Apple Picking in Vermont | 3 Great Apple Orchards to Visit this Fall
As autumn sweeps across Vermont, a vibrant tapestry of crimson and gold unfolds, signaling the arrival of apple-picking season. For generations, this New England state has been synonymous with crisp, juicy apples and quaint orchards nestled amid its rolling hills.
Vermont’s apple-picking tradition is a beloved annual affair that beckons locals and visitors alike to savor the bounty of its orchards. Here are three exceptional orchards you simply must visit.
Let’s explore 3 Great Orchards for Apple Picking in Vermont!
Hacketts Orchard in South Hero | Chapins Orchard in Essex | Shelburne Orchard
Hackett’s Orchard – South Hero, Vermont
Nestled on the charming South Hero Island, Hackett’s Orchard is a slice of apple-picking heaven. With its picturesque location at 86 South Street, this family-owned orchard has been a cherished part of the local community for generations. What sets Hackett’s Orchard apart is its commitment to sustainable farming practices. Here, you’ll find rows of meticulously tended apple trees, including classic varieties like McIntosh and Cortland, as well as lesser-known gems.
When you visit Hackett’s Orchard, you’re not just picking apples; you’re stepping into a tranquil oasis. The breathtaking views of Lake Champlain Islands add an extra layer of magic to the experience. Don’t forget to explore their on-site farm store, which is brimming with fresh apple cider, homemade apple pies, and other delectable treats.
Chapin Orchard – Essex Junction, Vermont
If you’re looking for an authentic Vermont apple-picking experience, make your way to Chapin Orchard at 150 Chapin Road in Essex Junction. A local landmark for over a century, it offers pick-your-own apples and a well-stocked retail center featuring Vermont farm products and crafts. Their sustainable orchard practices are highlighted throughout, and they even host school field trips.
With an old and new orchard section, Chapin Orchard is a piece of Vermont history. In the beautiful fall season, families with red wagons and couples with dogs stroll the orchard, surrounded by changing foliage. Open seven days a week, from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, until October 31st. Don’t miss this quintessential Vermont experience!
Shelburne Orchards – Shelburne, Vermont
Located at 216 Orchard Road in Shelburne, Vermont, Shelburne Orchards is a beloved destination for apple enthusiasts. Even the drive to the orchard itself is an experience. The scenic drive offers captivating vistas of Lake Champlain and the tranquil Shelburne countryside, making it a journey well worth savoring.
This 60-acre apple orchard, situated near the shores of Lake Champlain in Shelburne, Vermont, is a cherished family-owned and operated establishment. During the apple season in September and October, visitors can partake in their splendid pick-your-own operation, which includes delightful hayrides, irresistible apple cider doughnuts, freshly pressed apple and ginger cider, and access to a tasting room showcasing their exclusive apple brandy.
During weekends, the orchard hosts a diverse range of events and activities designed to enhance the apple-picking experience. Visitors can partake in tractor rides, savor delicious fare from the Taco Truck, explore the tasting room, enjoy live music performances, and even join in on kid-friendly storytelling events. It’s an orchard adventure that promises unforgettable moments for all.
A Fall Tradition
Vermont’s apple-picking tradition is more than just a seasonal activity; it’s a way of life deeply rooted in the state’s agricultural heritage. As you visit Hackett’s Orchard in South Hero, Chapin Orchard in Essex Junction, and Shelburne Orchards in Shelburne, you’ll not only enjoy the thrill of apple picking but also immerse yourself in the beauty and history of these remarkable places.
So, as the leaves begin to turn and the air becomes crisp, make your way to Vermont, where the tradition of apple picking awaits. These three orchards are just the beginning of a delightful journey through the heart of Vermont’s apple country. Enjoy the flavors of autumn, the warmth of the community, and the memories you’ll create with family and friends amid the apple-scented orchards of this beautiful state.
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