Orchards Near Me
When Is Apple Picking Season in Colorado?
Colorado's orchard country is dominated by the Western Slope, where the combination of warm days, cold nights, and low humidity creates exceptional flavor development in apples. Palisade is best known for peaches but hosts several apple orchards that follow the peach harvest. The Roaring Fork Valley near Aspen and Basalt has a number of smaller u-pick operations that get less traffic despite producing outstanding fruit.
Where to Pick Apples in Colorado
The best apple picking in Colorado is concentrated in Palisade on the Western Slope, the Roaring Fork Valley near Basalt, the Boulder-Longmont foothills, and Paonia in Delta County. These areas combine the climate, soil, and agricultural tradition that makes pick-your-own orchards viable and worthwhile as a destination.
Use the map on our apple picking near Denver, Colorado page to find specific orchards by ZIP code and read visitor reviews before you go.
Best Apple Varieties in Colorado
Colorado orchards commonly grow Honeycrisp, Fuji, Jonagold, Gala, and McIntosh. Availability varies by farm and time of season — earlier varieties like Gala and Zestar kick things off, while Honeycrisp, Fuji, and later-ripening types extend the season toward its close. When you arrive, ask the farm staff which rows are currently at peak — that guidance is worth more than any printed list.
Tips for Apple Picking in Colorado
The altitude in Colorado's orchards can mean rapid weather changes — bring layers even in September, and check orchard websites for road conditions in October.
General tips that apply everywhere: bring a bag or use the farm's containers, wear closed-toe shoes (fallen apples make the ground soft and uneven), dress in layers since orchard mornings can be cool even in September, and bring cash — many smaller farms are not set up for card payments at the stand.
Find Apple Orchards Near You in Colorado
Our interactive map pulls from hundreds of orchards across the state. Search apple picking near Denver to see what is closest to you, or browse the full Apple Picking Near Me directory for the whole country.