Your 2025 guide to apple picking in New Hampshire
Rejoice in the perfect autumn escape at these eight spots to go apple picking in New Hampshire.
One of the unique pleasures of living in New Hampshire is the abundance of seasonal fruits, and more importantly, the ability to pick-your-own (PYO). Apple picking is one of the most widely enjoyed, “apple-lutely” amazing activities of the fall season, and one can find chock-fulls of the fruit across the state.
The apple-picking season typically runs from mid-August to October, and there are almost 50 varieties of apples grown in the state, including McIntosh, Cortland, Empire, Macoun, Gala, Mutsu, and Honeycrisp. For those who can’t wait to taste fresh apples this season, the earliest varieties are McIntosh, Paula Red, and Summermac.
Last year’s apple season was declared a “tremendous success” with many farmers reporting excellent crops of great quality.
With fall right around the corner, here’s a guide to one of the Granite State’s most-loved fall activities.
But first: What to bring to apple picking?
Fruit pickers
Everyone is welcome to harbor some adventurous spirit, but apple picking, especially from a height, can be dangerous. The best way to mitigate any accidents is to invest in a nice fruit-picking tool.
Sunscreen
Always remember to wear a sun hat and put on sunscreen. Applying an insect repellent might not hurt, either.
Water
As you’ll be spending many hours outdoors picking apples, it is important to stay hydrated. Bring ample water or Gatorade.
Your own basket
While most orchards and farms will provide you with baskets or bags to put apples in, they might not be sturdy, and some businesses might simply not provide any.
When I went apple picking last year, the orchard gave me a plastic bag to put apples in, but the flimsy bag came apart by the end of the excursion. It is best to bring your own basket or bag to avoid that situation.
Snacks (if you’re overwhelmed by apples all around)
It’s almost impossible to get overwhelmed with crunchy, farm-fresh apples, but if you’re not an apple fanatic and just tagged along with friends or family for fun, bring some snacks. Apple picking can be tedious and physically exhausting (especially if the weather is hot).
Some pro apple picking tips (attested by a one-time apple picker: me!)
Pick the apples on the outer branches of the trees
Unlike other fruits, such as tomatoes, apples do not ripen after being plucked from a tree. So it’s best to pick out apples from the outer branches that ripen quicker than others on the tree.
Don’t shake the trees
Lift and gently twist the apples to pluck them. If an apple comes off easily, it is ripe. But if you have to pull hard to take it off, it is a sign to go for another apple.
Once you shake the tree, the apples might fall and get bruised, and you don’t want to take home damaged apples!
Wear practical footwear
It is best to wear closed-toe shoes, such as sneakers or boots, because you’ll be walking on muddy and dirty paths.
Check the weather before you go
It is really not ideal to go apple picking when it’s raining. At the same time if you’re plucking apples under a scorching sun (which I did last year) don’t forget to bring a bottle of chilled water with you!
Come home and bake a pie
But seriously, what’s the point of bringing home a basket-full of apples if not to bake the perfect, crustiest pie? Here is a personal favorite recipe.
Best places to pick apples in Southern New Hampshire
Mack’s Apples in Londonderry
The almost 400-acre farm (100 acres are dedicated to apple farming) is one of the largest spots to go apple picking in New Hampshire. The history of the farm can be traced to 1732 when John Mack moved from Londonderry, Ireland, to Londonderry, New Hampshire, and purchased a plot of land where he grew potatoes, and later on, apples.
A personal favorite, Mack’s Apples is very affordable, with a small bag costing almost $20, which can easily fit 15-20 apples.
If apple picking doesn’t sound appealing, do try their ice cream store for the creamiest and most unique flavors.
Carter Hill Orchard in Concord
Located on 73 Carter Road in Concord, this orchard offers a variety of apples to pick. August varieties include Paula Red, McIntosh, and Summermac. September varieties include Cortland, Empire, and Gala.
To learn more about what these varieties taste like and find out more about the history of their cultivation, visit the orchard’s website.
Check out their orchard map here.
Applecrest Farm in Hampton Falls
Located on 133 Exeter Road, Applecrest Farm guarantees the best taste in juicy fruits. The farm is currently open for PYO blueberries, raspberries, flowers, and peaches.
Here’s a list of apple varieties, categorized by their maturity dates.
Picking half a bushel costs $45.
Alyson’s Orchard in Walpole
Located on 57 Alyson’s Lane in Walpole, this orchard is located on a 350-acre property that looks over a breathtaking view of the Connecticut River Valley.
The property features nearly 50 acres of fruit-bearing trees and is also open to various ideas for outdoor wedding ceremonies.
Half a bushel can cost almost $20 here.
Best places to pick apples in Northern New Hampshire
Cardigan Mountain Orchard in Alexandria
Located on 1540 Mt. Cardigan Road in Alexandria, this apple orchard boasts an impressive array of nearly 1,000 apple trees.
A family-run business with a focus on apples, Cardigan’s main apple trees are more than 100 years old. The PYO apple season starts on Labor Day weekend here, and apple-lovers can taste almost 15 different varieties of apples. Read all about its apple varieties and when they ripen here.
With support from the local community, Cardigan opened a farm store in 2013, showcasing products from its own orchard, other local farms, and local craftspeople.
McKenzie’s Farm in Milton
Located on 71 Northeast Pond Road, McKenzie’s Farm kicks off apple picking season on August 20. The orchard produces more than 15 types of apples, with Ginger Gold and Zestar being the earliest varieties.
Read more about when each variety will be available here.
The cost of 36 boxed apples is $75. For more information on pricing, visit the website.
Riverview Farm in Plainfield
Located on 141 River Road, this family-run business offers over 15 different varieties of apples that grow on almost 2,000 apple trees.
Paula Red is the earliest available variety of apple that can be picked as early as late August.
Ever had apple pizza? Check out the website for more such eclectic recipes.
Windy Ridge Orchard in North Haverhill
A local farm located on 1746 Benton Road, Windy Ridge offers blueberry picking as well as 18 varieties of apples.
With gentle mountain views surrounding the orchard, Windy Ridge also has a cider cafe that serves fresh breakfast and lunch, as well as a gift shop and natural trails for those looking for a tad more adventure.
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