Discover the diverse landscapes and vibrant culinary scene of Oregon’s natural wonders on this small group tour from Portland. Explore the majestic Mount Hood, the lush Hood River Valley, and the stunning Columbia Gorge, with highlights including the historic Timberline Lodge, the iconic Multnomah Falls, and opportunities to interact with local producers and sample renowned cider. This flexible tour provides a comprehensive journey through the region, offering hotel pickup, transportation, and a delicious lunch. Prepare to be immersed in the Pacific Northwest’s bountiful agricultural region and uncover the hidden gems that make this area so captivating.
Key Points
• Explore the natural wonders of Mount Hood, Hood River Valley, and Columbia Gorge on an 8-hour small group tour from Portland.
• Visit the historic Timberline Lodge on the slopes of Mount Hood and marvel at the panoramic mountain views.
• Enjoy the picturesque agricultural region of Hood River Valley, known for its orchards, vineyards, and artisanal producers.
• Discover the vibrant local culture and culinary scene in the bustling downtown of Hood River.
• Witness the dramatic beauty of the Columbia Gorge, including a visit to the iconic Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Summary
This small group tour whisks visitors away from Portland to explore the natural wonders of Mount Hood, Hood River Valley, and the Columbia Gorge over the course of 8 hours.
Highlights include a visit to historic Timberline Lodge on Mount Hood, experiencing the majesty of the Columbia Gorge and Multnomah Falls, and tasting the fruit, cuisine, and beverages of the Hood River area.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a PA system, snacks, bottled water, and lunch.
Visitors can reserve their spot now and pay later, allowing for flexible travel plans. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a convenient and comprehensive way to discover some of Oregon’s most stunning landscapes.
Highlights
Visitors to this tour can witness the grandeur of Mount Hood, explore the bountiful Hood River Valley, and marvel at the stunning Columbia Gorge.
The tour includes a visit to the historic Timberline Lodge on Mount Hood, providing an opportunity to experience the majesty of this iconic peak.
In the Hood River Valley, guests can feed pygmy goats, purchase local produce, and taste the region’s renowned cider.
The highlight of the tour is the drive through the Columbia Gorge, where travelers will stop at a viewpoint to take in the breathtaking scenery, including the majestic Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon.
This small-group tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the Pacific Northwest.
Itinerary
The tour begins by traveling through the verdant Willamette Valley.
From there, participants make a stop at a donut shop in Sandy before ascending Mount Hood and spending an hour exploring the historic Timberline Lodge.
Next, the group ventures into the Hood River Valley, where they’ll have the opportunity to feed pygmy goats, buy local produce, and taste the region’s renowned cider.
The tour then moves on to the charming downtown of Hood River for lunch.
Afterward, the journey continues through the breathtaking Columbia Gorge, culminating with a visit to the majestic Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon.
Willamette Valley
The tour begins by traveling through the verdant Willamette Valley, a fertile agricultural region known for its picturesque landscapes and diverse array of crops. As the group traverses this lush landscape, they’ll catch glimpses of the area’s thriving farms, vineyards, and orchards. The Willamette Valley is home to a variety of agricultural products, including:
Crop | Production | Region |
---|---|---|
Hazelnuts | 99% | Oregon |
Berries | Major | Oregon |
Wine | Renowned | Oregon |
Grass Seed | Leading | Oregon |
This scenic drive sets the stage for the day’s exploration of the natural wonders that await in the Hood River Valley and Columbia Gorge.
Mount Hood and Timberline Lodge
After traversing the Willamette Valley, the tour ascends the slopes of Mount Hood, stopping at the historic Timberline Lodge.
Perched at an elevation of 6,000 feet, this iconic structure serves as a gateway to the mountain’s ski terrain and hiking trails, offering visitors panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Guests can explore the lodge’s distinctive log and stone architecture, which was built in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration. Inside, they’ll find cozy fireplaces, rustic furnishings, and a dining room serving regional cuisine.
With an hour to spend at the lodge, travelers can soak in the mountain ambiance before continuing their journey through the Hood River Valley.
Hood River Valley
Leaving the grandeur of Mount Hood behind, the tour descends into the lush Hood River Valley, a picturesque agricultural region renowned for its abundance of orchards, vineyards, and artisanal food producers.
Visitors are invited to explore this fertile landscape, where they can feed friendly pygmy goats and browse local produce stands for freshly-picked fruits and vegetables.
The region’s thriving cider industry is also celebrated, with opportunities to sample the crisp, flavorful beverages that have become a local specialty.
With its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culinary scene, the Hood River Valley offers a delightful contrast to the towering peaks of Mount Hood, inviting travelers to enjoy the bounty of the Pacific Northwest.
Downtown Hood River
Descending into the charming downtown of Hood River, visitors find a bustling hub of local shops, restaurants, and artisan producers showcasing the region’s vibrant culinary scene.
Cafes and brewpubs line the streets, offering tempting menus that highlight the bounty of the Hood River Valley.
Some notable attractions in downtown Hood River include:
- Full Sail Brewing Company, a pioneering craft brewery with a lively tasting room
- Packer Orchards & Bakery, a family-run farm store selling fresh produce, baked goods, and fruit wines
- Sunshine Mill Winery, a unique winery housed in a historic flour mill
- Numerous boutiques and galleries featuring the work of local artisans and designers
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- Love in the City of Roses: Romantic Tour in Portland
- Columbia River Gorge: Private Tour & Hike
- Portland: Multnomah Falls and Hood River Day Trip With Train
- Willamette Valley Wine Tour (Tasting Fees Included)
- Portland: Private Columbia Gorge Waterfalls Scenic Air Tour
- Portland’s Historic Heart: A Walking Tour of the City Center
Columbia Gorge and Multnomah Falls
The tour then proceeds through the dramatic Columbia Gorge, a breathtaking natural wonder carved by the mighty Columbia River. Visitors often stop at a scenic viewpoint to take in the panoramic vistas of towering basalt cliffs, lush greenery, and cascading waterfalls.
The highlight of the trip is a visit to the iconic Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon. Standing at 620 feet, the two-tiered falls plunge dramatically over a rocky outcrop, surrounded by a lush, verdant landscape.
Guests can stroll along the trail to the impressive Benson Bridge, which offers stunning views of the falls and the gorge below. This natural marvel leaves a lasting impression on all who witness its grandeur.
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Recap
This small-group tour from Portland showcases the natural wonders of Oregon, including the majestic Mount Hood, the lush Hood River Valley, and the stunning Columbia Gorge.
Visitors will experience the historic Timberline Lodge, the iconic Multnomah Falls, and opportunities to interact with local producers and sample renowned cider.
The tour provides a comprehensive journey through the region’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culinary scene.