GET HAPPY There’s a certain feeling you get when visiting Hood River—one that washes over you as you take that first sip of a locally brewed beer, stop to soak in a sweeping view of the Gorge from the Historic Columbia River Highway, find the perfect powder on Mount Hood, or fill your basket with pears and apples at an orchard on the Fruit Loop. We call it Hood River Happy, and not only is it contagious, but it also stays with you after you leave the area, adding a Gorge-infused glow to your life back at home. Explore this guide for inspiration on how to get a dose of Hood River Happy in any season!
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Half the fun of Hood River is the journey there. Hood River sits WHERE TO STAY tucked into the heart of the Columbia River Gorge National Bed & Breakfast, Camping/Glamping 20 Scenic Area in an ecological transition zone that harbors an Hotels, Motels, Resorts, and Vacations Rentals 21 astonishing array of diversity. Heading east into this scenic area, one encounters grandiose ancient rainforests, which EAT & DRINK unfold into oak savannah and then into high-plain shrub- Beer, Casual Dining, Cider 24 steppe. Heading west, all unfurls in reverse. A favorite gateway Coffee and Tea, Fine Dining, Specialty Foods 27 from either direction is by way of the Historic Columbia River Spirits, Wine 28 Highway, an approximately 75-mile-long scenic roadway that one can alternately walk, bike and drive, depending on SHOPPING the stretch. Along this route you will encounter thundering Apparel, Arts & Crafts, Gifts, Books & Toys, Sporting Goods 32 waterfalls (Oregon’s tallest!) and breathtaking views of the Columbia River. The journey has even been known to keep the GATHERINGS Meetings & Retreats 36 “are we there yets?” at bay. And that speaks for itself. EVENTS THINGS TO DO Foodie February, Music Month 40 Fruit & Farms 7 Hard-Pressed Cider Fest, Roy Webster Cross-Channel Swim 41 Outdoor Adventure 8 Hood River Hops Fest 42 Wind & Water 11 Hood River Valley Harvest Fest, Hood River Holidays 43 Family Fun for All Ages 12 Arts, Culture & Heritage 15 COMMUNITIES Rest, Relaxation, Rejuvenation 16 Cascade Locks, Hood River, Parkdale, Mosier, Odell 47 Parkdale, White Salmon/Bingen 48
4 5 THINGS TO DO The truth is that you will feel challenged to squeeze in everything you want to do, no matter how long you plan to stay. Because … there … is … so … much … to … do. But unfurrow your brow, because the good news is that whatever path you take, there are no bad choices. And we don’t plan on going anywhere, so just come back. And stay longer next time.
Hood River is not just an ecological diversity zone. It has range when it comes to fun, and to meeting a variety of entertainment needs and passions. From grandparents to toddlers, from sports extremists to art lovers, and from foodies to fishers, you will find your groove in Hood River. Think of us as the BEST BUFFET EVER. Without the soggy vegetables.
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FRUIT & FARMS Fruit Loop, U-Pick, Farmers Markets
There are few better places to feel the range of Happy than while making your way—whether by car or by bike—around the Hood River Fruit Loop. A 36-stop, 35-mile-long scenic progression of orchards, farm stands, wineries and bakeries specializing in making your mouth water, this route stands out as a Happy maker, no matter the time of year. Spring is a visual feast, with apple and pear blossoms carpeting rolling hills as far as the eye can see. Summertime delivers berry fields akin to a sensory Lollapalooza. What to do but smile while nibbling down a mound of fresh blueberries? Fall offers some of the best foliage you’ll encounter anywhere in the U.S. (we have magazine clippings to prove it), along with apple, pear, pumpkin and flower U-pick farms that will keep your family photo wall fresh for years to come. Maps of the Fruit Loop are available at the Hood River Visitor Center and at most hotels and restaurants.
