Mt. Hood – Mommy Travels

8 Kid Friendly Wineries in Hood River

Meagan — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 15:02:59 +0000

Hood River is a wine lovers dream come true. Sure, they are known as the windsurfing capital of America, but they happen to also be home to some of the best wine in the state of Oregon.

Hood River is just an hour east of Portland and on your way out there, you will be treated to epic views of the scenic Columbia Gorge River. If you decide to stop along the way, there are a number of excellent waterfall hikes. Once you arrive one of the best things to do in Hood River is visiting a few wineries.

If you have kids like me, you need the winery to be kid-friendly. I’ve found myself in the area a few times now, and each time I’ve managed to find one or two more wineries that won’t bore your children to tears.

8 Kid-Friendly Wineries in Hood River

After lots of “research”, I’ve found the most kid-friendly wineries in Hood River. How do I decide if a winery is kid-friendly? There are a few things I factor in. I look for places that have games, a playground, or something else that will keep kids happy. Happy wine tasting!

Stave & Stone Winery at the Vineyard

This place is extremely family-friendly, but to be perfectly honest their wine is not great. It’s not the wine you go for though, well it is, but not the whole reason. The main reason is it’s super kid-friendly when their wine garden is open and the food is good. There’s a massive lawn where kids can play corn hole and other lawn games while parents do a wine tasting! I recommend not doing a tasting here instead, pick out your favorite type of wine and having a glass with food. Kids are not allowed in the tasting room or on the patio.

The kids playing lawn games at Stave & Stone Winery at the Vineyard.

Stave & Stone Winery at the Vineyard is located at:

3827 Fletcher Dr.
Hood River, OR. 97031
541-946-3750
staveandstone.com

March: Thurs-Mon 11-6
April – October 11:00-7:00
November – March 11:00-6:00

On the way out to Stave and Stone stop at the old lavender farm. It’s located at 3801 Straight Hill Rd, Hood River, OR 97031. The new lavender farm is next door to Stave and Stone.

Wy’East Vineyards

Playing Bocce Ball at Wy’East Vineyards

Wy’East is another winery I happen to think is super kid-friendly because they offer bocce ball. They have two bocce ball courts and instructions, so even if you’ve never played you can figure it out! I didn’t do a full tasting here, but the one wine I tried was good.

Wy’East is located at 3189 Hwy. 35, Hood River.

April 6–late October: Daily 11–5 daily or so. You may want to call ahead to make sure they are open, 541-386-1277.

November and December, early Spring: Saturday and Sunday noon to 5.

Grateful Vineyards

The views at Grateful Vineyards are epic.

They have pizza, a cow the kids can visit, and a playground. Plus, there’s plenty of room to roam around and tables for playing games. You just have to bring a game with you. I don’t recall much about the wine, but I do remember their cider. They offer both!

Located at 6670 Trout Creek Ridge Road, Mount Hood, Oregon

Open Sunday – Thursday 11 AM – 6 PM, Friday -Saturday 11 AM – 7 PM.

Hood Crest Winery

I have mixed feelings about Hood Crest Winery, but there’s no denying that it’s super kid-friendly. They’ve got a sandbox for younger kids to play in, a little play kitchen, and tiny kid-size chairs. They also serve food. If you order food you must also order wine, but you are at a winery, so of course, you are getting wine. The only downside here is the staff is a tad rude. They have live music sometimes.

Hood Crest Winery is located at 1908 Orchard Road, Hood River, OR 97031.

Phone: 541-716-0140

Open Daily: 11:00 am to 6:00 pm

Marchesi Vineyards

In my opinion, Marchesi Vineyards has the best wine in Hood River, based on the handful of places I have visited. They do not have games or any other things for kids to do, but they have two porch swings that I think kids would enjoy. They have blankets for you to use as well. They will do your tasting out on the porch, so it’s easy to sit with kids playing a game and relaxing while you are here. A tasting here costs $15 and a small charcuterie board costs $12.

Wines you should try:

Ciaplot
Tempranillo

AniChe Cellars

I have yet to make it out to AniChe Cellars. Both times I’ve tried they were closed. You will need to make sure they are open before visiting. This winery is not in Hood River, it’s right across the river in Washington. I happen to know it’s kid-friendly because 2 Travel Dads told me! In fact, they wrote about it too. You can read their review of AniChe Cellars to make a more informed decision. According to them, they have bubbles and hula hoops for kids. Plus, they serve snacks.

Gorge White House

I ask a local where to go and she directed us to the Gorge White House. They’ve got pear wine and a food cart on site serving locally sourced sandwiches and flatbreads. The pear flatbread is outstanding. I recommend getting a flight here because all of the wine is great.

Occasionally, they have live music and they’ve got u-pick fruit and flowers. Kids can run around while you try wine. The last time we were out there they had several cornhole sets around. I recommend bringing a few games with you like Otrio or Uno

The Gorge White House is located at 2265 Hwy 35, Hood River.

April and May we are open Friday-Monday 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. June 17th they go to 7 days a week and stay open until 7 p.m.! In October they go back to Friday – Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Hawkin Cellars

Photo from Hawkins Cellars

Hawkins Cellars is one of Hood River’s most family-friendly wineries, making it an easy stop whether you’re sipping solo or rolling in with kids in tow. The laid-back tasting room has plenty of space, the outdoor seating is relaxed and scenic, and the staff never makes you feel like you’ve committed a crime by bringing your little ones along. While you enjoy award-winning wines with a view, the kids can hang out, play on the lawn, and just be kids—because yes, a peaceful wine tasting and happy children can exist in the same sentence. Located at 10401 Cook Underwood Rd Underwood, WA 98651.

As I find more family-friendly wineries in Hood River I will update this list. For now, this is all I’ve got. Hopefully, it’s enough to ensure you have a great day wine tasting in Hood River!

Where to Stay in Hood River

Wondering where to stay in Hood River? I have two recommendations.

Hood River Hotel

If you want to stay right in the heart of Hood River stay downtown at the historic Hotel River Hotel. They have a family suite that can sleep a large family. You can walk anywhere in Hood River if you stay here.

The Society Hotel Bingen

If you want something a little more secluded stay across the river near White Salmon, Washington at The Society Hotel Bingen. They’ve got two-bedroom cabins that are also good for families and a gymnasium with cornhole, shuffleboard, and more.

Where to Eat in Hood River

In between wineries you may want to pop back into Hood River for lunch or dinner. Here are a few places we recommend.

Wicked Sushi, Burgers, Bowls

This is the best place to eat in Hood River. All their food is so good. They’ve got gourmet burgers, poke bowls and a wide variety of sushi options including deep fried sushi.

Double Mountain Brewery and Taproom

A favorite at Hood River, the debutant taproom at Double Mountain, this brewery has a menu for kids comprising of pizzas and sandwiches. Also, they have booster seats and high chairs for the kids. There is a restriction of time, all minors are permitted till 9 pm.

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Best Hiking Near Portland, Oregon: Trails, Waterfalls & Spectacular Views

Meagan — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 15:13:23 +0000

The Portland area is basically paradise for anyone who loves the outdoors. Between the Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood, and the Oregon Coast, you’ll find some of the best hiking trails in the entire Pacific Northwest. Even within the city limits, Portland boasts one of the largest urban forests in the country. Whether you want an easy trail, a moderate hike, or something with feet of elevation gain, this list of the best hikes around Portland will help you find the perfect place to lace up your boots.

Hiking Inside the City of Portland

You don’t even need to leave the city of Portland to experience some of the best views and most popular hikes.

