Hood River's Orchard Economy Extends Its Season

HOOD RIVER, OR — The Hood River Valley has grown pears and apples since the 1870s, and the Fruit Loop driving route through its orchards has become one of Oregon's most reliable agritourism draws. Growers say the season now starts with spring bloom and runs through October harvest.

From wind to wine

Hood River built its modern reputation on windsurfing and kiteboarding, and summer wind still fills the waterfront. The valley's cideries, wineries and farm stands have added a second season, bringing visitors who come for tasting rooms and u-pick orchards rather than the river.

Small growers, direct sales

Many valley farms sell directly to visitors, which insulates them somewhat from wholesale price swings. Several have invested in hard cider production and on-site kitchens to capture more of the visitor dollar.

Housing and labor

Farm labor housing and worker transportation remain persistent challenges, and orchardists have increasingly partnered with county programs to secure seasonal housing.

Wildfire and water

Late-summer smoke has become a recurring risk for outdoor events and for fruit quality, and growers continue to invest in frost protection and irrigation efficiency.

What comes next

The county and growers are weighing how much additional tasting-room and event development the valley's roads can absorb, with parking and traffic on the Fruit Loop the most common complaints.