Did you know you can pick apples for free at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?
I had no idea until Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes shared it, and now it’s one of those Northern Michigan fall activities I'm not going to stop talking about.
The park is home to historic orchards with around 75 varieties of heirloom apples, many dating back to the 1800s. These trees are remnants of the farms that once operated throughout the area, and today, visitors can pick apples to take home during October.
It’s a pretty unique way to experience Sleeping Bear Dunes, especially if you have little ones who love picking apples straight from the tree.
Where to Pick Apples
Apple trees can be found at several historic farmsteads throughout the park, including:
Thoreson Farm
Brunson Barn
Kelderhouse Farm
Burfiend Barn
Miller Barn
Lawr Farm
Peter Burfiend Farm
Ole Olsen Farm
Our Visit to Kelderhouse Farm
We visited Kelderhouse Farm, and it was a really convenient spot to stop. There was trail parking right next to the farm, several apple trees behind it, and another tree just across the road.
It was easy to park, get out, and start exploring without making a big production of it—which is always a plus when you're out with little kids.
What to Know Before You Go
Apple picking is free, and each family can collect up to one bushel. You don't need permission to pick apples, but there are a few things worth knowing before you go.
Bring an apple picker. I highly recommend one! The low-hanging apples tend to get picked first, so many of the remaining apples are well out of reach.
Plan to drive between farms. The historic farmsteads are spread throughout the park, so you won't be walking from one orchard to the next.
Consider a baby carrier. If you're bringing little ones, a carrier is likely to be more practical than a stroller for exploring the farmsteads.
Only pick ripe apples. Leave unripe fruit on the trees.
Don't climb the trees. Use an apple picker to reach higher branches safely.
Expect heirloom varieties. These apples can be smaller and more tart than the varieties you typically find at Michigan orchards, but they're great for baking.
Make It a Fall Morning
If you want to make a morning of it, pair apple picking at one of the Port Oneida farmsteads with a hike at Pyramid Point. You'll get a little apple picking, time outside, and a chance to explore another beautiful part of Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Bring a bag for your apples, grab that apple picker, and enjoy exploring these little pieces of Northern Michigan history.
