Apple Picking Season Nevada

Apple picking season in Nevada runs from September through October, limited to the high valleys of the western part of the state where elevation and Sierra Nevada snowmelt create conditions unusual for this desert region.

Peak Season at a Glance

Peak: September through October

When Is Apple Picking Season in Nevada?

Nevada is not where most people picture apple orchards, but the Carson Valley and the Reno basin have a surprisingly productive agricultural tradition. The irrigation provided by Sierra Nevada snowmelt and the elevation — Carson City sits at over 4,700 feet — creates apple-growing conditions that defy the state's desert reputation. A small number of pick-your-own orchards operate in the western valleys, drawing visitors from Reno and the Lake Tahoe area.

Where to Pick Apples in Nevada

The best apple picking in Nevada is concentrated in the Reno-Sparks area in the west, Carson Valley near Minden and Gardnerville, and a handful of farms in the Elko area. 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 Carson City, Nevada page to find specific orchards by ZIP code and read visitor reviews before you go.

Best Apple Varieties in Nevada

Nevada orchards commonly grow Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, and Granny Smith. 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 Nevada

Pair a Nevada apple picking trip with a visit to Lake Tahoe — the orchards of the Carson Valley are a short drive from the lake's south shore, and fall foliage in the Sierra makes the combination spectacular.

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 Nevada

Our interactive map pulls from hundreds of orchards across the state. Search apple picking near Carson City to see what is closest to you, or browse the full Apple Picking Near Me directory for the whole country.