The days are getting shorter and the night air is a little cooler, which means it’s time to go apple picking in Northern Virginia! One of the best things about living in the Nothern Virginia area is that we have it all – access to the city, the abundance of the suburbs, and beautiful rural destinations are all less than an hour away. Whether you drive out west on Route 7, Route 50, or I-66 you are bound to run into a pick-your-own farm or a vineyard. How about both?
Our family has gone apple picking just about every year since our kids were born. How do I know that, well, my Facebook memories tell me, of course? Over the years we have tried just about every pick-your-own farm or orchard within an hour’s drive of the greater Reston area and thought we’d put together a list to make it easier for you.
Without further ado, here’s our list of the best places to go apple picking in Northern Virginia:
Hollin Farms in Delaplane, VA
One of our favorites. They use an integrated pest management approach, which limits the amount of pesticides used. They are located on a hillside on the opposite side of Sky Meadows State Park, so we suggest picking some apples and snacking on some while taking an afternoon hike.
Mackintosh Fruit Farm in Berryville, VA
A great farm with an on-site farmer’s market and store. Note, due to COVID they are taking precautions and limiting access to certain times. Be sure to register on their website for your specific time.
Hartland Orchards in Markham, VA
One of the more well-known orchards in the area, you’ve probably seen their sign when heading west on I-66. In addition to apple picking, they have a corn maze, but you may want to check on the status during COVID precautions. Also, they recommend calling first to get the latest fruit picking status.
Valley View Farm in Delaplane, VA
Valley View Farm is much more than a typical pick-your-own orchard. The farm is also home to the Gnarled Orchard Hard Cidery, Nobel Hive Meadery, Valley View Cellars, and Strother Family Vineyards, all of which produce for the Locavore Farm Market Taproom on site.
Great Country Farms in Bluemont, VA
More of a Fall Festival than a farm, Great Country Farms offers hayrides, trampolines, mazes, and much more in addition to the pick-your-own. Of course, Bluemont Vineyards and Dirt Farm Brewing are right across the street for some afternoon refreshments and an amazing view to round out your day.
Crooked Run Orchard in Purcellville, VA
A great orchard near the heart of downtown Purcellville. There are no frills but they have acres and acres of beautiful apple trees and make some downright delicious cider, which you can buy to go. Head to Crooked Run in the morning and hit the delicious Monk’s BBQ for lunch and Tipped Cow Creamery for dessert. You won’t be sorry!
Stribling Orchard in Markham, VA
Normally one of our favorite orchards for apple picking in Northern Virginia. However, this year their apple crop did not survive an early frost that hit western Virginia. Hopefully, they will be back next year.
Meanwhile, be sure to check the Facebook pages for each of the above orchards before heading out, and be sure to tag us in your photos on Instagram or Facebook.
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