Who says apple-picking season ends with Halloween? While many orchards wrap up their harvest in October, late-ripening favorites like Pink Lady, GoldRush and Fuji can keep the fun going into November. That means there’s still time to fill a bag with fresh apples, enjoy a warm cider doughnut and squeeze in one last orchard adventure before winter arrives.
Of course, November picking comes with a catch: Weather, frost and the size of the harvest can change what’s available from one day to the next. But if you’re not quite ready to trade apple cider for peppermint, these eight orchards offer some of your best opportunities to enjoy the season a little longer.
1. Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill | Morganton, North Carolina
Apple season isn’t over just yet at Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill! Surrounded by the South Mountains of western North Carolina, this family-owned orchard has been growing apples for five generations and typically welcomes pick-your-own visitors into mid-November, weather permitting.
More than 20 apple varieties rotate throughout the harvest season, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to discover a new favorite. After filling your picking bag, head to the Farm Market for freshly pressed apple cider, warm cider doughnuts, fried apple pies and homemade apple cakes.
The orchard requires an access pass for visitors entering the picking areas, so reserve ahead of time and check which varieties are available before making the trip.
2. Carter Mountain Orchard | Charlottesville, Virginia
Apple picking with panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain views? Carter Mountain Orchard delivers one of Virginia’s most scenic harvest experiences. Located above Charlottesville, this popular orchard typically offers pick-your-own apples from late summer into December, depending on the crop.
November brings a chance to enjoy the mountain scenery after the busiest October weekends, while late-season varieties may still be available for picking. There’s also plenty to enjoy beyond the trees, including freshly pressed cider, famous apple cider doughnuts, homemade pies and a country store packed with seasonal treats.
For a different way to enjoy the harvest, visit the orchard’s Bold Rock taproom for a glass of hard cider overlooking the surrounding countryside. Weekend admission requirements may apply, so check the orchard’s visitor information before heading up the mountain.
3. Showalter’s Orchard | Timberville, Virginia
The Shenandoah Valley makes a beautiful backdrop for one last apple-picking adventure. At Showalter’s Orchard, generations of family farming meet scenic mountain views and a harvest season that can stretch into early November.
The big attraction for late-season visitors is Pink Lady apples, which typically ripen around the beginning of November. Known for their satisfying crunch and sweet-tart flavor, they’re a delicious reward for extending your orchard adventures beyond October.
After picking, explore the farm market or sample locally crafted hard cider from Old Hill Cider, made using fruit grown on the property. With beautiful views in every direction and an established family orchard tradition, Showalter’s offers a memorable taste of Virginia apple country.
4. Chiles Peach Orchard | Crozet, Virginia
Don’t let the name fool you! Chiles Peach Orchard is also a destination for apple picking, with a harvest season that can continue into November.
Located near Crozet in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the orchard grows varieties such as Albemarle Pippin, Jonagold and Pink Lady. Visitors can pick their own fruit when available, then explore the Farm Market & Bakery for apple cider doughnuts, homemade fudge, pies and other treats.
The orchard also offers wine made from grapes grown on the family’s farms, making it an appealing stop for adults who want to relax with a glass after exploring the grounds.
With mountain scenery, fresh fruit and plenty of sweet treats, Chiles is a fun option for families and couples alike. Just check the current picking report before visiting, since November availability can change quickly.
5. Great Country Farms | Bluemont, Virginia
Still hoping to pick apples straight from the tree in November? Great Country Farms in Northern Virginia is worth watching, especially when its late-season Pink Lady and GoldRush apples are ready.
Located in the beautiful Loudoun County countryside, this family-friendly farm offers pick-your-own experiences alongside wagon rides, outdoor play areas and a farm market filled with local products.
Late-ripening apples can provide another opportunity to enjoy the orchard after the main fall harvest wraps up. Pink Lady brings a crisp, sweet-tart bite, while GoldRush is prized for its firm texture and bright flavor.
Plan to spend some time exploring the farm’s other attractions, and stop by the market for seasonal produce and treats. Admission is required for picking and farm activities, so review the current harvest report and ticketing information before visiting.
6. Echo Hill Orchards | Monson, Massachusetts
New England apple picking doesn’t always end with October! At Echo Hill Orchards in Monson, Massachusetts, the harvest can continue into early November, giving apple lovers another opportunity to gather fruit before winter.
Visitors can walk into the orchard to pick available varieties, with weather and crop conditions determining how long the experience lasts. The farm also features a country store offering fresh apples and seasonal products.
For adults, Echo Hill has another attraction: an on-site winery and distillery offering tastings and specialty beverages. It’s an appealing combination for visitors who want to enjoy a traditional orchard outing and discover locally produced drinks.
Picking is generally limited to weekends late in the season, so check the farm’s latest availability report before making the trip.
7. Fair Oaks Farms | Fair Oaks, Indiana
Who says apple picking has to be the only activity on your fall farm adventure? At Fair Oaks Farms in northwest Indiana, visitors can pair late-season apple picking with interactive agricultural experiences, family attractions and farm-fresh food.
The property’s 20-acre orchard features thousands of apple trees, with varieties ripening throughout the season. Later arrivals include EverCrisp and GoldRush, making early November an opportunity to enjoy the final stages of the harvest.
Depending on the schedule, visitors can also take wagon rides, explore outdoor activities and enjoy the farm’s family-friendly attractions.
Afterward, head to the Milkshed for a sweet treat or enjoy a hearty meal at the Farmhouse Restaurant. With so much to experience beyond picking apples, Fair Oaks makes an excellent destination for a fall family outing.
8. Sky Top Orchard | Flat Rock, North Carolina
Apple picking comes with incredible Blue Ridge Mountain views at Sky Top Orchard near Flat Rock, North Carolina. This family-run destination has welcomed visitors for decades, offering fresh apples, outdoor activities and some seriously delicious cider doughnuts.
Late-season favorites can include Fuji, Granny Smith and GoldRush, although fruit available for picking becomes increasingly limited as November approaches. Even when the trees are nearly finished, the farm market offers a selection of ready-picked apples, homemade pies, cider and other seasonal goodies.
Visitors can also enjoy hayrides, an apple cannon, a bee train and other family activities when operating. Between the mountain scenery and fresh-from-the-farm treats, Sky Top offers plenty of reasons to make one last orchard visit before winter.
Tips for November Apple Picking
November apple picking takes a little more planning than a typical September orchard visit. With colder temperatures and the final varieties ripening, conditions can change quickly.
Check picking availability before leaving home. An orchard may remain open even when its trees are finished producing apples for visitors to pick. Always review the latest harvest report or call ahead.
Look for late-ripening varieties. Pink Lady, GoldRush, Fuji and other later-season apples can extend the harvest, although availability depends on the orchard and growing conditions.
Visit earlier in the month. Many orchards wind down their pick-your-own programs during the first half of November. Those that remain open later may have limited fruit available.
Don’t overlook the farm market. Even when picking season ends, many orchards continue selling fresh apples, cider, baked goods and other seasonal favorites.
Dress for cooler weather. November mornings can be chilly, especially at higher elevations. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a warm layer and prepare for muddy ground after rain.
Apple season might be winding down, but there’s still plenty to enjoy. Whether you’re picking Pink Lady apples in the Shenandoah Valley, enjoying mountain views in North Carolina or sampling cider at a New England orchard, November offers one last delicious taste of fall.
