Apple Picking Near Fort Collins: The Best Colorado Orchards for Fall Fun

by Jason Levi

If your perfect fall day includes flannel, fresh air, and a basket full of crisp apples, Northern Colorado delivers. Peak apple season typically runs early September through mid-October, and several beloved orchards within a short drive of Fort Collins offer U-pick experiences, farm stands, and seasonal treats.

Top Pick in Fort Collins: Garden Sweet

Why we love it: A relaxed, photogenic farm just minutes from Old Town—great for date afternoons, leaf-peeping strolls, and letting kids explore a real working farm. Garden Sweet’s apple U-pick books fast each year; for 2025 the orchard lists U-pick as sold out, with a waitlist for any reopened slots. (They host other seasonal events and you-pick experiences throughout the year.)

Need-to-know: Apple U-pick dates are typically a short window in September; in 2025 they were slated Sept 10–Oct 1 with timed reservations when available. Always check the farm’s page for the latest status before you go.

Heirloom Charm & Farm Animals: YA YA Farm & Orchard (Longmont)

Why we love it: A century-old, family-run orchard known for heirloom varieties, apple-cider donuts, pies, and meet-the-animals moments (Percheron draft horses, mini donkeys, ducks, and more). It’s a fun, hands-on stop for all ages and an easy half-day date or family outing.

Need-to-know: U-pick requires advance reservations and typically sells out by late summer; for 2025, U-pick is sold out, but the farm stand remains open August–November with no admission fee. Weekday afternoons are usually the most peaceful time to visit. No pets, to protect resident animals.

Small-Town Favorite with a Country Store: Adam’s Apple Orchard & Country Store (Ault)

Why we love it: Classic Colorado orchard vibes with a well-stocked country store—think pre-picked Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, Zestar, plus apple butter, cider, jams, and salsas. After a rough hail season, the team is still creating fall magic with limited U-pick on select weekends. It’s an easy family stop from Fort Collins.

Need-to-know: Store hours are generally Wed–Sun, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; U-pick is offered on select weekends and may change with weather and crop conditions. Check their Picking Updates or Instagram for day-of availability before you head out.

Laid-Back Saturdays & Big Open Spaces: Worrell Family Farm & Orchard (Eaton)

Why we love it: A relaxed Saturday-only U-pick with over 1,000 trees, elbow room for toddlers to roam, and a farmer-led vibe that makes you feel like a local. You’ll often find baked goods (cinnamon rolls, sourdough, pies) and seasonal extras. Great for a low-key family morning or a casual fall date.

Need-to-know: Typical schedule is Saturdays 9 a.m.–5 p.m. during harvest, with $10 per car entry and apples by the pound; varieties and pricing can change as different rows ripen. Watch their Facebook posts for weekly updates and first-day announcements. (Pets aren’t allowed; plan accordingly.)

Make It a Perfect Fall Outing (Date-Night or Family-Day)

Go early or pick weekdays for fewer crowds and better selection—especially at popular spots.
Reserve ahead wherever required; U-pick often books up weeks in advance
Pack smart: water, sunscreen, hats, hand wipes, and closed-toe shoes. Bring a small cooler for donuts, cider, and delicate apples.
Think recipes: plan an apple-pie bake-off, press fresh juice, or make kid-friendly crockpot applesauce when you get home.
Photo ops: orchards offer golden-hour light, rustic backdrops, and pumpkin patches—perfect for engagement-style date shots or family holiday cards (ask staff about photo policies).
Be orchard-kind: follow signage, only pick from designated rows, and keep branches intact so next year’s crop thrives.

Quick FAQ for Northern Colorado Apple Picking

When is peak season? Early September to mid-October, but timing shifts with weather. Always check each orchard’s daily update before heading out. Coloradoan

Do I need reservations? Often yes—especially for YA YA and Garden Sweet. If U-pick is sold out, you can still enjoy farm stands, animals, and pre-picked fruit. YA YA Farm & Orchard+1

Are pets allowed? Usually no at working orchards with animals—confirm policies in advance. YA YA Farm & Orchard

Planning a Move to (or within) Northern Colorado?

Fall is a fantastic time to explore neighborhoods while you’re out visiting orchards. If you’re considering a home with room for raised beds, fruit trees, or that dreamy backyard patio for cider nights, The Levi Group Brokered by Real can help you find it—right here in Fort Collins, Windsor, Loveland, Timnath, and beyond.

Questions about local neighborhoods or school zones near your favorite orchard? Reach out—we’re happy to pair your lifestyle wish-list with the right home.