15 Best Places to Go Apple Picking in Ottawa 2024
Sweater weather is the perfect opportunity to go apple picking in Ottawa!
The end of summer doesn’t have to be a bummer when you can choose among the beautiful apple orchards within and near Ottawa to pick your favourite varieties.
Each one has its own pricing, schedule, and unique features below for your consideration.
My favourites are Avonmore Berry Farm for the wagon rides and the honeycrisp from Log Cabin Orchards!
Regardless of where you decide to go apple picking, make sure to brush up on tips and essentials for your visit further in the article to ensure a safe and easy time for everyone.
Start off autumn right with a positive spirit and happy taste buds!
Apple Picking Season in Ottawa
Apple picking season in Ottawa usually begins in August and ends in October.
There are many orchards in and around the Ottawa region for you to select from that offer apple varieties through a U-pick program and pre-picked selections.
If a delicious – and healthy – activity in the gorgeous outdoors sounds right up your alley, go on a mini-adventure and pick your own apples fresh off the trees in Ottawa this fall!
Best Places to Pick Your Own Apples in Ottawa
1. The Log Cabin Orchard
Price: Free admission and parking; cost of apples varies but are cash only
Location: 6121 Cabin Rd. Osgoode, ON K0A 2W0; Contact: (613) 826-5081
When to Go: Open end of August for 2022 season; open daily from 10 am to 5 pm
Established in 1840 by Irish immigrant Clark Moses, the Log Cabin Orchard with its kind staff welcomes you to browse 33 acres worth of diverse apple tree varieties.
Your options are Lobos, Empire, Honey Crisp, McIntosh, Cortlands, Paula Red, Liberty, Spartans, Red Free, and NovaMac apples.
You can also visit their pumpkin patch and find your next Jack-o’-lantern among many promising candidates!
Weekends star toasty bonfires, churros, and hot dogs.
Other tasty delights include hot chocolate, apple cider, and candy apples.
2. Avonmore Berry Farm
Price: $15 per 10lb bag
Location: 16365 Fourth Rd Avonmore, ON K0C 1C0; Contact: (613) 346-2336
When to Go: Apple picking specifically September and early October; open every day from 9 am to 5 pm
Between berry picking, a kids’ space, and free wagon rides on weekends, you can’t go wrong with a tour of the family-friendly Avonmore Berry Farm.
Be sure to save time for apple and pumpkin picking though – there’s just too many varieties to miss out on!
For apples, Avonmore Berry Farm’s selection includes Cortland, Paula Red, McIntosh, and Lobo.
3. Cannamore Orchard
Price: Apple season prices vary; $14 for admission to fun farm
Location: 1480 County Rd. 32, Crysler, ON K0A 1R0; Contact: (613) 448-3633
When to Go: Apple picking typically begins from mid-August until end of September; open from 10 am to 5 pm every day
A family-operated orchard founded in 1982, Cannamore Orchard started with 500 apple trees and hasn’t stopped expanding since.
The orchard invites you to choose from many ripe varieties, such as McIntosh, Honey Crisp, Cortland, and Lobo apples.
The same goes for pumpkins; they have carts and wagons available to help you carry your haul.
There are plenty of exciting activities for families, including mazes, cow trains, duck races, and wagon rides.
For those of you itching to get into the spooky spirit, dare to test your courage in Cannamore Orchard’s Acres of Terror.
4. Mountain Orchards
Price: Free admission, activities, and parking; apples charged per staff-provided bag. Cash, debit, Visa, and MasterCard accepted; cash encouraged for smoother checkouts
Location: 10175 Clark Road, Mountain, ON K0E 1S0; Contact: (613) 989-5601
When to Go: 2022 season starts August 27th
Opened in 1932, Mountain Orchards is home to descendants of the first McIntosh tree, which was discovered in Dundela, 1829 by John McIntosh.
There is a selection of ten apples aside from McIntosh, like Lobo, Ambrosia, Cortland, and Silken.
To satisfy your adventurous side, take a wagon ride, a forest trail, a straw jump, or challenge yourself to escaping a corn maze.
You can also visit the playground or picnic spot for a cooldown after all that excitement.
You might be thinking, “I’ll be way too tired to bake my goodies at home”. No worries! The orchard’s bakery has you covered with heavenly apple donuts, cider, and pies.
5. Orléans Fruit Farm (Ferme D’Orleans)
Price: For apples, small bag $18, large bag $30, but price remains the same regardless of weight
Location: 1399 St. Joseph Blvd., Orléans, ON K1C 7K9; Contact (613) 830-1303
When to Go: Usually opens early September; unless stocks are sold out. Store hours are typically from 9am to 6 pm Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 5 pm Saturdays and Sundays
Orléans Fruit Farm gives apple buyers the option between U-pick and pre-picked ones.
They also sell various other fresh fruits and vegetables through their kiosk that you may browse at your leisure.
Examples of their produce include carrots, cucumbers, green onions, peas, beans, strawberries, and raspberries.
