Things To Do
Hood River
We spend a lot of time in Hood River, and we hope you love it as much as we do! There are so many wineries, cideries and breweries if you're looking to taste a bit of the local area's fruit. Hood River has many outdoor options for windsurfing, running, riding (road and mountain biking) paddleboarding and hiking. Downtown is very cute and has a wonderful farmer's market as well as great coffee and food. It's also a good place to cross the river if you're interested in exploring everything that Washington has to offer as well! There are bridges in Hood River, The Dalles, Cascade Locks and Portland, so plan accordingly if you do want to cross the river as you may have to drive a bit to do so depending on where you are in the Gorge.
Portland
Portland is about an easy hour drive away from Hood River, and we definitely recommend spending time in both Portland and Hood River if you are taking some time off to explore the area! The food scene is spectacular and there is so much to do. If you want specific recommendations, please feel free to ask us. We really love going to the food carts at Hawthorne Asylum, going to the Sellwood Waterfront for swimming and sunbathing, hiking through Forest Park, soaking at one of the numerous spas and wellness centers (like hot tubs, but elevated) and riding up and down the local buttes.
Mount Hood
We Portlanders are very proud of our mountain. If you're interested in camping, hiking, mountain biking, trail running or just generally getting some forest and mountain time, this is a very easy trip from Portland and Hood River. Trillium Lake offers amazing views, but we definitely recommend checking it out on a week day to avoid crowds. Head up to Timberline to hike around the mountain or see the views from the deck of the hotel. Did we mention this is where they shot the exterior shots for The Shining?
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
Hood River is located in the Columbia River Gorge, which includes Oregon and Washington. If you are interested in beautiful hiking with sweeping views, mountain biking, craft beer, wine, cider, windsurfing, or pretty much anything outdoors, this is your place! We particularly enjoy going for soaks at Carson Hot Springs or The Society Hotel in Bingen if you are looking for a more low-key activity in the area.
Oregon Coast Range
If you haven't been to the Oregon coast, Ken and I HIGHLY recommend it. Ken proposed at Thor's Well (south of Newport/Yachats area). The mountain range that serves as the entry point to the coast is full of wonderful hiking and biking, and the coast offers spectacular views and WHALE WATCHING if that is something you're into. This can be a day trip from Portland depending on where you go such as Cannon Beach or Astoria, or we recommend you stay overnight if you go to Newport/Depoe Bay/other more southern towns. If you are a dairy lover, definitely check out the Tillamook factory where you can eat cheese and ice cream in ways you've never imagined. For my east coasters - this is the COAST, not the beach. Even in the summer, pack a jacket as it can get chilly!