The West’s Best Apple Orchards for Fall Weekends (Cider Included)

United States
By Ella Brown

Embark on a flavorful journey through the West with apple orchards inviting you to savor the season’s bounty. From Washington to Montana, explore diverse landscapes enriched with apple picking, cider tasting, and local festivities. Each destination offers a unique slice of autumnal charm, promising a memorable road trip filled with crisp air, vibrant foliage, and the delightful aroma of fresh apples. Whether you’re a cider enthusiast or simply seeking a picturesque getaway, these orchards provide the perfect backdrop for fall adventures. Explore the charm and tradition of apple orchards across the western United States.

1. Finnriver Farm & Cidery — Chimacum, WA

© Wheree

Nestled in Chimacum, WA, Finnriver Farm & Cidery invites visitors to experience its vibrant cider garden, where farmhouse ciders are poured amidst the golden hues of fall. The orchard’s charm lies in its blend of traditional farming and modern sustainability practices, offering a picturesque escape. Guests can enjoy guided tours that delve into the cider-making process, making it an engaging experience for all. Seasonal events add a festive touch, drawing in cider enthusiasts and families alike. With its rich assortment of ciders, Finnriver is a must-visit for those exploring Washington’s apple heritage.

2. Bellewood Farms & Distillery — Lynden, WA

© BELLEWOOD FARMS

Bellewood Farms & Distillery, located in Lynden, WA, stands as one of the region’s largest orchards, boasting over 22 varieties of apples and pears. The farm-to-glass distillery is a highlight, offering a unique tasting experience. Visitors can explore the farm store, which features an array of apple-centric treats and fresh cider. The orchard’s vast landscape provides a serene environment for leisurely walks, while the historic charm enhances its appeal. With its blend of tradition and innovation, Bellewood Farms serves as a delightful stop for those journeying through Washington.

3. Swans Trail Farms — Snohomish, WA

© www.swanstrailfarms.com

Swans Trail Farms in Snohomish, WA, exudes the lively spirit of fall with its delightful festival atmosphere. Families flock to pick their own apples, savor the famous cider donuts, and taste the farm’s fresh-pressed cider. The onsite cidery crafts hard ciders from the farm’s own fruit, offering a unique tasting experience. Beyond the orchard, the farm hosts a variety of seasonal events that cater to all ages, ensuring a memorable visit. Whether you’re seeking a fun family outing or a taste of Washington’s apple culture, Swans Trail Farms delivers a vibrant experience.

4. Kiyokawa Family Orchards — Parkdale, OR

© OPB

In Parkdale, OR, Kiyokawa Family Orchards offers an expansive u-pick experience, featuring over 100 varieties of apples and pears. The orchard’s stunning views of Mount Hood provide a breathtaking backdrop for visitors. During the peak season, food vendors enhance the orchard’s appeal, providing delicious local fare. The fresh cider pressed onsite is a must-try, capturing the essence of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re an avid apple picker or a casual visitor, Kiyokawa Family Orchards promises a delightful day out amidst the beauty of Oregon’s landscape.

5. Draper Girls Country Farm — Parkdale, OR

© Oregon Taste

Draper Girls Country Farm, located in Parkdale, OR, offers a charming countryside retreat filled with heirloom apples and delightful activities. The presence of friendly goats adds a whimsical touch, making it a family-friendly destination. The farm’s award-winning hard cider, crafted from its own fruit, is a standout attraction. Visitors can partake in u-pick adventures or simply enjoy the serene ambiance. The rustic charm and welcoming atmosphere of Draper Girls Country Farm make it a treasured spot for those exploring Oregon’s agricultural delights.

6. Apple Hill® Hard Cider Trail — Placerville/Camino, CA

© Reno Gazette Journal

Apple Hill® Hard Cider Trail invites cider enthusiasts to embark on a delightful journey through Placerville and Camino, CA. Opening in September, the trail features multiple growers pouring a diverse range of hard ciders. The experience is enriched by the presence of pies, donuts, and u-pick opportunities scattered across the hill. As you explore, the vibrant autumn foliage enhances the scenic beauty, providing a perfect setting for a cider-centric adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned cider lover or a curious traveler, the Apple Hill® Hard Cider Trail offers a memorable escape.

7. Los Rios Rancho & Oak Glen Cider Co. — Oak Glen, CA

© Los Rios Rancho

Established in 1906, Los Rios Rancho & Oak Glen Cider Co. in Oak Glen, CA, stands as Southern California’s oldest apple farm. The historic u-pick activities allow visitors to connect with the orchard’s rich past while gathering their own apples. The cidery crafts heirloom hard ciders, offering a taste of tradition with every sip. On fall weekends, sweet cider pressing captures the essence of the season. As you roam the expansive orchards, the blend of history and natural beauty creates an enchanting atmosphere for families and cider aficionados alike.

8. Julian Farm & Orchard + Julian Hard Cider — Julian, CA

© 52 Perfect Days

In Julian, CA, Julian Farm & Orchard pairs perfectly with Julian Hard Cider, offering an idyllic mountain-town experience. Visitors can spend the day picking apples and then head to the tasting room at Julian Station, where 12 flavors of hard cider await. The setting, with its rustic charm and scenic views, provides a quintessential fall outing. Whether indulging in cider flights or gathering fresh apples, the combination of activities ensures a memorable day. Julian’s blend of nature and flavor makes it a destination worth exploring for both locals and travelers.

9. Big B’s Delicious Orchards — Hotchkiss, CO

© Traveling Tacos

Big B’s Delicious Orchards in Hotchkiss, CO, offers a vibrant blend of activities, making it a unique destination for fall enthusiasts. Visitors can camp in the orchard and enjoy live music, creating a festive atmosphere. The tasting room/café serves Big B’s juices and hard ciders, offering a delightful palate of flavors. The u-pick fruit experience adds to the charm, inviting guests to harvest apples amidst the Colorado landscape. Open from April to November, Big B’s combines nature, entertainment, and flavor, providing an unforgettable orchard adventure.

10. Rowley’s Red Barn (South Ridge Farms) — Santaquin, UT

© rowleysredbarn.com

Rowley’s Red Barn, also known as South Ridge Farms, in Santaquin, UT, is a beloved Wasatch-Front staple. The orchard hosts a lively fall harvest festival, complete with u-pick apple activities and their renowned cider donuts. The cider mill produces fresh-pressed apple cider and juice, offering a taste of Utah’s heritage. The festive atmosphere ensures a fun-filled day for families, with activities catering to all ages. Whether you’re enjoying the scenic views or indulging in apple treats, Rowley’s Red Barn offers an authentic and delightful autumn experience.

11. Apple Annie’s Orchard — Willcox, AZ

© Visit Tucson

In Willcox, AZ, Apple Annie’s Orchard beckons visitors with its inviting array of fall festivities. From August to October, guests can participate in u-pick apple activities, savoring the orchard’s fresh bounty. The apple-cider donuts are a popular treat, encapsulating the flavors of the season. The orchard’s large cider mill regularly presses house-made cider, ensuring a fresh taste in every sip. Seasonal festivals add to the orchard’s lively atmosphere, making it a favorite destination for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic taste of Arizona’s autumn offerings.

12. Cabalo’s Orchard & Gardens — Kuna, ID

© Cotton Cashmere Cat Hair

Cabalo’s Orchard & Gardens, near Boise in Kuna, ID, offers a tranquil escape with its low-key family atmosphere. The orchard is renowned for pressing raw, unpasteurized apple cider in season, providing a fresh and unfiltered taste. Visitors can engage in u-pick apple activities, exploring the orchard’s offerings at their own pace. The farm stand features an assortment of goods, enhancing the rustic appeal. With its peaceful setting and focus on natural flavors, Cabalo’s Orchard & Gardens provides a charming retreat for those seeking a genuine Idaho orchard experience.

13. Swanson’s Mountain View Orchard — Corvallis, MT

© Swanson’s Mountain View Orchard

Swanson’s Mountain View Orchard in Corvallis, MT, offers a picturesque experience with its century-old charm and breathtaking views of the Bitterroots. The orchard hosts fall u-pick events that draw families and apple enthusiasts alike. Fresh-pressed cider is a highlight, capturing the essence of Montana’s apple heritage. The backdrop of the Bitterroot Mountains provides a stunning setting, enhancing the orchard’s allure. Whether you’re exploring the rich history or savoring the fresh produce, Swanson’s Mountain View Orchard delivers a quintessential fall experience amidst Montana’s vibrant foliage.