Here’s How to Have the Most Fun Apple Picking in California This Fall
These charming hamlets offer u-picks, cideries, pies, and so much more.
Thomas J. Story
When fall hits, we can’t help but think of apples. And while Washington is immediately where the mind goes, California’s Central Valley—the nation’s breadbasket—grows plenty of them too. In fact, 60% of California’s bearing acres are concentrated there, with El Dorado County leading the state in production. Most of that feeds the commercial market. But if you’re actually going apple picking, the real experience lives in three very different places in Northern and Southern California. Here’s where to go picking depending on the vibes you’re after.
For Heritage Nerds: Mendocino County
Apple production in Mendocino County dates back to the mid-1800s, when early settlers planted heirloom varieties such as Gravenstein and Pippin along the fertile floodplains of the valleys. Today, the industry remains small-scale with almost 400 bearing acres spread across family farms and boutique growers. Though the annual Mendocino County Fair & Apple Show held in September has passed, there are plenty of spots to pick up freshly pressed cider and pies, or try your hand at a u-pick.
Pomo Tierra, a collective established in 1971 in Anderson Valley, sits on an 80-acre property that includes over 20 varieties, including a historic Gravenstein apple orchard with trees planted around the turn of the century. Other excellent options in the area include The Apple Farm in Philo. They have a charming B&B where you can stay and enjoy one of their Saturday Suppers, but their farmstand also offers unique items like apple cider syrup, chutneys, and ciders. For a perfect farmhouse weekender, book SCP Mendocino Inn & Farm , where you’ll stay in charming country cottages that come with all the cozy amenities—including complimentary chicken feed to share with the on-site chooks.
For Fall Freaks: Apple Hill, El Dorado County
Apple Hill, a collection of 55 ranches in the Sierra foothills around Camino and Placerville, has become California’s largest concentration of apple growers and a significant tourist destination. The story began in the late 1950s when a pear blight devastated the region’s pear orchards. Local growers formed a coalition and pivoted to apples, finding the region’s rich soil and lengthy winter chill ideal for the fruit.
Today, the area offers comprehensive agritourism infrastructure: pick-your-own orchards, on-site bakeries, cider pressing, apple cider donuts, wineries, and yes, lots and lots of Insta-worthy photo opps. There’s even an Apple Hill museum.
For Cabincore Enthusiasts: Oak Glen, San Bernardino County
Oak Glen, located in the San Bernardino Mountains, offers vintage Americana apple-picking heritage within close proximity of the amazing hikes and cutesy lodging of Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead. Make it a proper weekend, then head out to the orchards for u-picks and appley indulgence.
Riley’s Farm features some 100 apple varieties from trees aged up to 100 years, including Royal Galas and Gravensteins, with an on-farm bakery. Parrish Pioneer Ranch has been in operation since 1867, making it one of California’s oldest continuously operating apple farms. The region offers apple picking and farm tours focused on regenerative agriculture. And Los Rios Rancho, described as Southern California’s oldest apple orchard, offers apple picking, horse-drawn wagon rides, and cider pressing. Some of our favorite spots to stay include this groovy 70s style chalet as well as the newly revamped, Sunset Travel Awards-worthy Hotel Marina Riviera.
