Beacon Rock: A short and uphill 1.5-mile trail leading up to one of the most iconic points in the Gorge. The trail is paved, offering incredible panoramic views of the river, surrounding mountains, and forests.
Eagle Creek: A more challenging out-and-back trail with options from 3.5-mile to 25 mile hike with a stunning waterfall, pristine creek, and lush forest. The Eagle Creek Trail is known for its beauty, including waterfalls like Punchbowl Falls (3.5 miles round trip), and Tunnel Falls (13 miles round trip). Perfect for those who want a longer, yet moderate hike. Preview the trial on the all-trails link for scenic stops and turnarounds.
Tamanawas Falls: This 3.5-mile trail on the east side of Mount Hood takes you to a picturesque 100-foot waterfall. A hidden gem, it’s a great option for nature lovers looking to explore.
The Hood River Valley is home to some of Oregon's most picturesque and renowned wineries, offering the perfect opportunity to taste a variety of local wines. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a casual taster, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few standout wineries to visit:
Pines 1852: Located in the heart of the Hood River Valley, Pines 1852 is known for its stunning views and exceptional wines. They specialize in small-lot production of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other cool-climate varietals. The tasting room offers a cozy atmosphere and an incredible view of Mount Hood.
Phelps Creek Vineyards: This boutique winery sits on a stunning property with panoramic views of the Gorge. Phelps Creek produces a range of wines, including their signature Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay. Their tasting room is open daily, and the surrounding vineyards create a peaceful setting for sipping wine and enjoying the landscape.
Cascade Cliffs Vineyard & Winery: A family-owned winery located on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge, Cascade Cliffs produces a variety of wines from both estate-grown grapes and select vineyards. Known for their Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, this winery offers a relaxing spot to enjoy wine while overlooking the river.
Grateful Vineyard: Nestled in the foothills of Mount Hood, Grateful Vineyard offers a range of wines with an emphasis on sustainable farming and environmental responsibility. Their wines include elegant Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc, among others. With sweeping views of the Hood River Valley, this winery is a great spot to relax and enjoy a glass.
Marchesi Vineyards: Marchesi Vineyards specializes in Italian-style wines, focusing on varietals like Sangiovese, Barbera, and Nebbiolo. Their tasting room offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy Italian-inspired wines with a local twist. The views of the valley and Mount Hood are an added bonus.
Empire Boulders: Located near Hood River, Empire Boulders is a popular bouldering area featuring a variety of problems suitable for climbers of all levels. The area is known for its high-quality basalt rock and offers a range of problems from V0 to V10. The setting provides stunning views of the Gorge, making it a favorite among local climbers.
Klinger Spring: Situated near Cascade Locks, Klinger Spring offers a collection of sport climbing routes that are perfect for intermediate climbers looking to challenge themselves. The area features routes ranging from 5.10 to 5.12, with a mix of overhangs and technical faces. The approach is relatively short, and the crag is less crowded, providing a more secluded climbing experience.
Beacon Rock: A prominent feature in the Gorge, Beacon Rock offers both trad and sport climbing routes with fantastic views at the summit. The rock itself is a volcanic plug, providing a unique climbing experience. Routes range from 5.6 to 5.12, catering to climbers of various skill levels. The approach is short, and the area is popular, so it's advisable to arrive early to secure parking.
For craft beer lovers, the Hood River Hops Fest is a must-attend event during the wedding weekend! Held on October 5th, 2025, at the Hood River Event Site, this festival runs from 11 AM to 7 PM and will feature more than 50 local breweries from across the region. This annual event celebrates the best of Oregon's craft beer scene, with a variety of beers available for tasting along with live music, local food vendors, and a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
Pfriem Family Brewers: Known for their award-winning Belgian-style beers, Pfriem offers a rotating selection of seasonal beers, IPAs, and stouts. Their Pfriem IPA and Pfriem Pilsner are particularly popular. The tasting room provides stunning views of the river and an inviting atmosphere for relaxing and enjoying their top-notch brews.
Solera Brewing: Solera is famous for its creative beers and use of unique ingredients. With a focus on barrel-aging and sour beers, Solera offers something for every palate. The taproom in Hood River features a rotating selection of wild ales, lagers, and IPAs.
Ferment Brewing: Offering a mix of IPAs, stouts, and lagers, Ferment Brewing is a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts. Their cozy tasting room has a great view of the river and is the perfect spot to try some of their innovative brews. They often feature a variety of experimental beers, so there’s always something new to taste.
Paddling at Lost Lake Resort near Mount Hood offers a serene and picturesque experience, perfect for families, solo adventurers, and nature enthusiasts. Situated just about an hour from Hood River, Oregon, this pristine alpine lake provides stunning views of Mount Hood's western face, making it a favorite spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing. Rental rates vary, with single kayaks starting at $25 per hour and clear-bottom kayaks at $40 per hour. A two-hour minimum applies during peak season (June–September), and rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis .