Mt. Hood National Forest

Mt. Hood National Forest

Mt. Hood National Forest: Our most recommended tours and activities

Portland: Mt. Hood Day Tour

Portland: Mt. Hood Day Tour

Your 8.5-hour trip begins early with a hotel pickup from downtown Portland. Embark on an exhilarating morning drive through the Columbia River Gorge. Catch spectacular views of the Cascade Mountains that flank the river and glimpse a waterfall or two. Along the forested highway, visit Oregon’s famous waterfall Multnomah Falls. Join your guide and fellow visitors on Benson Bridge and snap a picture of the 611-foot-tall cascade of water as it crashes below. Next, continue to Hood River, a picturesque valley town renowned as a prime destination for wind sports. Watch kiteboarders and windsurfers skate across the water as you learn about Hood River’s rich environmental and cultural history. Then take some free time for lunch, shopping or wine-tasting (if whimsy strikes you!). Then visit Rowena Crest which has spectacular views of the Columbia River Gorge. The final stop on your guided tour is the glorious Mount Hood, Oregon’s tallest peak at 11,249 feet (3,429 meters) and Timberline Lodge. Take a mountain walk or a self-guided visit through the renovated lodge that was once the setting for the classic film The Shining. Your day concludes back in Portland by early evening.

From Portland: 7 Wonders of the Gorge Jetboat Cruise

From Portland: 7 Wonders of the Gorge Jetboat Cruise

Discover the lower Columbia River Gorge from the water on a roundtrip jetboat cruise from Portland. Travel at speeds of up to 45 miles per hour as you journey along the Willamette River and the mighty Columbia River toward Multnomah Falls. Marvel at views of the city and surrounding countryside as you make your way to Multnomah Falls. Board your explorer cruise from a private dock in Portland and set out on your outdoor adventure. Enjoy sights like Cape Horn, Crown Point, Rooster Rock, Mount Hood, and much more, with a live guide narrating your journey. Your adventure cruise comes to an end back where it began, at the dock on the Willamette River. Passenger Advisory: Explorer cruises are an adventure-style experience traveling at speeds up to 45 miles per hour. The Explorer Jetboat is not wheelchair/walker accessible. Must be steady on feet and take steps. Please note that river conditions vary and may result in frequent, sustained turbulent motion along with varied weather. For safety and comfort, guests should be in good health and without conditions that could be aggravated by motion. Please consult your doctor prior to booking a cruise on the Explorer if you have a health concern.

From Portland: Columbia Gorge Waterfalls and Mt. Hood Tour

From Portland: Columbia Gorge Waterfalls and Mt. Hood Tour

We will depart downtown Portland and head east along the Columbia River to Troutdale, known as the Gateway to the Gorge! We will join the beautiful Historic Columbia River Highway, the first planned scenic roadway in the United States, and wind our way to our first stop for the day: Crown Point Vista House. This famous overlook sits 733 feet above the Columbia River, atop the remains of a lava flow that swept through the Gorge around 14 to 17 million years ago! Here, we will find amazing 180-degree views of the Columbia River Gorge and explore the Vista House. An intricately designed observatory and museum, the Vista House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From there, we will drive deeper into the Columbia River National Scenic Area. Our first waterfall for the day will be the dramatic Latourell Falls which plunges 249 feet over a massive wall of columnar basalt. Depending on the season, a short ¼-mile paved trail hike will be led to get a closer view of the falls. The next waterfall we will visit will be the grand Multnomah Falls. Plummeting 620 feet in two major steps, Multnomah Falls is the highest waterfall in Oregon and second highest continuously flowing waterfall in the nation! Here, we will explore the Multnomah Falls Historic Lodge (a Cascadian style stone and timber lodge built in 1925) as well as the beautiful Multnomah Falls itself. During the gorge fire of 2017, the wildland fire crew fought tirelessly and ultimately saved this historic landmark. The easily accessible viewing platform offers a full view of the Benson Bridge and cascading falls beyond it. Onward to Hood River, also known as the Windsurfing Capital of the World, we will pause for an hour with a chance to explore the town and eat lunch. Following lunch, we will set out heading south, through the picturesque Fruit Loop orchards and lavender farms. If time permits, we may even make a brief stop at one of the farm stands! Continuing, we will wind our way, climbing to roughly 6,000 feet in elevation, to Timberline Lodge. This National Historic Landmark sits proudly against Oregon’s highest peak- Mt. Hood! Attracting over 10,000 climbers each year, Mt. Hood is a mammoth to behold. We’ll go on a walking tour inside the lodge and enjoy the surrounding Cascade Mountain Range views from the lodge’s outdoor patios. If time allows, a short hike to the Pacific Crest Trail crossing just behind the lodge will be led by your guide. After the full day of adventures, you will return to Portland (approximately 1.5-hour drive).

From Portland: Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Day Tour

From Portland: Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Day Tour

Prepare for an adventure of epic proportions as our passionate guides take you on a journey to the most stunning sights in the Gorge and Hood River Valley. Brace yourself for a spellbinding history lesson on this magical land while we whisk you away to one of the most tantalizing wineries that showcase the mesmerizing Columbia River AVA. Multnomah Falls, a breathtaking 620-foot ancient waterfall, is a true natural wonder. Underground streams originating miles above on Larch Mountain feed this beauty, which is split into two sections. The upper falls crashes down a staggering 542 feet into a serene pool, followed by another 69-foot drop, forming a creek that flows into the Columbia River. And, if that wasn't enough, the Historic Multnomah Falls Lodge sits right at the waterfall's base, making it the perfect place to relax and refuel. Next we will visit Bonneville Fish Hatchery. Take a stroll to the display ponds, where you can feed the rainbow trout while gazing at the majestic adult white sturgeon that are over 10 feet long! Just beyond the outdoor sturgeon pond lies a small white building, home to the Sturgeon Viewing Center, which was built back in 1998. Inside you’ll meet Herman, the granddaddy sturgeon who’s over 80 years old, 10 feet long, and weighs a whopping 500 pounds! Post-lunch, we'll hit up one top-notch winery, but first, explore downtown Hood River solo for your 1 hour lunch. If you're a wine lover, you'll be over the moon to know that the Columbia Gorge Wine Region is your Shangri-La! With over 65 wineries snuggled along a 40-mile stretch of the Columbia River, you're in for a treat. We've cherry-picked two fantastic wineries in the Hood River Valley region of Oregon. Brace yourself to indulge in a delightful wine-tasting experience from a list of impressive wineries such as Phelps Creek Vineyards, Cathedral Ridge Winery, Marchesi Vineyards & Winery, Viento, Mt. Hood Winery, Stave & Stone, Cascade Cliffs Tasting Room, The Pines, Garnier, Hood Crest, and Wy’East vineyards. After wine tasting you'll enjoy a stop at a farm stand (spring and summer only) where you will be able to pick up an afternoon snack. Finally we will drive over halfway up the side of Mt. Hood to Timberline Lodge. At 11,249 feet, Mt. Hood stands tall, flaunting its icy crown and boasting world-renowned ski areas. Timberline, in particular, is a snow magnet and the proud owner of the longest ski season in North America. Timberline Lodge has been wowing visitors for over 80 years. The lodge’s interior showcases bold Art Deco designs that scream 1930s America. Think stone arches, wrought iron accents, and roaring fireplaces, all made with rough-cut stone. Snap some pics of the mountain, wander through the lodge, and savor a cup of the Snow-Capped Dream, the most decadent hot chocolate you’ll ever taste! After exploring for the day, we'll whisk you off to your downtown Portland hotel.

Deschutes River Half Day trips

Deschutes River Half Day trips

The 12 miles of the half day trip on the Deschutes Rivers contains numerous exciting class II-III + rapids. Soon after launching onto the river, you’re sure to get wet paddling through Wapinitia & Boxcar rapids (Class III). You’ll float a mild section of the river before running several fast and fun back-to-back rapids, including Surf City, Oak Springs, White River Rapid, and The Elevators. The half day Deschutes River trip will last just under 3 hours on the water with a 15 minute shuttle to and from the river back to our office.

From Portland: Full Day Gorge Waterfalls & Mt. Hood Tour

From Portland: Full Day Gorge Waterfalls & Mt. Hood Tour

Visiting the enchanting waterfalls of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Byway, which are highlighted by magnificent views from towering lava cliffs, lush temperate rainforest, hundreds of different species of vibrant wildflowers, and the magnificent spectacle of Multnomah Falls, the second-tallest year-round waterfall in the U.S. We enjoy the spectacular majesty of Oregon's tallest mountain after a delightful lunch in Hood River and a journey through miles of lovely orchards and vineyards! It has a rich volcanic history, 5 separate ski areas, including year-round skiing on the Palmer glacier, and is the second most climbed peak in the world. While hiking on, go to the famous Timberline Lodge, sip a cool beverage, and discover its fascinating heritage.