Forest Park & Wildwood Trail
With over 80 miles of trails, Forest Park is a great spot for beginners and locals alike. Start at the Lower Macleay Trailhead near downtown Portland and wander past creeks, through dense forest, and up toward Pittock Mansion. On a clear day, the mansion’s overlook gives you a beautiful view of Mount Hood, Mount St. Helens, and even Mount Rainier.
Washington Park Loop & Hoyt Arboretum
This loop combines the Oregon Zoo, Hoyt Arboretum, and the Portland Aerial Tram for a unique urban hiking experience. The arboretum itself is a great place to spot rare trees from around the world.
Marquam Nature Park & Council Crest Park
Take the Marquam Trail up to Council Crest Park, the highest point in Portland at over 1,000 feet. The main trail winds through old-growth forests, making it a great hike close to the city.
Mount Tabor
An extinct volcano in southeast Portland, Mount Tabor is one of the best places for local trails with easy access and sweeping views of the Willamette River.
Powell Butte Nature Park
The Powell Butte Loop Trail offers a mix of meadow and forest hiking with spectacular views of the Cascade Range, including Mount Adams and Mount Hood.
Tryon Creek State Natural Area
This is the only state park within Portland’s city limits. With its nature center, old-growth forests, and well-marked paths, it’s perfect for first hikes, families, and easier hikes.

Columbia River Gorge: Waterfalls & Epic Trails

Multnomah Falls covered in snow and ice

Just 30 minutes from the city, the Columbia River Gorge is home to some of the most popular hikes in Oregon.

Multnomah Falls Trail
The Multnomah Falls trail is one of the most popular hikes in the state. From the base of the falls, climb a short distance (but with plenty of feet of elevation gain) to the top for a spectacular view. Expect crowds and a small parking lot, but it’s worth it.
Latourell Falls
A great time for photographers, this moderate hike loops around both the lower and upper falls.
Angel’s Rest
A popular trail with about 1,500 feet of elevation gain, this climb rewards hikers with great views up and down the gorge.
Dog Mountain
Across the river in Washington, this day trip is one of the toughest but most rewarding hikes. During the summer months, wildflowers cover the slopes, and you might even see bald eagles or peregrine falcons soaring overhead.
Eagle Creek
Known for cliffside paths and waterfalls, Eagle Creek remains a great hike for adventurous hikers who want to get close to the Gorge’s wild beauty.

Mount Hood & Cascade Range Trails

About an hour from Portland, Mount Hood offers alpine scenery and plenty of great hikes.

Pacific Crest Trail
Passing right through the Mount Hood area, the Pacific Crest Trail is a bucket-list option. Even a short distance on this trail will give you great views of the Cascade peaks.
Timberline Trail
This main trail circles the mountain, offering spectacular views and varying skill level options depending on how far you go.
Kings Mountain
West of Portland in the Coast Range, Kings Mountain offers a challenging moderate hike with almost 3,000 feet of elevation gain—and the payoff of sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean on a clear day.

Day Trips from Portland

If you have a little more time, these day trip destinations are among the best ways to explore Oregon.

Silver Falls State Park
Known for the Trail of Ten Falls, this park is about an hour south of Portland. It’s a perfect place for waterfall lovers, where you can even walk behind the falls.
Oregon Coast
Just 90 minutes west, the Pacific Ocean coastline offers great hikes along cliffs, beaches, and headlands.
Wildlife Refuges
Places like Sauvie Island offer local trails and chances to see bald eagles and other wildlife near the Willamette River.
Lake trips
Head east to Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, or even Crater Lake (a longer trip) for more spectacular views and great hikes in the Cascade Range.

Tips for Hiking in Portland

Trail map & parking area – Many hikes have a small parking lot, so arrive early.
Skill level – Portland hikes range from easy trails in Tryon Creek to steep climbs like Dog Mountain.
Best views – Go during the summer months for clear day panoramas, but fall colors are also stunning.
Visitor centers – Places like Silver Falls State Park or Tryon Creek have visitor centers and nature centers to help plan your route.
Wildlife – Keep an eye out for peregrine falcons, deer, and other wildlife along the trails.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re strolling a short distance on an easy trail at Powell Butte Nature Park, tackling a moderate hike in the Columbia River Gorge, or making a day trip to Silver Falls State Park, hiking in the Portland area offers something for everyone. From downtown Portland to the Cascade Range, the variety of landscapes is incredible—dense forests, old-growth forests, waterfalls, and even views of the Pacific Ocean.

For anyone looking for the best hiking trails in the Pacific Northwest, the city of Portland is a great place to start your adventure.

Mount Hood Scenic Loop: 6 Best Stops

Meagan — Mon, 20 May 2024 12:43:17 +0000

The Mount Hood Scenic Loop just might be one of the most underrated scenic drives in the country. It’s a four-hour driving loop with nothing less than 100 stunning stops along the way!

Of course, this loop can be done in a day or in a week, depending on how much time you have, but doing it quickly is better than not at all—Yeah, it’s THAT beautiful!

While we hope you can complete everything along this scenic stretch of road, we’re giving you a quick low-down below so you can make the most of your time, with options to add stops depending on your time constraints.

Prepping for Your Trip on The Mount Hood Scenic Loop

Before we get too deep, here’s a map to help you understand the loop and where it takes you. We’ve made it start in Portland but if you happen to be elsewhere, the loop can be done the same.

MAP

Here are some tips to help you out:

Starting Point: We think it’s better to start with The Gorge (the upper part of the loop) since it tends to be the busier road. So if you get this section done with earlier, you’ll be avoiding some extra traffic, both on the road and at the attractions.
Spring: This is one of the best time visit because the waterfalls are gushing, the wildflowers are out on full display, and not everyone and their mother is visiting quite yet. This is a good time to come.
Sustainable Travel Tip: These areas are home to delicate ecosystems. Practice Leave No Trace principles rigorously. Enjoying the environment respectfully ensures its beauty remains for generations to come.
Local Festivals: Check the local calendar for festivals and events. There usually something happening at the mountain or along The Gorge! Check here.
Pack Right: This area’s weather can change quick. Bring layers, be prepared for anything, and wear some comfy hikers while exploring.

Starting in Portland

You might be wondering, uhm, there are SO many things to do in Portland, why the heck would I leave? And hey, you’re not wrong! But also, there’s a wondrous world just beyond the city limits of Portland, and it would be a crying shame to miss it.

If you’re all about the city life, then stay, but if you want to feel like you’ve been transported to another dimension, there’s tons of waterfalls, scenic vistas, an insanely gorgeous gorge, a massive mountain (maybe you’ve seen it beyond Portland’s skyline?!) and some seriously cool hikes to discover…

So, if you’re ready to change out of your jeans, ditch the city-slicker look, and strap on hiking boots instead, THIS is the trip to take! Here are the best stops on the Mount Hood Scenic Loop.

1. Take in the Views From Vista House

Perched precariously on top of a rocky outcrop, Vista House is perfectly positioned to offer 360 views of the Columbia River Gorge.

The building is a century-old observatory and a must-stop on any visit to the gorge. This is just your intro, your sneak peek, if you will… It sits on top of Crown Point, which towers 733 feet above the Columbia River. Because of this lofty position, the building earned its name as the Jewel of the Columbia River Gorge.

As well as impressive views, the building itself is a sight to behold, designed in German Art Nouveau style, with eight sides. Once inside, the unique architectural designs continue, and you can admire them while enjoying the views, the gift shop, and the espresso bar.

2. Cruise The Columbia River Highway

If you are short on time and just want a glimpse of The Gorge, drive on the scenic Columbia River Highway, stopping along the way for photos and picnics. After the Vista House, this is where the real stuff begins! First up, we can’t miss talking about the waterfalls.

The Gorge is simply full of them, and impressive ones at that. A few of the most scenic falls include Bridal Veil Falls, Horsetail Falls, Latourell Falls, and the most famous thing to do in Oregon, Multnomah Falls, to name just a few.

