If you’re looking for a unique and fun weekend getaway in Oregon this fall, then let me tell you about the Hood River Fruit Loop. Hood River is located just about an hour east of Portland, and is a town rich with beautiful orchards, vineyards, outdoor recreation, and breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge. The Fruit Loop, is a self-guided tour made up of over 30 locations on a 35 mile loop. Along the Fruit Loop, you will encounter fruit stands offering a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, flowers, fresh fruit pies, jams, syrups, fruit smoothies, and local artisan gifts. You will come across wineries where you can enjoy award winning wines from many local vineyards. Choose from Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinor Noir, Zinfandel, Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Rose, even Pear Wine. There are several u-pick farms offering a wide variety of u-pick fruit, flowers, lavender and veggies. Take home a bounty of fresh, beautiful produce and your family and friends will thank you! The kids love to go apple picking, and there’s nothing more delicious than freshly picked fall apples. In addition to the fruit stands and vineyards, you will enjoy lavender, alpaca, and chestnut farms, plus seasonal festivals, fruit celebrations, and fabulous eateries. Traveling in your RV? There are two great choices that put you in a perfect location for the Fruit Loop. Stay at the beautiful Toll Bridge Park. Toll Bridge Park is owned and operated by Hood River County. Toll Bridge Park is a terrific park set back in the woods with the beautiful Hood River running through it. A few of the RV camping sites in the west loop back-up to the Hood River. This is a full feature park with ample accommodations for any size RV. Toll Bridge Park also offers a ball field, a very large day use area, playground equipment, picnic tables and multiple restroom facilities. Groceries and fishing tackle are available in Odell, 7.8 miles north on Highway 35 or in Hood River, 14.5 miles north on Highway 35. Reservations are available and recommended. They offer 20 sites with full hook ups, and 40 with electricity and water. Or, stay at the beautiful Tucker Road Park. Tucker Park is also owned and operated by Hood River County. Tucker Park is another great example of what even a small county can do to provide outdoor recreation opportunities. The park offers 20 RV camping sites with plenty of restrooms and showers for each of the 3+ camping loops. Set right on the Hood River, Tucker Park offers fishing, rafting, tubing and kayaking for park visitors. There is also a large day use area with shelters that can accommodate fairly large family reunions or company parties. Shopping, restaurants and gas are all available in Hood River, 6.6 miles north. Tucker Park is first come, first served. Reservations are not possible at this park. For more information on the Hood River Fruit Loop, including details on the stops, travel tips, and a loop map, click here. Don’t miss the Heirloom Apple Celebration, happening this weekend October 24-25.
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