Why should I visit Hood River?
At a crossroads of the Columbia River Valley and the Cascade Mountain Range, this lively riverside town is the windsurfing capital of the world and Mecca for year-round recreation. Restaurants, one of a kind boutiques, and popular coffee houses dot the downtown streets. Just outside of town, on your way to Mount Hood, and you'll find pleasant scenic drives by wineries and endless fruit orchards.
Where is Hood River?
Just 2 hours east of Portland along the Columbia River, Hood River Oregon seems like hours away from any big city. But the proximity to big city conveniences is also what makes the town so desirable.
What sort of Services and Amenities does Hood River offer?
There aren't many services and amenities that Hood River does not offer. The town is home to pretty much every modern convenience you can think of and while there are a bazillion unique boutiques and shops, there's also a Walmart just in case. With Portland just 2 hours to the west, you won't be wanting for long.
What can I do or see in Hood River?
- Drive the Fruit Loop: From Hood River, this easy 35 mile loop features wineries, orchards, alpaca farms, lavender fields, and fruit stands. Grab an official Fruit Loop map and make sure to hit every highlight.
- Wine Tasting and Brewery Hopping: Start at the Full Sail Brewery right in Hood River and then make your way to Double Mountain Brewery and Pfriem Family Brewers. Wineries are located throughout the Hood River Fruit Loop or across the river in Washington.
- River Sports: It's fine if you want to just grab a picnic lunch and watch the windsurfers from the shore, but there are many opportunities for actually getting in the water, especially if you are visiting in mid-summer. Take a kite surfing or wind surfing lesson, or rent a stand up paddle board and stay close to shore. If the wind sports aren't your cup of tea, head out on a whitewater rafting trip along the White Salmon River.
- Go Skiing or Boarding: Just start driving uphill and you'll eventually reach one of six ski resorts that surround Mount Hood, the most popular of which are Mt Hood Meadows, Timberline, and Ski Bowl, all of which are often open until late Spring.
