Ready for fall? Here are 4 spots to go apple picking in San Luis Obispo County
Even though it still feels like summer here on the Central Coast, the start of September means the beginning of a favorite fall activity: apple picking.
After all, nothing says “autumn” more than wandering an orchard with your friends and family gathering delicious red, yellow and green fruits straight from the trees.
In San Luis Obispo County, there are a number of picturesque spots perfect for a harvest season outing.
From apple-specific family farms to larger outfits with numerous fruits and veggies for sale, here are some of our favorite places to kick-start fall here on the Central Coast.
SLO Creek Farms
Location: 6455 Monte Road, San Luis Obispo
Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday
Phone: 702-245-3135
Website: slocreekfarms.com
Located just off Highway 101 in southern San Luis Obispo, SLO Creek Farms is a 14-acre family-owned and operated certified organic apple orchard where folks can grab straight from the trees.
This year, apple picking season started Sept. 1 and is expected to continue through November, according to the website.
The farm also offers you-pick flowers, pumpkins, herbs and vegetables, as well as locally made hard cider and apple brandy.
SLO Creek Farms asks visitors to call before they go, as weather conditions may affect hours of operation.
Jack Creek Farms
Location: 5000 West Highway 46, Templeton
Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday through Monday
Phone: 805-239-1915
Website: jackcreekfarms.com
About: Jack Creek Farms is a small fifth-generation family farm just outside of Templeton and Paso Robles off Highway 46 West.
Visitors to the farm will find not only apples, but also various berries and vegetables — including pumpkins later in the fall.
The farm’s first you-pick apples of the season started ripening in mid-August, but other varieties are starting to ripen on the trees now, according to Jack Creek Farms’ Facebook page.
A store on site also sells pre-packaged fruits and veggies grown on the farm.
Avila Valley Barn
Location: 560 Avila Beach Drive, San Luis Obispo
Hours: Every day, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Phone: 805-595-2816
Website: avilavalleybarn.com
A staple of SLO County’s fall traditions, Avila Valley Barn is a one-stop shop if you want to feel fully immersed in the season.
From pumpkin patches to hay mazes and tractor rides, the farm has a little something for most everyone.
For the apple pickers, Gala apples are currently in season, according to the business’ Facebook page. Visitors can take a tractor ride or a “short walk down our dirt road” to get to the orchard. All produce is priced per pound or per stem.
Once you’ve gotten your fill of gathering, make sure to stop by their Apple Booth and Hard Cider Bar for a special treat or pop into the farm stand for a fresh apple pie.
Gopher Glen Apple Farm
Location: 2899 See Canyon Road, San Luis Obispo
Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday
Phone: 805-595-2646
Website: gopherglen.com
If you’re planning to head to the Avila Valley Barn for some fall fun, make sure to make a stop at its sister operation, Gopher Glen Apple Farm, for some apple picking.
Gopher Glen was founded more than 40 years ago by Dr. John DeVincenzo — who also founded Avila Valley Barn.
According to the Gopher Glen website, DeVincenzo had a special interest in apples, even creating his own unique varieties.
The farm offers more than 65 unique varieties of apples, as well as peaches, nectarines and tomatoes, according to its website. It also makes and sells fresh cider and hard cider at the farm stand.
The picking season lasts through late October, with some varieties available in November and December.
