What’s to Love: Rasmussen’s farm store has many varieties of pears and apples, many of which, you may never see in a local grocery store. The store also contains many specialty food items, plants and gifts. We picked-up some Huckleberry Jam, which according to my wife, was incredible. The staff was very kind and helpful.

The farm has a hay-bale maze for young children. My 4 year old enjoyed walking through it with a new friend, but quickly wanted to move on to bigger and better things. Rasmussen has a large pumpkin field where you can gather assorted pumpkins for jack-o-lanterns. My son enjoyed playing on the old tractor near the pumpkin patch. There are some amazing views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams.

However, the main attraction appears to be their corn maze and their “Pumpkin Funland,” which, as stated on their website (see below) is a “…unique world of characters crafted by the Rasmussen staff with creativity and humor from pumpkins, vegetables, squash, gourds and other items from the farm and greenhouse. It truly is something to see…quirky…I don’t think I could explain it in words. You have to see it to believe it. My son enjoyed checking it out, and my wife and I would describe it as “classic.”

Caveats: A classic case of local -vs- organic. There fruit is very fresh, and I had one of the best pears I’ve ever tasted just last week. I have not inquired as to their farming practices – I’ll leave that up to you. We prefer local organic, or at least local without the use of chemical fertilizers or sprays.

Website: Rasmussen Farm

Distance from Portland: Hood River is a smooth-sailing, 60-70 mile drive from Portland proper. From Hood River, it’s another 20 – 30 minute drive. It’s very pleasant driving.

Parental Stress Factor: Low Stress! Just bring your wallet and camera.

Physical Difficulty: Low – no problem getting around the farm.

Family Fun Factor: Medium/High – Older kids and teen agers are probably not the best candidates for this trip. Toddlers and kids ages 5-10 will enjoy the farm.

Pet Friendly: Dogs must stay in the car at Rasmussen. They have farm dogs, and they don’t want to disturb them. These farm dogs are very easy going!

Weather Considerations: Picking pumpkins is dirty work, and if that means nasty weather, so be it! I like visiting these farms in beautiful fall weather.

Insider Info: Rasmussen is just one farm on the “Fruit Loop” outside Hood River. I recommend making a day out of this trip visiting as many farms as possible. I hope to highlight many more of the farms on the Fruit Loop soon. There are also wineries along the route! Make sure you bring some cash or a checkbook – some of the farms and/or stands to do accept credit cards.

Family Tips: If you’re going to visit multiple farms, rain/mud boots are recommended. Even in good weather, mud is common. Definitely check-out the corn maze, which is perfect for ages 10 and under. The corn maze featured the story of Jack and the Beanstalk with story boards throughout the maze. We stopped at each story board and read them to my 4 year old son. He enjoyed listening to the story while moving through the maze. This is one maze in which you will not get lost!

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