Oregon's Hidden Gem Mountain City Boasts Scenic Nature And Outdoor Recreation

Oregon has no shortage of incredible mountain towns dotting the state. From well-known cities such as Bend to hidden gems like Joseph, Oregon's "Little Switzerland," each has unique outdoor recreation opportunities. Sandwiched between towering Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge in north-central Oregon, you'll find Hood River, a city that HuffPost calls one of the "most underrated travel destinations in the U.S." With stunning natural beauty, a wide range of outdoor attractions, and a strong local food scene, Hood River is a fun destination for both adrenaline junkies and travelers looking for a relaxing Pacific Northwest getaway.

The fertile lands around Hood River have been used by people for hundreds of years, first by Native Americans, and later by settlers who developed the city into an agricultural and logging town. More recently, Hood River has transformed into a recreation destination for action sports, which take advantage of the city's four seasons. The summer months are normally hot and dry (and windy), making it an ideal time to strap on a board and harness the gusts flowing through the "windsurfing capital of the world." This time of year is also an ideal period to see Hood River literally at its roots by driving or biking along the scenic Hood River County Fruit Loop, a 35-mile route full of U-pick fruit farms where you can envelop your senses in Oregon's majestic natural bounty.

Hood River is about one hour east of Portland, the nearest major city and transportation hub, by car, and is easy to reach off Interstate 84. Travelers who don't want to drive can take Amtrak to Bingen, Washington, across the Columbia River from Hood River, or the Columbia Area Transit train from Portland.

When visiting Hood River, you'll have the choice of cranking up the adventure or keeping it low-key. Since the 1980s, Hood River has evolved into a mecca for catching air, whether you're windsurfing on the Columbia River or cruising on two tires. Beginner windsurfers can try the sport or rent equipment at Big Winds, which has been open since 1987. Meanwhile, mountain bikers of all abilities will find over 60 paths in Post Canyon, a network of trails less than 10 minutes outside of the city. Optimal times to ride in Hood River are the beginning of spring and the end of fall; summers are normally hot and dusty. 

More easy-going visitors and train buffs eager to soak up the scenery likely won't want to miss hopping on the Mount Hood Railroad to catch some of the spectacular views of Mount Hood and the Hood River Valley. While you can sit back and relax, more active explorers have the option to trace the same course by railbike, making for a fun afternoon. Be sure to check the weather before riding, as the attraction is outside, and arrive early (the railroad recommends 40 minutes before departure) to be fully ready for your trip and have enough time for the mandatory safety session.

Being in Oregon, Hood River has no shortage of beautiful trails right in town. Lace up your running shoes and explore the relatively flat Hood River Waterfront Trail, a 2.4-mile path along the Columbia River. More hardcore runners can head for the hills (and the legendary Mosier Twin Tunnels) along the 9-mile Hood River to Mosier Trail. It's part of the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail and also makes for an excellent bike ride.

Whether it's ice cream, wine, or craft beer, Oregon's local food scene is a can't-miss tourist attraction, and Hood River is no exception. Along Hood River Waterfront Park, you'll find several of the city's award-winning restaurants and breweries to pair your meal with local scenery. Brewery PFriem has won multiple awards in beer competitions worldwide and likely has something that will tickle your taste buds, whether you enjoy light or dark brews, or if you're simply looking for a meal. Per the menu, the restaurant sources many of its ingredients locally. In downtown Hood River, Full Sail Brewery has an outdoor patio to soak in the afternoon or evenings, as does Double Mountain Brewery. 

Mild temperatures for much of the year offer a long growing and harvest season for fruit, and Hood River's wines and local vineyards are gaining popularity and recognition. If a glass of syrah or merlot and a hillside view is your style, Cathedral Ridge Winery will do more than fit the bill for a pleasant afternoon. While the above breweries are kid-friendly, the winery is not (though your pooch is welcome).

For accommodation in Hood River, you'll find major hotel chains and boutique hotels in and around the city. However, for a unique stay, the historic Hood River Hotel provides a dose of history and amenities, including bicycle rentals to get out and take in those stunning views. If you still can't get enough, Bend, another fun outdoor Oregon getaway, is less than three hours away.