On your next road trip through the Pacific Northwest, Hood River is a stop you shouldn’t miss. Full of natural beauty, Hood River is tucked into the mighty Columbia River Gorge, the massive canyon which snakes along the northern border of Oregon. Hood River is at the crossroads of two of the most impressive geological features in the country: the mighty Columbia River, and the Cascade Mountain Range. Because of this, Hood River has many of the best offerings of the Pacific Northwest.
The Heart of the Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is a treasure of the natural world, carved by ancient tectonic plate movements and shaped over the course of hundreds of thousands of years. While there are many towns nestled on its banks, Hood River is arguably the region’s crown jewel. Hood River is uniquely located in what the city calls an “ecological transition zone,” where the dense rainforests of the Pacific Northwest meet the high plains deserts to the east. Meanwhile, the snow-capped Mt. Hood is located just an hour south. This mountain has the longest skiing and riding season in the United States, offering winter sports nearly year-round.
Things to do in Hood River
There’s no shortage of outdoor activities available when you visit Hood River. There are endless hikes which start in or near Hood River, including incredible waterfall hikes like Tamanawas Falls, and hikes that lead to stunning panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge. Summer and fall offer picture-perfect weather for backpacking, hiking, and camping.
If you’re looking to hit the water, Hood River offers a unique opportunity for high-thrills water sports. Because of its location, Hood River is recognized as a world-class wind tunnel, and windsurfers and kiteboarders from around the world come to its banks. But you don’t have to be an athlete to enjoy the shores of Hood River. If you like kayaking, paddle-boarding, fishing, or even just lounging by the water, Hood River is the perfect place to soak in the incredible waters of the Columbia River.
When you’re looking to recharge, there’s plenty of options when it comes to food and drinks. Despite its small size, Hood River has plenty of restaurants to choose from, including everything from food trucks to fine dining. Plus, you can taste treats of the Columbia River Gorge at the Hood River farmer’s market, visit farmland (including the Hood River Lavender Farm) , and pick fresh fruits from the many orchards in the area. If you’re looking to raise a pint, Hood River is home to craft breweries that serve up microbrews and fresh ciders. If wine is your thing, the wineries in Hood River and wineries in the Portland area offer an array of wines, served up with stunning views.
There’s definitely something for everybody in Hood River. After you spend a day exploring trails, hitting the slopes on Mt. Hood, or enjoying the waters of the Columbia River, you can stroll through the streets of downtown Hood River. This quaint area is home to historic buildings, shops, and boutiques, as well as art galleries and museums.
How to get to Mount Hood
Hood River is located along the scenic I-84, just one hour away from Portland, and three hours away from Seattle. If you’re in the mood for more stunning landscapes, take the Historic Columbia River Highway, which stretches about 75-miles along the Columbia River Gorge. You can drive, walk, and bike along its scenic and winding roads. While there aren’t many ways to cross the mighty Columbia River, Hood River is just 20 minutes from one of these crossings, the Bridge of the Gods, which is part of the Pacific Crest Trail. If you’re looking to camp, Hood River is just 45 minutes from one of the most stunning campgrounds in Oregon, Lost Lake, which is tucked into the Mt. Hood National Forest.