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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE Walking, Hiking, Biking, Wildflowers, Golf, Snow Sports
One of the notable features of Hood River is the variety of activities it affords people of different ages and interests at different times of the year. Which is probably why people keep coming back. Walkers and hikers can find their pleasure on trails that run the gamut from paved pathways to high- elevation ascents. Whether it’s wildflowers, mushrooms, fall foliage, geological formations, ancient forests or snowy peaks, you’ll find your flavor of paradise a stone’s throw from Hood River. Speaking of snow, with the longest ski/ride season in the U.S., Mount Hood will meet every snow bunny’s needs. In a mere 45 minutes, you can be at a groomed ski area tackling the slopes on a board or skis, or sipping hot chocolate after a Nordic trek or gentle snowshoe. For those who prefer mountains as a backdrop to their golf green, beguiling views of Mount Adams and Mount Hood are on full display at the town’s two top-notch golf courses. The takeaway here is that any season is a good season in Hood River.
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WIND & WATER Fishing, Wind Sports, Whitewater, SUP, Kayaking, Swimming, Waterfalls
There may be a plethora of words to describe the Pacific coast’s overcast skies, but you won’t need them in Hood River most of the year. With summer and fall weather next to perfect, you’ll find the banks of the Columbia River peppered with bright swim gear and outdoor eateries. Hood River’s reputation as a world-class wind tunnel has attracted windsurf and kiteboard enthusiasts from around the world. Under blue skies full of sails, it’s hard not to absorb the happy- go-lucky spirit of the place. Eight rivers and numerous lakes located less than an hour away also make Hood River the perfect basecamp for paddling and angling adventures. But sporty and non-sporty alike will be awestruck by the string of waterfalls in the Gorge that make the Cascades worthy of its name. So regardless of your activity of choice, the waters around Hood River are sure to provide physical and spiritual sustenance to all who seek it.
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FAMILY FUN FOR ALL AGES Scenic Drives, Parks, Nature Walks, Birding
It’s no secret that it’s easier to feel joyful when your traveling companions are in the groove along with you. One of Hood River’s special features is its menu of activities that pretty much guarantees people of any age, interest or attention span can find their sweet spot. An undisputed crowd-pleaser is the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail. This 70-mile turn-of-the-century road treats visitors to dizzying vantage points while coursing by waterfalls that leave your face misty and your senses awakened. Or take a nature walk along the Riverfront or along any of the stunning Columbia Gorge trails. As for the little wiggly ones, nothing beats parks for channeling youthful energy. From Hood River Waterfront Park’s sprawling adventure course to nearby state parks, Hood River County will keep little bodies moving and adult companions serene. Nature often brings out the best in everyone, so whether it’s an “inner city” walk on the Indian Creek Trail or a bird- watching expedition in the nearby Mt. Hood National Forest, open yourself up to Hood River’s priceless gifts and await the joy.
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ARTS, CULTURE & HERITAGE Art Galleries, Museums, Performing Arts, Lecture Series, Live Music, First Friday
The Columbia Gorge’s majestic landscape has long drawn artists, musicians and creatives of all kinds to its shores. For a town of its size, Hood River hosts an amazing array of art galleries, studios, museums and cultural experiences. Due to a condensed historic downtown, it’s easy to take in many of the area’s sculptures, murals, art collectives, and galleries on foot while also popping into museums to get grounded in the rich history and culture of this area. While the visual art scene is alive and well in Hood River, the performing arts have made their own mark on this community. Whether you’re interested in theater, lectures, classical music or the blues, Hood River has an unusual amount of talent. And if you are a weekend traveler, you can revel in the festival aura of First Fridays, where you can mingle with the locals downtown and enjoy a fusion of art, wares, music and special deals. Beyond Hood River, there are a number of nationally known museums and cultural stops featuring everything from still-flying antique airplanes to Native American pictographs to a replica of Stonehenge. Stuck about what to do? Try putting your finger in the air and seeing which way the wind blows you. Regardless of which direction you go, you are sure to be rewarded.
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REST, RELAXATION, REJUVENATION Mind, Body, Spirit and Wellness
There is no bad time to sign up for a rest, relaxation and rejuvenation vacation in Hood River. However, winter and spring weather can offer the perfect excuse to cozy up next to a fireplace with a hot drink while you tend to your inner smile. You’ll be supported in this worthy pursuit by a plethora of services designed to smooth out life’s wrinkles, or maybe some real ones. Smoothie bars, yoga studios and spa treatments are just a few of the possible options for your R-R-R itinerary. A massage, pedicure or aimless wandering in a bookstore could be just what the doctor ordered to turn that frown upside down. Whether your goal is to get back into the rhythm of exercise, or to just allow yourself the simple pleasure of being, with no demands, Hood River is here to help overlay peace and serenity onto your life.
