Cardinal Ridge Orchard
Where Cardinal Ridge Orchard is located
Cardinal Ridge Orchard sits in Spring Green, Sauk County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Wisconsin.
Most visitors reach Cardinal Ridge Orchard by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. Set your GPS to Spring Green, WI and follow local county roads into town. Signage from the main road usually points the way to the orchard entrance.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Spring Green, 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 Spring Green, Wisconsin? Cardinal Ridge Orchard is a working apple orchard located in Spring Green, Wisconsin (Sauk County), welcoming families, couples, and photographers each fall for a classic American harvest experience.
Cardinal Ridge Orchard sits inside one of Wisconsin'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 Cardinal Ridge Orchard
Pick-your-own apples at Cardinal Ridge 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 Cardinal Ridge Orchard runs from late August through late October, like most orchards in Wisconsin. 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 Cardinal Ridge Orchard is located
Cardinal Ridge Orchard sits in Spring Green, Sauk County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Wisconsin.
Most visitors reach Cardinal Ridge Orchard by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. Set your GPS to Spring Green, WI and follow local county roads into town. Signage from the main road usually points the way to the orchard entrance.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Spring Green, 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 Cardinal Ridge Orchard offer pick-your-own apples?+
Yes, Cardinal Ridge 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 Cardinal Ridge Orchard?+
Apple season at most U.S. orchards runs from late August through late October. Call ahead or check Cardinal Ridge Orchard's website before your visit to confirm which varieties are ripe.
What are Cardinal Ridge Orchard's hours?+
Hours at Cardinal Ridge Orchard vary by season. We recommend calling ahead at (608) 546-2225 or checking their website the morning of your visit.
How much does apple picking cost at Cardinal Ridge 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. Cardinal Ridge Orchard sets prices at the entrance each season based on the current crop.
What apple varieties can I pick at Cardinal Ridge Orchard?+
Cardinal Ridge Orchard grows several classic apple varieties. Popular picks include Honeycrisp for eating, Cortland for baking, and Granny Smith for pies and cider.
Is Cardinal Ridge Orchard good for kids and families?+
Absolutely, Cardinal Ridge Orchard welcomes families and offers pick-your-own.
Can I bring my dog to Cardinal Ridge Orchard?+
Most working orchards ask that pets stay home for food-safety reasons. Call Cardinal Ridge Orchard to confirm their current pet policy before bringing your dog.
Is there parking at Cardinal Ridge Orchard?+
Cardinal Ridge 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 Cardinal Ridge Orchard?+
Bring cash, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Cardinal Ridge Orchard usually provides picking bags or buckets.
Data source: Google Places · Confidence: High
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