Portland: Mount Hood Wine and Waterfalls Full-Day Tour

Portland: Mount Hood Wine and Waterfalls Full-Day Tour

Enjoy a full-day tour of the beautiful landscapes of the wine-growing regions near Portland. Discover breathtaking sights like the Columbia Gorge and Multnomah Falls. Enjoy a mouth-watering lunch and a winetasting experience at a local winery.  Be picked at your accommodation in Portland and relax in comfort aboard a Mercedes Sprinter van as you travel through the verdant landscape of the Willamette Valley which is known for its hazelnuts, berries, evergreen trees, and Pinot Noir wine. Ride into the foothills of the western Cascades and ascend to the tree line on Mount Hood, the highest peak in Oregon. Spend an hour at the historic Timberline Lodge, built by local artisans during the Great Depression.  Explore the interpretive displays, go hiking, or play in the snow, before heading thorugh the Hood River Valley to a picturesque winery. Eat a farm-to-table lunch while enjoying a wine tasting at a boutique vineyard with a view of Mount Hood.  Learn about wine production in the region and visit 1 other winery in the Columbia Gorge or Columbia Valley areas. Travel through the Columbia Gorge and admire the towering basalt cliffs, before stopping for half and hour at Multnomah Falls. Have time to walk up to the Benson Bridge, visit the interpretive center, or peruse the gift shop. Afterward, head back to Portland to be dropped off at your hotel.

Portland: Guided Bike Tour with Brewery Visits

Portland: Guided Bike Tour with Brewery Visits

Discover some of Portland's best bike routes and breweries on a brews cruise bike tour. Join your guide as you head out on the city's bike-friendly streets and peddle through downtown. Enjoy two stops at local microbreweries to sample their craft beers. Get some exercise and avoid the hassle of driving as you explore some of Portland's oldest neighborhoods with your guide. Learn how the city rose to fame as an international craft beer destination and how the culture of collaboration and experimentation allows so many breweries to coexist in Portland. Take a sneak peek behind the scenes at a microbrewery and learn about the brewing process. Discover how locally sourced, world-class ingredients like Willamette Valley hops and Mt. Hood’s pure snowmelt are transformed to make some of the best beer in the world. Along the way, visit Lone-Fir Cemetery, Portland’s second-largest arboretum, where you'll pay homage to one of the original brewmasters of the world, followed by a cycle through Portland’s flagship Laurelhurst Park.

From Portland: Mt Hood, Hood River Valley and Columbia Gorge

From Portland: Mt Hood, Hood River Valley and Columbia Gorge

Travel east of Portland through the verdant landscape of Willamette Valley, known for its hazelnuts, berries, Christmas trees, and Pinot Noir. Stop at a donut shop in the town of Sandy for coffee and morning treats before beginning your ascent of Mount Hood, the highest summit in Oregon. Spend the next hour at the historic Timberline Lodge and enjoy 1 hour of free time. From Timberline Lodge, head to Hood River Valley. Here, feed baby pygmy goats, get a photo of Mount Hood, purchase local fruit and preserves, taste cider, or buy a huckleberry milkshake. Afterwards, visit downtown Hood River and break for lunch. After lunch, learn about the geological history that shaped the Columbia River Gorge as you drive eastward past windsurfers in the Gorge, before stopping at a viewpoint to admire panoramic views of the Cascades. Next, travel westward through the Columbia Gorge and stop at Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon, where you can walk up to the Benson Bridge, visit the interpretive center, buy a snack, or peruse the gift shop before heading back to Portland.

Mt Hood & Columbia River Private tour from Portland

Mt Hood & Columbia River Private tour from Portland

Columbia Gorge and Mount Hood Private Day Tour Experience the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood in just one day with this private tour from Portland. You'll meet your driver downtown and head out to the Gorge, stopping to take in the views at Vista House and Multnomah Falls before continuing toward Mount Hood National. Here you'll get to visit the historic Timberline Lodge, right on the mountain, before heading back to Portland. -Stay stress-free about the drive and capture the astonishing views -Travel in Comfort -Stoppages are all yours with an infinite times.

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What people are saying about Mt. Hood National Forest

Overall rating

4.9 out of 5 stars
4.9
4.9 out of 5 stars
(110 reviews)
5 out of 5 stars

The sights were breathtaking. Our guide, Dave, was knowledgeable, friendly and fun. Our fellow passengers were a great group who added to our adventure. All in all, a great day. We'd do it again for sure.

5 out of 5 stars

This was the perfect day trip! The guide was very knowledgeable. I also enjoyed that we had plenty of time on our own to explore!

5 out of 5 stars

The tour was perfect ! And so scenic ! Our guide takes care of all and made our day perfect. Definitely worth it!

5 out of 5 stars

Everything was great. The guide was super nice! I highly recommend late October, as there's no crowds!

5 out of 5 stars

John was really nice and he really knew a lot about Oregon