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Located right in the Columbia River Gorge, the charming town of Hood River, Oregon, is an excellent place to experience the delights of being outdoors. Just 96 kilometers east of Portland, Hood River offers stunning views of mountains and waterfalls, a rich, unique history, and a host of outdoor activities. This article looks at the 10 Best things to do at Hood River.聽

Drive On The Historic Columbia River Highway

A scenic highway that stretches some 121 kilometers long, the Historic Columbia River Highway provides a natural border between the States of Oregon and Washington. Passing through the Cascade Mountains, it has been included on the National Register of Historic Places. It offers its travelers some of the most beautiful vistas in the northwestern United States. Stop at a hiking trail, look out at a mountain peak, listen to a babbling creek, or catch a glimpse of a pristine waterfall. Whatever one decides to do on this roadway, it will surely be a rich experience not to be forgotten.聽

Visit Multnomah Falls聽聽

Located along the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway, Multnomah Falls reaches an elevation of 620 feet and is the second highest cascade in the United States. Up to two million visitors view these Falls every year, and with the charming Multnomah Creek Bridge (built in 1914) crossing below the water, it is a stunningly beautiful experience for all. Nearby at the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge, visitors can enjoy comfortable amenities, restaurants, gift shops, and of course, great forest views, no matter the season.聽

Visit The Farmer's Market聽

Between May and November, those in the Hood River area will surely not want to miss the Farmers Market in the historic downtown. Held at Columbia Street every Saturday, visitors can expect an assortment of fresh fruits, locally made crafts, a busy music scene, and tasty food and deserts for the whole family. When not out exploring the great outdoors or taking a scenic road trip, stopping at this Farmers Market is the perfect way to fuel one's day in a charming and most special place.聽

Go Kayaking聽

A great way to enjoy the scenic majesty of the mountains and the water of the Columbia River is kayaking, where tourists can explore their sense of adventure. The Gorge Paddling Centre is a one-stop shop for rentals of boats, kayaks, and canoes and also offers guided tours, delighting and informing at the same time. For those who want to try something a little different, stand-up paddleboarding is a unique activity that not only gives one their daily dose of exercise but fills the heart with breathtaking views of the Oregon wildlife.聽

Go Skiing聽

An undoubtedly iconic landmark of the area between Hood River and Portland is Mount Hood, Oregon's tallest mountain. With an elevation of nearly 12,000 feet, this fourth tallest peak of the Cascade Mountains is a very popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Here visitors can ski, snowboard, and even try snowshoeing at any of the great resorts, including Cooper Sour and Timberline Lodge. An alpine lover's dream destination, enjoying Mount Hood's wintertime offerings is a definite must for anyone in Hood River and its vicinity.聽

Go Mountain Biking聽

Hood River is home to several trails perfect for hiking and cycling, and with great mountain views all around, mountain biking is always a popular choice amongst visitors. Whether one rents a bike or brings their own, trails at places like Fat Tire Farm are a fun and beautiful way to experience all that Hood River has to offer. In addition to being a good way to exercise, biking in and around Hood River can give visitors a close-up appreciation of nature and charming town attractions.聽

Visit Vista House聽

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Vista House is an iconic Art Nouveau structure completed in 1918. A popular spot for all who drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway, this memorial was erected to honor 19th-century Oregon pioneers and sits about 730 feet above the Columbia River. A perfect place for a rest stop and to enjoy spectacular views of the gorge below, the octagonal building is also an excellent spot to witness the Aurora Borealis in the wintertime. Inside, visitors can marvel at its marble interior and take home a souvenir or two from its quaint gift shop.聽

Go Hiking聽

Hiking through the numerous trails around Hood River and the Columbia River Gorge is a must for any outdoors enthusiast. When not driving on the Historic Columbia River Highway, many well-preserved hiking trails can be found, perfect for exploring the area on foot and getting up close with some of nature's best. Some of the best hiking trails include Angel's Rest (near Multnomah Falls) and Wahclella Falls, where the spray and beauty of the cascades create a magical ambiance.聽聽

Enjoy Wine Tasting聽

A haven for wine lovers, the Hood River offers wonderful spots to try some truly delicious wines and other spirits. Many wine cellars and vineyards can be found here. Hence, a trip to Hood River is always made sweeter with some wine tasting and cellar tours. The Cathedral Ridge Winery is a must-visit. Here, visitors can enjoy splendid views of the Columbia River Gorge and mountains while sipping a savory glass of local Oregon wine.聽聽

Go Golfing聽

Golfing is another very popular activity for many visitors, and Hood River offers some excellent golf courses with stunning vistas and beautiful fairways. Stop at the Hood River Golf Course and Country Club, which first opened in 1923, for some exquisite views of Mount Hood, surrounding rolling hills and vineyards. As the town's oldest operating golf course, this golf club is amongst Hood River's most prestigious. The Indian Creek Course is another famous golf course in the area. It has a beautiful creek running through it, making it quite challenging to score.

The town of Hood River and its surrounding area is a veritable playground where the raw beauty of nature and charming history come together. From waterfalls to the farmers market to scenic driving, time spent in Hood River admiring the Columbia River Gorge and its surroundings will always be a vacation well worth remembering.聽