Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a place to try some world-class adventure sports, Hood River has something for you! In the beautiful Columbia River Gorge, just an hour’s drive from Portland, Hood River is a great place to get away and explore some of what the Pacific Northwest has to offer.
For the adventurous…
Located 20 minutes north of Hood River, in Washington State, you’ll find Zoller’s Outdoor Odysseys. You can choose among several different rafting packages, depending on the time of year and river. We chose an afternoon trip on the White Salmon River and were not disappointed. For three and a half hours, our guide, Big Russ, led us down a beautiful stretch of class III-IV water with plenty of sudden drops, twists and turns. History buffs are sure to be fascinated by the old water pumps and wagon trails along the river’s edge that speak to the area’s pioneer and logging history. Zoller’s professional and friendly staff, the beautiful scenery and excitement make this a worthwhile excursion. (www.zooraft.com)
For the romantic…
For lodging, we chose the historic Columbia Gorge Hotel. Built in 1921, we immediately felt as if we had stepped back in time. Traditionally decorated, the hotel has seen its share of celebrities and special guests.
After checking in, we were escorted by the bellman to the manually-operated elevator, the first I had ever seen. Our room was a little on the small side, but the views of the Gorge more than made up for it. A seven course dinner with wine pairings, part of the romance package, was wonderful. Bring your appetite though – it’s more food than my wife or I could handle! Behind the hotel, a flower-lined path, provides more spectacular views of the Gorge and a chance to spend a few moments with your special someone. (www.columbiagorgehotel.com)
Other recommendations
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Those who enjoy a good beer will want to stop at the Full Sail Brewery, located downtown on Columbia Street. An outdoor deck overlooking the gorge offers patrons the chance to relax with a drink and watch the windsurfers and kite-boarders below. Our favorites were the Session Lager and Flash Fried Calamari. Brewery tours are also available. (www.fullsailbrewing.com)
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Cathedral Ridge Winery, five minutes from downtown Hood River, is just one of several area wineries. Magnificent views of Mt. Hood and a wonderful picnic area make this a great place to relax the afternoon away with a bottle of local wine. (www.cathedralridgewinery.com)
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Interested in wetting a line and doing some world-class fishing? The Gorge Fly Shop on Oak Street seemed like just the place to get the scoop on local conditions or a recommendation for a guide to lead you to the big ones. (www.gorgeflyshop.com)
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Get up close with windsurfers at the Spring Creek National Fish Hatchery, just west of the Hood River Bridge off of Highway 14 in Washington. The parking area resembled an NFL tailgater, minus the beer and brats, but offers a great place to watch these athletes harness the winds that whip through the “windsurfing capital of the world.”