All of them can be reached via scenic hikes, so take your pick! You would seriously need a few weeks to get through all the waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, so don’t feel bad if you don’t have all the time in the world to see them all. Head to Multnomah and Horsetail as they are the easiest to see pretty much straight off the road.

14 Best Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge

3. Pop into Hood River

Lavender farm in Hood River

Hood River is a small town on The Gorge and the last stop on this upper part of the loop before we head into the Mount Hood area. Here you can find cute produce markets, water sports like SUPing and kayaking out on The Hook, and a collection of nice breweries, wineries, restaurants, and cafes.

If you feel like you deserve a half-way-done beer, then head to pFriem Family Brewers! That’s a personal favorite. Go ahead and fill up the tank too since the next gas station is about 40 miles away.

8 Great Wineries in Hood River

4. Discover Tamanawas Falls

Cascading over a 110-foot-high lava cliff, Tamanawas Falls is pretty impressive. Getting to this spectacular waterfall is relatively easy and can be completed no matter the season.

To get to the waterfall from the trailhead, you will only have to climb 560 feet and walk just under 4 miles round trip. Due to its accessibility, it can be very crowded during peak months.

You can’t get any better than a hike through thick forests, along a bubbling stream, and ending with one of the most stunning waterfalls in Oregon! If you have the time for a nice leg stretcher, it’s a great scenic stop.

5. Head Up to Mount Hood

Take a slight detour and head up to the main mountain that dominates the skyline from Portland on this road trip! Winters are perfect for fun in the snow, and summers mean the paths are clear for hiking.

There are a few more waterfalls up here, events galore, adventure parks, and more. There’s no bad season to visit, that’s for sure.

Timberline Lodge

If you’re too mesmerized and don’t want to move, you can stay at the Timberline Lodge up on the mountain. Just don’t get creeped out when you find out it was in the movie The Shining!

6. Get the Best Views of Mount Hood at Trillium Lake

When looking for THAT view of Mount Hood, chances are you will find it at Trillium Lake. Sometimes the best views of a mountain are from down below rather than up top!

The lake provides postcard-worthy views of this mighty mountain, and the endless recreational activities are just a bonus. This is also your best option if you’re low on time since it’s an easy scenic stop without much of a detour.

For keen anglers, it is a great spot to try your luck catching a trout or two; the water is chilly, but if you are brave enough, take a plunge into the icy water to cool off. If you want to get into the water but would rather stay dry, canoes and kayaks are excellent options for some lake fun.

You could also stretch your legs on the Trillium Lake Loop – a leisurely stroll with impressive sights along the way.

This is technically the last stop if you did the clockwise route from Portland we suggested. We think as long as you made it here for sunset, you will be golden. You’ll be driving the last hour back in the city, so just take care and take it slow. You saw all the best things to do on this scenic loop!

Go Camping!

Sad to leave? Don’t want it to end? Want to take the Mount Hood Scenic Loop a bit slower? We LOVE camping in this area! Although the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood areas are an easy day trip from Portland, there are loads of great places to camp if you want to make a weekend of it.

Most of these are at the Portland end of The Gorge if you’re hitting up the waterfalls. In this case, Ainsworth State Park is the closest to the city and it’s our favorite spot! Around Mount Hood, you can camp at Trillium Lake (they fill up quickly!) or Nottingham Campgrounds around Tamanawas Falls.

How Long Do You Need for The Loop?

You only need a little over 3 hours to complete the loop, but that’s without stopping. Here are a few options but you’ll need to take into consideration how early you’re starting, traffic, stopping for food etc.

1 Day: You’ll probably only have time to do Vista House, Multnomah Falls, and Trillium Lake.
2 Days: You can do all the stops mentioned in the article, but you’ll probably need to be pretty quick and start early.
3 Days: You’ll be able to leisurely do everything I mentioned above, including heading up Mount Hood and wandering around and maybe tackling a few more of the easy waterfall hikes along the Gorge.

Tour Option:

With The Columbia River Gorge right on the doorstep of Portland, you have to explore it while in the area. If you don’t have a car to head there yourself, make use of a prearranged tour so you get to see all the highlights without the stress.

Head along The Gorge and chase some waterfalls on a fun-filled day before topping it off at Timberline Lodge on the top of Mount Hood! It won’t be as relaxed and it might be a long day, but it’s the best way to see this area on a tight timeframe without renting a car!

Guest Author: Nina and Garrett are two PNW-obsessed travelers who love hanging out in the outdoors. You can catch them exploring the PNW in their trusty 1974 VW Bus named Lucy and helping fellow travelers explore the West Coast.

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The Society Hotel Bingen & Hood River

Mt. Hood Summer Getaway

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Mt. Hood Summer Getaway

Eden Shamy — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 19:26:35 +0000

Mt. Hood is a great place to get out in nature during the summer and ski in the winter and spring. My family and I often try our best to make it up to Mt. Hood for skiing at least once a year. We went several times in this past year, although I’m sure it’s nothing compared to the amount of time that others spend on the slopes. I’ve only ever stayed overnight on Mt. Hood a couple of times, but I can say that I honestly enjoyed the Cooper Spur Mountain resort.

The Drive Up the Mountain

The summer was still ongoing, at the time, so we decided on a quick trip to the mountain. By evening, we had all our bags packed and ready to go. Everyone hopped in the car, and we drove out of the neighborhood. We were surprised to find that the place we were staying was far past Skibowl and Timberline Lodge. The drive was a little over an hour, and we listened to plenty of music all the while. Mountain roads are very windy, and we found ourselves off-roading at one point.

I was happy to be given the passenger seat on this drive in particular because we were hurrying to make it to dinner on time. You cannot order dinner later than eight o’clock in the tavern at the Cooper Spur Mountain Resort. I don’t exactly enjoy driving through the mountains so much. There’s always a feeling of worry in the back of my brain. Perhaps we’ll go flying straight off the mountain this time around, I thought. My brain can come up with very illogical things. Although I couldn’t help being a total worrywart, I was at least comfortable in the passenger seat. We were driving a Rav4 Adventure at the time, and there was quite a bit of legroom in the front.

The sun was setting as we neared the Cooper Spur Mountain Resort, and we got quite the view. Unfortunately, we didn’t have the time to stop and take pictures while the mountain was golden and glowing. This may be the first time I’ve driven up Mt. Hood at such a pretty time of day. I can’t remember seeing the mountain so beautiful before. As the gold faded into shadow, I wondered how much further we would have to drive. We had entered strange new regions long before sunset, but the drive continued at the will of the GPS.

I had been very zoned out of the drive and much more focused on the music when we arrived at the Cooper Spur Mountain Resort. We hopped out of the car, a bit tired, each of us wearing warm clothing. It had been a while since I wore a sweater, especially one so thick and fuzzy.

Cooper Spur Mountain Resort

It was getting darker now, but there was still some light left. My family and I walked down the path to the tavern and walked in the door. We were seated in the corner and handed adult menus, as well as a few kid’s menus. Although ordered off the adult menu, I did fill in the coloring sheet. It didn’t make much sense because there was no green. I colored the bushes dark purple and gave the trees a fall color scheme. Perhaps it looked insane, but that’s okay.

After dinner, we walked back to the car and moved it down the lot, closer to our room. We saw some cabins here and there. Some of the rooms were not separate cabins, but several cabins within a large connected stretch of cabins. A building inside of a building. I’m not sure how else I could explain it. We were pulling our luggage out of the trunk when we noticed that the door to one of the rooms was swung wide open. It was the room at the very end of the building. There were no lights on inside, and we could not see far past the door. My brothers and I joked that there was a murderer in the cabin, until we realized that it was labeled room number eight. The creepy murder cabin was the cabin we would be staying in.