18 19 Uncage the Soul WHERE TO STAY So, you’ve made the wise decision to stay in Hood River? Now you get to enjoy the fun of deciding where! The wonderful news is that we have something for every need. Perhaps you are looking for a roughin’ it weekend in the woods, or want to leave all cares behind and be pampered in a deluxe hotel. Either way, Hood River has a wide range of choices so you can find the right fit for you and your posse, be it dogs, kids, gal pals or ski buddies.
20 21 Bobby Young BED & BREAKFAST Hood River’s bed & breakfasts are a wonderful alternative to a traditional hotel stay for those wanting to immerse themselves in the culture of the Gorge, kick back with the locals and get insider tips on off-the-beaten-path finds. A historic town, Hood River hosts several bed & breakfasts located in original Craftsman homes that are in easy walking distance to the downtown shopping and restaurant district. If you seek a more rural experience, you can also readily find B&Bs located in orchard farmhouses with stunning views of Mount Hood. Regardless of where you land, you can expect the perfect Michael Peterson blend of privacy and community, delicious food and attentive innkeepers. A warning, however: You might, as you help yourself to second servings of marionberry waffles, wonder if perhaps you could find a way to join the family and stay just a HOTELS, MOTELS, RESORTS little bit longer. Many Hood River hotels and motels are situated to capitalize on the area’s stunning views, such as the Columbia Gorge, CAMPING/GLAMPING Mount Hood and Mount Adams. These visual backdrops have a reputation for inspiring awe and readily washing away life’s Some folks don’t feel like they have fully experienced a place little bumps and bruises. Add to this tried-and-true amenities unless they wake up with dew on their face and a crick in their such as hot tubs, pools and room service, and you are almost neck. For the serious backpacking and camping aficionados, guaranteed to drop fully into vacation mode in no time. the trove of options in the nearby Mt. Hood National Forest Knowing that one of life’s greatest pleasures is delegating won’t disappoint. RV and trailer road warriors less charmed basic life logistics to others, Hood River’s hoteliers gladly take by a thin sleeping pad will be happy to know that many of up the reins, leaving you only with the essential task of getting the USFS campgrounds provide options for larger rigs as well. your Happy on. And for those of you looking to have your brewery cards and punch them, too, it’s easy to divide one’s time between the amenities of town and scenic close-in county and state VACATION RENTALS camping grounds. For the proud glampers among us, Hood If you desire to integrate into the flow of local life, consider River also provides nearby options that allow you to toss a few tucking yourself in to a vacation rental. An attractive option items in an overnight bag and enjoy a soft landing in a yurt or for an extended stay, vacation rentals come in all shades of rustic cabin. marvelous. Whether you feel most at home in a contemporary comfort or in a cabin in the woods, you’ll love the ability to sink fully into the Hood River experience. Unpack your gear, kick off your shoes and sprawl out into your personal state of “living like a local” bliss.
22 EAT & DRINK There are few towns of its size that have the caliber of food and drink that Hood River does. In fact, it’s hard to walk a few feet without bumping into an inviting eatery serving up some local tasty treat. If only there were more meals in a day! From authentic taco trucks to family-friendly breweries to woodsy chic fine dining, you can keep yourself busy sampling a diverse array of styles and culinary expressions. And to wash it down, you’ll find an incredible variety of locally made beer, cider, wine and spirits. Hood River takes pride in both elevating your mood and pleasing your taste buds. Let go of your calorie inhibitions and let us amaze you.
24 25 Elevate BEER There must be a reason why stunning landscapes and craft beer tend to collide in the same places. Which one inspires the other? Who knows, but one thing we can say with confidence is that Hood River loves its beer, and you will love it, too. With more than a dozen breweries spanning the region, you’ll need a plan to get to them all. Or time your trip with Hood River Hops Fest, which brings more than 60 fresh-hop beers to downtown Hood River every fall for your sampling enjoyment. Either way, let’s raise a pint—cheers!
