Apple Picking

Yesterday was a beautiful Autumn day so our family went out for an adventure. We drove through the mountains of northern Utah where we were able to admire the beautiful colors of the changing trees and the scenic views of some small communities. Our destination was Paradise Valley Orchard to go apple picking, and I must say that this Orchard was a taste of paradise. 


Paradise Valley Orchard had been in business for about 16 years and in May was purchased by the new owners Lorin and Ali Harrison. There were many things that impressed me about our visit to this orchard. The owners and staff were very friendly and helpful. They told us which apples were the best for pies or baking and which were the best for eating. They told us to taste all the different varieties of apples to make sure we took home the ones we liked best. Can you imagine a grocery store saying that?  They also had crates for us to put our apples in and offered us boxes to take them home in since we forgot to bring a container. 

Not only did the hospitality impress me but the atmosphere did as well. The orchard has six different varieties of apple trees and some garden areas. It also had chickens running around which provided great entertainment for my kids who rarely are around farm animals. They also had a little play scape the kids were able to play on. Overall my kids were able to enjoy themselves, run around pick apples and get a bit of a farm experience. 


Finally, as a mom who likes to put healthy home grown food into my kids, I was pleased to find out that the owners are working on becoming certified as organic apple growers. Therefore, the apples were not sprayed with pesticides or other junk I don't want my kids eating.  When the owners said we could taste the apples off the trees, we really could, and all we consumed were crispy fresh apples. 


It was a really fun experience, one we will do again. So if you are looking for a great Autumn outing for your family I would highly recommend Paradise Valley Orchard. If you were wondering about cost, a bushel is $30 and a half a bushel is $17. You can also purchase apples at $1.25 a pound. They take cash and check. The Orchard also has apple cider for sale and if you make an appointment they will press your apples into apple cider for you.  So grab a container for apples, some cash, a camera and get out 'n about.