Lees Ferry apricots ready to harvest

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MARBLE CANYON, Ariz. – Fruit in the historic orchard at Lees Ferry are getting ripe.  


Apricots currently are at their peak and this year; Mother Nature has been generous.


The trees are loaded with fruit. The public is welcome to pick fruit at no additional charge than the fee to enter Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and a short walk to the orchard.


A drive to the orchard allows one to see views of the Vermilion Cliffs, Marble Canyon, and the Colorado and Paria River canyons. Due to ongoing repairs to the access road, visitors to the orchard must use a temporary trail from the paved road, near the bridge over the Paria River.  


Visitors should park near the bridge or along the road shoulder and look for the orange cones that lead down the trail. It’s about a 10-minute walk on an unpaved trail, with little elevation gain and a nice view of the canyon and cliffs along the way.


Visitors should use sunscreen and bring plenty of water.


Visitors are allowed to pick a maximum of a bucket of fruit for personal use. Visitors must bring a day pack or a sturdy bag.


It’s a great way to spend time with the family. While at the orchard, check out the nearby historic buildings and cemetery, where the Lee family lived.