Commercial orchards that sometimes offer public picking
- Check seasonal availability
What to Expect at Colorado Apple Orchards
Harvest Timeline:
- Late August: Early varieties like Gala
- September: Peak season for most varieties
- October: Late varieties and extended harvest
Typical Orchard Activities:
- U-pick apple harvest
- Tractor rides through orchards
- Farm markets with fresh cider
- Educational tours about apple growing
- Pumpkin patches (many farms offer both)
Pricing Structure:
- Most orchards charge by the pound or bag
- Some include containers or bags with admission
- Group rates often available for families
Apple Picking Tips for Colorado Conditions
Weather Considerations: Colorado’s fall weather can change rapidly. Early morning picking often provides the best conditions, but temperatures can vary 30+ degrees throughout the day.
What to Bring:
- Layers for changing temperatures
- Comfortable walking shoes with good traction
- Sunscreen (Colorado’s high altitude intensifies UV exposure)
- Water bottles for hydration
- Cash for many farm markets
Best Picking Practices:
- Gently twist and lift apples rather than pulling
- Check with farm staff about which varieties are ready
- Bring coolers for transporting apples home
- Ask about storage recommendations for different varieties
Colorado Apple Varieties and Uses
Honeycrisp:
- Best for fresh eating
- Stores well in refrigeration
- Peak harvest: Early to mid-September
Gala:
- Excellent for children (mild, sweet flavor)
- Good for baking and fresh eating
- Peak harvest: Mid-September
Granny Smith:
- Perfect for baking and pies
- Tart flavor balances sweet recipes
- Peak harvest: October
Red Delicious:
- Classic variety for fresh eating
- Colorado’s high altitude creates exceptional flavor
- Peak harvest: Late September
Supporting Colorado Agriculture
Apple picking supports local Colorado agriculture and helps preserve farmland along the Front Range. Many orchards face development pressure, making community support through agritourism crucial for their survival.
Educational Benefits:
- Children learn about food production
- Families connect with agricultural heritage
- Understanding of seasonal eating and local food systems
Economic Impact:
- Supports rural Colorado communities
- Provides farm income beyond wholesale markets
- Encourages agricultural tourism throughout the state
Planning Your Apple Picking Adventure
Best Times to Visit:
- Weekday mornings for smaller crowds
- Early season for best apple selection
- Call ahead to confirm harvest status and weather conditions
Combining Activities: Many families combine apple picking with other fall activities:
- Pumpkin patch visits
- Corn maze adventures
- Farm market shopping
- Scenic drives to see autumn colors
Storage and Use:
- Most Colorado apples store well in cool, humid conditions
- Use different varieties for specific purposes (baking vs. fresh eating)
- Many orchards provide recipe suggestions and preservation tips
Colorado’s apple harvest season offers families throughout Fort Collins, Golden, Cherry Hills Village, and the greater Denver area the chance to participate in a time-honored tradition while supporting local agriculture. Whether you choose a nearby farm for a quick afternoon adventure or plan a Western Slope day trip for the full orchard experience, apple picking provides delicious results and lasting memories.
Sources:
- Colorado Department of Agriculture – Apple Production Statistics
- Denver Botanic Gardens – Chatfield Farms Information
- Colorado Agritourism Association Directory
- Local Farm Websites and Seasonal Schedules