We hesitantly walked through the open door and flicked on the lights. It appeared very nice, but I didn’t even consider this until after we’d checked the whole cabin for creeps. There was nobody. The housekeepers must have left the door open by accident.

First Floor of the Cabin

There were two large couches on the first floor, that I believe could have folded out into beds. There was also a t.v., and a coffee table. Past the living room was a kitchen and a hallway to two different bedrooms. Each of the bedrooms was fairly large, containing what must have been queen or king-sized beds, as well as closet space. There was a single bathroom on the first floor.

Second Floor of the Cabin

If you climbed the stairs to the second floor, you would find four small beds, and another bathroom. This is where Jonah and I slept, while Noah and my mom slept in the downstairs bedrooms. The beds were cozy, although I think some people might be too tall to sleep in the upstairs beds.

There was plenty of room on both floors, and the cabin could have fit at least eight people, with each of them getting a separate bed or couch. It was much nicer than what we’d expected, and we definitely should have brought some board games. We’ll make sure to grab some if we ever go back.

Two Hot Tubs

Everyone changed into bathing suits, and we walked down to the area where they held the hot tubs. It was very dark out, and thoughts of woodland axe murderers crept into my brain again. Something about being so far from everything else was very creepy to me. We joked that if you were murdered up there, nobody would ever know, and nobody would ever find you. With that in mind, we walked by the light of streetlamps to the fence that enclosed the hot tubs.

My mom opened the gate, and we all through off our sweaters and kicked off our flip-flops. We hung our clothes on hooks and placed our shoes against the wall. There were multiple other people in the hot tubs. There was not enough room for all of us in either of the two hot tubs, so we split up.

My mom and I ended up in a large hot tub with a Spanish family that lives in Bend, Oregon. They chatted with us for a bit, but they eventually left. My brothers walked over and got in the hot tub Mom and I were in. They reported that the other was not as spacious or warm.

Eventually, we tired of hot tubbing and walked back to the room. We changed into comfy pajamas and chatted in bed, finally going to sleep beneath the covers.

Breakfast

The grounds of the Cooper Spur Mountain Resort were beautiful in the morning. The grass was wet with dew and the daylight made everything a lot less creepy, although it was still chilly on the mountain.

We entered the tavern once more and grabbed paper plates. My family and I grabbed fruits and freshly baked pastries, eating them in the same corner of the tavern where we had dinner the night before. There was also cereal, but I wasn’t very hungry at the time.

When everybody had finished their pastries, we exited the tavern. Just outside were picnic tables with Jenga and Yahtzee. We played Jenga for a bit and then walked back to our cabin to pack up.

Mt. Hood Meadows Scenic Ski Lift

We threw our luggage in the trunk of the car and drove off to Mt. Hood Meadows. Everyone dressed in sweatshirts and coats because it was bound to be cold at the top of the Scenic Ski Lift. Our trek down the mountain began, and I nervously sat in the passenger seat once more as we speedily wound down Mt. Hood. Half the time, I wasn’t quite sure we were going the right way, and I believe we took one or two wrong turns, but we somehow ended up at Mt. Hood Meadows.

I pulled an extra coat from my suitcase when we arrived and threw it on over my sweatshirt. I assumed that the layers would work, but I soon found out that I was wrong.

My family and I ventured up the steps to the main building and got our tickets. We walked down the path over to the only running ski lift and hopped on. As we rose, the temperature dropped and dropped some more. I was doing okay, but I was still cold. My mom and I shrugged on our hoods and turned our heads to watch the main building grow smaller.

A Great Place for Hiking and Photos

The view was great, although we knew it would be better on the way down when we were facing the bottom of the mountain. I snapped a few photos on the way up, but I actually didn’t keep any of these. The cords of the ski lift ended up in the corner of each photo, and it was just too dark. Luckily, I also got a couple of photos on the way down that turned out much better, especially because the sun was finally starting to overcome the grey clouds.

At the end of the ride, we lifted the safety bar and scooted to the front of our seats, so we could comfortably hop off the lift. We took a path through a line of trees that wasn’t actually a gravel path, but it was a shortcut to the area we wanted to get too. I also got a number of decent pictures along this path.

My younger brother Jonah had forgotten to bring a jacket, so he was hiking alongside us in nothing but a long-sleeve shirt. At first, he tried to wait out the cold and get over it, but I eventually ended up giving him my fleece. If I was chilly within three layers of shirts and sweaters, I’m sure he was much colder.

Our path eventually crossed with a large gravel path that led us to a number of great photo spots. It was very quiet and peaceful at the top of the lift. I think the loudest noises within the area came from my brothers’ mouths. We continued walking around for a while, but we eventually returned to the lift.

As I mentioned before, the view was even better on the way down. The sun came out and brightened the day, and we didn’t have to turn our heads all the way around to look down at the mountain. The lodge grew closer and closer as we took in the glorious view. We finally made it to the bottom and entered the main building once more.

Lunch at the Schuss Grill

The Schuss Grill is located inside the main building at Mt. Hood Meadows. This is where we ate our lunch. They had a selection of sandwiches and other foods. I ordered a vegan sandwich. It was okay, but it was a bit cold. I’m certain it would have tasted much better if it hadn’t been lukewarm. The sandwich also came with chips and a cookie. Although they were packaged cookies, they were actually really good. My mom claimed that the salted caramel kind was the best cookie she had ever eaten. It was good, although I’m not sure if I agree with her. I’m more of a chocolate chip person myself.

Outside of the building, you could play cornhole. Just before leaving the Mt. Hood Meadows, my family and I stopped to play. We didn’t really count points or take any of it seriously, but we still had a good time.

At the end of it all, we climbed back into the car and shed our extra jackets and sweaters. Everyone was happy to be warm again, and we continued our drive down the winding roads of Mt. Hood.

14 Best Hikes for Kids in the Columbia River Gorge

Meagan — Sat, 23 Apr 2022 20:08:12 +0000

There are so many hikes out in the Scenic Columbia Gorge, the first scenic byway in the United States. I tried to google how many hikes are there in the Columbia Gorge and could not find an answer. Although I saw one claim that said the Columbia River Gorge is home to a whopping 90 waterfalls on its Oregon side alone. I doubt the number is that high, but almost every time we head out to this area, we try a different gorge hike.

There are many waterfall hikes and hikes with incredible views of the Columbia Gorge but they are not necessarily the best for those hiking with kids. Some of the hikes we have gone on were easy for my kids while others were a struggle. I have not included any hikes that were a struggle for them. These are the 14 Best Hikes for Kids in the Columbia River Gorge I have found so far that are easy enough for kids and almost all of them include waterfalls and scenic views.

14 Best Hikes for Kids in the Columbia River Gorge

1. Punchbowl Falls

Punchbowl Falls

Punchbowl Falls hike is one of many awesome kid-friendly hikes located in the scenic Columbia gorge area and it is one of my personal favorites. If you hike past Punchbowl waterfall there are a few other waterfalls that you can see. It’s about a 45-minute drive from downtown Portland and it is appropriate for kids ages 7 and up. To learn more about this hike, read my Punchbowl Falls hike post.

2. Wahclella Falls

Wahclella Falls Hike

Wahclella Falls is another fantastic hike with a waterfall and is easy for kids. We hiked this our cousins and even their 5-year-olds were able to do this hike easily. To learn more about this hike, read my Wahclella Falls post.

3. Wahkeena Falls

Wahkeena Falls

Wahkeena Falls is a beautiful hike. It is not much of a hike to Wahkeena Falls, but you can keep going up to the Lemmon’s Viewpoint a scenic overlook. I encourage you to keep hiking up to Fairy Falls after taking in the view.

