Apple picking season in Franklin County, Massachusetts offers residents and visitors the chance to enjoy the bounty of New England’s orchards from late August through mid-October, with each farm featuring distinct varieties and experiences. Franklin County’s apple growers maintain a rich tradition of family farming, sustainability, and local hospitality.
Prime Orchards for Apple Picking
Pine Hill Orchards
Pine Hill Orchards in Colrain launches pick-your-own apples every Labor Day Weekend, running through Columbus Day. On over 80 acres, Pine Hill grows apples, peaches, plums, blueberries, and pumpkins. Be sure to stop by their farm store, open daily from 9 am–6 pm, offering their own apples, fresh pressed cider, homemade pies, grab-and-go meals, and daily cider donuts.
Apex Orchards
Apex Orchards, located in Shelburne, opens their “Pick Your Own” season from August through mid-to-late October, Thursday–Sunday, 10 am–4 pm. Ten apple varieties—such as Honeycrisp, McIntosh, Fuji, and Royal Gala—become available as the season progresses. Enjoy tractor-drawn trailer rides on weekends, with hilltop views spanning three states. Check their website or social media for what’s ripe before visiting, and remember only farm-supplied picking bags may be used.
Clarkdale Fruit Farms
Clarkdale Fruit Farms in Deerfield is a fourth-generation family orchard, open daily for pick-your-own apples from 9 am–4 pm. Over 40 apple varieties—including McIntosh, Ginger Gold, Gala, Empire, Cortland, Macoun, and Jonagold—are available, many of which are heirloom and not usually found at supermarkets. Pick up some pears, nectarines, plums, grapes, and fresh sweet apple cider from their farm stand as well.
Farm Stands & Markets
Clark Brothers Orchards
Located in Ashfield’s Apple Valley, Clark Brothers Orchards has been growing apples for six generations. The farm grows 25–28 varieties, including Honeycrisp, Macoun, McIntosh, Cortland, Gala, EverCrisp, and Ludacrisp. Their commitment to sustainability is highlighted by Eco Apple certification, integrated pest management, and a focus on local pollinators. While they do not offer pick your own, you can stop by their stand to purchase their delicious apples.
E & J Scott Orchard
Serving Franklin County from Buckland and Goshen, E & J Scott Orchard is a family-run operation dating back to 1954, offering apples and other fruit alongside heritage duck eggs. Their hours are Saturday and Sunday, 10 am–6 pm from July through May. The farm is known for its careful storage and quality, and guests can also enjoy apricots, peaches, plums, and berries in season.
Hager’s Farm Market
Hager’s Farm Market, on Route 2 in Shelburne Falls, is a seventh-generation farm market and orchard. Their robust farm stand sells produce, homemade maple cream fried dough, maple soft-serve ice cream, breads, baked goods, and of course, delicious apples grown right in their orchards. The welcoming market is a staple for locals and travelers.
Useful Details & Tips
Apple varieties ripen in a gentle succession across the season: expect McIntosh and Ginger Gold early in September, with Honeycrisp, Macoun, Cortland, Gala, Empire, and Fuji appearing through October.
- Orchard amenities vary widely: many provide cider donuts, farm shops, tractor or trailer rides, picnic areas, and local specialties.
- Most orchards require use of their picking bags, and personal containers are not allowed.
- Dress comfortably for walking through rows and bring layers for changing weather. Farm store and bathroom accessibility vary; confirm with individual farms for any specific accommodations.
- The best time for the widest variety is generally early to mid-October.
Plan Your Apple Picking Excursion
Apple picking in Franklin County is as much about the experience as the fruit. From spectacular autumn views to fresh local treats and generations of agricultural tradition, each orchard holds something unique. Visiting more than one farm throughout the season provides the chance to taste different varieties, discover heirlooms, and enjoy a full celebration of fall in Western Massachusetts.
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