There is nothing better than eating fresh, seasonal, local produce and supporting the communities that grow them, and Alabama has some of the best apple orchards in the south. Here you will find these orchards offer apple picking, pre-picked apples, and a plethora of apple products and tasty treats.
When you support your local apple farm, you support the families that work hard to keep fresh produce on our table. We encourage you to get out and visit some wonderful Alabama apple orchards. And here are our picks for the best apple orchards in Alabama to help get you started.
1. Scott’s Orchard
Hazel Green, Alabama
You will find Scott’s Orchard on two of our lists. That’s because Scott’s orchard spans across state lines to both Alabama and Tennessee.
Scott’s has been growing apples since 1927. This multi-generational, family-run orchard offers a variety of apples. Classics grown on the farm are Red Delicious, Winesap, and Granny Smith. You can also find interesting varieties like Arkansas Black, Ozark Gold, and the summer ripening Lodi apples. All these varieties make Scott’s one of the best apple orchards in Alabama
In addition to wonderfully crisp and juicy apples, you can also find homemade apple pies, sauces, pie fillings, cider, and apple cider vinegar at Scott’s Orchards. Don’t forget to grab one, two, or a dozen (we won’t tell) of the hand-dipped caramel apples – they are the perfect orchard sweet treat.
2. Crow Mountain Orchards
Fackler, Alabama
Crow Mountain Orchard is definitely a site to see. Established in the 1970s, this 150 acres farm is situated halfway between Huntsville and Chattanooga, just outside of Scottsboro.
At Crow Mountain you will find a variety of different apples to choose from, including Gala, Honey Crisp, and McIntosh. If you are looking to try something new, try their Mutsu, King Lusk, and the super dark red Arkansas Black. The staff is very knowledgeable and will happily point you in the direction of just the right apple to suit your needs.
Picking season can begin as early as late July at Crow Mountain, and may last into early November. Be sure to call ahead before visiting early or late in the season.
With nearly 50 years of experience growing and producing amazing apples, you will easily see why Crow Mountain is one of the best apple orchards in Alabama.
3. Steele Orchard
Cullman, Alabama
Steele Orchard is home to all your Alabama apple orchard desires. Located about 45 minutes north of Birmingham, Steele has been in business since 1985, and offers over 20 different varieties of hand-picked apples for your enjoyment.
The landscape is dotted with apple, peach, and plum trees that are spectacular when in bloom, and even more appealing when the delicious fruit is being harvested.
Their bakery offers many treats, including their famous Southern fried pies, in addition to apple cakes, deep dish fruit pies, and assorted treats.
You will also find homemade jams, jellies, and apple butter available, along with fresh apple cider and gorgeously crafted candied and caramel apples. You can also pick up applewood chips for your home smoked and barbecued cuisine.
Each March Steele Orchard holds a tree sale where you can purchase an expertly cared for sapling or two.
Steele Orchards is undeniably one of the best apple orchards in Alabama.
4. Mountain View Orchards
Jemison, Alabama
Just 45 minutes south of Birmingham you’ll find Mountain View Orchards. Mountain View has been in business since the early 1930s.
Harvest season begins in late July and runs through November. During this time, they offer a variety of hand-picked apples for purchase at their general store. Varieties including Gala, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, Fuji, and Granny Smith. You’ll also find peaches, strawberries, pears, and persimmons available throughout the year.
It’s long history and commitment to producing fruit of the highest quality makes Mountain View one of the best apple orchards in Alabama. While you’re there, don’t forget to stop by the general store for a tasty treat.
5. Isom’s Orchard
Athens, Alabama
When you go looking for a classic fruit stand, look no further than Isom’s Orchard. They have been providing excellent fruit to the Athens area since 1957.
At Isom’s you can spend the day walking the orchard, enjoying the scenery and apple cider, while shopping for fresh hand-picked apples at their fruit stand. They encourage visitors to enjoy a day at their farm relaxing, taking photos, and enjoying the fruits of their labor (pun intended).
As one of the best apple orchards in Alabama, Isom’s apple varieties include tart Green Apples in June, and more traditional varieties like Golden Delicious, Fuji, and Granny Smith later in the season. You will also find some fun options including Gold Rush, Enterprise, Pink Lady, and Arkansas Black.
6. Holmestead Farm
Talladega, Alabama
If you are looking for a more organic orchard to visit this fall, you should head on over to Holmestead Farm. Holmestead Farm is a 95-acre “U-Pick farm in Talledega, less than an hour outside of Birmingham.
Located in the foothills of Talledega National Forest, Holmestead offers visitors the opportunity to pick their own apples from one of the 150 apple trees on site. Guests can also choose to purchase pre-picked apples from the Country store.
Apple season begins in July and runs through November with varieties such as Arkansas Black, Fuji, Ginger Gold, Pink Lady, Mutusu, Pristine, and Red Delicious among those available.
The Country Store is well stocked with all the pantry items you love and need. Jams, jellies, and preserves share the shelves with Holmestead Farm honey and homemade candies, salsas, ciders and so much more. There is no doubt, Holmestead Farm is one of the best apple orchards in Alabama for apple picking.
Visit the Best Apple Orchards in Alabama!
Whether you are hand picking apples at a local apple farm, or purchasing pre-picked bushels of this delicious fruit, you will be well on your way to enjoying all the beauty fall has to offer when you visit one of these amazing Alabama apple orchards. Get out today, go apple picking, and explore your local Alabama apple orchards for some old-fashioned family fun.
Excited to keep learning about your favorite fruit? Read more about apples: apple orchards, apple varieties, apple recipes, and more!