MEAD, Wash. — Green Bluff is ready to welcome visitors for its annual Fall Fest, which officially kicked off this past weekend.
Local farmers are eager to greet crowds after facing challenges during a difficult summer. A cold snap left Green Bluff’s orchards devoid of cherries and peaches, but the fall harvest has more than made up for it, yielding a bounty of apples and pears—one of the largest crops in years.
For many in the Spokane area, apple picking is a cherished fall tradition, along with navigating corn mazes and selecting the perfect pumpkin. These experiences are often linked to fond childhood memories, many of which took place at beloved local farms like Beck’s Harvest House and Walter’s Fruit Ranch.
“The fall is when people really like to come out and enjoy Green Bluff and the fall festival activities,” said Todd Beck of Beck’s Harvest House. “They come out in their fall outfits to pick out pumpkins.”
Beyond the crops and attractions, Green Bluff’s appeal lies in the family memories it cultivates. Jason Morrell, owner of Walter’s Fruit Ranch, reflected on the significance of their historic trees, stating, “This tree has been here for 120 years. Families come year after year, sharing how their kids or grandkids grew up visiting us. We still have the classics.”
Walter’s Fruit Ranch has expanded its offerings, featuring a new barnyard maze with a tower that reaches 25 feet high. “A lot of adults might think it’s just for kids, but it’s fun for all ages. Climbing to the top and enjoying a hard cider or fresh cider is a cool moment,” Morrell added.
Families can savor the season at Fall Fest, which runs every weekend through the end of October. For a complete list of participating farms and activities, visit the Green Bluff website.
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