Montoya Orchard
Contact & location
Velarde, NM 87582
Where Montoya Orchard is located
Montoya Orchard sits in Velarde, Rio Arriba County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of New Mexico. The farm's street address is 249 County Road 59, Velarde, NM 87582.
Most visitors reach Montoya 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 Velarde and continue on local county roads to 249 County Road 59. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Velarde, 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 Velarde, New Mexico? Montoya Orchard is a working apple orchard located in Velarde, New Mexico (Rio Arriba County), welcoming families, couples, and photographers each fall for a classic American harvest experience.
Montoya Orchard sits inside one of New Mexico'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 Montoya Orchard
Pick-your-own apples at Montoya 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 Montoya Orchard runs from late August through late October, like most orchards in New Mexico. 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 Montoya Orchard is located
Montoya Orchard sits in Velarde, Rio Arriba County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of New Mexico. The farm's street address is 249 County Road 59, Velarde, NM 87582.
Most visitors reach Montoya 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 Velarde and continue on local county roads to 249 County Road 59. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Velarde, 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 Montoya Orchard offer pick-your-own apples?+
Yes, Montoya 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 Montoya Orchard?+
Apple season at most U.S. orchards runs from late August through late October. Call ahead or check Montoya Orchard's website before your visit to confirm which varieties are ripe.
What are Montoya Orchard's hours?+
Hours at Montoya Orchard vary by season. We recommend calling ahead at (505) 927-3871 or checking their website the morning of your visit.
How much does apple picking cost at Montoya 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. Montoya Orchard sets prices at the entrance each season based on the current crop.
What apple varieties can I pick at Montoya Orchard?+
Montoya Orchard grows several classic apple varieties. Popular picks include Honeycrisp for eating, Cortland for baking, and Granny Smith for pies and cider.
Is Montoya Orchard good for kids and families?+
Absolutely, Montoya Orchard welcomes families and offers pick-your-own.
Can I bring my dog to Montoya Orchard?+
Most working orchards ask that pets stay home for food-safety reasons. Call Montoya Orchard to confirm their current pet policy before bringing your dog.
Is there parking at Montoya Orchard?+
Montoya 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 Montoya Orchard?+
Bring cash, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Montoya Orchard usually provides picking bags or buckets.
Data source: Google Places · Confidence: High
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