​Fall in Ontario means apple season — and few autumn traditions are as beloved as spending a crisp September or October morning wandering through a u-pick orchard, filling your basket with fruit straight from the branch. Whether you’re looking for a family outing, a romantic fall day trip, or simply the best apples you’ve ever tasted, Ontario’s orchards have you covered.

With dozens of apple varieties ripening across the province from late August through October, and farms stretching from the Niagara Peninsula to the Ottawa Valley, there’s an orchard within reach no matter where you are in Ontario.

When Is Apple Picking Season in Ontario?

Apple season in Ontario runs from late August through October, with the peak falling in late September and early October. Different varieties ripen at different times, which means the season is long and there’s always something new to pick.

• Early varieties (Lodi, Pristine, Zestar): Late August
• Mid-season (McIntosh, Gala, Honeycrisp, Cortland): Mid-September
• Late varieties (Fuji, Mutsu, Northern Spy, Empire): October
• Cider apples: Harvested through October

Where to Go Apple Picking in Ontario

Niagara Region

The Niagara Peninsula is one of Ontario’s premier apple-growing regions, with a microclimate ideally suited to tree fruit. Farms here often combine apple picking with farm stores selling fresh cider, apple butter, and baked goods — making for a full fall day out. Find apple farms in Niagara County → https://pickyourownontario.ca/category/niagara/

Simcoe County

Simcoe County just north of the GTA is home to some of Ontario’s most popular apple orchards, with farms ranging from small family operations to large agritourism destinations with corn mazes, hayrides, and farm markets. Find apple farms in Simcoe County → https://pickyourownontario.ca/category/simcoe/

Durham Region

Durham is one of the most accessible fall destinations from Toronto’s east end, with several u-pick orchards in Oshawa, Clarington, and surrounding communities. Perfect for a quick September weekend outing without a long drive. Find apple farms in Durham Region → https://pickyourownontario.ca/category/durham/

Prince Edward County

The County, as locals call it, has a thriving orchard scene alongside its famous wineries. Apple picking in Prince Edward County can be combined with a winery visit and a stop at Sandbanks Provincial Park for a truly memorable fall weekend. Find apple farms in Prince Edward County → https://pickyourownontario.ca/category/prince-edward/

Ottawa & Eastern Ontario

The Ottawa Valley and surrounding region has a strong orchard tradition, with farms in Lanark, Leeds & Grenville, and Prescott & Russell offering apple picking alongside cider pressing, farm markets, and fall activities. Find apple farms near Ottawa → https://pickyourownontario.ca/category/ottawa/

Halton & Hamilton

The escarpment country around Halton and Hamilton is excellent apple-growing territory, with elevations and soils that produce excellent fruit. Several farms here have been operating for generations and offer a classic Ontario orchard experience. Find apple farms in Halton County → https://pickyourownontario.ca/category/halton/

 What to Bring Apple Picking

• Bags or baskets — most farms sell bags by the peck or bushel; bring a cooler for the drive home
• Comfortable, closed-toe shoes — orchard grass can be wet or uneven
• Layers — September and October mornings in Ontario can be cool
• Cash — many farms are cash only, especially for farm store purchases
• A wagon or stroller — great for little ones and for hauling a heavy haul
• Sunscreen — October sun is still strong, especially in open orchards

Tips for Picking the Best Apples

• Lift and twist — a ripe apple releases easily from the branch with a gentle upward twist. If you have to pull hard, it’s not quite ready
• Choose firm fruit — soft spots mean bruising or over-ripeness
• Start at the outer edges of trees — these get the most sun and ripen first
• Ask the farm which varieties are at peak — different blocks ripen at different times even within the same orchard
• Smell the apple — ripe apples have a sweet, fruity fragrance even before you bite into them
• Don’t shake the trees — falling apples bruise easily and bruised fruit doesn’t store well

What to Do With Your Apple Haul

• Fresh eating — different varieties have different flavour profiles; ask the farm for recommendations
• Apple pie or crumble — Northern Spy and Cortland hold their shape well in baking
• Applesauce — McIntosh breaks down beautifully; sweeten to taste and freeze in batches
• Fresh-pressed cider — many Ontario farms press cider on-site; buy a jug while you’re there
• Apple butter — slow-cooked with spices; perfect on toast all winter long
• Freeze slices — peel, core, slice, and freeze for pie filling all year

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does apple picking cost in Ontario?

Most farms sell by the bag (half-peck, peck, or bushel). A half-peck bag typically costs $8–$15 and holds about 5–6 pounds of apples. A full bushel (around 42 pounds) runs $30–$60 depending on the farm and variety.

Do I need to book ahead for apple picking?

Many popular orchards fill up quickly on fall weekends — especially the last two weekends of September. Booking ahead or going on a weekday is strongly recommended. Always check the farm’s social media for current availability.

How long do picked apples last?

Most varieties last 2–4 weeks in the fridge. Late varieties like Northern Spy and Fuji can last up to 2 months when stored cold. Keep them in a bag in the crisper drawer away from other produce.

Find an Apple Orchard Near You

Ontario’s apple orchards are waiting. From Niagara to Ottawa and everywhere in between, there’s a u-pick orchard within reach this fall.

Find a U-Pick Apple Farm Near You →

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