Let us paint a picture for you: Summer morning, basket in your hand, the sun warm on your shoulders, you pluck a freshly ripe bunch of raspberries into the basket. Sounds soothing, doesn’t it? Well, if you stay in Vermont, you only need 2 things: raspberry season and Champlain Orchard's local farm.
If you love nature and appreciate the unparalleled taste of fresh fruits, then you need this guide to all things raspberry picking. At Champlain Orchards, our raspberry patches connect you directly to Vermont's agricultural heritage while providing some of the tastiest berries around.
Families create memories, food enthusiasts gather ingredients, and eco-conscious visitors support our sustainable farming practice. This guide will help both newcomers and experienced pickers make the most of their time in our berry patches.
When is Raspberry Season in Vermont?
With normal weather patterns, you would have raspberries on our farms from early July through mid-October. Raspberries stay longer in the summer compared to other summer berries like strawberries and currants. However, the type of raspberry you are looking for also matters. If you don’t mind the type, you can also decide when to come based on your free time.
Summer Raspberries (July-August)
Our summer raspberry varieties reach peak ripeness from early July through August. You can get a wide variety of red, black, and gold summer raspberries on our local farm. If you come in the early stages of summer, you get to pick those classic sweet-tart flavors that raspberry lovers crave.
Fall Raspberries (September-October)
Our fall raspberry varieties are produced from late August through the first frost (usually mid-October). This is for the sweet tooths with late summer sugar cravings. Come around and pick tasty and flavorful autumn berries.
For current picking conditions and availability, check our pick-your-own fruit seasons before planning your trip. Mother Nature ultimately sets our schedule!
Tips for Perfect Raspberry Picking
What to Wear and Bring
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Comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for dirt paths
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Lightweight, breathable clothing (Vermont weather can change quickly)
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Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
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Reusable water bottle
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Cash or card for purchase
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Camera for capturing memories
How to Pick Raspberries Like a Pro
One sweet raspberry tip is that the freshest ones come off without any struggle, just a little jiggle, and they are free. To further assess the freshness, here are some effective tips from our farm team:
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Check for deep, uniform color: Ripe raspberries show deep red color throughout. Skip berries with white or light pink patches – they need more time.
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Try the touch test: As stated, a truly ripe raspberry detaches easily from the plant.
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Prevent squishing: Since they come off so easily, you shouldn’t apply much effort. Just gently roll the berry around with your thumb and index finger, and it should come right off.
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Handle gently: Even after plucking, you should carefully place berries in baskets because they are easily squished.
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Look thoroughly: The juiciest berries often hide beneath leaves or nestle deep in the patch. Take your time and search carefully.
According to research from Oregon State University, raspberries picked at peak ripeness contain the highest levels of antioxidants and flavor compounds, giving you extra motivation to select carefully.
Why Our Sustainable Farming Practices Matter
Choosing to carry out raspberry picking at our farm is more than a location choice. It is an eco-conscious decision. We have upheld sustainable farming practices for over 25 years, and we will still keep on going.
Every aspect of our farming is environmentally friendly, from the planting, the maintenance, the harvest, and the distribution. By farming with us, you promote that value too.
These sustainable farming practices protect our local ecosystem and result in berries with exceptional flavor and nutrition. Research from Washington State University confirms that organically managed berries typically contain higher levels of beneficial compounds compared to conventionally grown alternatives.
Making the Most of Your Visit
Your time at our local farm can include more than filling baskets with berries. Consider these ways to enhance your visit:
Our Farm Market
After picking, stop by our farm market for seasonal fruits, fresh-pressed cider, homemade pies, and locally produced specialty foods that pair perfectly with fresh raspberries.
Tasty Cocktails
If you want to enjoy some of the finest things that our raspberries are made of, you can try our cocktail options. So many amazing choices on display to cool you down from the summer heat. These are part of the different preservative ideas you can implement for your berries. A few others include:
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Freezing berries on cookie sheets before transferring them to storage containers
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Making small-batch jam (our staff can share a favorite recipe)
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Adding to smoothies or homemade ice cream
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Creating fruit-infused vinegar for gourmet salad dressings
Plan Your Raspberry Picking Visit
Fruit picking creates lasting family memories while connecting you to Vermont's agricultural traditions. Our sustainably managed berry patches offer an authentic farm experience in a beautiful setting.
Locals seeking fresh, seasonal produce and visitors wanting a genuine Vermont experience both find something special during our raspberry picking season. Visit our website for current picking conditions, hours, and pricing – then grab your baskets and join us for this beloved summer tradition!