Cayford Orchards
Contact & location
Skowhegan, ME 04976
Where Cayford Orchards is located
Cayford Orchards sits in Skowhegan, Somerset County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Maine. The farm's street address is 99 Hilton Hill Road, Skowhegan, ME 04976.
Most visitors reach Cayford Orchards by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. From the nearest highway exit, follow signs toward Skowhegan and continue on local county roads to 99 Hilton Hill Road. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Skowhegan, nearby farm stands, and small-town diners that make a great pre or post-picking stop. Cell service can get spotty on back roads, so it's smart to download the map to your phone before you leave the highway.
Looking for the best apple picking near Skowhegan, Maine? Cayford Orchards is a working apple orchard located in Skowhegan, Maine (Somerset County), welcoming families, couples, and photographers each fall for a classic American harvest experience.
Cayford Orchards sits inside one of Maine's most beloved apple-growing regions. Between the smell of fresh cider, warm apple donuts, and rows of Honeycrisp and McIntosh trees heavy with fruit, it's the kind of place that turns a simple Saturday into a memory your kids will still talk about years later.
Pick-Your-Own Apples at Cayford Orchards
Pick-your-own apples at Cayford Orchards is exactly what it sounds like, you walk the orchard, pick apples directly off the tree, and pay by the bag or pound when you're done. Staff will point you toward the rows that are ripe that week, hand you a picking bag or bucket, and give you a quick tip on how to twist (not pull) the apple.
Apple Varieties Grown Here
Cayford Orchards grows 3 apple varieties. Each ripens between late August and late October, so what's available depends on when you visit.
On-Farm Activities
Best Time to Visit
Apple season at Cayford Orchards runs from late August through late October, like most orchards in Maine. The sweet spot for a first-time visit is the last two weeks of September through the first two weeks of October.
Weekends between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. are the friendliest time to arrive. Weekdays are the most peaceful, a Tuesday or Wednesday morning may have entire rows to yourself.
What to Bring
- • Cash (backup for the farm stand)
- • Closed-toe walking shoes
- • A light jacket or flannel
- • Sunscreen and a hat
- • Water bottles for the walk
- • Reusable bags for the ride home
- • A camera or phone charged for photos
- • Small bills for cider and donuts
Where Cayford Orchards is located
Cayford Orchards sits in Skowhegan, Somerset County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Maine. The farm's street address is 99 Hilton Hill Road, Skowhegan, ME 04976.
Most visitors reach Cayford Orchards by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. From the nearest highway exit, follow signs toward Skowhegan and continue on local county roads to 99 Hilton Hill Road. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Skowhegan, nearby farm stands, and small-town diners that make a great pre or post-picking stop. Cell service can get spotty on back roads, so it's smart to download the map to your phone before you leave the highway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cayford Orchards offer pick-your-own apples?+
Yes, Cayford Orchards offers pick-your-own apples during the harvest season. Guests walk the rows, pick apples straight from the tree, and pay by the bag, bucket, or pound at the farm stand.
When is apple picking season at Cayford Orchards?+
Apple season at most U.S. orchards runs from late August through late October. Call ahead or check Cayford Orchards's website before your visit to confirm which varieties are ripe.
What are Cayford Orchards's hours?+
Hours at Cayford Orchards vary by season. We recommend calling ahead at (207) 474-5200 or checking their website the morning of your visit.
How much does apple picking cost at Cayford Orchards?+
Pick-your-own apple prices in the U.S. typically run $1.50–$3.00 per pound, or $20–$40 for a half-bushel bag. Cayford Orchards sets prices at the entrance each season based on the current crop.
What apple varieties can I pick at Cayford Orchards?+
Cayford Orchards grows antique apples, Cortlands, Honeycrisps. Early-season varieties like Gala and Honeycrisp come in first, followed by mid-season Empire and McIntosh, and finishing with late-season Fuji, Cameo, and Pink Lady.
Is Cayford Orchards good for kids and families?+
Absolutely, Cayford Orchards welcomes families and offers pick-your-own, preserving family’s heritage apples.
Can I bring my dog to Cayford Orchards?+
Most working orchards ask that pets stay home for food-safety reasons. Call Cayford Orchards to confirm their current pet policy before bringing your dog.
Is there parking at Cayford Orchards?+
Cayford Orchards has on-site parking that's free for guests. Fall weekends are the busiest, mornings are the calmest time to visit.
What should I bring to Cayford Orchards?+
Bring cash, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Cayford Orchards usually provides picking bags or buckets.
Data source: Google Places · Confidence: High
Visitor reviews
Be the first to review Cayford Orchards.
More apple orchards in Maine
See all →Auburn, ME
Apple Ridge Farms -
Fairfield, ME
The Apple Farm at Lakeside Orchards
Poland, ME
Roberts' Orchard
Norridgewock, ME
Sandy River Apples/Fenton's Orchard
Lincolnville, ME
Sewall Orchard
Livermore, ME
Boothby's Orchard and Farm
Plan the rest of your apple day
What's ripening these days →
See which varieties are ready to pick right now across Maine.
Apple varieties guide →
Compare 50+ apples by taste, texture, and best use before you visit.
Recipes for your haul →
Pies, crisps, cider, butter, and more, tested with fresh-picked apples.
U-Pick day checklist →
What to bring, what to ask, and how to pick apples that store well.
More orchards near you →
Find the closest U-Pick farms sorted by distance from your location.
Read the orchard blog →
Seasonal guides, apple news, and tips from growers across the US.