Hood River

Hood River, Oregon, is a captivating city where the Hood River meets the Columbia River, set within the dramatic landscape of the Columbia River Gorge. Approximately 60 miles east of Portland, this area marks a transition zone where the wet, temperate rainforests of Western Oregon give way to the drier shrub-steppe desert of Eastern Oregon. This unique geography creates consistent, strong winds that funnel through the Gorge, establishing Hood River as a world-renowned destination for windsurfing and kiteboarding.

Beyond its reputation as a wind sports capital, Hood River is also a hub for outdoor adventures of all kinds, from hiking and mountain biking to skiing and rafting. The city maintains its small-town character through the preservation of historic buildings and a thriving local business scene, offering an eclectic mix of restaurants, bakeries, breweries, delis, shops, and art galleries. The surrounding Hood River Valley is celebrated for its fertile orchards, producing a bounty of apples, pears, and cherries, and is home to numerous wineries and cider houses.

From Waucoma to Windsurfing Capital

The land that is now Hood River was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, who referred to a camp near the confluence of the Columbia and what is now the Hood River as 'Waucoma,' meaning 'place of big trees.' The Lewis and Clark expedition passed through the area on October 29, 1805, with William Clark initially mapping the stream as the Labeasche River. However, the name didn't endure, and the waterway became known as Dog River for about 50 years.

In 1854, Nathaniel Coe filed a land claim near the mouth of the Dog River and planted the area's first orchard. It was his wife, Mary Coe, who objected to the name Dog River and successfully advocated for it to be changed to Hood River, appearing on maps as early as 1856. The small settlement grew, and the city of Hood River was formally incorporated in 1895. Hood River County gained its political separation from Wasco County on June 23, 1908.

Logging and agriculture were the initial economic drivers. The valley soil proved ideal for fruit cultivation, with apple orchards flourishing between 1890 and 1920, making Hood River famous for its apples. Japanese immigrants played a significant role in clearing land and establishing fruit farms in the early 1900s, cultivating a large portion of the valley's strawberries. However, a devastating freeze in 1919 led farmers to switch from apples to pears, and today, Hood River County is a leading producer of Anjou pears.

The economy faced challenges with declining timber sales and factory closures in the 1980s. However, a new industry emerged: windsurfing. The consistent strong winds of the Columbia River Gorge attracted windsurfers, transforming Hood River into a world-renowned destination for the sport. This revitalization brought new businesses and tourism, solidifying Hood River's identity as an outdoor recreation hub.

Begin your exploration in Downtown Hood River, where Oak Street offers a charming main street experience with local boutiques, bookstores, and shops. Many buildings from the early 1900s retain their original brick facades, and you'll find over 20 restaurants and cafés. Do not miss the Hood River Waterfront Park, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to stroll along the river, relax, and watch the colorful sails of windsurfers and kiteboarders.

For a taste of the region's agricultural bounty, drive the Hood River Fruit Loop, a 35-mile scenic route through farms, orchards, wineries, and flower fields. Stops like The Gorge White House offer cider, sandwiches, and gardens, while lavender farms bloom in late June and early July. You can pick your own cherries, apples, or pears depending on the season.

Take a scenic ride on the Mount Hood Railroad, a vintage train that offers tours through the Hood River Valley with Mount Hood as a dramatic backdrop. For wide-ranging views of the Columbia River Gorge, consider a drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway, stopping at viewpoints like Rowena Crest. Hiking opportunities abound, with trails like Dog Mountain offering wildflower displays in spring and sweeping vistas of Mount Hood and the orchards from the Hood River Mountain Trail.

Hood River offers something year-round, but the ideal time depends on your interests. For warm-weather activities like windsurfing, kiteboarding, swimming, and paddleboarding, early July to late August provides clear, rainless days with temperatures between 65°F and 80°F. Spring (April to June) is ideal for wildflower hikes and exploring the Fruit Loop during apple blossom season. Fall (mid-September to October) brings lively foliage, peak harvest season for apples and pears, and various harvest festivals. Winter offers opportunities for snow sports on nearby Mount Hood.

Hood River is easily accessible by car, about an hour east of Portland via I-84. Alternatively, you can take Highway 14 on the Washington side of the Columbia River, a slightly longer but scenic route. The Columbia Gorge Express bus service connects Portland to Hood River, and Amtrak's Empire Builder serves Bingen, Washington, just across the river. While downtown Hood River is walkable, a car is recommended for exploring the surrounding scenic areas like the Fruit Loop and various trailheads. The Hood River Bridge connects to White Salmon and Bingen, Washington, and has a $2 toll. For those interested in water sports, several outfitters in town offer gear rentals and lessons. Parking passes for certain areas are available and can be beneficial for frequent visitors.