Description

East Shore Orchards Overview

Discover the dedication and rich tradition of fruit growing at East Shore Orchards, located on the picturesque Flathead Lake in Montana. Known for its diverse range of fruits and a hands-on approach to agriculture, the orchard offers a unique experience underscored by the personal touch of Farmer Dan and his team.

History and Background

East Shore Orchards has a storied history of enduring and thriving despite the challenging Montana weather conditions, including historical winters that once decimated local fruit trees. The orchard is a symbol of resilience and passion, with Farmer Dan and Sheryl at the helm, introducing new plantings and initiatives to foster growth and sustainability.

Fruit Varieties and Production

East Shore Orchards is renowned for its diverse array of fruit trees, including:

• Cherries: Famous for their size, crispness, and juiciness, with an anticipated harvest starting in late July.
• Apples: Offering various varieties that are ideal for both fresh eating and baking. The orchard provides techniques for making homemade applesauce.
• Peaches and Blueberries: New additions to the orchard, with exciting future prospects for these crops.

The orchard practices careful cultivation techniques, tailoring irrigation and care to the needs of each individual tree to optimize flavor and quality.

Visitor Information and Experiences

Visitors are highly encouraged to engage with the orchard through:

• U-pick opportunities: Available from late July through mid-August for cherries and during apple season in the fall. Visitors need to contact Farmer Dan at (406) 871-5499 a day or two in advance to schedule their visit.
• Timings: Picking is conducted from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
• Art Gallery and Workshops: Sheryl's artwork enriches the visit experience, with pieces inspired by orchard life available for viewing and purchase.

Notable Specialties

• Preserved Fruits: A staple through the winter, available in various preparations that enhance their dinner menus and are used in delightful vinaigrettes.
• Homemade Applesauce: A cherished recipe shared by the orchard for visitors to recreate and enjoy the taste of fresh orchard apples year-round.

Contact Information and Location

To experience East Shore Orchards and plan a visit during the harvest or any other season:

• Phone: Call Farmer Dan at (406) 871-5499
• Location: Bigfork, Montana, on the scenic shores of Flathead Lake.

Whether you're interested in picking your own fruit, enjoying the artistic inspirations drawn from orchard life, or simply exploring the splendor of Montana's agricultural offerings, East Shore Orchards invites you to partake in a uniquely intimate and rewarding agrarian experience.