4. Oneonta Gorge

Oneonta Gorge waterfall

The Oneonta Gorge is no easy hike. It is a short hike, just 1.2 miles round trip. In order to complete this hike you wade through water, climb over boulders, and shimmy across fallen trees. To learn more about this hike, read my Oneonta Gorge post.

5. Fairy Falls

Fairy Falls

Fairy Falls is past Wahkeena Falls and is totally worth the long hike. For kids, this can be tiresome. It is not as steep as Ponytail Falls hike. This hike is 2 miles round trip.

6. Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls is a kid-friendly hike along the Columbia Scenic Highway 25 minutes east of Portland, OR. When you are driving along the highway from Troutdale, OR east toward Multnomah Fall, Bridal Veil will be the second waterfall you come to. It’s just after Latourell Falls. If you would rather take I-84 out to the waterfall area, then you will take the Bridal Veil exit.

The Bridal Veil Falls hike is an easy one, less than a mile round trip. The paths are wide and it never gets terribly steep. Don’t let the paved trail deceive you at the beginning of your hike. Unlike Latourell Falls you will not be able to use a stroller, because the paved path ends and there are quite a few stairs. Be sure to keep an eye on your kids. There is a bridge to cross and then the path follows along Bridal Creek.

7. Elowah Falls

Elowah Falls

Elowah Falls is a gorgeous hike and it is extremely easy for kids. This hike is only 1.4 miles round trip. It seemed that the trail might keep going, but we only went to the waterfall and back. This hike is found off of I-84 exit 35. We did this hike the year we had no snow out here. Typically, there is a lot more water pouring.

8. Ponytail Falls

Ponytail falls ss one of many waterfalls along the scenic Columbia Gorge area in Oregon. The family-friendly hike to Ponytail Falls begins at Horse Tail Falls, about 40 minutes east of Portland off exit 3 when taking I-84.

This hike is a steep, long trail. Round-trip it’s about 1.5 miles, but you can take several different splits, including one to Triple Falls. We decided not to hike all the way to Triple Falls, because the kids were wiped out by the time we made it to the split. Kids over the age of 4 or 5 should be able to hike this trail. I do not recommend taking a stroller on this trail.

Along the Ponytail Falls hike you will be treated to beautiful views of the Columbia Gorge, Middle Oneonta waterfall, Lower Oneonta Falls, and the massive Oneonta Gorge.

There is no cost to hike Ponytail Falls and there is plenty of free parking. Nearby at Ainsworth State Park are clean bathrooms.

9. Latourell Falls

Latourell Falls is a great place to go hiking with the family and see a beautiful waterfall. It is found along the Columbia Scenic Highway, 25 minutes east of Portland, Oregon. Once you’ve visited Crown Point this will be the first waterfall you come to on the right side. There is a signage and a good size parking lot you can park at. There are also lots of picnic tables. We usually enjoy lunch here before we start hiking the waterfalls.

At Latourell Falls there are two trails for hiking. The shortest and easiest hike takes you right down to the bottom of the waterfall. The path is wide and you could push an outdoor stroller on it if you need to. Once you are at the bottom of the fall you can decide to go further taking you to a green space or turn around.

Either way, you will have to turn around at some point. The long hike is not good for strollers after a certain point. I’ve only taken it once and I’m pretty sure we got lost, so I cannot recommend taking it. It was very beautiful and we did find our way back without a problem. If you do decide to do it triple check the map and be aware of the trail splitting.

10. Falls Creek Falls

Falls Creek Falls (the lower part)

Falls Creek Falls is a great hike on the Washington side of the Columbia Gorge. It is much further to drive too, but I think it is worth it. The trail starts at the end of Road 3062. This hike is a 3.4-mile hike round-trip if you hike to the waterfall and back out. We did not do the long hike that is available here, so I do not know if that portion is kid-friendly.

11. Angel’s Rest

Angel’s Rest

Angel’s Rest is an intense uphill hike, but you are rewarded with spectacular views of the Columbia Gorge. This hike is 4.4 miles round trip, so keep that in mind before taking kids. This hike is off I-84, take exit #28 for Bridal Veil

12. Multnomah Falls

Multnomah Falls covered in snow and ice

Okay, I know what you are thinking, where is Multnomah Falls. I absolutely recommend stopping at Multnomah Falls! We stop by there all the time. In fact, I drove out there just to take pictures of it iced over when it stormed out here. You can hike to the top of Multnomah Falls and there are tons of switchbacks. It is a good hike but I would suggest not taking a child to try it until they are at least 7.

13. Hole in the Wall Falls

Hole in the Wall Falls is a super easy hike. We were hiking with someone who happened to have an injury and he was able to do it with no problem.

14. Cabin Creek Falls

On the way to Hole in the Wall Falls, you will pass by Cabin Creek Falls. You will pass Starvation Creek Falls on the way to both, a 186-foot waterfall. I didn’t include it as a hike because it’s next to the parking lot. This whole area is super fun for kids because they can climb all over rocks.

After a day spent exploring, the perfect way to unwind is by indulging in one of the many farm-to-table restaurants and enjoying some of the locally produced wine like Pinot Noir.

I am sure there are even more great hikes for kids in the Columbia River Gorge, but we haven’t done them yet! Hopefully, I can re-write this article next year and share even more kid-friendly hikes.

Read Next:

Things to do on Mt. Hood

Hiking Spots to Explore With Kids

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26 Best Attractions in Oregon

Meagan — Tue, 24 Apr 2018 13:05:37 +0000

Find out where all the best things to see in Oregon are! Oregon isn’t short of stunning sites. From snow-capped volcanoes to expensive deserts and lush forests lining a rugged coastline, The Beaver State is among the most diverse areas in the United States.

I’ve lived in Oregon for a long time now, but for some reason or another, I have never put together a list of the best places to see in Oregon. I finally sat down and put one together. Here are the best of the best in no particular order.

Crater Lake

26 Amazing Thing To See in Oregon

The first three things on this list can all be seen on my Southern Oregon Road Trip Itinerary! This itinerary also includes the waterfall trail.

Crater Lake

Crater Lake National Park is in the Cascade Mountains of southern Oregon. It’s known for its namesake Crater Lake, formed by the now-collapsed volcano, Mount Mazama. Wizard Island is a cinder cone near the western edge of the lake. The Rim Drive, a road surrounding the lake, offers views of the park’s volcanic formations. The park’s numerous trails include Sun Notch, with views of the Phantom Ship, a small island.

Oregon Caves

Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve is a protected area in the northern Siskiyou Mountains of southwestern Oregon in the United States. The 4,554-acre park, including the marble cave, is 20 miles east of Cave Junction, on Oregon Route 46.

Out’n’About Treehouse Treesort

Set on 36 acres of countryside next to Siskiyou National Forest, this imaginative treehouse resort is 11.4 miles from Cave Junction and 26.8 miles from the Oregon Caves National Monument. Learn more.

Painted Hills – Photo from http://essentialexplorers.com

Painted Hills

The Painted Hills in eastern Oregon near the small town of Mitchell, is one of the three units of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, located in Wheeler County, Oregon. It totals 3,132 acres and is located 9 miles northwest of Mitchell, Oregon.

The Painted Hills are a collection of hills that were created from a series of volcanic ash eruptions that formed approximately 32 million years ago. What makes them so special is fact that they’re colored in different tones of red, tan, orange, gold, and black that change during the year depending on the light levels.

Unlike most depictions of Oregon, this part of the state is a high dry desert, a sight you wouldn’t exactly expect to find here! The area is surrounded by hiking trails and other natural wonders like the Sheep Rock Unit, which will give you an insight into the area’s history through fossilized rocks.

