Julian, California · Est. 1996
Julian's largest U-Pick apple orchard — 7,000 trellis-grown trees, seven varieties, one unforgettable mountain valley setting.
Our Story
Nestled at the foot of Volcan Mountain along Julian Orchards Drive, our 10-acre orchard has been part of the Julian landscape since 1996. Under the care of Roger and Cindy Hedgecock, the farm has flourished into a destination where families, friends, and four-legged companions come together each harvest season.
We grow our apples on a unique trellis system that keeps fruit low and reachable for pickers of every age and height — from toddlers just learning to walk to grandparents who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground. Seven distinct varieties ripen in waves from late August through October, ensuring something delicious is always ready to pick.
At Volcan Valley, politics stay at the gate. This is a place for good apples, fresh mountain air, and the simple joy of harvest.
The Orchard
Our trellis rows are labeled by variety so you always know exactly what you're picking. Taste a sample at the gate, then head into the orchard to fill your bag with your favorites.
The earliest to ripen — tart, complex, and aromatic. We press these into our famous fresh cold apple cider sold right on the farm.
A beloved all-purpose apple with bright red skin and a sweet-tart flavor. Superb for fresh eating and baking alike.
A McIntosh × Red Delicious cross. Crisp, juicy, and subtly sweet — a crowd-pleaser that holds up beautifully in pies.
One of the world's most popular apples for good reason. Mild, sweet, and endlessly snackable straight off the tree.
Dense, honey-sweet, and satisfyingly crunchy. Our Fujis are a perennial visitor favorite — bags fill up fast.
Mellow, mild sweetness with thin golden skin. Outstanding for fresh eating, salads, and applesauce.
The Newtown Pippin — one of America's oldest apple varieties. Tart and firm, it makes exceptional pies and sauces.
Plan Your Visit
Every visit starts with apple samples at the gate so you can taste before you pick. Then you're off into the rows — no ladder, no strain, just great apples at arm's reach.
Late August through mid-October, weather and crop permitting. Gravensteins open the season; later varieties follow in waves.
Friday – Monday
9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Last bags sold at 4:30 PM · Gates close at 5:00 PM
Grab your bag, get a welcome sample of each variety — taste before you pick.
Clearly labeled trellis rows put ripe apples right at arm's reach — no ladders needed.
Mix varieties or focus on a favorite. The mountain air, the scenery, and the company make it unforgettable.
Finish with a cup of fresh-pressed Gravenstein cider — cold, golden, and pressed right here on the farm.
Leashed, well-behaved dogs are welcome throughout the orchard. We provide waste bags and a water bucket right at the gate.
Wide rows between the trellis trees give strollers and toddlers plenty of room to roam. Our youngest pickers love pulling apples off the low branches.
Volcan Mountain rises across the valley to the west. The crisp mountain air and panoramic views make every visit feel like an escape.
The Farm Shop
The harvest season lasts a few weeks — but the orchard lives in your home year-round. We've partnered with Cleanpunk Farms Soap Company, an ethical, cruelty-free artisan soap operation, to create a collection of handcrafted soaps that capture the scents and spirit of apple country.
From the first blush of Gravenstein to the warm spice of late-October harvest, each bar brings the orchard to your daily routine.
Shop the Collection
Inspired by the Jonathan apple — bright, bold, and unforgettable.
Our signature scent. Apple-derived botanicals with a warm, earthy finish.
SignatureFresh-cut grass, apple blossom, and morning dew in every lather.
Warm spice, ripe fruit, and golden afternoon sunlight.
Fallen leaves, woodsmoke, and the last sweet apples of the season.
From Our Visitors
“We had little kids with us and they had a blast. The apples were all so delicious and the trellis system meant even the tiniest ones could reach the fruit. Great family activity.”
“The people were friendly and helpful — they gave us samples of each apple type at the gate so we had an idea which ones to pick. Such a thoughtful touch.”
“We took our dogs and they were completely welcome. The farm even had water out for them. Beautiful setting with the mountain right there. We'll be back every year.”
“Moms with strollers everywhere and everyone was having a great time. Easy to navigate between the rows. The fresh cider at the end was the perfect finishing touch.”
Life at the Farm
Our seasonal newsletter — harvest news, exclusive product releases, opening date announcements, and a taste of farm life delivered straight to your inbox. Never miss a season again.
Getting Here
We're about 2–4 miles north of downtown Julian on Julian Orchards Drive, right next to Menghini Winery. The mountain roads are winding — if motion sickness is a concern, consider the longer route via Ramona (Highway 78).
