September 2025 Issue of The Whistler
Why Everyone Should Love Apples
Apples are one of nature’s tastiest and healthiest snacks—crunchy, sweet, and full of goodness. They can be enjoyed in so many fun ways; eaten fresh, sliced into salads, baked into cozy desserts, or cooked into yummy applesauce. And nothing beats the joy of picking a fresh apple right from the tree at a Minnesota orchard in September. It’s a simple treat that captures the magic of fall for the whole family.
Fun Recipes to Try at Home
Sliced Baked Apples with Brown Sugar
Orchards in the Area
Collegeville Orchards (St. Joseph) collegevilleorchards.com
- Highlights: A charming orchard nestled in scenic hills offering apples, pumpkins, honey, jams, fall décor, tractor-wagon rides, a petting zoo, and pumpkin painting.
- Best For: Families looking for a full fall-festival vibe with plenty of activities and ready-to-purchase apples.
Hidden Cove Orchard (Cold Spring) hiddencoveorchard.com
- Highlights: Tranquil park-like orchard, pre-picked apples, a gift shop full of seasonal items, plus festivals and events.
- Best For: Visitors seeking a peaceful stroll among colorful trees and unique gifts rather than U-pick.
Fairhaven Farm (South Haven) fairhaven-farm.com
- Highlights: Diverse offerings including U-pick apples, flowers, produce, and a farm store focused on sustainability.
- Best For: Those eager to get a jump on apple season, enjoy picking, and explore floral options.
Lee Peterson Tree Farm (Becker) leepetersontreefarm.com
- Highlights: You-pick apples (about five varieties); weekdays by appointment, weekends regular hours.
- Best For: Smaller, quieter U-pick experience with flexible scheduling.
Resources
If you know of families or friends who are interested in Head Start programs have them apply here, Reach-Up is accepting applications for the 2025-26 program year!