Not far from the Painted Hills is a phenomenal working ranch that you can visit: Silvies Valley Ranch: A Luxury Dude Ranch in Eastern Oregon

Multnomah Falls covered in snow and ice

Multnomah Falls

Multnomah Falls is a waterfall located in the Scenic Columbia River Gorge area, east of Troutdale, between Corbett and Dodson, Oregon, United States. The 611-foot-tall waterfall is accessible from the Historic Columbia River Highway and Interstate 84. Consider having dessert at the lodge, they have excellent desserts.

Japanese Garden in Portland

Portland Japanese Garden

Located in downtown Portland, Oregon. The Portland Japanese Garden is a traditional Japanese garden occupying 9.1 acres, located within Washington Park.

Portland Oregon Travel Guide

Lava Tubes

The cave is part of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. The cave temperature is a constant 42 degrees, so wear warm clothing. This one-mile cave is one of the longest lava tubes in Oregon and offers self-guided exploration.

The Oregon Garden

The Oregon Garden is an 80-acre botanical garden and tourist attraction in Silverton, Oregon, south of Portland and not far from Salem. Opened in 1999, it is home to over 20 gardens, including a rose garden, children’s garden, and Silverton market garden. It is open 365 days a year and hosts both public and private events. The land is also home to the Gordon House, Oregon’s only Frank Lloyd Wright home. 879 West Main Street, Silverton, Oregon.

Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls State Park is a state park located near Silverton, about 20 miles east-southeast of Salem. It is the largest state park in Oregon with an area of more than 9,000 acres, with more than 24 miles of walking trails, 14 miles of horse trails, and a 4-mile bike path. Its 8.7-mile Canyon Trail/Trail of Ten Falls runs along the banks of Silver Creek and by ten waterfalls, from which the park received its name. Four of the ten falls have amphitheater-like surroundings that allow the trail to pass behind the flow of the falls.

Ecola State Park https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:OregonCoastEcola.jpg

Ecola State Park

This state park is located just north of Cannon Beach. Ecola State Park stretches along 9 miles of coastline. I consider this to be the most beautiful beach in Oregon.

Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park is an American state park located in central Oregon’s High Desert near the communities of Redmond and Terrebonne. Its sheer cliffs of tuff and basalt are ideal for rock climbing of all difficulty levels.

Sand Dunes

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is located on the Oregon Coast, stretching approximately 40 miles north from the Coos River in North Bend, to the Siuslaw River, in Florence.

Whitewater rafting the Big Eddy near Bend, Oregon.

White water rafting on the Deschutes River

There are lots of places along the Deschutes to raft. We went Whitewater Rafting with Sun Country Tours

Willamette Valley Wine Country

Spend a day or two wine tasting at some of the 554 wineries in the Willamette Valley. Need a place to stay, check out the Vintage Trailer Resort.

9 Kid-Friendly Wineries in the Willamette Valley

Lighthouses in Newport

Newport, Oregon has two lighthouses including Yaquina Bay Lighthouse and Yaquina Head Lighthouse.

Newport Oregon Travel Guide

Portland International Test Rose Garden

International Test Rose Garden

The International Rose Test Garden is a rose garden in Washington Park in Portland, Oregon, United States. There are over 10,000 rose bushes of approximately 650 varieties. This is a free attraction.

Lan Su Chinese Garden

Formerly known as the Portland Classical Chinese Garden and titled the Garden of Awakening Orchids, is a walled Chinese garden enclosing a full city block, roughly 40,000 square feet. 239 NW Everett St, Portland, OR 97209

Hoyt Arboretum

Hoyt Arboretum is Portland’s museum of living trees where we grow and exhibit trees and plants from around the world while educating our community and conserving vitally important plant biodiversity. The arboretum is open free to the public and encompasses 189 ridge-top acres in Washington Park that are accessible by 12 miles of trails. Our collection nurtures 6,000 specimens from around the world, including over 2,000 species, 63 of which are vulnerable or endangered.

Jerry’s Rogue River Jet Boats

Go on a 104-Mile Wilderness Whitewater will travel into the ‘Wild’ section, an area only accessible by jet boating, rafting, and hiking. Jerry’s is the only commercial jet boat trip allowed to operate in this remote twelve-mile section.

Timberline Lodge

Timberline Lodge is a mountain lodge on the south side of Mount Hood. Constructed from 1936 to 1938 by the Works Progress Administration, it was built and furnished by local artisans during the Great Depression.

Things to do on Mt. Hood

Wind Surfing and Kite Surfing in Hood River – Hood River is the windsurfing capital of the world. People come from all of the world to windsurf and kitesurf here. It’s fun to watch.

8 Kid-Friendly Wineries in Hood River

McMenamins

McMenamins is a family-owned chain of brewpubs, breweries, music venues, historic hotels, and theater pubs in the Pacific Northwest.

Sahalie Falls

Just off Highway 126 is the most beautiful waterfall, Shalie Falls. The whole drive down highway 126 is scenic.

Powell Books

Powell’s Books is a chain of bookstores in Portland, Oregon, and its surrounding metropolitan area. The Powell Books in the Pearl District is the largest independent new and used bookstore in the world.

John Day Fossil Beds

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument consists of three units: Sheep Rock, Painted Hills, and Clarno. All three give glimpses into Oregon’s prehistoric past. Hike through colorful rock formations at John Day Fossil Beds preserve a world-class record of plant and animal evolution, changing climate, and past ecosystems that span over 40 million years. Exhibits and a working lab at the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center as well as scenic drives and hikes.

Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

A 66-mile drive dotted with Alpine lakes across the high country of Central Oregon, home to striking volcanic strata and the stunning Cascade Range mountains.

Known for its magical landscapes, choosing where to go in Oregon isn’t exactly an easy task because there is just so much to see and do here! If you’re currently planning a trip to Oregon and wondering where to go, this list of 26 of the best destinations in the state you absolutely have to visit in order to get a pretty good picture of how diverse it actually is!

Do you see your favorite attraction on our list? Why is it your favorite? If you do not see your favorite attraction tell us what your favorite is!

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

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Things to do on Mt. Hood

Meagan — Sat, 10 Mar 2018 05:56:45 +0000

Have you ever wished you could ski year-round? In Oregon on Mt. Hood, you can!

Noah snowboarding for the first time at Timberline.

Mt. Hood is made up of 11 glaciers and a series of sleepy little towns including Government Camp, Welches, and Zig Zag. After living at the base of Mt. Hood for over ten years and teaching all of my kids to ski here, I’ve got more than a few tips.

Tip #1: Before you head up anywhere on the mountain during the snowy season, remember to always carry snow chains for your tires.

Tip #2: Don’t forget to purchase a snow pass which will allow you to park on the mountain.

Tip #3: If you need ski or snowboard tuning and repair, I recommend Boots and More. Greg is a great guy and does excellent work at fantastic prices.

Ski Year Round!

That’s right, on Mt. Hood you can ski basically year-round. Mt. Hood is home to five ski resorts, one of which is open all year long.

Timberline

Timberline stays open all year except for two weeks in September. Winter athletes from around the country visit Mt. Hood in the summer to keep training. Timberline has 3690 vertical feet of terrain for beginners, intermediates, and experts. This is the only ski resort in North America open all year.

There’s Noah pictured above last April snowboarding for the first time! Timberline has lessons, but he just popped up and snowboarded down the mountain. I couldn’t believe it. We love skiing in the spring when the snow is still amazing, but it’s not so cold. This year we will easily be skiing until the end of May.

I think skiing at Timberline is the best on Mt. Hood and Meadows a close second. Because Timberline is located at 6,000 feet on Mt. Hood, the ski area is one of the few where you start at the lodge, ski down and then ride the chairlift back up.

