Nature’s Bounty: The 10 Best Apple Picking Spots in Ottawa
When the Fall season starts to arrive, orchards in and around Ottawa beckon all to indulge in the thrill of selecting the perfect apples.
For locals or even visitors in the city ready to embrace the quintessential fall experience, this guide unveils the best apple-picking spots in or near Ottawa.
From charming family-owned orchards to sprawling landscapes offering a cornucopia of apple varieties, there’s a lot to discover. So, join us on a tour through all the top places to go apple-picking in Ottawa!
1. Log Cabin Orchard
Address: 6121 Cabin Rd, Osgoode, ON K0A 2W0, Canada
Contact Details: +1 613-826-5081
Log Cabin Orchard is one of the top apple-picking destinations for several good reasons.
The warm and friendly atmosphere, coupled with an abundant array of apple varieties, makes it a standout choice for autumn adventures.
Aside from indulging in the joy of apple picking, you can also explore its pumpkin patches for added fall delight.
Weekends at Log Cabin Orchard come alive with the tempting aroma of churros and hot dogs, beckoning visitors to savor these delightful treats. And if that isn’t cozy enough, it offers a bonfire pit where memories are made amidst the crackling flames.
But most importantly, don’t forget to grab some cider – a personal favorite of ours and something you just can’t miss when you drop by here!
So, mark your calendars for the next apple-picking season, which kicks off on September 10, promising a harvest of experiences waiting to be plucked.
2. Pinewood Orchards
Address: 101 Herzberg Rd, Kanata, ON K2K 2Y3, Canada
Contact Details: [email protected]
The Pinewood Orchards is a charming spot that boasts an assortment of apple varieties, all meticulously handpicked from its expansive farm.
With over 800 full-size trees, many standing proudly for over 50 years, Pinewood Orchards is a testament to enduring traditions and wholesome orchard experiences.
Once you’re here, dive into a crisp delight with their apple varieties, including Lobo, Cortland, McIntosh, Atlas, and Melba, each offering a unique flavor profile.
Pinewood Orchards also extends its bounty to include other fruits and vegetables, creating a farm-to-table experience that celebrates locally sourced produce.
3. Avonmore Berry Farm
Address: 16365 4 Rd, Avonmore, ON K0C 1C0, Canada
Contact Details: +1 613-346-2336
Avonmore Berry Farm is a family-friendly haven that not only invites you to wander through the bountiful apple orchards but also ensures a memorable experience for kids!
Your little ones will have a dedicated kids’ area and weekend wagon rides during the apple and pumpkin seasons from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
For the perfect timing of your visit, set your sights on September and early October, with the farm welcoming visitors every day from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Avonmore Berry Farm goes beyond mere apple picking, offering a plethora of activities, from berry picking to a designated space for the kids and weekend wagon rides! Isn’t that just the perfect recipe for a wholesome family outing?
While you explore the charm of the farm, don’t forget to set aside precious moments for apple and pumpkin picking.
Avonmore Berry Farm boasts a delightful array of apple varieties, including Cortland, Paula Red, McIntosh, and Lobo.
4. Cannamore Orchard
Address: 1480 County Rd 32, Crysler, ON K0A 1R0, Canada
Contact Details: +1 613-448-3633
Established in 1982 and still thriving as a family-operated gem, Cannamore Orchard has come a long way from its humble beginnings with 500 apple trees.
Over the years, it has grown into a haven for apple enthusiasts, constantly expanding its orchards while maintaining a delightful, welcoming atmosphere.
Cannamore Orchard beckons you to indulge in the joy of choice as you peruse through a selection of ripe apple varieties, including McIntosh, Honey Crisp, Cortland, and Lobo.
The orchard’s dedication to ensuring a seamless harvest experience is further reflected in its provision of carts and wagons to effortlessly carry your pumpkin haul.
But Cannamore Orchard isn’t just about apples and pumpkins; it’s a haven of excitement for families. From whimsical mazes to charming cow trains, spirited duck races, and leisurely wagon rides, there’s an adventure for every member of the family.
And for those craving a taste of the spooky season, dare to test your courage in Cannamore Orchard’s Acres of Terror.
5. Mountain Orchards
Address: 10175 Clark Rd, Mountain, ON K0E 1S0, Canada
Contact Details: +1 613-989-5601
Established in 1932, Mountain Orchards has always been one of the best places to go apple-picking.
Aside from being a premier destination, it’s also home to the descendants of the first McIntosh tree, discovered in Dundela in 1829 by John McIntosh.
It’s got a delightful array of apple varieties, with options ranging from the classic McIntosh to the tempting Lobo, Ambrosia, Cortland, and Silken.
Beyond the joy of apple picking, Mountain Orchards invites you to unleash your adventurous spirit. You can go on a wagon ride, traverse the scenic forest trails, conquer a straw jump, or challenge your wits in a captivating corn maze.
For those looking to unwind, a visit to the playground or the designated picnic spot offers a perfect cooldown after a day of excitement.
Now, you might find yourself pondering, “Will I have the energy to whip up some home-baked goodies?”
