If you want to have the most epic fall, follow the Hudson Valley Fall Bucket List.

First up on the Hudson Valley Bucket List: apple picking.

Whether you want to admit it or not, fall is about to be upon us in the Hudson Valley. Cue changing leaves, cooler temperatures, and everything spooky. To get you in the fall spirit, I'm putting together the Hudson Valley Fall Bucket List. Each Thursday, I'll write about a new activity, place, or event in the Hudson Valley that's perfect for fall.

First up on the Hudson Valley Bucket List is none other than the most obvious and most Hudson Valley: apple picking.

The Hudson Valley is literally known for its apple picking. Why do you think Angry Orchard decided to put their innovation cider house in Walden? So if you want the best apples you're in luck, because you're already in the best area.

These are some of my favorite apple orchards for apple picking:

Barton Orchards
Barton is awesome not only for their apple picking but everything else they have to offer. You can spend the entire day there between the corn maze and farm animals and bar.

Porpiglia Farms
Located in Marlboro, Porpiglia is actually where I grew up apple picking. They have a huge selection of pick your own apples, from golden delicious to granny smith, to Macintosh; they have them all

Crist Orchards
So Crist Orchards in Walden isn't pick your own apples, but you can buy them directly at their warehouse. I swear, that the empire apples from Crist Orchards are the best apples you will ever eat. I think a bag of apples is $7 (don't quote me on that). These are a must try!

These are some of my favorite apple orchards, but below is the full list of Hudson Valley pick your own apples.

DUTCHESS COUNTY

Barton Orchards

63 Apple Tree Lane | Poughquag, NY 12570 | (845) 227-2306
Hours: Monday - Friday, 9AM-5PM; Saturday - Sunday, 9AM-6PM

Fishkill Farms

9 Fishkill Farm Road | Hopewell Junction, NY 12533 | (845) 897-4377
Hours: Sunday - Saturday, 9AM-6PM

Fraleigh's Rose Hill Farm

19 Rose Hill | Red Hook, NY 12571 | (845) 758-4215
Hours: Saturday & Sunday, 10AM-6PM
Varieties: Gala (early September), Jonamac (early September)