Happy Apple Farm
Grab a bag and pick from a variety of apples, all priced by the pound. Enjoy a free hayride around the farm and be sure to visit the Country Store, where you’ll find apple cider, apple pies, apple cider donuts, blackberry cobblers, and other goodies baked fresh daily. On the weekends they serve up applewood smoked brisket and pulled pork, as well as turkey legs and hot dogs for the kids. It’s recommended to call ahead for picking status. 1190 First St., Penrose.
Nelms Farm
This backyard orchard turned pick-your-own farm offers organic apples and potatoes, as well as other fruits and vegetables. They provide the apple picking poles, potato forks and buckets, so all you need to bring is a few bags. There’s a beekeeper on site to give kids demonstrations of beekeeping, and Fairmont Park is right through the back gate—a great spot for a post-apple-picking picnic. Plan to call ahead as the apples may sell out quickly. 5305 Orchard St., Golden.
Ya Ya Farm & Orchard
This u-pick-it orchard offers apple picking priced by the bag. U-pick is by reservation only, but visitors can stop by the Farm Stand anytime and grab a bag of pre-picked apples or a fresh baked apple pie. Don’t miss the apple cider donuts—they’re made daily and oh-so-delicious paired with a cup of hot apple cider. While you’re there, grab a bucket of carrots to feed the horses or enjoy a picnic in the orchard. 6914 Ute Highway, Longmont.
Orchard Creek Ranch
Take a day trip to Glenwood Springs and pick apples right from the tree at this 75-year-old organic apple orchard. You’ll find heirloom varieties of Jonathan, Rome, and Double Red Delicious apples, priced by the pound. While you’re there, pick up some organic fresh-pressed apple cider or apple wood chips for barbecuing. U-pick begins around the last weekend in September and is open on weekends through October. Call ahead to confirm hours. 726 County Road 137, Glenwood Springs.