6. Pinewood Orchards
Price: Varies by season, cash only
Location: 101 Herzberg Rd, Kanata, ON K2K 2Y3; Contact: fresh@pinewoodorchards.com
When to Go: 2022 season begins September 3rd
Pinewood Orchards values healthy produce and crispy taste.
Their apple varieties consist of Lobo, Cortland, McIntosh, Atlas, and Melba.
They also offer homegrown fruits and vegetables.
7. AppleStock Orchard
Price: TBA 2022
Location: 1341 Merkley Rd., Winchester, ON K0C 2K0; Contact: (613) 774-0594
When to Go: Apple season is typically from August to October
As a family operative, AppleStock Orchard has been specializing in McIntosh apples since the 90s.
If that’s your favourite apple, why look any further?
Be sure to greet the cute chickens clucking about as you’re exploring the orchard!
8. McGregor’s Orchard
Price: Varies; charged per bag, which must be purchased at the orchard. Cash, debit, and credit are all accepted.
Location: 704 Clifford Sideroad, Renfrew, ON K7V 3Z4; Contact: (613) 432-3264
When to Go: Season starts September until produce is sold out
The McGregor family has been running this orchard since 2016.
Their mid-dwarf apple trees grow many types of apples such as Lobo, Ruby McIntosh, and Honey Crisp.
To see more of their adorable farm, walk on the trail through the orchard that leads to their apple shop at the end.
9. Pine Hill Orchards
Price: Free admission; price varies for apples
Location: 1818 St Félix Road, Bourget, ON K0A 1E0; Contact: (613) 487-2064
When to Go: Opens seasonally early September unless otherwise specified
Along with 20 apple varieties like MacIntosh to pick yourself, Pine Hill Orchards gives you the option of buying pre-made cider or using their Amish press to make your own.
Take a wagon ride or a picnic break to cap off a great day.
10. Verger Croque-Pomme
Price: Group rates offered upon request
Location: 20 Montée Berndt., Thurso, QC J0X 3B0; Contact: (819) 281-2061
When to Go: Season opens end of August
Apple picking in Gatineau is a lovely – and cost-friendly – experience with Verger Croque-Pomme.
You’ll be amazed by over four hectares of apple varieties, with new additions annually.
If you’re eager to try some cozy fall recipes, you can also pick pumpkins from their patch.
Bags and boxes are available upon arrival for all your apple picking needs.
11. Farm Dagenais
Price: Varies by season
Location: 1155 Stevens Road, Embrun, ON K0A 1W0; Contact: (613) 448-3167
When to Go: August to October; store hours are 10 am to 5 pm Mondays to Fridays, 10 am to 3 pm on Saturdays
Farm Dagenais prides itself on organic produce, including apples and pears, grown biodynamically since 1998.
Please note that you are responsible for bringing your own bags to this farm.
There are many endearing animals here to cheer you on as you’re apple picking, like chickens, ducks, and donkeys!
12. Ferme L’Artisan
Price: Varies; cash, debit, visa, and MasterCard are all accepted
Location: 3932 Ch. Concession 14 Rd., Fournier, On K0B 1G0; Contact: (613) 323-2073
When to Go: Mid-August end of October; Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
This orchard boasts Golden, Cortland, Spartan, Paula Red, Lobo, Gala, Empire, and MacIntosh apples for picking.
If eight apple varieties aren’t enough, Ferme L’Artisan also has many pumpkin and squash varieties waiting for you.
Take a look at their store for some delectable cider when you’re done picking your apples!
13. Domaine Cleroux
Price: Varies by season
Location: 199 Route 300 E Casselman, ON K0A 1M0; Contact: (613) 764-5543
When to Go: Generally from late August to October
Domaine Cleroux presents 800 apple trees for your consideration.
Their admirable selection includes Cortland, Honey Crisps, and Empire apples.
Their pre-made apple products, such as homemade butter and sauce, shouldn’t be overlooked!
If you’re craving maple, stop by their sugar shack to sample and buy from an array of yummy products.
14. Hall’s Apple Market
Price: Varies by season
Location: 2930 Concession 2nd Rd, Brockville, ON K6V 5T1; Contact: (613) 342-6320
When to Go: Apple picking from mid-August to October
Hall’s Apple Market has been family-run orchard since 1947.
80 acres of trees and 29 apple varieties are the fruits of their labour.
Head on to their bakery to reward yourself for a successful apple hunt with a sweet snack of homemade pie, strudel, cookie, square, bun, or bread.
15. MacLaren Orchards
Price: Varies by season
Location: 3376 Burnstown Road, Renfrew, ON K7V 3Z4
When to Go: End of August to Thanksgiving; open from 8 am to 6pm Wednesdays to Sundays
For more than a decade, MacLaren Orchards has enjoyed the company of over 3,500 apple trees.
You can choose between MacIntosh, Paula Red, Wealthy, and Red Crab apples on your visit, just to name a few!
Visit their shop for apple blossom honey or fresh frozen apple cider if you’re in the mood for some homemade treats.
