Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard
Contact & location
Cedar Lake, MN 55020
Where Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard is located
Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard sits in Cedar Lake, Minnesota, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Minnesota. The farm's street address is 4682 250th Street East, Cedar Lake, MN 55020, Cedar Lake, MN 55020.
Most visitors reach Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. From the nearest highway exit, follow signs toward Cedar Lake and continue on local county roads to 4682 250th Street East, Cedar Lake, MN 55020. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Cedar Lake, 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 Cedar Lake, Minnesota? Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard is a working apple orchard located in Cedar Lake, Minnesota, welcoming families, couples, and photographers each fall for a classic American harvest experience.
Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard sits inside one of Minnesota'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 Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard
Pick-your-own apples at Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard 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.
On-Farm Activities
Best Time to Visit
Apple season at Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard runs from late August through late October, like most orchards in Minnesota. 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 Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard is located
Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard sits in Cedar Lake, Minnesota, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Minnesota. The farm's street address is 4682 250th Street East, Cedar Lake, MN 55020, Cedar Lake, MN 55020.
Most visitors reach Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. From the nearest highway exit, follow signs toward Cedar Lake and continue on local county roads to 4682 250th Street East, Cedar Lake, MN 55020. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Cedar Lake, 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 Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard offer pick-your-own apples?+
Yes, Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard 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 Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard?+
Apple season at most U.S. orchards runs from late August through late October. Call ahead or check Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard's website before your visit to confirm which varieties are ripe.
What are Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard's hours?+
Hours at Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard vary by season. We recommend calling ahead at 952-461-2055 or checking their website the morning of your visit.
How much does apple picking cost at Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard?+
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. Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard sets prices at the entrance each season based on the current crop.
What apple varieties can I pick at Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard?+
Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard grows several classic apple varieties. Popular picks include Honeycrisp for eating, Cortland for baking, and Granny Smith for pies and cider.
Is Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard good for kids and families?+
Absolutely, Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard welcomes families and offers pick-your-own.
Can I bring my dog to Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard?+
Most working orchards ask that pets stay home for food-safety reasons. Call Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard to confirm their current pet policy before bringing your dog.
Is there parking at Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard?+
Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard 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 Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard?+
Bring cash, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Thompson's Hillcrest Orchard usually provides picking bags or buckets.
Data source: USDA Local Food Portal · Confidence: High
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