CASUAL DINING Few things can put a smile on a face faster than a sumptuous meal you don’t have to prepare yourself—and for parents deprived of adult conversation, let’s throw in a children’s play corner. Hood River’s reputation for delicious eateries that meet the needs of parties of all sizes and composition is well deserved. Whether you’re enjoying a juicy burger or a basketball-sized cinnamon bun, your taste buds will be doing the Happy dance at our local brew pubs, diners and breakfast hot spots.
CIDER Hood River Valley’s hard cider scene is exploding, which is no surprise given that the area has one of the most prolific fruit- producing valleys in the world. Sourcing apples, pears, cherries and other fruits from the 440+ local orchardists, local craft cider makers are placing the area at the forefront of the new national hard cider movement. You’ll find unmatched variety and novelty in our local ciders, which you can sample as you tour the Hood River County Fruit Loop, or in any number of local specialty shops and restaurants. If you believe more is definitely better, then plan on attending Hood River’s annual spring Hard-Pressed Cider Fest, which brings together regional cideries to celebrate the art of cider making. The perfect combination of mineral-rich soil, pure glacier water, cool nights, and warm days means a delightfully juicy and delicious experience for you.
26 27 Kate French COFFEE AND TEA We feel confident in proclaiming that the art of coffee making has reached high form here in Hood River. And that’s a gutsy claim considering how essential this liquid elixir is to Pacific Northwesterners. If it seems like there’s a local roasting house for every sign of the horoscope, you could be right. But people have their preferences! And Hood River aims to please … them … all. Whether you like your brews hot, cold, poured over or buttered, you’ll find a place here to serve up your favorite brew. And if your bag is gourmet tea instead, you’ll find yourself cozy establishments to serve that up, too.
FINE DINING Perhaps it’s Hood River’s proximity to local farms and orchards, which allows chefs to source seasonal foods at peak flavor, or maybe it’s the Columbia River, which continues to offer a bounty of fresh fish all year round. Regardless the reason, the town has gained a reputation as a culinary destination able to satisfy the most discerning palate. Whether you want to expand your gastronomic horizons with a locally made fermented side, or gaze at your loved one across a plate of locally procured tapas, your Happy pleasure gauge will turn to Extreme enjoying the fine-dining possibilities that Hood River has to offer.
SPECIALTY FOODS Scattered throughout Hood River and outlying areas are a growing number of stores that specialize in unique, individualized products that you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. Whether it’s olive oil flavored with local herbs, jams from rare varieties of fruit, or bottles of wine from nearby vineyards, you’ll love collecting Gorge-inspired items you can eat, drink and cook with. What better way to fortify your memories of Hood River than to procure delights for both yourself and your appreciative friends?
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SPIRITS The features that make the magnificent Hood River region exceptional from a vintner perspective also mean that it’s the perfect spot for producing spirits. In the spirit of leaving no fruit unused, the excess production of apples, pears, and berries from Hood River Valley's harvests are turned into award-winning liquors, brandies and spirits for your drinking enjoyment. A tour of Hood River will provide ready-made opportunities to sample these local delights. If you want a surefire way to bring a smile back home to the dog sitter, purchase a bottle of that locally made whiskey.
WINE In the Columbia Gorge, diverse growing conditions have created a special niche for growing grapes of exceptional quality and variety. And this is why there are more than 90 vineyards, along with 30 wineries that fling their doors open to you. Many, situated in or near orchards, have dazzling views, making the experience a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Overwhelmed by where to go? The Gorge’s winegrowers and vineyards regularly coordinate special wine weekends and celebrations, so you’ll be able to sip your way around the valley until it all feels like home. Salut!
30 31 Travel Oregon (photographer Joni Kabana) SHOPPING When shopping in Hood River, out-of-town patrons converge with locals, allowing an exchange to take place that goes beyond just money changing hands. While you take in the friendly atmosphere, be prepared to find what you really need (cozy slippers, the perfect wallet for Dad, the book you were assigned in book club) and what you can’t seem to live without (those beautiful handmade earrings, that stunning watercolor painting, that hand- knit scarf). Take your time, and enjoy exploring the twists and turns. You never know what serendipitous find or encounter is awaiting right around the corner.