Mt. Hood Meadows

Mt. Hood Meadows is one of the largest ski areas in Oregon offering assorted runs for all skiing and snowboarding abilities. It covers 2,159 acres and offers 240 acres of night skiing! Meadows Ski Resort is located an hour and a half outside of Portland, Oregon up on Mt. Hood. To get there you take highway 26 to highway 35. Once you get close you can’t miss the signs directing you into the parking lots.

If your kids need to learn to ski they have lessons. If your kids are too little to ski or just don’t want to ski they have daycare available.

For beginners, it has a covered magic carpet, which is a conveyor belt skiers can stand on that takes them to the top of a slope. This is ideal for beginners who are not yet ready for the ski lift. Sadly, I can speak from first-hand experience … no one wants to fall off a lift!

Pros

A large ski resort with many runs for all levels.
They have the Ballroom carpet, which is fantastic for kids (and grownups) just starting out.
The lodge has multiple restaurants, rentals, sports shop, and a daycare.
They have a ski and snowboarding school for ages four and up.
Daycare for ages six weeks to eleven years.

Cons

The resort is further up the mountain, making it colder and at times the wind is brutal.
Kids will definitely need goggles to ski here.
It’s more expensive than the other ski resorts on Mt. Hood.
Other than the magic carpet area, it’s a little too steep for kids just starting out.

Mt. Hood Skibowl

Skibowl has diverse terrain with green, blue, and black runs. Mt. Hood Skibowl is often the most affordable option for what it offers. Night skiing is even cheaper, which is surprising since Skibowl is the largest night skiing area in North America. Located in Government Camp, it is the quickest ski resort to get to from Portland.

Summit Ski Area

Summit Ski Area is perfect for beginners because of its tiny size and the affordability of their ski and snowboard school. Their instruction is the cheapest on Mt. Hood and I consider it a ski area for beginners and kids, but it’s possible I am biased as this is where I taught my kids to ski.

The Summit Ski Area has only one lift that sources skiers to a green run or a blue run.

Random Fact: Summit Ski Area is the second oldest continuously operating ski area in the United States, established in 1927.

Cooper Spur

Cooper Spur is a lesser-known ski spot on Mt. Hood. It’s a great ski area for beginners with one lift and only 10 runs. I find that there are many locals that have never heard of Cooper Spur, which means it is rarely crowded.

It’s Not Just Skiing!

Skiing is just one of the many snow activities on Mt. Hood. They also have tubing, sightseeing, hiking, sledding, horseback riding and more.

Snow Tubing

Cosmic Tubing at Mt. Hood Skibowl

SkiBowl is home to a one-of-a-kind snow tubing experience, Skibowl’s night time cosmic tubing. During cosmic tubing, they blast pop-rock music over large speakers and light up the hill with black and colored lights. This is the only place in the United States that offers cosmic tubing.

Snow tubing is also available at Summit Ski Area and Copper Spur.

3. Sledding

If you do not want to pay for snow tubing you certainly don’t need to. There is an abundance of snow parks where you can sled for free with your own gear instead. We recommend Snow Bunny, Glacier View Sno Park and Trailhead, and Little John Sno Park.

4. Snowshoe

Snowshoe out to a glistening frozen lake that looks like it came straight from the pages of a fairy tale hidden in a forest untouched by visitors. With more than 1,200 trails to snowshoe and hike around Mt. Hood territory, this list could get lengthy! I’m sticking with a few popular hikes that can be hiked year-round.

Remember that the snow levels can get extreme during any month, so it is important to always check in with a Ranger Station to find out snow conditions before you hike any of Mt. Hood’s trails.

Trillium Lake
Trillium Lake is a 4.4 mile snowshoe hike during the winter with an incredible payoff, an amazing view of the frozen Trillium Lake and Mt. Hood. The trail is gentle and well groomed. You can also cross-country ski around this lake.

Little Zigzag Falls
This is a quick 1-mile round-trip hike perfect for those hiking with kids.

Wildwood Recreation Site
This recreation area offers hiking trails for any experience level, including boardwalks. The Cascade Streamwatch Trail is an accessible, 3/4-mile paved loop that features quality educational displays and picturesque views of the Salmon River, including a fish viewing window below the stream level. The fish viewing is amazing when the salmon are running in the fall. The Wetlands Trail is an accessible, 3/4-mile loop trail leading to the more challenging Boulder Ridge Trail, a 4.7-mile hike up the steep slopes of Huckleberry Mountain into the Salmon-Huckleberry Wilderness. These trails can have snow on them in winter depending on the snow level.

Should You Climb Mt. Hood?

For most people, the answer is absolutely not. Mt. Hood is the second most climbed mountain in the world, but I am certainly not going to suggest you head out to climb it.

Mt. Hood rises 11,239 feet above sea level (USGS), and its base spreads over 92 square miles. If you want to hike there are plenty of fantastic trails to pick from that are safe. There are people who climb Mt. Hood every year, but they have trained and often know the mountain well or they have hired someone to take them up. If you are in good shape and have trained to climb Mt. Hood you can estimate 4-7 hours to the summit. Other climbers should prepare for a longer climb, maybe 6-9 hours.

The weather on Mt. Hood can change rapidly, so if this is something you are determined to do research, research, research. And when in doubt, cancel your climb. It’s not worth the risk.

Note: I suggest not climbing, but I do recommend hiking.

Glorious Hiking

Mt. Hood hiking is unbeatable. Here are a few of our favorites.

Mt. Hood Meadows: Mt. Hood Meadows offers a scenic chairlift in the summer that will take you far enough up that you will have lots of hiking options. On the way up and down you can enjoy sweeping views of Mt. Hood.

Trillium Lake: One of the most popular places for a hike is Trillium Lake. Trillium lake is a man-made lake built in the Summit Meadows area near Government Camp offering year-round recreational opportunities. You can snowshoe and cross-country ski to the lake in the winter. (I was so surprised when I found out this was a man-made lake. I thought this was only done in drier states with few natural lakes like Texas.)

Little Zigzag Falls: A super simple hike, just a mile round trip.

Mt. Hood Restaurants

To be honest, I do not think there are a lot of good dining options on Mt. Hood. There are a few worth mentioning.

Y Bar at Timberline Lodge

After a long day of skiing at Timberline pop into the Y bar for a treat. Their s’more’s dip and the hot chocolate are both wonderful.

An insane hot cocoa at Timberline Lodge

If you need some regular food that isn’t pure sugar the nachos are a good option for splitting.

Loaded nachos at Timberline Lodge

Joe’s Donuts

If you are headed up the mountain through Sandy be sure to stop at Joe’s Donuts. You can have them for a snack or for breakfast.

Ratskellers

Until I had the chicken alfredo at Ratskellers, I never understood why anyone would order chicken alfredo over another option. But once I tried their version, it completely opened my eyes. It’s everything it’s supposed to be, creamy cheesy perfection.

After finishing up on the slopes, you must stop in for their famous Huckleberry shake, huckleberry pie, or a maple bacon bar. Huckleberry Inn is located in Government Camp and open 24 hours a day.

Blue Ox Bar

This unique bar used to be a wood storage area, but was converted into a bar in 1937 when the lodge opened and someone realized that there was no bar. They keep a bourbon cocktail on tap, “Hohnstein’s Dancing On The Bar Again” made with oak-aged bourbon, huckleberry syrup, apple shrub infused with black pepper, fresh thyme, lemon & ginger served on the rocks with a splash of club soda.

Where to Stay on Mt. Hood

After staying at many places I can wholeheartedly recommend these three as my top picks:

Timberline Lodge
If ski in/ski out accommodations is what you seek, then this is where you should stay. Why? Because Timberline Lodge is the only ski-in/ski-out lodge in the state of Oregon. Just because this is the only option does not mean you are compromising on quality, this beautiful lodge is a National Historic Landmark and overall a wonderful place to stay.

