Hanging Out on the Hood River Fruit Loop
We went to Hood River last weekend. When mentioned it on our facebook page and a lot of folks asked for ideas and recommendations for a trip to the lovely Hood River Valley, so here is the skinny on this area from one family (ours!):
Kiyokawa Farms: This is where we do our apple picking! This farm is in the Parkdale area and it’s main claim to fame is its extensive and delicious Asian pear selection. They also have a huge play fort area for the kids!
Draper Girls: We go here for peach and cherry picking in the summer but we end up at Draper Girls on every trip to the area. The setting is lovely with a small picnic area with clear views of Mt. Hood and a big tree swing. There is also a farm animal area where kids (and adults!) can pet and feed the animals. But our main attraction is the unpasteurized apple cider! Mmm, mmm!
Rasmussen Farms: Our big fall stop. Rasmussen is a little bit of everything. They hvae a large farm stand with produce and many locally made delights – including caramel apples on most days. But the big draw is the story book corn maze, and the otherworldly display of creativity called Pumpkin Funland.
Packer’s Orchard: Our fave baked goods on the loop are the cookies, pies, and turnovers at Packers!
Apple Valley Country Store: This quaint store is open all year round. This is the place to pick up all the local taste of Oregon preserved in jam and jellies. More importantly, this is where top off every Hood River trip with a slice of pie and a Huckleberry Milkshake!
Photo: Gael enjoying cherries at Draper Girls!