32 33 Jacek Dylag APPAREL Raise your hand if you love printing return labels and stacking piles of boxes by your front door … because the jeans are too big and the shorts are too tight. No? Well, you should consider doing your clothes shopping in person in Hood River. You will be astounded by the range of clothing in the latest styles that you’ll find in Hood River’s boutiques—where you can see, touch, and assure quality feel and fit. From women’s and men’s casual wear to adorable kids’ clothes to sport-specific athletic wear, it’s remarkably easy to find that perfect bathing suit, summer short or dress pant to complete your wardrobe.
Becca Mchaffie ARTS & CRAFTS As you venture into any number of art collectives and stores showcasing Hood River’s artists, artisans and makers, you’ll GIFTS, BOOKS & TOYS find carefully crafted treasures that are both practical and Nothing makes shopping for gifts easier than the one-stop beautiful. Whether it’s hand-designed textiles sewn into shopping of Hood River’s gift shops, bookstores and toy napkins, leather-worked bowls or a handspun wool dyed with stores. While on the search for gems for your loved ones and local wildflowers, you’ll find those one-of-a-kind expressions little ones, don’t feel surprised if you end up making a few of the Gorge that remind us that we can still craft things with purchases for yourself. The shopkeepers seem to know the our hands that have both beauty and purpose. latest trends and reads, so let them help guide your search for that perfect item.
SPORTING GOODS If you are in the market for sporting goods and gear, you will find an astounding selection of stores to choose from in Hood River. Fishing, skiing, kiting, biking, kayaking, SUPing and more—it’s all here, along with the pros to help you differentiate and compare a wide array of models and brand names. Sure, you could do your shopping online, but you won’t get the guidance of experts living and breathing that sport on an almost daily basis. And have you ever tried returning a kayak in the mail? Not. Very. Fun.
34 35 Brunno GATHERINGS Being together with friends, family and colleagues is one of the magic ingredients that makes gatherings successful. Another is the feeling of being tended to. Whether you are at a business retreat, conference, family reunion or a wedding, Hood River’s small-town charm, dramatic scenery, and abundant amenities will make you feel like you have truly gotten away from it all and are well cared for. Let Hood River inspire you with a majestic destination corporate retreat, or give Grandma the big bash she deserves.
37 Ian Bristow the food? Likely a key ingredient to Hood River’s success as an off-site meeting location is the amazing variety of local dining and catering options. Brew pubs, cideries and eateries that specialize in local, farm-fresh fare abound, as do coffee shops and bakeries—all that’s needed to give your employees an extra boost.
When you are done, you’ll probably want to extend your trip for a few days to explore Mount Hood and the Gorge on your own. If you’re looking for fresh perspectives, fresh air and fresh Hood River Hotel ways to build your team, book your corporate retreat in Hood River. MEETINGS & RETREATS Say the word meeting, and happiness is not always the first emotion that arises. However, Hood River has a well-deserved reputation for taking the “work” out of a work trip. Set in the scenic Columbia River Gorge, with views of Mount Hood and Mount Adams as fuel for inspiration, Hood River is at the confluence of functionality and creativity when it comes to meetings. Whether it’s a sales conference, a strategy session or a team-building workshop, Hood River is a place where meeting amenities meet incredible amounts of fun.
Hood River’s meeting spaces come in an array of shapes and sizes designed to accommodate the full range of your business needs. This might be a light-filled state-of-the- art conference room overlooking the Columbia River, or a ballroom large enough to host your company’s square dance.
And with thousands of rooms to rent—including hotels, large luxury homes and bed & breakfasts—you can find accommodations to match the vibe you are trying to create.
