Apple Picking: A Sweet Fall Tradition
- adriana hamelin
- Sep 19, 2025
- 2 min read
There’s something magical about apple picking on a sunny autumn day. The crisp air, the smell of ripe fruit, and the crunch of leaves under your boots — it’s the kind of activity that just feels good for the soul.
Honestly, I don’t think apple picking is something I’d do just with my husband — but with friends, family, and kids? It’s pure joy. There’s a gang-like energy to it: kids racing to climb ladders, everyone filling bags with apples while sneaking a few bites. 🍎 It’s messy, fun, and a perfect excuse to spend a couple of hours outside.
Did You Know? 🍏
Peak apple season is September and October — so mark your calendars early!
The right way to pick an apple? Gently lift it upwards — no twisting or yanking needed. Keeping the peduncle (the stem) attached helps the apple stay fresh up to 3–4 weeks on the counter.
Apples are naturally fat-free, cholesterol-free, and packed with fiber and antioxidants. Yep, the old saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” isn’t just a cute rhyme.
Tips for a Perfect Apple Picking Day
🍏 Plan for traffic: Orchards are usually reached by one main road, so expect a line of cars. Sometimes police officers direct traffic on busy weekends.
🍏 Bring your own bag or trolley: Those apples get heavy fast, and carrying them back to the car is part of the challenge!
🍏 Pack sunscreen, water, and snacks: You’ll likely stay for a couple of hours. Many orchards have tractors, playgrounds, or even farm animals — perfect for making it a full-day outing.
Where We Went
This year, we visited Croisée des Pommes in Saint-Joseph-du-Lac, a lovely bio orchard I’d recommend if you’re looking for organic options.
Another favorite apple experience? Visiting Cidrerie Michel Jodoin in Rougemont — not just for their cider tastings but for their hiking trail (4.6 km) with a beautiful lookout point. We went in October, and the fall colors were incredible. For $5 per person (ages 12+), it’s a fun way to add some activity to your apple adventure.
Apple Picking Around the World
While we often think of it as a Canadian or American tradition, apple picking is popular around the world — you can find orchards in France, the UK, Ireland, Australia, India, the Netherlands, and Switzerland too!
Why I Love It
Apple picking is really a 3-in-1 activity:
It gets everyone outdoors 🌳
It lets you slow down and enjoy nature 🍂
It’s a shared moment with friends and family ❤️
Plus, you go home with bags full of fresh, crunchy apples to turn into pies, crisps, or just to snack on all week.
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