Many Minnesotans mark time by what’s in season: Asparagus heralds the arrival of spring, strawberries mean summer is imminent, sweet corn and tomatoes take us through the warmest of days. Now it’s prime apple time.
That means local orchards have started opening their gates. Looking for hayrides, corn mazes, live music and to choose your own apples? We have those. Want apple-focused bakeries — a feast of doughnuts, fritters, turnovers, pies and crisps? There are those, too. Multitasking pumpkin picking, another rite of fall? Check.
Some orchards house general stores for stocking up on pre-picked apples, freshly pressed cider, caramel apples, flights of hard cider and other apple-related treats. Others accommodate the purists, who stick strictly to the highly underrated fresh-air activity of apple picking. (A reminder that if your sole endgame is Minnesota apples, the Apple House at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a local treasure, too.)
Many orchards have already started welcoming apple enthusiasts, while others are opening soon. Be sure to do your research before visiting to confirm hours, services, availability and payment options (some are cash or check only). The most up-to-date information is usually found on orchards’ social media pages.
While many of us have our favorites, fall is a great time to explore one of these 40-plus orchards, all within a couple of hours of the Twin Cities. Before long you’ll be warming your hands around mugs of Minnesota-made cider and enjoying one of autumn’s biggest perks — apple season.
Becker, Minn.
Lee Peterson Tree Farm, 59th Street and 149th Avenue SE., 612-423-3441, leepetersontreefarm.com
Buffalo, Minn.
Deer Lake Orchard, 1903 SW. 10th St., 763-682-4284, deerlakeorchard.com
Woods’ Edge Apples, 1901 NE. 50th St., Buffalo, 763-682-4409, localharvest.org
