It’s apple picking season! If you live in the LA area, you can head to Oak Glen, CA to pick Apples and drink fresh cider. Oak Glen is 80 miles from Los Angeles, or about a 90 minute drive. This day trip makes for a great family outing or a unique date. Enjoy nature and the cooler and fresher mountain air. Pick organic apples, raspberries and blackberries. Eat apple pie. Check out the petting zoo at Oak Tree Village. And visit the cute alpacas at Peddler’s Pack Ranch.

Gravenstein and Red Delicious are in season now. McIntosh, Jonathan and Spartans coming within the next few weeks. I was there a few weeks ago and went to Riley’s Apple Farm. They have organic apples and raspberries to pick. There was also a ton of wild blackberries growing along the side of the road near the farm — free for the picking but bring your own containers.

I suggest getting to the farms early to avoid crowds and the mid-day sun. Places open up between 9 and 10am, and close between 4 and 5 pm. Bring a hat, sunblock, water and comfortable shoes. Keep the sandals and flip-flops in the trunk when you are out picking. There are plants and insects that can hurt your feet. Have fun!

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