Discover Wine and More in Hood River, Oregon
While the Willamette Valley may be most synonymous with Oregon wine, do not let that overshadow sipping your way through the beautiful Hood River just 60 miles east of Portland. We decided to pair Hood River with a visit to the Oregon Coast on a four day trip to the area. You could also visit Hood River on a day trip from Portland, but I suggest one to two nights so you aren’t rushed.
These are my honest opinions and recommendations — I do not receive any compensation or discounts during our travel. This story does include some affiliate links for which I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please click the links to support my blog.
Getting There
Arrive at this under-the-radar wine destination by driving the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway. Be sure to build time in your itinerary to stop and visit the vistas and numerous waterfalls along the way.
FITZ BITS TIP: Traveling with kids? They will enjoy a stop at the Bonneville Hatchery as you near Hood River.
Hood River Fruit Loop
This area is home to dozens of charming vineyards, many located along the 35-mile Fruit Loop. The patio of Mount Hood Winery is a great place to start for a wine tasting with views of the snow-capped Mount Hood. I highly recommend arriving when they open for time to yourself before the groups start arriving. What other vineyards? There are many to choose from and Marchesi Vineyards checks all of the boxes. Complete your day with a reservation for a Tavern Tasting at Hiyu Wine Farm.
Exploring the Fruit Loop with take four hours to all day because there is much to explore along the scenic Fruit Loop. Take a break to sip some cider on the swing at Draper Girls’ Country Farm, shop the vegetable stands, admire the lavender fields, savor some at Apple Valley BBQ in Parkdale, and leave room for a huckleberry milkshake at the Apple Valley Country Store as you make your way along the drive.
There's more than wine in Hood River
When you are not out visiting the vineyards, the Columbia River Gorge area offers ample hiking, biking, and water sport activities. Check out Mount Hood and Salmon, WA too!
Several folks who lived in the area suggested we take a whitewater rafting trip. It seemed a little cold to experience in September, but it would certainly be a fun activity on a summer vacation.
Do you like a good hike? Our favorite trail was the Coyote Wall hike on the Washington side of the river. It was a moderate hike with views of the majestic Mount Hood. Bring a hat and sunblock because there is no shade on this hike. Reward your hard work with a taster tray or a full pint of local brew at one of the several micro-breweries in town.
Where to stay?
We booked this pretty late and did not have many options. There were a couple of historic hotels along the highway coming in to Hood River. However, we opted to stay at the Best Western, a little closer to town. Well, this Best Western surpassed all of my admittedly low expectations. I recommend splurging for the River View room and spending some time relaxing in the large outside hot tub next to the pool.
Visited in September 2021
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