Discover the Juiciest Strawberry Picking Spots Near Thornton, CO
Welcome, berry enthusiasts and fun-seeking families of Thornton, Colorado! If you’re on the lookout for a sweet adventure that combines the great outdoors with delicious rewards, you’ve come to the right place! There’s something absolutely charming about strolling through sun-dappled fields, basket in hand, searching for the perfect ruby-red strawberries. It’s a perfect blend of leisure and activity that can create memories to last a lifetime. So, let’s get ready to explore the luscious strawberry picking places that are just a stone’s throw from Thornton, Colorado!
Why Choose Strawberry Picking as a Family Activity?
Strawberry picking is much more than just gathering fruits. It’s an engaging, educational experience that can teach kids (and remind adults!) about where our food comes from. Plus, it’s a golden opportunity to soak up some vitamin D, get some exercise, and of course, indulge in the sweet taste of freshly picked strawberries – possibly the best you’ll ever have!
When to Go Strawberry Picking
The best time for strawberry picking usually begins in late spring and can last until early summer. You’ll find that peak strawberry season varies slightly each year depending on the weather, so it’s wise to check in with local farms for the most accurate picking schedules. Generally, you’ll have the best luck finding the juiciest berries from May to June.
What to Expect When You Visit a Strawberry Farm
Picking strawberries is an activity that’s friendly for all ages. On arrival at the strawberry farm, you’ll often be greeted with a quick tutorial — nothing too formal — on how to pick the strawberries to keep both you and the plants happy and healthy. Farms typically provide containers for picking or you may bring your own. Remember that it’s quite a hands-on activity so dress in clothes you don’t mind getting a little stained.
Top Strawberry Picking Destinations Near Thornton, CO
Now let’s get to the berry best part: where to pick! Here are some of the most popular strawberry picking farms and gardens around Thornton, where families can have an unbeatable berry experience:
Berry Patch Farms
Address: 13785 Potomac Street, Brighton, CO 80601
Distance from Thornton: Approximately 11 miles/20 minutes
A beautiful, family-owned organic farm, Berry Patch Farms is a haven for those looking to enjoy an organic, pick-your-own experience. With no admission fee and fruits priced by weight, it is an ideal spot for families who wish to pick and choose at leisure. Keep in mind that Berry Patch Farms is Certified Organic, meaning they don’t use synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides, so you can feel good about every strawberry you nibble!
YA YA Farm & Orchard
Address: 6914 Ute Highway, Longmont, CO 80503
Distance from Thornton: Approximately 25 miles/40 minutes
YA YA Farm & Orchard may be best known for its antique apple varieties, but don’t overlook its delightful strawberry offerings! This historic centennial farm offers a picturesque setting for your strawberry picking adventures. Just make sure to call ahead, as their picking schedule can be subject to change based on the season’s yield.
Ready to don your sun hat and embark upon a strawberry adventure? There’s more to know, so keep reading for additional tips on how to make your family’s day at the strawberry farm as sweet as can be! Whether it’s advice on the best strawberry picking practices, how to store your bounty, or delicious ways to use your fresh strawberries, we’ve got you covered. Keep your berry baskets at the ready, and let’s make some deliciously sweet family memories!
5 Essential Strawberry Picking Tips for Parents
1. Dress for Success in the Strawberry Fields
Plan your family’s outfits with the outdoors in mind. Long-sleeved shirts and pants can protect against the sun and occasional prickly plants. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for potentially muddy conditions. Straw hats and sunscreen will guard against the Colorado sun, while gardening gloves can protect little hands during picking.
2. Pack a Strawberry Picking Kit
While farms typically provide containers, it’s a good idea to bring your own small buckets or baskets. They’re easier for kids to handle and can be a part of the fun. Pack water to stay hydrated, as well as some snacks. Just don’t forget a cooler or insulated bag to keep your strawberries fresh on the journey home!
3. Teach Picking Etiquette
Children can learn a valuable lesson in respecting nature. Teach them how to gently twist the strawberries off the stem rather than pulling, which can damage the plants. Show them how to look for ripe, deep red berries, which will be the sweetest, and to leave unripe ones for another day.
4. Plan Around Nap and Meal Times
Timing is everything when planning an outing with kids. Visit the strawberry farms after morning naps, and not too close to meal times to avoid any grumpy pickers. Picking strawberries can be more enjoyable when everyone is well-rested and not hungry.
5. Store Strawberries Properly to Maximize Freshness
Once home, sort through your berries and remove any that are damaged or overly ripe, as they can cause others to spoil faster. Don’t wash strawberries until you’re ready to eat them, and store them in the refrigerator in a breathable container. For longer preservation, consider freezing or making jams.
Remember, strawberry picking is both fun and an opportunity for hands-on education. Explain to your kids how strawberries grow and the importance of local agriculture. Bring a camera or use your phone to snap photos, capturing the delight of your family’s day out. These memories are just as sweet as the strawberries you’ll bring home.
Each strawberry picking location near Thornton, Colorado offers its own unique charm. Whether you choose Berry Patch Farms for its organic allure or the scenic beauty of YA YA Farm & Orchard, your family is sure to have a berry good time. Follow these tips, and your outing will be a breeze — filled with laughter, learning, and, most importantly, delicious strawberries. So go ahead, plan that day trip, and savor the joy of strawberry picking with your loved ones!
See more great Things to Do with Kids in Colorado here. For more information see here
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