Secrets Of Washington’s Columbia River Fruit Orchards
Have you ever wondered where some of the juiciest apples, cherries, and pears come from? Washington's Columbia River fruit orchards hold the answer. Nestled along the scenic Columbia River, these orchards produce some of the finest fruits in the country. The region's unique climate, with warm days and cool nights, creates the perfect conditions for growing delicious, high-quality fruit. Whether you're a fruit lover or just curious about where your food comes from, a visit to these orchards offers a delightful experience. Imagine walking through rows of trees laden with ripe, colorful fruit, ready to be picked and enjoyed.
Discovering the Columbia River Fruit Orchards
Washington's Columbia River region is a hidden gem for fruit lovers. This area, known for its fertile soil and perfect climate, produces some of the best fruits in the country. Let's explore some must-visit orchards along the Columbia River.
Apple Orchards to Visit
Washington is famous for its apples. The Columbia River area boasts several orchards where you can pick your own or buy freshly harvested apples.
Aplets & Cotlets Orchard
- Located in Cashmere, this orchard offers a variety of apples and a unique candy factory tour. Enjoy a sweet treat after picking your apples.
Orondo Cider Works
- Situated in Orondo, this orchard not only offers apple picking but also fresh apple cider. Perfect for a refreshing drink after a day in the orchard.
Stemilt Creek Winery & Orchards
- In Wenatchee, this spot combines apple picking with wine tasting. Enjoy a glass of wine made from local grapes while you pick your apples.
Cherry Orchards Worth Exploring
Cherries are another star of the Columbia River region. These orchards offer some of the juiciest cherries you'll ever taste.
Chelan Fruit Cooperative
- Located in Chelan, this cooperative offers a variety of cherries. Visit during cherry season for the freshest picks.
Green Bluff Growers
- Near Spokane, this community of growers offers cherry picking along with other fruits. A great spot for a family outing.
Tieton Farm & Creamery
- In Tieton, this farm offers cherries and a variety of other fruits. Don't miss their homemade cheese while you're there.
Pear Orchards to Check Out
Pears from the Columbia River region are known for their sweetness and juiciness. These orchards are a must-visit for pear lovers.
Blue Heron Orchard
- Located in Rock Island, this orchard offers a variety of pears. Enjoy a peaceful day picking pears in a beautiful setting.
Martin Family Orchards
- In Orondo, this family-run orchard offers pears and other fruits. Their friendly staff makes the experience even more enjoyable.
Royal Ridge Fruits
- Situated in Royal City, this orchard offers pears and other stone fruits. A great place to stock up on fresh produce.
Peach Orchards You Can't Miss
Peaches from the Columbia River region are a summer delight. These orchards offer some of the best peaches around.
Bill's Berry Farm
- Located in Grandview, this farm offers peach picking along with other fruits. Their homemade peach pies are a must-try.
Barrett Orchards
- In Yakima, this orchard offers a variety of peaches. Enjoy a day in the sun picking sweet, juicy peaches.
Collins Family Orchards
- Situated in Selah, this family-run orchard offers peaches and other fruits. Their farm store is stocked with delicious homemade jams and jellies.
Berry Orchards to Visit
Berries are another highlight of the Columbia River region. These orchards offer a variety of berries for picking.
Remlinger Farms
- Located in Carnation, this farm offers a variety of berries. Enjoy a fun day out with the family picking fresh berries.
Biringer Farm
- In Arlington, this farm offers strawberries, raspberries, and more. Their berry festival is a fun event for all ages.
Spooner Farms
- Situated in Puyallup, this farm offers a variety of berries. Don't miss their homemade berry ice cream.
Grape Orchards for Wine Lovers
The Columbia River region is also known for its vineyards. These grape orchards offer wine tasting along with grape picking.
Columbia Crest Winery
- Located in Paterson, this winery offers grape picking and wine tasting. Enjoy a glass of wine made from grapes you picked yourself.
Hogue Cellars
- In Prosser, this winery offers grape picking and a variety of wines. Their tasting room is a great place to relax after a day in the vineyard.
Kiona Vineyards
- Situated in Benton City, this vineyard offers grape picking and wine tasting. Their scenic location makes for a perfect day out.
Unique Fruit Orchards to Explore
Some orchards in the Columbia River region offer unique fruits you won't find everywhere. These orchards are worth a visit for something different.
Cloud Mountain Farm Center
- Located in Everson, this farm offers a variety of unique fruits. Their educational tours are a great way to learn about sustainable farming.
BelleWood Acres
- In Lynden, this farm offers a variety of unique fruits and a distillery. Try their apple spirits for a unique experience.
Jones Creek Farms
- Situated in Sedro-Woolley, this farm offers a variety of heirloom fruits. Their farm store is stocked with delicious homemade products.
Savoring the Columbia River's Bounty
Washington's Columbia River fruit orchards offer a unique experience. From the crisp apples to the juicy cherries, these orchards are a must-visit for any fruit lover. The region's fertile soil and ideal climate create perfect growing conditions, ensuring top-quality produce. Visiting these orchards provides a chance to taste fresh fruit, learn about farming practices, and enjoy scenic views.
Whether you're picking your own fruit or sampling local products, the Columbia River orchards promise a memorable adventure. Supporting local farmers helps sustain this vital industry, ensuring future generations can enjoy the same delicious fruits. Next time you're in Washington, make sure to explore these orchards. You'll leave with a deeper appreciation for the hard work that goes into every bite and a basket full of the freshest fruit around.
