What Hillcrest Orchards is and who runs it
Hillcrest Orchards is a family-owned apple orchard that operates as a working farm and public destination. The orchard grows multiple apple varieties and opens its grounds to visitors during harvest season and throughout the year for picking, purchasing, and seasonal activities. It is not a government program or subsidy — it is a private business that you visit and pay for services.
The orchard is typically open to the public during fall months when apples ripen, though hours and availability change by season and weather. Some orchards of this type also operate farm stands, offer hayrides, host school groups, or run agritourism events. What Hillcrest Orchards specifically offers depends on the current year and season, so contacting them directly before you visit is the only way to know what is available on the day you plan to go.
Key Takeaways
- Hillcrest Orchards is a private farm business, not a government resource or subsidy program.
- You pay a fee to pick apples or purchase them directly from the orchard, and prices vary by season and apple type.
- Hours, availability, and activities change by season — contact the orchard before visiting to confirm what is open.
- Bring your own containers or plan to purchase them on-site, and wear clothes and shoes suitable for outdoor farm work.
How to find Hillcrest Orchards and confirm it is open
Hillcrest Orchards has a physical location that you reach by car or local transportation. The orchard's address, phone number, website, and current hours are the fastest way to confirm whether it is open on the day you want to visit. Many orchards close for weather, run limited hours during shoulder seasons, or shut down entirely outside the main harvest window.
Before you drive out, call or check online to confirm that picking is available, that the varieties you want are ready, and that the orchard is not closed for a private event or maintenance. Some orchards post updates on social media or their website when they close unexpectedly or when certain apple types run out. A quick phone call saves a wasted trip.
What to bring and wear when you pick apples
Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip, long pants or jeans, and a shirt with sleeves. Apple trees have branches at different heights, and you will be reaching, bending, and moving through rows. The ground may be uneven, muddy after rain, or covered with fallen apples and branches.
Bring containers to hold apples — a bucket, basket, or bags. Some orchards provide containers for a small fee or include them in the picking price. Bring water, especially on warm days, because picking is physical work and you will be outside for an hour or more. Sunscreen and a hat are useful. Do not bring pets unless the orchard explicitly allows them, and do not bring children without confirming the orchard's policy on supervision and safety.
How picking works and what you pay
Most orchards charge by weight or by the container. You pick apples into your bucket or basket, then bring them to a scale or checkout area where staff weigh them and calculate your cost. Prices per pound vary by orchard and by apple variety — some types cost more than others. A typical visit might cost anywhere from $15 to $40 depending on how many apples you take home, but this varies widely.
Some orchards charge an entry fee separate from the apple price. Others include picking in the price of admission. A few sell pre-picked apples from a farm stand if you do not want to pick yourself. Ask about the pricing structure when you call or arrive, and ask whether the price includes containers or whether you pay extra for them.
What to do with apples after you pick them
Apples keep for weeks in a cool place — a refrigerator, basement, or garage works well. Store them in a bag or box where they do not roll around and bruise. Separate any apples that have soft spots or damage, because they spoil faster and can affect nearby apples.
Use picked apples for eating fresh, baking, making sauce or cider, or preserving. Different varieties have different uses — some are crisp and sweet for eating raw, others are better for cooking. Ask the orchard staff which varieties they recommend for your intended use. If you pick more than you can use, you can freeze apple slices, make sauce and freeze it, or give apples to friends and family.
Safety and rules when you are on the orchard grounds
Follow all posted signs and instructions from orchard staff. Do not climb trees or stand on ladders unless the orchard provides them and instructs you to use them. Do not pick apples from branches you cannot safely reach — leave them for the orchard to harvest later. Watch for uneven ground, holes, or obstacles as you walk between rows.
If you bring children, keep them in sight at all times. Do not let them eat unpicked apples from the ground or trees without washing them first. If anyone in your group has a medical condition triggered by outdoor activity, sun exposure, or physical exertion, plan accordingly and bring any necessary medications or supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to call ahead or can I just show up?
Calling ahead is always safer. Orchards close for weather, run out of certain apple varieties, or shut down for private events. A five-minute phone call confirms the orchard is open, tells you what apples are ready, and saves you a wasted trip.
What if I do not want to pick apples myself?
Many orchards sell pre-picked apples from a farm stand or shop. You can buy them by the pound or in pre-packed bags without doing any picking. Ask whether this option is available when you contact the orchard.
Are there age limits or restrictions on who can pick?
Most orchards welcome visitors of all ages, but very young children may need close supervision and may not be able to reach apples safely. Pregnant people or anyone with back, joint, or heart conditions should check with the orchard about physical demands and consider whether picking is right for them.
What happens if I pick an apple that is not ripe or is damaged?
You pay for what you pick, so pick carefully and only take apples that feel firm and look undamaged. If you accidentally pick an unripe or bad apple, most orchards will not charge you for it if you point it out at checkout — but it is better to inspect before you pick.
Can I bring my own ladder or tools?
No. Use only equipment the orchard provides or approves. Bringing your own ladder or tools creates liability and safety risks. If you cannot reach an apple safely with your hands, leave it.