Autumn might have just started, but winter will be here before we know it. This year, I wanted to make sure I checked apple and pumpkin picking off of my seasonal bucket list. I wanted to find a place that had apples, pumpkins and hard cider or wine tasting. After much research I found a few options on Long Island, in Connecticut and upstate New York to check out, but ultimately, ended up in Highland on an early morning, crisp fall air adventure.

It started with a trip up to Poughkeepsie on Metro North at 7 a.m. to make it to the farm early. I read that many farms were limiting capacity, and since it was such a far trip, wanted to make sure I got in. I’ve never been up that way, and was surprised by the scenery the entire way up the Hudson. It sparked the idea for a quick day trip in the future for a picnic or other random day of exploring.

A quick ride share trip over the Hudson took me to the farm entrance, where people were already in full fruit picking swing. My first stop was the pumpkin patch, which had hundreds of pumpkins of all sizes to choose from.

From here, I headed over to the orchids for some apple grazing.

Of course, the day wasn’t complete without stopping by the market for some pies to take home. I was overwhelmed by the smell of baked goods and also opted in for some maple syrup! On my way out, I stopped by the tavern for some hard cider.

If you’re headed out on your own pumpkin or apple picking adventure, here are a few things to take note of:

• With COVID-19 restrictions, make sure to check the farm’s website to see if reservations are required. Masks will definitely be required, and some will not allow certain things they did in the past, including pets, eating and even your own fruit bags.
• Many attractions like mazes and wineries are also impacted by the pandemic.
• Call ahead to make sure apple picking is not over for the season. A number of the farms on Long Island that I found did not have apples remaining.
• Be sure to arrive early, or go on a weekday. As I mentioned, many were limiting capacity, so you don’t want to run the risk of trekking out and not making it in.

There’s still time to head out to your local farm, or pack up the car for a road trip. Remember your mask and hand sanitizer, but also be sure to bring your camera to remember the fall fun!

Until next time…

– Jae Marie