Embark on a Juicy Adventure: Cherry Picking With Your Family in Billings, Montana
Hey there, fruit-loving families of Billings! Are you ready to add some sweetness to your summer? Cherry picking is not only a delightful family activity, but it’s also a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors and support local agriculture. Today, we’re going to explore the best places around Billings, Montana, where you can pick these ruby-red jewels straight from the tree!
Why Cherry Picking is a Must-Do Family Activity
Before we dive into the top spots, let’s sprinkle a little on why cherry picking is simply the cherry on top of family activities!
- Quality Family Time: Disconnect from technology and connect with each other. Cherry picking allows for conversations and laughter under the Montana sky.
- Educational Experience: Teach your little ones where their food comes from and the importance of agriculture. It’s a hands-on biology lesson!
- Outdoor Exercise: Picking cherries involves walking, reaching, and stretching. This gentle activity is a sweet way to include some physical exercise.
- Fresh and Nutritious Snacks: Cherries are not only delectable but loaded with nutrients. Harvest your own healthy treats!
Choosing the Perfect Cherry Picking Spot
Montana is known for its lush landscapes and agricultural prowess. The state boasts several orchards where you can pick cherries while soaking in breathtaking views. Here’s how to choose the perfect spot for your family’s cherry picking escapade:
- Check the Picking Season: Cherry season typically runs from late June to early August in Montana. Always verify the peak time with the orchard to ensure you get the best picking experience.
- Look for Family-Friendly Amenities: Some orchards offer additional facilities like picnic areas, petting zoos, and playgrounds. These can make the day even more enjoyable for everyone.
- Know Before You Go: Each orchard has its own rules and offerings. Understand the costs, if they provide picking equipment, and what types of cherries are available.
Best Cherry Picking Spots Near Billings
Now, let’s get to the juicy part! Here are some top cherry picking places where you can fill your baskets and make memories:
1. Big Mountain Fruit Farms
A short scenic drive away from Billings, Big Mountain Fruit Farms is a family favorite. With acres of dwarf cherry trees, the branches are just the right height for tiny hands, making it ideal for children. Don’t forget to stop by their country store for some cherry jam!
Location: 123 Cherry Lane, Billings, MT
Picking Season: July 1st to July 30th
2. Orchard Bliss Family Orchards
Orchard Bliss is another gem with a stunning view of the surrounding hills. They offer hayrides to the picking spots and have a variety of sweet and tart cherries. It’s a blissful spot for a family day out!
Location: 456 Countryside Road, Billings, MT
Picking Season: June 25th to August 5th
Tips for a Bountiful Cherry Picking Experience
Before we wrap up, here are some top tips to help you have the best cherry picking experience:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather – don’t forget sunscreen and hats!
- Bring water to stay hydrated and maybe some snacks for a mid-pick-me-up.
- Plan to arrive early to beat the heat and crowd, and to get the juiciest selection of cherries.
- If you’re planning to bring home a large haul, consider bringing containers to safely transport your cherries.
Cherry-pick your way to an unforgettable summer outing with your family and enjoy the very best of what Billings, Montana, has to offer. Happy picking!
Embark on a Sweet Farm Adventure: Cherry Picking in Billings, Montana
Welcome, awesome parents of Billings! Are you dreaming of sunny days filled with laughter and fresh fruit? Get ready because cherry picking offers a wholesome, nature-filled outing perfect for families. Let’s investigate the top spots around Billings, Montana, where your family can harvest plump, delicious cherries right from the source. Get your baskets ready!
Cherry Picking: A Wholesome Activity for the Whole Family
Before embarking on our cherry escapade, here’s a little insight into why this activity is a hit with families:
- Unplugged Bonding: Trade screen time for green time. Picking cherries is a chance to chat, bond and simply be present with each other amidst nature’s bounty.
- Learning in the Orchard: Educate your kiddos about the origins of their snacks. Let them understand the lifecycle of fruit, from blossom to basket!
- Gentle Exercise: Cherry picking involves a bit of walking, reaching, and bending—exercise can be a treat when it’s this fun and fruitful!
- Harvest Health: Cherries are little powerhouses of vitamins and antioxidants. What better snack than one you’ve picked yourselves?
Spot Picking: Finding Your Family’s Cherry Haven
With Montana’s stunning vistas and fertile lands, numerous orchards beckon families to enjoy the cherry season. Here’s what to consider when selecting your cherry haven:
- Stay Season-Savvy: Cherry season in Montana typically stretches from late June into early August. Contacting orchards beforehand ensures the prime picking experience.
- Family Extras: Some orchards add charm with amenities like picnic spots, farm animals, and play areas. Little touches create big memories for the kids.
- Orchard Rules & Tools: Get the scoop on entry costs, whether you need to bring your picking kit, and what kinds of cherries are ripe for the picking.
Billings’ Cherry Picking Paradise Picks
Let’s zoom in on where you can harvest the juiciest cherries and craft the sweetest summer stories:
1. Big Sky Cherry Delights
A short drive from the heart of Billings, Big Sky Cherry Delights invites families to a day of sun-kissed fun. The trees are low, perfect for little ones to help gather cherries. Be sure to indulge in their homemade cherry pies at their quaint farm shop!
Location: 123 Cherry Blossom Drive, Billings, MT
Picking Season: Expected from June 30th to July 29th, call ahead to confirm!
2. Happy Orchard Cherry Farm
Overlooking verdant valleys, Happy Orchard provides a serene setting for your family’s fruit adventure. Enjoy the different shades of cherries available and maybe join in on a workshop about sustainable farming while you’re there.
Location: 456 Apple Way, Billings, MT
Picking Season: Harvest usually begins June 22nd and lasts until August 3rd
5 Essential Things Parents Should Know When Cherry Picking
Let’s make sure you’re completely ready for a cherry good time! Here are five key things parents should keep in mind:
- Protect Against the Sun: Reliable sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and comfortable, cool clothing are must-haves under the bright Montana sky.
- Hydration is Key: Bring along plenty of water, and perhaps a cooler with refreshing drinks to keep everyone quenched.
- Footwear Matters: Choose shoes that are comfortable for walking and won’t mind a little fruit or dirt. Sneakers or closed-toe, flat shoes are ideal.
- Plan Your Timing: An early start can help you beat both the heat and potential crowds, giving your family the pick of the crop.
- Take Care with Transport: If you plan to take home a large haul, bring along some sturdy containers or cardboard boxes to transport your cherries without squishing them.
Harvest Happiness: Prep Tips for Cherry Picking
Before we part, a handful of pointers to ensure your cherry picking adventure is nothing but sweet:
- Awareness of the Weather: Keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan your trip for a sunny, dry day.
- Snacks for Stamina: A small stash of snacks can keep the kids energized without spoiling their appetite for fresh cherries.
- Capture the Moments: Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to document the day’s fun!
- Understanding the Orchard’s Offerings: Research if your chosen orchard practices organic farming if that’s important to you.
As you can see, cherry picking in and around Billings, Montana, offers more than just delicious fruits—it’s a complete package of fresh air, family bonding, and lifelong memories. Your sensational summer outing is just a cherry-pick away. Wishing you baskets of fun!
See more great Things to Do with Kids in Montana here. For more information see here
Disclaimer
The articles available via our website provide general information only and we strongly urge readers to exercise caution and conduct their own thorough research and fact-checking. The information presented should not be taken as absolute truth, and, to the maximum extent permitted by law, we will not be held liable for any inaccuracies or errors in the content. It is essential for individuals to independently verify and validate the information before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the articles.