5 Tips for Apple Picking
Prepare yourself for a day of apple picking by remembering your orchard etiquette:
- Call ahead to check apple availability. The busier an orchard is, the faster apples will run out! You should also find out when the apples you want are in season so you can plan your trip accordingly.
- Mornings are less busy. You’ll have a larger selection of apples to choose from and be able to take a larger group with you.
- How to pick the apples so you don’t damage trees: Gently roll and twist the apple of your choosing from its branch. Make sure it’s ripe, and it will come off easily. Never shake the branch or other apples on the tree will fall and bruise.
- Gently place apples in your basket, box, or bag. Never toss them in, as they will bruise.
- Don’t eat apples as you go. You must pay for them before you leave. They also need to be washed anyway due to dirt and bacteria, or you could get yourself sick.
What to Bring Apple Picking in Ottawa
Now that you’ve got your etiquette down, here are some essentials that will help make your visit run smoothly:
Boxes, bags, or baskets. Unless the orchard requires you to use theirs, you should bring your own transportation for your apple haul.
Comfortable, close-toed footwear. You’ll be on your feet, so ensure you’ve got good support!
Sunhat and sunscreen. A long day of apple picking in the sun, even in the fall, can give you bad sunburns.
Picnic food and/or blankets. When you’ve picked your apples, enjoy the view of the orchard by relaxing with a picnic.
Is Apple Picking Worth it?
Apple picking is worth it because not only do you get to enjoy delicious fruit, you can also explore your orchard for all sorts of fun games, charming animals, sweet shops, and/or crisp produce to relish in Ottawa’s orchard culture!
You can also bake with your haul!
There’s nothing healthier, tastier, and cozier than homemade recipes such as jam, cider, and pie baked with locally-grown apples.
Can you eat apples at apple picking?
Apple orchards have different policies about whether you can eat apples as you pick them. Some allow you to eat the apples if you properly dispose of the core, while others request that you don’t eat any apples you haven’t paid for.
It’s best practice not to eat your apples as you pick them, especially if they’re unwashed.
What month is best to go apple picking in Ontario?
Depending on the apple you’re eyeing, the season could begin anywhere from late August to the end of October.
Generally, the best time to pick apples is in September because that’s when most apple varieties are ripe.
Wrap Up: Best Apple Orchards in Ottawa
Apple picking in Ottawa is an enjoyable way to support your local orchard and get creative in the kitchen with your hard-earned keep afterward.
Orchards like The Log Cabin Orchard and Cannamore Orchard provide quality apple varieties that ripen and are ready to pick anywhere from August to October.
They have entertainment and to keep you energized or satiated after picking apples.
For instance, The Log Cabin Orchard has bonfires and churros, while Cannamore Orchard features the Acres of Terror and duck races.
Check with your chosen orchard for prices, availability, and rules to plan your day and pack your necessities accordingly.
Have a favourite apple picking experience in Ottawa to share? Contact me!
Read More About Fall in Ottawa
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- Ottawa Day Trips Guide
- 12 Best Ottawa Hotels With Jacuzzi In Room
- 6 Best Ottawa Wine Tours & Tastings
- 15 Best Ottawa Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes (Local Guide)
- 8 Best Brewery Tours in Ottawa, Canada (Local’s Guide)
Ottawa Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy Ottawa travel insurance?
100% YES! — There’s a misconception that Canada has “free healthcare” for everyone. Nope! Only Canadians. So you’ll need to get travel insurance to visit Ottawa. I recommend this one.
💧Can you drink the tap water in Ottawa?
Yes – ish — While you can technically drink the tap water in Ottawa, as a local I don’t recommend it. Old hotels especially can have some nasty things in their pipes. Instead, get a filtered water bottle. (Read more)
🚙💨 Do I need to rent a car in Ottawa?
Yes — Renting a car in Ottawa is one of the best ways to get around! You’ll be able to see more of the city and beyond, like the epic hiking trails. I recommend Discover Cars for the cheapest rates possible.
📲 Do I need to know French in Ottawa?
Nope! — The primary language of Ottawa is English. While French is also spoken and on some signs, you can easily get by without knowing any French. (Read more)
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Ottawa accommodations?
For Ottawa hotels, Booking is the best site. If you’re considering an Ottawa Airbnb, don’t forget to also check VRBO, which is often cheaper than Airbnb. My #1 hotel recommendation in Ottawa is the Fairmont Chateau Laurier.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Ottawa flights?
For finding cheap Ottawa flights, I recommend Skyscanner. You can even set a price alert to find out when flights are on sale.
🎫 Do I need a Visa for Ottawa?
Likely Not — U.S. and most European Passport holders don’t need a Visa to visit Canada.
📍 Where is Ottawa? And what’s nearby?
Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, located in Ontario. It’s right on the border of Quebec. It’s about 2 hours from Mont Tremblant, 3 hours from Montreal, or 5 hours from Toronto. You can take a road trip to get to other places or fly.