Hood River also provides unparalleled outdoor recreation, tours and team-building opportunities. Whether it’s an e-bike ride through a vineyard, a raft trip down the White Salmon River or snow tubing on Mount Hood, your team will return to their desks renewed and inspired. And have we mentioned Bobby Young
38 39 EVENTS There’s no need for a special excuse to visit Hood River. However, there are moments during the year when fabulous people and celebrations collide. Should you time your visit around one of Hood River’s keystone events, be ready to be wowed by the bounty that Hood River has to offer, whether it be beer, cider, pumpkins, music, art and more. We invite you to join us!
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A celebration of Hood River’s delicious Hood River’s exploding hard cider scene dining scene, where local restaurants is on display at this festival featuring delight you with their specialty fare. dozens of cideries offering ciders made from locally grown fruit.
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Hood River’s diverse music scene is on The biggest open water swim in the Pacific display during this community-wide Northwest, where swimmers from near and musical showcase. far test their mettle crossing the mighty Columbia River.
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The Gorge’s biggest fall harvest festival, where more than 120 farmers, artisan food producers, wineries, cideries and artists gather to celebrate the region’s Bear Boot Productions bounty.
Bear Boot Productions Michael Peterson
A celebration of fresh hops beer featuring more Charming shops offering unique gifts, an than 40 breweries and 60 beers, plus tasty food old-timey holiday parade and a magical and live music. tree lighting are part of the experience the whole family will enjoy in Hood River during the festive season.
44 45 COMMUNITIES One of Hood River’s special features is its proximity to the myriad small towns that are nestled along the banks of the Columbia River and tucked into nearby agricultural valleys. With their own special attractions and unique character, they are wonderful places to fold into your itinerary. Each has a story to tell and a welcome mat out for you.
46 47 Uncage the Soul CASCADE LOCKS Located about 40 miles from Portland and about 20 miles from downtown Hood River, Cascade Locks is an energetic town known for its access to lush hiking trails, excellent wind and beautiful marine park. Stop by Cascade Locks during a world-class sailing regatta, or take a trip on the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler to get steeped in local history.
HOOD RIVER Located at the crossroads of the spectacular Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and the magnificent Cascade Range, Hood River offers outdoor recreation, dramatic vistas, historic landmarks, bountiful fruit, and fantastic food, wine, beer and cider. With a population of about 7,600 people, Hood River has maintained its small-town charm with the restoration of many historic buildings paired with a diverse business landscape, a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants and accommodations, and a burgeoning arts scene.
MOSIER Just 5 miles east of Hood River on the Columbia River, Mosier is known for its abundant cherry orchards, over 200 days of sunshine per year, and sprinkling of quality shops and restaurants that are worthy of a stop by. Linked to Hood River via a walking/biking trail converted from the Historic Columbia River Highway, Mosier is an easy daytrip from Hood River for birding, hiking or swimming.
ODELL Located in the heart of the Hood River County Fruit Loop, and home of the Hood River County Fair, Odell is adorned by fruit and vegetable stands and lovely lavender farms.
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PARKDALE Mount Hood provides a dramatic backdrop for the residents of Parkdale, an agricultural community located about 16 miles south of Hood River that is a favorite stopping point along the Hood River County Fruit Loop. Enjoy a meal or local brew in Parkdale after a day exploring the wilds of the nearby Mt. Hood National Forest.
WHITE SALMON/BINGEN If you stand on the banks of the Columbia River in Hood River and look toward Washington, you’ll spot the communities of White Salmon and Bingen. Easily accessible from Hood River by bridge (car or transit) and from Vancouver by Amtrak, Bingen is a jumping-off point for the array of sports and recreational activities in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. White Salmon is the laid-back gateway to the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Mount Adams, and the Wild and Scenic White Salmon River. Its historic downtown is small but dense with delicious eateries and boutiques and nature- loving locals. From up on the hill you’ll get jaw-dropping views of Mount Hood.
50 51 GETTING HERE AND AROUND HOOD RIVER It has never been easier to get to and around Hood River and the Gorge. Whether you want to come by bike, train, bus or automobile, you’ll find support to help you make it happen. Within a mere 60 minutes from Portland International Airport, it’s just a short hop, skip and a jump to one of the country’s most scenic treasures, where your Happy adventure can begin.
hoodriver.org 720 East Port Marina Drive Hood River, OR 97031 541-386-2000, or toll-free: 800-366-3530 52