Watching scary movies, baking pies, and carving pumpkins are some of the best fall activities, but if you are someone who is looking for another great idea to add to the list, why not add apple picking! Visiting the orchard is an easy, family-friendly activity that gives you some amazing snacks, and an opportunity to meet some farm animals. Demarest Farms is the perfect place to check off of your fall bucket list.
Just under 20 minutes from GRHS is Demarest Farms. Arriving at the farm, you are greeted with the most wholesome barn-inspired storefront that immediately makes you feel like you’ve been swept into a cozy fall movie. Their store is host to the famous Autumn treat; Apple Cider Donuts. Between the donuts, and the Mom and Pop comfort of the store, you’ll be left feeling as if you have just been given a big hug.
If the prospect of the cozy and loveable shop at Demarest Farms doesn’t already excite you, then their huge orchard with over 10 flavors of apples certainly will. The farm offers the option of taking a hayride to the orchard, or a simple 10 minute walk. It is required to book your picking time beforehand, so upon arrival at the orchard you will receive your bag (which has an $18 fee you will pay when reserving your picking time) and a wristband as confirmation.
Despite your choice of walking, or taking the hayride you’ll arrive at the orchard where you’re instantly greeted with the sweet smell of fresh apples. The endless rows will leave you with countless flavor options. Whether you enjoy the sweet or the sour, there is an apple at Demarest for you. Some of the best apples I have ever tasted came from the Fuji section. The sweet, candy-like taste combined with freshness couldn’t have been better. Some other fan favorites were the Empires, Mutsu, Gala, and Honeycrisp.
One thing to look out for in the September-November months is the weather. Generally the farm runs rain or shine, but think twice before wearing your favorite pair of white sneakers. The rain causes a lot of mud out in the orchard, and it’s safe to say our shoes took a negative hit walking around the orchard.
Despite some mud, Demarest farms was nothing but an enjoyable and wholesome way to spend an October evening! The apples and sweet treats that we returned home with were incredible, and left me ready to plant my own apple seeds at home. If you’re looking for a delightful way to spend the day remember, nothing beats a freshly picked apple!
