Earlier this year I wrote about the old neglected apple trees on Hideaway Tiny Acres and our journey on how we’re going to see how we can get them healthier so they will produce more fruit. I’ve lived here with Don for over 20 years and the property has been in Don’s family since 1919. At one time they had livestock and farmed the area and fed the entire family of 12 from what was grown on the land. The apple trees were a huge part of the growing efforts and Don remembers eating so much apple pie that he was burned out on it for a long time. That must have been a lot of apple pie!
What is A Heirloom Apple?
Heirloom apples are older apple varieties passed down from multiple generations and are characterized by their diversity of tastes, textures, sizes and shapes. Unlike the handful of apples found in grocery stores, heirloom apples offer a complexity of flavor, including sweet, tangy, crisp, juicy, and bright. On our homestead there are many apples that are called yellow transparent. They are said to have been imported from Russia in the late 1800’s. They are more of a tangy apple and we use them for baking and making applesauce. Another variety of heirloom apple is Wolf River which is found on the property as well. The Wolf River variety is firm and not very flavorful for eating but it’s good for baking. There are other trees on the property that are heirloom but I’m not sure on the variety.
Discovering the Ancient Heirloom Apple Trees at Hideaway Tiny Acres
Hideaway Tiny Acres is more than just a retreat for those looking to experience tiny living—it’s also home to a remarkable piece of local history: ancient apple trees that have been bearing fruit for generations. These trees, with their gnarled trunks and expansive branches, are not just a testament to nature’s resilience but a symbol of the deep-rooted history of the land.
The History Behind the Trees
The apple trees at Hideaway Tiny Acres have been standing for over a century, providing fresh, crisp fruit for those lucky enough to call this area home. Local lore suggests that these trees were originally planted by Don’s relatives, who brought apple seeds with them to grow a reliable food source in the rugged Upper Peninsula. Over time, these trees have become a hidden treasure of the property, quietly producing apples year after year, untouched by modern farming practices.
A Unique Flavor Experience
Unlike the store-bought apples we’re used to today, the fruit from these ancient apple trees has a unique flavor profile—one that many describe as a blend of tart and sweet, with a hint of wildness. The apples are smaller, their skins a bit rougher, but what they lack in uniformity, they make up for in taste. These apples connect us to a simpler time, when fruit wasn’t polished or sprayed but grown naturally, shaped by the local climate and soil.
Harvest Time at Hideaway Tiny Acres
Each fall, guests at Hideaway Tiny Acres are invited to pick their own apples, making it a perfect seasonal activity for those who appreciate sustainable living. There’s something magical about walking through the orchard, basket in hand, selecting apples straight from the tree. Whether you’re planning to bake a pie, press cider, or simply snack on a fresh apple, the experience is a memorable one.
Preserving History for the Future
At Hideaway Tiny Acres, the ancient apple trees are more than just a quaint feature—they’re a reminder of the importance of preserving local history and biodiversity. By caring for these trees, we ensure that future generations will continue to enjoy their fruit and the stories they carry. The trees are tended naturally, without harmful pesticides, and the apples are free for visitors to enjoy during their stay.
How You Can Enjoy the Apples
Guests staying at Hideaway Tiny Acres during the harvest season can take part in a traditional apple-picking experience. The apples are perfect for simple recipes like apple crisps, homemade applesauce, or fresh cider. With the help of a small, rustic press, guests can even try their hand at pressing their own cider, adding a touch of pioneer spirit to their tiny living experience. We will have one available next season for our guests to use.
Plan Your Stay at Hideaway Tiny Acres
As you plan your next getaway to Hideaway Tiny Acres, consider timing your visit in the late summer or early fall to take advantage of the apple harvest. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone who enjoys fresh, local produce, the ancient apple trees at Hideaway Tiny Acres offer a truly unique and enriching experience.
Book your stay with us and experience all that autumn has to offer!
We have the perfect basecamp for your next U.P. getaway!
More Later – Nancy and Don