by Kathy Eide Casas

Looking for a scenic, yet tasty, way to spend a day? Look no further than the Valley’s own backyard, where you’ll find the famous Fresno County Fruit Trail. Enjoy a refreshing trip into the heartland of Central Valley Agriculture, filled with nature’s freshest treats.

This award-winning Fresno County Fruit Trail is celebrating its fifteenth year of fresh fruitful seasons, providing visitors and Valley residents with the freshest and tastiest produce, all picked straight from the farm. Farm stands, produce stands, and stores along the way feature the very finest in fresh-picked cherries, apricots, peaches, nectarines, blueberries, and so much more! The welcome mat is out all along the self-guided route of this unique Fruit Trail, where visitors can enjoy the best of the best in fresh produce.

15th Annual Celebration/Opening of the Fresno County Fruit Trail

Molly Marquez, a lifelong Clovis resident, recently heard about all that the Fresno County Fruit Trail has to offer and was intrigued. She and her family made a delightful and delicious day trip, and enjoyed every tasty moment. “All this time, the Fruit Trial has been right in our backyard! We had the best time following the self-guided route and discovered many treasures along the way. We felt like we were on the farm, but we were still so close to home.” It was a two thumbs-up day for the Marquez family and an experience they will continue to enjoy.

15th Annual Celebration/Opening of the Fresno County Fruit Trail

Similar to a wine tasting trail, the Fresno County Fruit Trail meanders around and through Eastern Fresno County farmland. Take your time and drive along the rural roads for a true small town feel. There are plenty of stops, each offering their own special tastes from area farms.

The trail is a cooperative partnership between the County of Fresno, cities, farmers and other partners. Current trail information can be found online at www.gofruittrail.com. Fruit Trail maps can also be found online, and at member stands/stores.

Kathy Eide Casas is a valley native and has been involved in politics, public policy and public relations her entire career. From the U. S. and state capitols to local projects, she has been a guiding force. Most recently, Eide-Casas completed the writing for two U Turns Allowed magazines, benefiting Focus Forward. Additionally, her work has run in several other local publications, including Valley Health Magazine.