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Hood River Travel Guide
Hood River sits where the Columbia River Gorge meets Mount Hood, an hour east of Portland, and it's built around wind and fruit: kiteboarding and windsurfing on the river, orchards and cideries on the Fruit Loop drive south of town. The Gorge waterfalls along the historic highway, including Multnomah Falls, are free apart from timed-entry permits in peak season. Summer weekends are the busy, expensive stretch; spring blossom season and fall harvest are cheaper and arguably better. This guide covers the drive from Portland, permit requirements, and where the value stays are.
Quick tips
- Multnomah Falls and the Gorge waterfall corridor require timed-entry permits in peak season — check before driving out.
- The Fruit Loop drive south of town is free and best in spring blossom or fall harvest.
- Summer weekends are the peak; midweek and shoulder season cost far less.
- The Historic Columbia River Highway is a free scenic alternative to I-84.
- Portland is about an hour away, which makes a day trip realistic if lodging prices out.
Frequently asked
How far is Hood River from Portland?
About an hour east on I-84, or longer and more scenic on the Historic Columbia River Highway.
Do you need a permit for the Columbia Gorge waterfalls?
In peak season, the Multnomah Falls corridor uses a timed-entry permit system. Requirements change by year, so check before you go.
When is the best time to visit Hood River?
Late spring for blossoms and waterfalls at full flow, or September and October for harvest season and cheaper lodging.