Don’t worry because Mountain Orchards’ bakery has you covered with heavenly apple donuts, refreshing cider, and mouthwatering pies to satisfy those rumbling tummies!
6. Orléans Fruit Farm (Ferme D’Orleans)
Address: 1399 St Joseph Blvd, Orléans, ON K1C 7K9, Canada
Contact Details: +1 613-830-1303
At Orléans Fruit Farm, the joy of apple picking comes with options, allowing buyers to choose between U-pick and pre-picked apples based on their preference. Beyond the orchards, this farm is a great place to grab fresh produce.
You can explore a charming array of fruits and vegetables at its kiosk, where you can leisurely browse through a tempting selection.
From crisp carrots to juicy cucumbers or onions to plump peas, beans, strawberries, and raspberries, it showcases a vibrant palette of locally sourced produce!
7. Apple Stock Orchard
Address: 1341 Merkley Rd, Winchester, ON K0C 2K0, Canada
Contact Details: +1 613-774-0594
Apple Stock Orchard, a delightful destination for apple picking near Ottawa, beckons visitors with its specialty in McIntosh apples.
As a family-operated establishment, Apple Stock Orchard has been cultivating the iconic McIntosh apples since the 90s, ensuring a plentiful harvest. If the McIntosh apple holds a special place in your heart, this orchard is the best place for you!
While wandering through the orchard, keep an eye out for the charming company of adorable chickens, adding an extra touch of countryside charm to your adventure.
8. Ferme Dagenais
Address: 1155 Stevens Rd, Embrun, ON K0A 1W0, Canada
Contact Details: +1 613-448-3167
What makes Ferme Dagenais one of the more unique apple-picking spots is that aside from apples, you also have the option to pluck ripe pears!
And for those who’re particular about the kind of produce they purchase, this farm is committed to organic goodness. This means that both apples and pears are cultivated organically, promising a taste of wholesome, pesticide-free produce.
The apple-picking season at Ferme Dagenais spans from August to October and offers a diverse range of varieties to explore. If you’re a fan of pears, the picking season for these delectable fruits extends until the end of September.
But before you go on your fun fall adventure, remember to bring along your trusty reusable bag to gather the fruits of your choice.
Ferme Dagenais not only invites you to savor the crispness of organic apples and the sweetness of pears but also promises an eco-conscious experience!
9. McGregor’s Orchard
Address: 704 Clifford Sideroad, Renfrew, ON K7V 3Z4, Canada
Contact Details: +1 613-432-3264
McGregor’s Orchard has been under the hands of the McGregor family since 2016 and has since then grown delicious, juicy apples.
This family-operated orchard boasts mid-dwarf apple trees that bear a delightful array of apple varieties, including Lobo, Ruby McIntosh, and Honey Crisp.
Before going on an apple-picking spree, McGregor’s Orchard invites you to take a leisurely stroll along the trail meandering through the orchard.
This picturesque journey culminates at the quaint apple shop, offering a delightful showcase of the orchard’s harvested produce.
The trail not only treats visitors to a visual feast of the orchard’s beauty but also adds a touch of adventure to the whole experience.
10. Verger Croque-Pomme
Address: 20 Mnt Berndt, Thurso, QC J0X 3B0, Canada
Contact Details: +1 819-281-2061
Verger Croque-Pomme’s orchard is located approximately 35 minutes away from downtown Ottawa and is known for being a lovely place that’s also budget-friendly.
It’s got around four hectares of various apple trees and adds new varieties every year, making it so that there’s always something new to look forward to next season!
If you don’t have your own container for your apples, you can grab a bag or box upon arrival!
Essential Apple-Picking Tips
Before you run off and start picking apples to your heart’s content, you have to prepare yourself first to make sure your adventure goes off without a hitch. Check out our list of essential apple-picking tips below:
1. Timing is everything.
When planning your apple-picking excursion, timing is crucial because different apple varieties ripen at distinct times throughout the season. For example, Honey Crisp Apples tend to ripen around early September.
So, be sure to research the harvest schedule for your preferred type of apple to ensure you experience the peak of freshness and flavor.
2. Dress comfortably and sensibly.
Apple orchards can be uneven terrain, so opt for comfortable and sturdy footwear. This means you should dress in layers, considering the fluctuating temperatures often experienced during fall.
Additionally, don’t forget essentials like hats and sunscreen for protection while you enjoy the outdoors.
3. Bring your own bag.
While many orchards provide bags or baskets, bringing your own reusable bag or container can make the apple-picking experience more convenient. It ensures you have enough space to gather a variety of apples without worrying about running out of room.
4. Follow orchard etiquette.
Respect the rules and guidelines set by the orchard, such as being mindful of designated picking areas. You should only pick the apples you intend to purchase.
Additionally, supervise your children closely and refrain from climbing trees or causing damage to the orchard’s property.
5. Try out the other attractions or activities available at an orchard.
Some orchards offer additional attractions and activities, so make the most of your visit by exploring beyond the apple trees. You can usually enjoy tractor rides, corn mazes, or other seasonal festivities that the orchard may offer.
It’s an excellent way to turn your apple-picking outing into a full-fledged autumn adventure!