What to Do in Hood River, Oregon’s Outdoor Hub

Located just an hour outside of Portland, the town of Hood River sits right on the banks of the Columbia River and is flanked by Mt. Hood to the south. The location gives Hood River access to a wealth of adventures both on the river and on the mountains. In fact, Hood River is known as the “windsurfing capital of the world” as well as having one of the most popular mountain biking destinations in Oregon. Add to that the quaint historic downtown and the thriving drink scene (both alcoholic and not), and Hood River is a destination both for the avid outdoor types and those who just want to get outside for a bit. 

These are the best things to do in Hood River—although if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, maybe the right question is what can’t you do in Hood River?

What to Do on the Water

With its proximity to the Columbia River, a lot of the activities in Hood River revolve around the water. Naturally, as the windsurfing capital of the world, windsurfing is one of the main things people go to Hood River for. Hood River’s reputation as the windsurfing capital has to do with its location along the Columbia River Gorge. The Columbia River Gorge is an 80-mile long river canyon. The Cascade Range funnels wind through this canyon, creating strong winds year-round. 

For those who have never gone windsurfing but want to learn at one of the best spots in the world, local outfitters like Brian’s Windsurfing offers beginner lessons for windsurfing and kiteboarding. One particular area in Hood River called The Hook is a protected cove that is perfect for beginners. 

Late spring is an opportunity for some Class V whitewater rafting and kayaking down two of Columbia River’s tributaries: the namesake Hood River and White Salmon River, located just across the Washington state border to the north. Whitewater isn’t for everyone, but for those looking for something a little more chill, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard for a trip on the Columbia River. 

For a less adrenaline-inducing activity, this stretch of the Columbia River is also known for fly fishing, especially for salmon and steelhead trout.   

What to Do on Land

Waterfalls, sweeping views of the gorge, wildflowers in the spring—Hood River is surrounded by numerous gorgeous hikes. There are easy hikes like the one to Wahclella Falls for those who just want to spend a couple of hours outside, and more challenging, all-day hikes like Dog Mountain, which is one of the best spots for spring wildflower hiking. Dog Mountain is quite popular, so a reservation for parking is required between April and June. There are 11 waterfalls in Hood River County alone but there are over 90 waterfalls in Columbia River Gorge which are all a short drive away, so do go chasing waterfalls.

Non-hikers need not worry since they can take in the nature views by driving the Historic Columbia River Highway. The scenic highway goes past Vista house which offers a view of the gorge atop a cliff 700 feet above the river as well as a number of waterfalls. 

Avid mountain bikers will also find plenty here. Post Canyon just west of Hood River is known to be one of the best networks of mountain biking trails in the Northwest. It was one of the original gravity networks in the country and has grown to over 60 miles of trails with varying difficulty levels.

Take a break between all the hikes and river activities with a visit to the Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum (WAAAM) which has one of the largest collections of antique airplanes and automobiles that are all still functional. In the summer, take advantage of the harvests of Hood River Valley by driving the 35-mile Hood River Fruit Loop which takes you through 28 spots from fruit stands, lavender farms and wineries.  

Where to Eat and Drink

The dining scene in and around Hood River is driven by the agricultural bounty of Hood River Valley. The Scandinavian brunch at Broder Øst is the fuel you’d need before a day of outdoors activities, with hearty breakfasts like the Swedish Lost Eggs. Be sure to get some Danish aebleskivers for the table. 

For such a small town, there are quite a few breweries in Hood River, which is perhaps unsurprising since this is Oregon. Between the farmhouse ales at Ferment Brewing and Belgian ales at pFriem Family Brewers, no one will leave thirsty.

Even for travelers who are not imbibing, Hood River is a great place to be, as it is home to Wilderton Botanical Spirits, one of the early players in non-alcoholic distilling. Wilderton opened the country’s first non-alcoholic distillery tasting room in the summer of 2023, serving spirit-free cocktails and tastings right in Hood River.

For dinner, consider heading across the river to Henni’s Kitchen & Bar in White Salmon for local, seasonal fare and great cocktails (including non-alcoholic cocktails made using Wilderton spirits).

Where to Stay

Hood River may be a small town, but the lodging options in the area offer something for different types of travelers. The Hood River Hotel is a great base for travelers who want to stay in downtown Hood River within walking distance to coffee shops, restaurants and breweries. The historic hotel was built in 1911 and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and the rooms maintain the vintage charm. 

For a great view of the Columbia River Gorge, stay at the Columbia Cliffs Villas, perched 200 feet above the river head to the Washington side for Skamania Lodge. Skamania Lodge offers a retreat surrounded by nature, from rooms with views of the gorge to tree houses nestled among Douglas fir trees. 

Fiona Chandra has written for Thrillist, Fodor’s, and more. She recently wrote about Albuquerque for Paste.