The many farms on the outskirts of Denver provide families the opportunity to experience the positive values of farm life — respect for the environment, appreciation for animals and plants, the satisfaction of hard work leading to a job well done, and an understanding for where food comes from. (Hint: It's not the grocery store!)
Besides, it's fun! What child doesn't love digging in the dirt and the freedom to run around outside?
If you are looking for a pick-your-own farm, here are a few of our favorites!
The Bartels Farm
324 E. Douglas Rd., Fort Collins
(970) 493-3853
Purchase already picked produce from this family owned and operated farm, or starting the end of July 2020 you can pick straight from the garden by scheduling it in advance. Melons, herbs, flowers, and a wide variety of vegetables are available.
COVID-19 Precautions: None are currently being used as there is enough room to social distance.
Berry Patch Farms
13785 Potomac St., Brighton
(303) 659-5050
Raspberries, strawberries, carrots, pie cherries, currants, basil, and fresh flowers are available for picking. In the produce stand, you'll also find many varieties of other fruits and vegetables, along with coffee beans, meat, eggs, jams, salsas, and gifts. Berry Patch is a Certified Organic farm.
COVID-19 Precautions: Reservations are required for picking. Face masks and social distancing are required in the store.
Garden Sweet
719 W. Wilcox Ln., Fort Collins
Info@GardenSweet.com
Strawberries, sunflowers, and other bountiful berries and flowers vary based on the time of the season, but best picking is available in August and September. Pumpkins are available later in the season. Currently pick-your-own berries are available to members only. Public pick-your-own flower bouquets will be available in July and berry baskets available in August.
COVID-19 Precautions: Baskets must be pre-purchased online and reservations will be scheduled at checkout.
Happy Apple Farm
1190 1st St., Penrose
(719) 429-6300
Opening in late August, blackberries should be ready then, as well as raspberries and pears. Red and Golden Delicious apples will be light due to a late frost. A crop of pumpkins should be ready in September. The Country Store sells jams, jellies, marinades, apple butter, pressed apple cider, roasted chilies, and more.
COVID-19 Precautions: Check in Mid-August for appointments and other precautions.
Miller Farms
9040 US Hwy 66, Platteville
(970) 785-6133
Open for harvest Labor Day weekend through mid-November, your one-time admission includes up to five bags of vegetables. Choose from red and yellow onions, peppers, tomatoes, a variety of squash, carrots, leeks, corn, and more. Admission is $20 per person or $65 for a family of four.
COVID-19 Precautions: Patrons will be asked to wear masks as well as given gloves to use. Concessions may not be available for sale. Frequently touched areas will be sanitized regularly.
Nelms Farms
5305 Orchard St., Golden
OPEN LABOR DAY WEEKEND ONLY FOR THE 2021 SEASON
ralph@nelmsfarm.com
Pick your own pesticide-free and chemical-free apples, potatoes, and pumpkins. You can also purchase local honey produced by their own honeybees.
Ya Ya Farm & Orchard
PICKING SOLD OUT FOR THE 2020 SEASON
6914 Ute Hwy., Longmont
info@yayafarmandorchard.com
Pick your own apples, pears, cherries, pumpkins, veggies, and flowers. While not certified organic, they practice natural and organic methods. Pumpkin Patch opens the first weekend in October. Reservations are required for fruit picking only (complete form on website).
