Mt. Hood and Columbia River Gorge

From ancient forests and snow-capped mountains to serene meadows and lakes to broad rivers and abundant valleys, the Mt. Hood National Forest will captivate you with its breathtaking beauty. Mt. Hood , a “sleeping” volcano, boasts five ski areas with eleven glaciers gracing its peak. Skiing, hiking, fishing, golfing, bird watching – a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The town of Hood River has become internationally known as a world-class center for wind-surfing. The Columbia River Gorge region combines one of the world's greatest rivers with some of the most spectacular mountain scenery to be found in the United States . A drive along the Columbia River Gorge highway makes a perfect day-trip from your Portland inn. The glorious Multnomah Falls is less than an hour from Portland but a world away.

Day Tripping - Day 1
Get specific directions from your innkeeper to head east on Highway 84. Just out of Troutdale, you'll enter the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. About 20 miles further you'll come to the turn-off for Multnomah Falls . From the parking area, there is easy access to the gift shop and restaurant, or you can just enjoy the beauty of this spectacular natural wonder.

Continue along Highway 84 and you'll come to the Bonneville Dam and Cascade Locks. Interesting sights and educational tours are available. Next stop is Hood River , the world famous destination for wind surfing. You can get up-close to see the action at several turn-offs or get a more comfortable vantage point from town. One of my favorite spots is the Brewery. It sits above the river with seating inside and outside for viewing the action on the river. Micro brews and root beers are available as well as a limited menu. And you can take the brewery tour too. If the wind and fresh air has whetted your appetite, Hood Rover has several good restaurants to choose from.

And if you're not yet ready to head back to Portland, take a short excursion along Highway 35 heading south from Hood River . Within twenty minutes you'll get some great views of Mount Hood and the fruit orchards that are plentiful in this part of Oregon . Head back to the city and enjoy the views of the Columbia River from this vantage as you head west.