Gopher Glen
An organic apple farm up See Canyon, growing more than 100 varieties, with tastings at the farm stand.
- Where
- 2899 See Canyon Rd, about 10 minutes from Avila Beach
- Grows
- More than 100 apple varieties, organic
- Sister farm
- Avila Valley Barn, same family
- Farm stand
- Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Website
- gopherglen.com
Gopher Glen is an organic apple farm at 2899 See Canyon Road, up the canyon from Avila Beach. It's about 50 acres of orchard, and it grows more than 100 kinds of apples. That makes it the place on the Avila Apple Trail to try varieties you won't find in a grocery store.
Over 100 kinds of apples
The farm was started by John DeVincenzo, a dentist who grew apples and bred his own varieties. Some of his hybrids, like Mohawk, are still grown here alongside heirlooms. Today the Smith family runs it, the same family behind the Avila Valley Barn at the bottom of the canyon. At the stand, apples are sorted by variety. The staff are happy to cut slices so you can taste a few and pick a favorite.
What's at the farm stand
Besides apples, the stand sells cider pressed on the farm, local honey and other seasonal fruit, like peaches in summer. Gopher Glen also sells fresh cider and hard cider and ships wholesale. The farm stand is open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Check the website before you go, since farm hours can change with the season.
When to go
The first apples are usually ready in July. From August through October, five to 20 varieties can be ripe at once, which is the best time to visit. By November only a handful are left.
On the Apple Trail
Gopher Glen sits near the top of the trail, and it's a sister farm to the Avila Valley Barn where the trail begins. Pair it with Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards and the Avila Valley Barn on the way back down. The whole route is on Farms & the Apple Trail.
Local tips
- Ask to taste. The staff will slice up apples so you can compare varieties before you buy.
- Go in late summer or early fall, when up to 20 varieties can be ripe at once.
- Grab a jug of cider pressed on the farm for the drive home.
Frequently asked questions
Is Gopher Glen organic?
Yes. Gopher Glen is an organic apple farm of about 50 acres in See Canyon.
How many kinds of apples does Gopher Glen grow?
More than 100 varieties, including heirlooms and hybrids the farm's founder developed himself.
When is the best time to visit Gopher Glen?
The first apples come in around July. August through October brings the most choice, and by November only a few varieties are left.
Does Gopher Glen sell cider?
Yes. The farm sells fresh cider pressed on site, and also lists hard cider on its website.
