Peach Picking | Connecticut Charm

Allow me to take you on a tour of one of my favorite summer activities in Connecticut. I took a trip to Lyman’s Orchard at the very end of August and my trip to Bali and the start of the autumn wedding season kept me from posting the photos before the official start of fall. August in Connecticut is a transitional time. Families are preparing kids for school and even though August is one of the hottest and most summery months of the year, many people have somehow already thrown in the towel on summer and are prepared for fall. Never being someone to wish my time or life away, I celebrate the season right where I’m at. I’m in no rush. One of the ways that I personally like to celebrate August is with peach picking. Did you know that peaches are in season in Connecticut in August? 

Lyman Orchards is one of the largest and oldest orchards in Connecticut. Family owned since 1741, they are proud of their history and their community. With nearly 100 varieties of fruit to pick-you-own, a sunflower maze, a corn maze, a golf course, and a country store called the Apple Barrel, there is so much to see and do year after year. Apple picking here in the fall is absolutely beautiful, but also the busiest in the state! Which is why I prefer to go earlier in the season for peaches instead. I choose smaller orchards for apple picking season. 

You will find the peach orchard at 105 South Street in Middlefield. The view from the top is spectacular. Make your way down the hill and find some space away from the crowd towards the back of the orchard. 

The peaches were ripe, but surprisingly hard! These are some very solid and heavy fruits. It is much different than picking out fruit at the grocery store. They felt so fuzzy in my hands. Don’t pull, twist up!

The orchard has plastic bags on site, but I prefer to bring my own net bag to prevent adding more plastic pollution. We can all make an impact. 

This summer I’ve been working on having more fun and being silly. I think I’m getting the hang of it. 

Deep breaths! Escaping to the orchard is always a brilliant way to slow down the summer and take in the moment. 

The view from the top is amazing. 

But it looks a lot more like this! 

Peach picking is a surprisingly popular activity in the summer (not nearly as crazy as autumn apple picking can be). You’ll have to wait in line on the hill to pay for your peaches. Remember to bring cash with you. 

Lyman’s Orchard is a beautiful place and peach picking is for everyone. The hill coming down is much steeper than it looks (and very slippery too. I saw at least five people fall on their way down the hill, so be careful.) If you’re traveling with small children, people with disabilities, the elderly, or someone who is pregnant, be cautious and hold their hand as you make your way down slowly. 

If you make time for peach picking you won’t be disappointed. Think of all the peach recipes you can make with your harvest.