Hood River is a brilliant base for exploring the Columbia River Gorge and the surrounding Hood River Valley. Located where the Columbia River meets the Cascade Range, the town combines spectacular scenery with wineries, orchards, waterfalls, outdoor activities and a lovely downtown. It is also known for its strong winds, which have made it one of the world’s best destinations for windsurfing and kiteboarding.
You could easily spend several days exploring the area, but even a short stay gives you the opportunity to combine scenic drives with waterfalls, wine tasting and views of Mount Hood (although it was cloudy most of our visit). Add a few days on and enjoy Portland, and the Oregon Coast too.
Where to stay in Hood River, Oregon
We stayed at the Best Western Plus Columbia River Inn and couldn’t have enjoyed the relaxing outlook, Riverside Restaurant and location any more.
The hotel is more like a resort – it includes waterfront views, fitness center, pool, sauna, hot tub, laundry services and a fabulous restaurant.
We actually enjoyed 1 breakfast and 3 dinners on site because it was just that good and we wanted to try everything on the menu. The staff were amazing, especially in the restaurant.
It was the perfect base location to explore in all directions along the valley.
Things to do in Hood River on a Short Visit
Hood River Fruit Loop
The Hood River Fruit Loop is a 35-mile self-guided driving route through the Hood River Valley, passing orchards, farms, wineries, cideries and other agricultural businesses. The valley is particularly known for apples, pears and cherries, although the seasonal produce changes throughout the year.
The route is about more than simply driving through farmland. Depending on the season, visitors can stop at farm stands for fresh fruit and local produce, visit wineries and cideries, pick fruit, or explore lavender farms and other attractions.
Spring is particularly attractive when the orchards are in bloom, while late summer and autumn bring the main harvest season. Because individual businesses have different opening hours and seasonal schedules, check ahead before planning specific stops.
Hood River Wineries
The Hood River Valley has become an important wine destination, making wine tasting an easy addition to a visit. Wineries are scattered throughout the valley, many with views across the surrounding countryside and towards Mount Hood.
A visit to one or two wineries can easily be combined with the Fruit Loop, turning the day into a leisurely drive through the agricultural landscape. Local wineries produce a variety of wines, and some also offer food such as charcuterie or small plates.
The scenery is part of the appeal. On a clear day, Mount Hood provides an impressive backdrop to the vineyards and orchards, while the changing seasons give the valley a completely different appearance throughout the year.
Explore the Historic Columbia River Highway
The Columbia River is central to the landscape around Hood River, and some of the best experiences here involve simply following the river and stopping at viewpoints along the way.
The Historic Columbia River Highway provides one of the area’s most scenic drives, winding through the Columbia River Gorge past waterfalls, forests and dramatic basalt cliffs. The original highway was completed in 1922 and was designed specifically as a scenic route, with viewpoints and carefully engineered sections that allowed early motorists to experience the landscape.
For an easy panoramic viewpoint close to Hood River, Panorama Point is a good option. The drive-up viewpoint looks across the Hood River Valley towards Mount Hood and Mount Adams, with the surrounding orchards and vineyards spread out below.
Visit the Waterfalls of the Columbia Gorge
Waterfalls are one of the major attractions of the Columbia River Gorge, and the historic highway provides access to several within a relatively small area.
A waterfall day trip from Hood River can include:
- Multnomah Falls – Oregon’s tallest waterfall at 620 feet and the most famous waterfall in the Gorge.
- Wahkeena Falls – A beautiful cascade surrounded by lush forest, with hiking trails extending into the Gorge.
- Bridal Veil Falls – A short walk leads from the highway to this two-tiered waterfall.
- Latourell Falls – One of the Gorge’s most distinctive waterfalls, dropping dramatically over a basalt cliff.
- Horsetail Falls – Easily accessible from the road and a convenient stop when driving the waterfall corridor.
The waterfalls can be visited individually or combined into a scenic drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway. Some trails are very short, while others provide longer hikes for visitors who want to explore beyond the viewpoints.
Check current conditions before setting out, as sections of the historic highway and individual trails can occasionally be affected by weather, fire or other closures.
Visit the Hood River waterfront
Hood River itself is small enough to explore on foot, with a downtown area filled with independent shops, restaurants, cafés, breweries and galleries.
The town has a strong outdoor culture, but you do not need to be a serious adventurer to enjoy it. Spending a few hours wandering the shops, having lunch or stopping for a local beer makes a good change of pace from driving and sightseeing.
The waterfront is another pleasant place to explore, with views across the Columbia River and Washington State on the opposite bank. On windy days, you may also see windsurfers and kiteboarders taking advantage of the conditions that have made Hood River famous.
Hood River Extras
If you have time for more:
- Try windsurfing or kiteboarding – The Gorge’s strong winds create ideal conditions for windsurfing, kiteboarding and sailing, and the area has developed a substantial watersports community. You do not need to have experience to try it. Local operators offer lessons and guided experiences for beginners, making it possible to try the sports that have become such an important part of Hood River’s identity.
- Take a scenic train ride – The Mount Hood Railroad offers another way to experience the Hood River Valley without driving. The historic railway was built in 1906 and now operates scenic excursions through the surrounding countryside, with views of orchards, forests and the mountains.
- Mount Hood – Mount Hood dominates the landscape south of Hood River and makes a natural addition to a longer stay in the area. The mountain is Oregon’s highest peak and provides opportunities for hiking, skiing and sightseeing depending on the season. For a particularly easy viewpoint, Panorama Point offers views towards Mount Hood without requiring a lengthy hike.
Make it a Road Trip around Oregon, Washington and Idaho
Include Hood River in your road trip around Oregon, Washington and Idaho like we did and enjoy a huge loop that takes in so many beautiful areas. Lush forests, the famous Oregon coast, Washington wine, Hood River waterfalls, and the prehistoric sites of Idaho – what a combination!
Let us help you plan your road trip vacation,
with our full service Travel Agency!
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