This 3-Hour Scenic Train Ride Showcases Everything We Love About Springtime In Oregon
There’s no better way to see the Oregon countryside than by train, and this spring there’s a special excursion running through the Hood River Valley that showcases everything we love about the season. Take a look at Mount Hood Railroad’s Fruit Blossom Special:
All aboard the Mount Hood Railroad for the annual Fruit Blossom Special. If you're ready to celebrate spring's return to Oregon, this is the adventure to take this month.
Your trip starts at the Hood River Depot. This historic building was completed in 1911, and it's the home base of the railroad. Check out the beautiful Craftsman architecture, then get ready to board. Your train leaves promptly at 11 a.m., so don't be late.
You'll find the Hood River Depot at 110 Mt Hood Railroad, Hood River, OR 97031.
The Hood River Valley is one of the largest pear-growing regions in the country, and is also home to cherry, peach and apple orchards. In the spring, the valley fills with beautiful blossoms from 2.4 million fruit trees, and you'll be able to see them all from your seat.
For the best views, spring for the Diamond Class ticket. You'll sit in the Sky Dome Car, where you'll have huge, panoramic views of the countryside as it passes by. Tickets are also available in Standard and First Class.
During the trip, you'll pass by 15,000 acres of orchards, and the train will even stop so you can take photos of the beautiful blooms. You'll learn more the history of this region and its local fruit growers on a narrated tour.
After a one-hour layover in Parkdale, you'll return to Hood River and pulls into the station at 3:30 p.m. The Fruit Blossom Special runs on six days in April, 2019: the 19th, 20th, 21st, 26th, 27th, and 28th. Get your tickets before they sell out.
Learn more about the Mount Hood Railroad and get tickets for the Fruit Blossom Special on the railroad’s website. Make sure to follow the Mount Hood Railroad Facebook page to see what other new trains adventures are coming up.
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.