There is ample to do in the Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood areas. Hood River is a world famous windsurfing destination with dining, shopping, breweries, and wine tasting. The gorge offers ample opportunities for scenic drives, waterfalls, and hiking. If the mountain is calling, head over to Mt. Hood for outdoor activities or to visit Timberline Lodge. See a suggestion of some of our favorites below.

Historic Columbia River Highway

Scenic highway with stops for multiple waterfalls including iconic Multnomah Falls, Wahkeena Falls, and Horsetail Falls

Timberline Lodge

Drive to the historic landmark high up on Mt. Hood at an elevation of 5,960 ft

Mt. Hood/Hood River Loop

Take a day and drive through the Columbia River Gorge to Hood River then and all the way around Mt. Hood.

Hood River Fruit Loop

The Hood River Fruit loop is located in the beautiful Hood River Valley at the foot of majestic Mt. Hood. The twenty-nine member stands offer you a variety of wines, fruits, vegetables, flowers, ciders, and food.

Cape Horn

Come here if you want gorge views! Hike can be done as a loop or an out and back. Climb to a viewpoint to reach sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge. Lots of bang for your buck. There are various turnarounds depending on your level of ambition.

- 2.8 miles out and back to Pioneer Point Lookout (Moderate)

- 5.2 miles out and back to Nancy Russell Overlook (Moderate)

- 7.4 mile loop for the whole thing (Hard)

Wahkeena Falls to Fairy Falls

Hike to Wahkeena Falls, stop for a panoramic gorge view at Lemmons Viewpoint, then hike along a picturesque canyon stream to Fairy Falls. You can turn around at any time, or keep it short and just hike to the falls. Plenty of options to extend as well.

- 0.4 miles to Wahkeena Falls (Easy)

- 1.4 miles to Lemmons Viewpoint (Moderate)

- 3.4 miles round trip to Fairy Falls (Moderate)

Dry Creek Falls via PCT

Dry Creek Falls via PCT is located near Cascade Locks, Oregon (About 10 minute drive from Skamania Lodge) that features an incredible waterfall and is good for all skill levels.

- 4.4 mile out and back trail (Easy to Moderate)

Tom, Dick, and Harry Mountain

Hike to postcard-worthy Mirror Lake then up Tom, Dick, and Harry Mountain for views of the entire Cascade Volcano Range, including Hood, Adams, St. Helens, Rainier, Jefferson, and more!

- 7.7 miles out and back (Hard)

Multnomah Falls

Oregon’s most famous falls. There is a short walk way to the iconic Benson Bridge. There is a paved trail that continues towards the top of the falls. Worth a stop to hike to the bridge.

- 0.4 miles round trip Benson Bridge (Easy)

- 2.4 miles to Upper Viewpoint (Moderate)

Elk Meadows

A personal favorite! Hike to a spectacular mountain meadow on Mt. Hood’s eastern flank. Hike is doable as long as snow has not started to accumulate on the mountain. There is one pretty tough set of switchbacks, otherwise mostly flat.

- 5.8 miles round trip (Moderate)

Double Mountain Brewery (Hood River) - Phil's favorite pizza plus great beer selection. Located in downtown Hood River.

Solstice Wood Fire Pizza (Hood River) - Sam's favorite pizza near the waterfront in Hood River. Delicious pizza and salads.

Full Sail Brewery (Hood River) - Brew pub with sweeping views of the Columbia River.

pFriem Family Brewers (Hood River)

Thunder Island Brewing (Cascade Locks) Reservations recommended.

Gorges Beer (Cascade Locks) Come here for fun atmosphere and delicious cocktail and beer! Reservations recommended.

The Columbia River Gorge is full of beautiful wineries with amazing views of the Gorge and Mt. Hood. Here are a few recommendations to get started. Suggest calling ahead for reservations if needed:

- Mt. Hood Winery

-Marchesi Vineyards and Winery

-Cathedral Ridge Winery

Full list of wineries: https://www.gorgewine.com/gorge-wineries