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Hood River

Hood River

Located at the crossroads of the spectacular Columbia River Gorge and the magnificent Cascade Range, Hood River County is a scenic wonderland of natural beauty in every season.

About the Town

Hood River may be the most scenically blessed and recreationally diverse town in Oregon, if not in the United States. No wonder so many people who come here to visit, end up staying. Located at the crossroads of the spectacular Columbia River Gorge and the magnificent Cascade Range, Hood River County is a scenic wonderland of natural beauty in every season. Here you’ll discover a world of year-round outdoor recreation, dramatic vistas, historic landmarks, fantastic food, wine and beer—and best of all, warm, friendly people.

Windsurfers

The fertile Hood River Valley has been famous for its orchards for more than a century. From blossom time to the turning of the leaves, the more 14,000 acres of commercial pear, apple, cherry and peach orchards provide miles of scenic beauty. Fruit grown here is of such exceptional quality that the county leads the world in Anjou pear production, and 50% of the nation’s winter pear crop comes from Hood River. The local “Fruit Loop” is a favorite with visitors and locals alike.

Mt. Hood from Hood River

This beautiful gorge city welcomes sports enthusiasts in all seasons. In addition to being the windsurfing capital of the world, it offers kiteboarding and standup paddleboarding, mountain and road biking, hiking, whitewater kayaking and rafting, fishing, world-class skiing and snowboarding, and snowshoeing. With two ports and two boat basins, the area also serves both commercial and recreational boating.

Mt. Hood

Livability and quality of life are priorities in Hood River County. The mild climate, clean mountain air, year-round recreational activities for the whole family, and fresh, local culinary delights and award-winning wineries make it a popular destination for visitors from around the world. Festivals, art and cultural happenings, plays and music, and sporting events occur throughout the year so there’s always something going on. We invite you to visit this place of stunning beauty and discover your next adventure here.

10 "Must-Do Activities in the Hood River Valley

  • Drive the Fruit Loop

    This 35 mile scenic drive through the valley’s orchards, forests, farmlands and friendly communities is one of the area’s top attractions. Fruits, wine, lavender, alpacas and family activities create wonderful memories throughout the year.

  • Mt. Hood Meadows Scenic Chairlift Rides

    Ride up and hike the trails back down to the base, or ride both ways! Meander through the beautiful hillsides of the mountain and enjoy the gorgeous summer vistas and wildflowers! 8 new miles of hiking trails have been added! All Cooper Spur Guests Receive Free Tickets to this Feature. Vouchers available upon check-in. Available June 23 - September 4, 2023 plus a Bonus Weekend on September 9th & 10th.

  • Enjoy the Outdoors

    As the outdoor recreation capital of Oregon, Hood River attracts both professional and amateur outdoor sports enthusiasts from around the world. Try hiking, backpacking, bike riding, windsurfing, kayaking, skiing, snowboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, whitewater rafting…You get the idea!

  • Shop in Hood River

    Indulge in beautifully made clothing (like alpaca wool), art, crafts, books and more at a variety of amazing locally owned shops.

  • Go Wine Tasting

    The Columbia River Gorge growing region is one of America’s most unique wine areas due to special climate and soil conditions. Take time to tour our wineries and vineyards, and relax at our many casual tasting rooms.

  • Try the Local Cuisine

    Hood River offers the best of the best in dining, with meals made by some of the most outstanding chefs in the Pacific Northwest. From simple home-style cooking to gourmet offerings, you’ll find delicious fare made with ingredients grown right here in Hood River County.

  • Get out on the Water

    Hood River is known as the windsurfing capital of the world – with kiteboarding, kayaking, rafting, swimming, yachting, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing all coming close in popularity.

  • Tour the Waterfalls

    The geology of the Columbia River Gorge lends itself to some of the most spectacular waterfalls anywhere. Starting with the towering 620-foot Multnomah Falls, visitors can see waterfalls all along the I-84 and at other locations throughout the county.

  • Sample our Local Beers

    Beer is serious business in Hood River County. Be sure to explore the world of craft beer and fine brewpubs here. And don’t forget the annual Hood River Hops Fest, held the last Saturday of September in downtown Hood River.

  • Take in the Spectacular Scenery

    The ever-changing scenery of the Columbia River Gorge is breathtaking. Take time to watch the spectacular sunrises and sunsets, and catch the changing landscape and our double mountain view of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams.

Mt. Hood Railroad

Enjoy the splendors of the scenic Columbia Gorge while climbing the tracks through the spectacular Hood River Valley. Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams supply the dramatic backdrop. In the springtime, fruit blossoms bathe the valley in soft colors. Summer brings lushness to the foliage, a blush to the fruit, a deeper blue to the sky. Autumn sets the orchards and mountains ablaze in fiery yellows, oranges, and reds.

The fun begins the moment you step aboard this century-old railroad. Dating from the early 1900s, the Excursion Train is comprised of enclosed Pullman coaches, a concession car offering light food and beverage, a red caboose and an open air car. The Excursion Trains are steam-powered with a Vintage Steam Engine!

There are two and four hour Excursion Tours. Sit back, enjoy the great views and visit with friends and family as you travel along the river, forests, meadows and numerous fruit orchards. A live narration along the way covers local history and key points of interest. During the layover, have a picnic in the park, sample local cafés, browse the shops and take in stunning views of Mt. Hood. Be sure to bring a camera.

All trains depart from and return to the Mount Hood Railroad depot in Hood River. Reservations are recommended on all scenic excursions trains, however, walk-ins are welcome and seated on availability. 

Mt. Hood

The Excursion Train offers light concessions onboard and cars are heated. The dome cars also have air conditioning. The Dinner and Brunch Trains are comprised of air-conditioned and heated cars. All trains are equipped with restroom facilities.

Advance reservations are required in order to confirm train reservation.

For more information on the dates and pricing click on the link.

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