3 Reasons to Love September in Hood River
Summer isn’t quite over in Hood River. September in the Columbia River Gorge is one of the world’s best-kept secrets. The days are warm, the dirt is tacky (for mountain biking) and there are numerous ways to celebrate the fall harvest. Whether you’re a foodie or an adrenaline junkie, you’ll find plenty ways to get your fix in Hood River.
Here are three reasons to visit Hood River this September.
![hood-river-beer hood river beer](https://hoodriverhotel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/hood-river-beer.jpg)
Hood River Hops Fest
Website: hoodriverhopsfest.com
Where: Columbia Lot, 5th and Columbia, downtown Hood River (across from Full Sail Brewery)
What: Even if you’re a wine drinker, you’ll love the scene at Hood River Hops Fest. This annual festival is known for its wide selection of seasonal, fresh-hop beers. But it’s also a favorite because of its wine and cider options, kid-friendly atmosphere (12pm – 5pm), local food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, and live music. Some vendors tend to run out fast. True connoisseurs arrive early to make sure they can have a taste of every draft.
Pro tip: Everyone wishes Hops Fest lasted more than a day. If you haven’t already, book a room with us and plan to spend a few days exploring Hood River’s many awesome breweries.
Photo: Hood River Hops Fest
![pick-apples pick apples](https://hoodriverhotel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/pick-apples.jpg)
Kiyokawa Family Orchards
Website: mthoodfruit.com
When: Open Mon – Fri,10am – 6pm and Sat – Sunday, 9am – 6pm
Where: 5625 Hutson Rd. Parkdale, OR 97041
What: Part of Hood River’s famous Fruit Loop, Kiyokawa Family Orchards is a family-owned and operated orchard growing 20 distinct varieties of apples, pears, and Asian pears — many varieties you’ve probably never even heard of. Started in 1951 by Japanese immigrants who met at an internment camp during World War II, Kiyokawa Family Orchards has a huge farm stand, fall hay-wagon rides, and expansive views of Mt. Hood. Plan to bring a picnic and your own bags to fill with goodies to go.
Pro-tip: Don’t miss Fiesta Days! October 12th & 13th for authentic Mexican food, a Mariachi band and wailing on some Piñatas during the height of their harvest season.
Photo: Kiyokawa Family Orchards
![taste-wine wine tasting](https://hoodriverhotel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/taste-wine.jpg)
Celebrate the Fall Crush
Website: gorgewine.com
Where: Wineries throughout the Gorge
What: The Fall Crush is an ideal time to visit the wineries of Hood River and the Gorge. Visit on a weekday to find less-busy tasting rooms and often the opportunity to interact with staff, including winemakers. Go here to get more travel tips.
Photo: Gorge Wine