🍽️ What to Expect

Expert recommendations based on quality, value, and visitor feedback

Item Price
U-Pick Apples (Small Bag)
Fill a small bag with your choice of in-season apple varieties from the orchard’s groves.
 $15.00
U-Pick Apples (Half Bushel)
Ideal for families or baking, this option lets you gather a generous half-bushel of apples.
 $24.00
U-Pick Apples (Full Bushel)
The best value for serious apple fans—enough for canning, pies, and sharing.
 $46.00
Corn Maze
A fun, family-friendly maze with twists and turns for all ages. Admission required.
 $6.00 (adults), $4.00 (ages 5-10), Free (0-4)
Apple Cider Donuts (Dozen)
Fresh, warm, and famous throughout the region—perfect with hot cider.
 $10.00
Petting Zoo Admission
Meet friendly goats and chickens—great for kids and animal lovers. Included with orchard entry.
 Free

Alpine Ridge Orchard is all about classic autumn experiences with a personal touch. The main attraction is the u-pick apples—visitors can stroll the well-marked rows and pick from a wide range of varieties (including Honeycrisp, Cortland, and McIntosh, depending on the season). The orchard’s apple cider donuts are legendary: research shows they’re often the first item to sell out on weekends, so arrive early if they’re on your must-have list. The corn maze offers just the right level of challenge for families, and the petting zoo adds extra fun for younger guests.

Beyond apples, the on-site farm stand typically features fresh-pressed cider, local honey, jams, and seasonal treats (availability varies by harvest). No admission fee is charged for general orchard access, and activities are pay-as-you-go. Large groups and school field trips should contact the orchard in advance to coordinate visits.

  • Accessibility: The grounds are wheelchair accessible, though some paths are grassy or gravel—sturdy strollers and mobility aids recommended.
  • Parking: Free on-site parking with easy access to the main entrance. Arrive before noon on weekends to avoid the busiest periods.
  • Payment Methods: Most major credit cards and cash accepted for produce and activities. Confirm before arrival for specialty vendors.
  • Allergy & Diet Info: Apples are naturally gluten-free and vegan; donuts may contain wheat, eggs, and dairy—check at the counter for ingredient lists. Some products processed on shared equipment.
  • Restrooms: On-site restrooms available, though rustic. Pack hand sanitizer and plan for lines during peak times.
  • Seasonality: Open during apple season (typically late August through October). Always check the official site or call ahead for current hours and variety availability.

Insider tip: Bring your own reusable bags or baskets for apple picking, and wear boots or old sneakers—fields can get muddy, especially after rain. Dogs are not permitted, with the exception of service animals.

✨ The Experience

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Classic Orchard Ambiance
Set among gently rolling hills, Alpine Ridge Orchard offers a quintessential Midwest farm atmosphere—rows of apple trees, hay bales, and crisp autumn air. Research shows visitors love the peaceful setting and open space, which is especially photogenic during peak foliage.
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Friendly, Family-Run Service
Staff are known for their welcoming, down-to-earth approach—quick to offer picking tips, variety recommendations, and a smile. Visitor feedback consistently highlights the helpfulness of team members, especially when guiding first-timers or families with young kids.
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Well-Maintained Facilities
The orchard is praised for its tidy grounds and clear signage. While restrooms are rustic, the grounds are generally clean, and the layout makes it easy to find your way to the corn maze, petting zoo, or farm stand. Wheelchair accessibility is above average for a rural venue.
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Inclusive, Family-Friendly Fun
From toddlers to grandparents, Alpine Ridge accommodates all ages. The petting zoo, corn maze, and apple picking are popular with kids, while adults enjoy the relaxed pace and local products. Accessibility features and open paths mean nearly everyone can participate.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation to visit Alpine Ridge Orchard?
No reservation is required for individuals or families—just show up during open hours. For groups of 15+ or school trips, contact the orchard ahead of time to ensure accommodations and a smooth experience.
Are pets allowed at the orchard?
Pets are not permitted at Alpine Ridge Orchard, except for trained service animals. This policy helps ensure safety and comfort for all guests, especially around the petting zoo and food areas.
What apple varieties are available, and when?
Apple varieties rotate throughout the season. Early fall often features Paula Red and McIntosh, while mid- to late-season brings Honeycrisp, Cortland, and Empire. Call ahead or check the website for current picking status.

📖 About Alpine Ridge Orchard

Alpine Ridge Orchard is a family-owned and operated farm that has become a beloved seasonal destination for Brooklyn, Wisconsin, and the broader Dane County region. Embracing the area’s agricultural roots, the orchard emphasizes sustainable practices and community engagement, hosting school groups and offering educational insights into apple cultivation each year. Over the past decade, Alpine Ridge has built a reputation for its friendly service, quality produce, and classic rural charm. The orchard’s apple cider donuts and well-organized activities have become a rite of passage for many local families every fall. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning regular, Alpine Ridge Orchard delivers a slice of Wisconsin’s harvest tradition—welcoming visitors to slow down, savor the season, and make memories that last beyond the last apple picked.