Taking a bite of autumn bounty

Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana -- all states with football teams that are rivals to the Illini. And last year, the University of Illinois lost to every one but Michigan State University. Ugh.

Many Illini fans are still stinging. So don't drive into enemy territory to pick apples. There are many apple orchards in Illinois where families can pick apples and enjoy a fall tradition.

Staying in-state may mean starting early, depending on your tastes. Some apples are ready for picking now and others will ripen earlier than expected. "We're two to three weeks early on everything," said Don Burda, co-owner of Homestead Orchard in Woodstock. "All the many, many 90s temperatures and all the rain. It's been like that for two or three years now."

The harvest may be early, but Burda said it will be plentiful. "It's a really productive year, we're looking for a great harvest," he said.

Not sure where and what to pick? Here are five Illinois orchards with unique apples:

Apples on Oak

16146 Oak Ave., Joliet; 815-726-0386; Peceniak.Tripod.com

This family-owned farm offers free admission and free parking. Owner Lawrence Peceniak seeks out unique apples not available on grocery store shelves. "We can't compete with the Golden Delicious and the Red Delicious growers, so we went more toward the odd varieties that no one else grows," Peceniak said.

Distance: About 36 miles from the Loop.

Ideal for: Sweet apple lovers. A quick trip for west and south suburban families.

Must-try apple: Ashmead's Colonel. While many modern apples are engineered hybrids, Peceniak says this apple hasn't changed in centuries. "This is something that Jefferson grew," Peceniak said. Also called Ashmead's Kernel, this firm apple has a yellow-white color and is both crisp and juicy.

Timing: This apple is ready to be picked in mid-September. Orchard hours (now open): 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Wed. and Sat.; noon-6 p.m. Sun. Free parking and admission.

Cost: $1 per pound.

Homestead Orchard

11802 Charles Rd.., Woodstock; 815-338-7443, HomesteadOrchard.net

Owned by Don and Barb Burda, Homestead Orchard is a quiet, family-friendly farm where children of any age can pick apples. Almost 90 percent of customers are families with children. Don't expect a petting zoo or pony rides. Instead, Don Burda said the trees are the kid-friendly attraction. "The branches are low. All the children can pick, even the two year old," Burda said.