Experience the charm of autumn in New Mexico! Join The Lost Pathfinder as we share our family’s visit to the 5th Annual Nichols Ranch Apple Festival, full of apple picking, homemade treats, mountain views, and small-town magic.
A Perfect Fall Day in the Mountains
There’s something magical about fall in New Mexico, crisp air, golden light, and the scent of apples in every breeze. This October, our family visited the 5th Annual Nichols Ranch Apple Festival in La Luz, New Mexico, and it was everything we hoped it would be: relaxing, fun, and full of flavor.
Nestled high in the Sacramento Mountains, Nichols Ranch and Orchards offers panoramic views of the Tularosa Basin and White Sands. Every fall, this hidden gem hosts an apple festival that’s equal parts celebration, tradition, and small-town community gathering.
The 2025 Nichols Ranch Apple Festival Experience
The Apple Festival took place on October 4 and 5, 2025, and was packed with food, music, and family-friendly fun. It’s one of those events where you can spend the whole day outdoors, moving at your own pace and savoring every bite (and view).
Apple Picking Among the Pines
Our first stop? The orchard. Rows of apple trees stretched across rolling hills, heavy with fruit ready to be picked. We filled our bags with crisp red apples, sampled a few right from the branch, and took a moment to enjoy the mountain breeze.
There’s something grounding about apple picking, it’s simple, earthy, and perfectly seasonal. The kids loved it, and we loved watching them run between the trees, proudly showing off their “best finds.”
Apple Treats and Fall Flavors Everywhere
No apple festival would be complete without treats, and Nichols Ranch delivered! Between the food stalls and the orchard café, you could find:
- Freshly pressed apple cider (warm and cold — both incredible!)
- Homemade apple pie and turnovers
- Sticky caramel apples
- Warm apple fritters
Local Artisans & Craft Vendors
One of our favorite parts of the day was exploring the vendor booths. Over 80 local artisans showcased handmade goods, from pottery and candles to jewelry, soaps, and preserves. It was a wonderful reminder of how much creativity lives in small communities like La Luz.
Live Music & Good Vibes
The live music created a welcoming and joyful atmosphere for the festival. A mix of country, folk, and bluegrass echoed across the orchard as families relaxed under shady trees or danced near the stage.
There was something for everyone, kids laughing near the petting zoo, couples sharing cider, and grandparents tapping along to familiar tunes.
Family Fun for All Ages
If you’re visiting with kids, this festival is a dream come true. There were train rides for the little ones, a petting zoo, face painting, and plenty of space to run around.
Our youngest giggled while feeding the goats and our oldest found the best apples in the whole orchard….according to him! It was such a wholesome, screen-free day, just laughter, sunshine, and apple-sticky fingers.
Tips for Visiting Nichols Ranch Apple Festival
If you’re planning a trip to the next festival, here are a few things we learned that might help:
| Tip | Why It Matters |
| Arrive Early | You’ll beat the crowds and have first pick of apples. |
| Wear Comfy Shoes | The orchard paths are uneven but beautiful and you’ll want to explore! |
| Bring Layers | Mountain weather changes fast, cool mornings, warm afternoons. |
| Stay Hydrated | Even at higher elevations, it can get sunny. |
| Bring Cash | Most accept cards but some vendors are cash-only. |
| Plan to Stay a While | Between the food, music, and views, you’ll want to linger. |
Our Favorite Moments
By the end of the day, we were full of cider, carrying bags of apples, and smiling ear to ear. Here are a few highlights that stuck with us:
- The moment our youngest picked his first apple ever, grinning with pride.
- The smell of apple pie drifting through the orchard.
- The mountain view glowing orange and gold at sunset.
- Discovering local artists, we look forward to supporting them again.
- Laughing together over who picked the most apples!
Photo Ideas for Visitors
If you’re planning to visit, don’t forget your camera! Some great photo ops include:
- Apple baskets against mountain backdrops
- Kids on the train ride
- The orchard at golden hour
- Caramel apples and cider close-ups
- The rustic Nichols Ranch sign at the entrance
Plan Your Visit
The Nichols Ranch Apple Festival typically happens the first weekend of October each year. For the latest details, directions, and ticket information, visit the official website at NicholsRanchandOrchards.com
Final Thoughts from The Lost Pathfinder
Our family’s day at the Nichols Ranch 2025 Apple Festival was everything fall should be, full of warmth, flavor, and togetherness.
We came home tired, happy, and with enough apples to bake for weeks to come (apple pie recipe coming soon)! More than that, though, we left with memories that remind us why we love supporting local farms and taking the time to enjoy the season.
If you’re ever in southern New Mexico in October, be sure not to miss it.
Learn more or plan your own trip: Nichols Ranch & Orchards – Official Site
