Mt Hood Day Trip from Portland to Multnomah Falls and Hood River

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area protects the spectacular canyon where the Columbia River cuts through the Cascade mountains - with cliffs and overlooks of Washington to the north and Oregon's mountains and waterfalls to the south. The Gorge is unique in its natural and cultural history, as well as its designation as a National Scenic Area. As we drive to Multnomah Falls and Hood River we will be driving through the Columbia River Gorge.

Nestled atop a picturesque perch in the Columbia River Gorge, lies Vista House – a true stunner that boasts of the most jaw-dropping views in the region. Known as the “Crown Jewel of the Columbia River Gorge,” Vista House was crafted between 1916 and 1918 as a tribute to Oregon’s brave pioneers and as a haven for travelers on the newly minted Historic Columbia River Highway. With its intricate sandstone masonry, opulent marble, and sparkling amber-green art glass windows, Vista House is a dazzling beauty.

A waterfall as magnificent and memorable as any in the country is located just a 30- minute drive outside of Portland. Visiting Multnomah Falls, a 611-foot-tall roaring, awe-inspiring cascade of icy water, lets you experience the power and beauty of nature up close and with ease. We will stop here and you will have time to walk to Benson Bridge and explore the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge.

This stunning preserve is located directly across from Rowena Crest. The breathtaking views of wildflowers, Cascade peaks, and the expansive rocky cliffs along the Columbia River will surely make you pause and provide plenty of opportunities for stunning photographs.

Overlooking a major chokepoint along the Ice Age Floods path, Rowena Crest lies at nearly 700 feet above the Columbia River at the upstream end of Rowena Plateau, a miles-long promontory that protrudes into the path of the river. This forces the river around the plateau through a relatively narrow section of the Gorge known as the Rowena Gap. We will stop here and enjoy the view while taking amazing photographs! We will visit this location Spring, Summer, and Fall.

Situated 40 miles (64 km) from Portland along the Columbia River, the Bonneville Lock and Dam is a national historic site and one of several dams located on the river’s main stem, which runs along the Oregon-Washington border. It was constructed during the Roosevelt era amid the Great Depression. Currently owned by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, it is acknowledged as one of the largest hydroelectric systems in the country.

Get your taste buds ready for a locally grown feast along the stunning “Fruit Loop” drive in Hood River County! This road trip takes you through the picturesque orchards, vineyards, and family farms of the valley. With a whopping 28 fruit stands along the way, you’ll have a ball picking from a variety of fresh fruits, veggies, flowers, homemade pies, jams, syrups, honey, ciders, and even handcrafted artisanal gifts. Did you know that Hood River County is the world’s top producer of Anjou pears and the largest pear-growing area in the US? This region is also known for growing mouth-watering big tree fruits like apples, cherries, nectarines, and peaches. Seasonally we will stop at one of 28 fruit stands so you can sample and grab some of these farm-to-table goodies, and take a little piece of Oregon home with you.

We will take a one-hour lunch break in Hood River. You'll have the opportunity to enjoy a meal and explore the fantastic downtown area.

Mt. Hood National Forest boasts eight wildernesses, encompassing 311,448 acres or about one-third of the forest. We will drive through this forest as we make our way to Timberline Lodge.

We will drive past this trailhead that leads to where Tamanawas Falls creates a magnificent curtain as Cold Spring Creek cascades over a 110-foot lava cliff at the eastern base of Mount Hood. This picturesque hike along Cold Spring Creek has been a beloved route for families and can be enjoyed year-round with proper preparation. While the waterfall diminishes to a delicate veil in late summer and fall, the vibrant summer wildflowers and autumn colors make the trek along the creek a rewarding adventure. In winter, it's possible to witness the falls when the spray freezes, forming an impressive ice grotto in the amphitheater, although snowshoes may be necessary.

White River Sno-Park is a well-loved winter getaway in the Forest, particularly bustling on weekends and following fresh snowfall! With its breathtaking views of Mt. Hood and its convenient location near Portland, this spot has become a favorite for families.

Mt. Hood’s perpetually snowy peak — crowned by eleven glaciers, one for every thousand feet it rises above sea level — can be seen from miles and miles away. It’s home to a total of six ski areas, making it a great base camp for skiers. Beautiful alpine lakes with names like Lost, Trillium and Mirror dot Mt. Hood’s flanks, each offering its own unique view of the mountain.

Constructed in 1937, Timberline Lodge stands on the south slope of Mt. Hood at an elevation of 6,000 feet. This beautiful 55,000 square foot structure rises out of a pristine alpine landscape and is still being used for its original intent – a magnificent ski lodge and mountain retreat for everyone to enjoy. Legendary and awe-inspiring, it's a tribute to the rugged spirit of the Pacific Northwest and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1977. If weather or road conditions throw us a curveball, no worries! Our savvy guides will switch up the route to ensure you get the best Mt. Hood Loop tour experience.

We will drive past this well-maintained trail that leads you to a tranquil mountain lake that offers stunning, picture-perfect views of Mount Hood alongside the rugged peaks of Tom Dick and Harry Mountain rising majestically above.