Best Western Government Camp

One of our family’s favorite places to stay on Mt. Hood is the Best Western located in Government Camp. The location is fantastic, near Timberline and even closer to Skibowl. It also doesn’t hurt that almost every restaurant up there is in Government Camp! This Best Western has rooms with two queen beds, a microwave, and a refrigerator in them. Plus, there is a complimentary full breakfast. If you are planning on skiing Timberline, keep in mind that Best Western guests can purchase discounted lift tickets at the hotel.

Resort at the Mountain
The Resort at the Mountain in Welches is an excellent place to stay. Fireside rooms are cozy with real log fireplaces, perfect for warming you up on a cold night. They have a golf course on-site and the location is close to hiking and skiing.

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Hiking Wahclella Falls in Oregon

Meagan — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 19:20:41 +0000

Wahclella Falls is a kid-friendly hike in the scenic Columbia Gorge. It is 2 miles round trip and has a place to swim along the way. Keep reading to find out more.

There are so many amazing hikes to go on in Oregon like Wahclella Falls, a kid-friendly 2.4 mile hike in the scenic Columbia Gorge area.

We hiked Wahclella Falls last summer on a super hot day and like all the hikes in the gorge area it was beautiful. We had never hiked the Wahclella Falls trail before, but picked it out because it is considered both kid-friendly and easy. Since I was hiking with four kids ages 6 – 12, I definitely needed a hike that was kid-friendly. There are some drop-offs on this trail, but not nearly as severe as many trails in the gorge. At no point did I feel uneasy with all the kids.

How to Find Wahclella Falls in the Columbia Gorge

To get here take exit 40 off of I-84. You do have to pay for parking. I believe it was $5. I suggest taking ten $1 bills with you just in case. Or if you have some sort of parking pass that works too. I forgot our annual pass so I had to write a check!

The Wahclella Falls trailhead is easy to spot, so you do not have to worry about getting on to the wrong hiking trail.

Is Wahclella Falls hiking trail open?

Yes, the trail re-opened August 2019.

You can swim at Wahclella Falls

What I did not realize was that we would be able to swim when we got near the falls. Next time I will have the kids wear bathing suits and bring water shoes with us. It is always so nice to be able to swim halfway through a hike on a hot day.

Instead, we just took our shoes off and dipped our feet in the water, which was still refreshing. This is also the perfect time to stop for a snack break as well. For a list of good hiking snacks, check out my article on healthy travel snacks.The kids had a lot of fun climbing around on the rocks.

I should mention that along the way we saw two small snakes sunbathing on rocks. This is the first time we have ever seen snakes out in the gorge.

You have to hike almost all the way to the waterfall before you will have an actual view of Wahclella Falls.

After you reach the falls I found it a little challenging to spot where the trail continues. This is not a one-way in, one-way out. So after you pass the falls you continue on. You are headed back the way you came, but not the same exact way as before.

There are many other hikes in the scenic Columbia Gorge area. One of my other favorites is Punchbowl Falls.

Here are 11 kid-friendly hikes in the Columbia Gorge.

Have you been hiking in Oregon? What is your favorite hike? I am always looking for new hiking trails.

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Skibowl Adventure Park on Mt. Hood

Meagan — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 22:26:57 +0000

Skibowl Adventure Park offers loads of family-activities during the summer months, like trampolines, alpine slides, dirt biking, and much more.

During the summer months Skibowl, up on Mt. Hood and only an hour from Portland, Oregon in Government Camp, is open despite having no snow. Instead of offering skiing and other winter activities they operate an adventure park with a whole assortment of family-friendly activities.

THE ADVENTURE PARK IS OPEN WEEKENDS DURING THE SPRING UNTIL JUNE 12TH – WEATHER PERMITTING. After June 12th they are open 7 days a week.

They offer different types of passes. We got the Action Pass that combines over 20 attractions into one pass. The pass costs around $39, but if you have military id you get the active duty members half off and a discount on the rest of the family.

The Pacific Northwest’s only ½ Mile Dual Alpine Slide! Enjoy a drop of 350 feet over the half mile ride with average speeds around 20 MPH. Don’t worry if you’ve never done this before they will explain it to you.

We saw lots of people mountain biking down the mountain while we were riding the Alpine slide. It looked like they had some good trails. The same lift that takes you up for the Alpine slide takes you up with your bikes. A pass to mountain bike is $32. Here’s a video of what to expect on the Alpine Slide.

Aqua Rollers, also known as Human Hampster Balls, is the sport of rolling around in a large game area or in a shallow pool of water in a giant inflatable ball. Kids must be at least 3 years old and 48″ tall to participate.

They have bungee trampolines for larger and smaller people/kids. Tip: make sure they don’t secure the harness to tight, it will make jumping a lot less fun.

The Kid’s Super Fun Play Zone is 2,400 square feet of kid’s-only playground! Dive into the adventure with the enormous ball pit, followed by the bungee room, climbing tubes, slides, rollers and net walks. To be honest my husband and I also had a lot of fun playing in here, even though we were unsure if we were suppose to be in there.

These were some of the activities we did while we were here. Unfortunately we didn’t give ourselves enough time to do everything that was included on our passes. Next time we go we will arrive much earlier in the day.

Other activities – There were lots of activities we didn’t do like the bungee jump or the zip lines. These types of activities cost more money and have different age and height restrictions.

Here is a full list of Adventure Park Activities

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Where to go Sledding on Mt. Hood

Meagan — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 01:57:00 +0000

Do you ever let your kids skip school to go have a fun day? I decided to keep my kindergartner home from school one Monday and take him skiing up on Mt. Hood. I was thinking it would be a great opportunity to spend some quality time with him one on one. He’s the youngest of three.

We got all suited up, loaded the car and proceeded to drive an hour up to the mountain. When we got there the parking lot was empty. There wasn’t a person in sight. Ski Bowl was completely empty. I made a few phone calls and found out that they didn’t open until 3 PM. I needed to be one the road back home by 2 PM to get the other kids, so there was no way we were going to get to ski at Ski Bowl.

We drove on towards Summit ski area only to find out that they are closed all day on Mondays. Who would have thought in the middle of February during ski season there would be no where to actually ski. (I later found out that Timberline is open everyday of the week. Timberline is close to Ski Bowl and Summit, but I didn’t know.)

We didn’t drive all that way for nothing, so, we went to a store in Government Camp and bought a sled and took him sledding at Glacier View Sno Park and Trailhead. It turned out to be a great day, but it will be the last time we head out without checking the hours of operation.

Where to go Sledding on Mt. Hood

Lucky for us there are multiple places you can sled on around Mt. Hood. You just need an ODOT Sno-Park permit to park at one of the parks. You can buy a day pass, three-day, or an annual permit from many places around the mountain. I bought our annual pass at Joe’s Donuts in Sandy.

Glacier View Sno Park and Trailhead is right behind Government Camp, back behind the Huckleberry Inn area. It’s not really designated for sledding, but we had a lot of fun sledding here.

Snow Bunny is the one we go to the most, especially if we are going as part of a larger group. Unfortunately, you have to pay to snow tube here now, $15 per person age 5 and up. You cannot use your own sled. Snow Bunny is located two miles east of Summit and only open on weekends and holidays. There are no restrooms here.

Little John Sno Park is free, so now that is our go to. 30 miles south of Hood River off of Oregon 35. There is a warming shelter and vault toilet at this sno park. You will need to bring your own tubes and sleds. They have a no wooden or metal sleds allowed rule.

White River Sno Park is 4 miles north of US 26 on Oregon 35 near Mt. Hood Meadows. White River Sno Park is another place you can sled for free. It has vault toilets are on site. You will need to bring your own sleds or tubes.

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