Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge Travel Guide
Explore the best things to do, see, eat, and experience in Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge with our in-depth travel guide.
- Introduction to Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
- List of Places to Visit in Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
- Best Things to Do in Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
- Food and Drink Scene of Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
- Where to Stay in Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
- Best Time to Visit Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
- Do’s and Don’ts of Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
- Where to Go Next from Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge are popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers from all over the world. Located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, in Oregon, these two areas offer a wide range of activities, from hiking and biking to skiing and snowboarding, as well as stunning scenery, unique wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge.
List of Places to Visit in Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
- Bonneville Lock and Dam
- Fort Dalles Museum
- Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
- Timberline Lodge
Natural Attractions of Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Multnomah Falls
- Mount Hood National Forest
- Trillium Lake
- Hood River Valley
- White River Sno-Park
Hiking/Biking Routes of Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
- Mount Hood Loop
- Angels Rest Trail
- Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail
- Zigzag Canyon Trail
- Badger Creek Wilderness
Best Things to Do in Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge: Activities and Tours
- Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing on Mount Hood
- Rafting, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the White Salmon River
- Wine tasting in Hood River Valley
- Kiteboarding and windsurfing in the Columbia River Gorge
- Hot air balloon rides above the scenic views
Week-Long Itinerary for Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
Day 1: Arrival in Portland and check-in.
Day 2: Explore Hood River Valley and taste local wines.
Day 3: Hike the Angels Rest Trail and visit Multnomah Falls.
Day 4: Ski or snowboard on Mount Hood and enjoy the mountain views.
Day 5: Take a guided tour of Columbia River Gorge and Bonneville Lock and Dam.
Day 6: Enjoy a hot air balloon ride, paddleboard, or kayak in the scenic views of the Columbia River Gorge.
Day 7: Departure from Portland.
Food and Drink Scene of Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
Must-Try Dishes
- Salmon
- Marionberry pie
- Pinot noir
- Hood River cherries
- Freshly roasted coffee
Local Beverages
- Craft beer
- Wine from the Hood River Valley
- Freshly squeezed apple cider
- Kombucha
Where to Stay in Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Timberline Lodge
- Skamania Lodge
- Columbia Gorge Hotel
- Hood River Hostel
- Best Western Mt. Hood Inn
What to Buy in Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Hood River cherries and apples
- Handcrafted jewelry
- Local wine and beer
- Artwork and pottery
Local Culture and Customs of Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge are home to diverse communities with rich cultural heritages, including the native tribes of the Pacific Northwest. Visitors should respect the local customs and traditions, such as leaving no trace in the natural environment, supporting local businesses, and honoring sacred sites.
Best Time to Visit Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
The best time to visit Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge depends on the activities you’re interested in. Summer and early fall offer great weather for hiking, biking, kayaking, and other outdoor adventures, as well as festivals and events. Winter and early spring are ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing on Mount Hood, but roads and trails may be closed due to snow and ice.
Do’s and Don’ts of Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
Do:
- Respect the natural environment
- Follow Leave No Trace principles
- Support local businesses
- Learn about the local culture and history
- Wear appropriate clothing and gear
Don’t:
- Litter or damage natural or historical sites
- Start fires outside designated areas
- Enter private property without permission
- Disturb wildlife or their habitats
Safety and Health
Safety in Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
Visitors to Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge should be aware of potential hazards such as steep and rocky terrain, flash floods, and forest fires. Always check weather and trail conditions before venturing out, stay on designated trails, and carry appropriate gear and supplies.
Health in Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
The area is known for its clean air, water, and natural environment. However, visitors should be aware of potential allergies or illnesses, such as poison ivy, Lyme disease, and altitude sickness. Be sure to stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun and insects, and seek medical attention if necessary.
Getting to Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
- Portland International Airport
- Eugene Airport
- Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
Bus Stations Near Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
- Bonneville Transit Center
- Hood River Amtrak Station
- The Dalles Transit Hub
Other Options
- Car rental
- Private shuttle service
- Bicycle rental
How to Get Around in Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge
The best way to explore Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge is by car or bicycle. There are also public transportation options, such as buses and shuttles, as well as guided tours and adventure packages.
Where to Go Next from Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Portland, OR
- Bend, OR
- Olympic National Park, WA
- Seattle, WA
- Mount Rainier National Park, WA
Conclusion
Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge offer a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural heritage, making them a must-visit destination for travelers to the Pacific Northwest region. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan your trip with ease and fully enjoy everything these areas have to offer.
