Hood River Highlights

1. Multnomah Falls & Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls While technically a bit west of Hood River, the famous Multnomah Falls and the numerous waterfalls along the Columbia River Gorge are a must-see. Hood River is a great base for exploring these iconic cascades.

2. Fruit Loop Trail A self-guided scenic driving route that takes you through Hood River Valley’s orchards, farms, and wineries. Stop for fresh fruit, cider, and local treats.

4. Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum (WAAAM) A fascinating museum featuring a large collection of still-operational vintage aircraft and antique cars.

5. Windsurfing & Kiteboarding Watching Hood River is known as the windsurfing capital of the world. Even if you don’t participate, watching the colorful sails on the river is a treat.

The Dalles Highlights

1. Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum Located in The Dalles, this museum offers exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the Columbia River Gorge, including Native American heritage and pioneer life.

2. Fort Dalles Museum One of Oregon’s oldest history museums, housed in the Surgeon’s Quarters of a 19th-century military fort. It offers artifacts and stories from early Oregon settlers.

3. The Dalles Dam Visitor Center Learn about the engineering and function of The Dalles Dam on the Columbia River. It’s a great spot to understand the region’s hydroelectric power and river navigation.

4. Tom McCall Nature Preserve Just east of The Dalles, this preserve offers wildflower meadows and scenic trails with panoramic views of the gorge.

5. Maryhill Museum of Art Across the river in Washington but very close, this museum is perched on a bluff overlooking the gorge and houses a diverse collection of art, including works by Rodin.

🚗 Example of One-Day Driving Itinerary: Hood River & The Dalles via Mosier

Morning: Start in Hood River

1. Explore Hood River Town & Coffee Stop Begin your morning in downtown Hood River. Grab a coffee and a light breakfast at a local suggested staff favorite picks, and take a short stroll around the charming shops before you start your drive.

2. Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum (WAAAM) Head to WAAAM next for about an hour. Enjoy the vintage planes and classic cars before continuing your adventure.

Midday: Scenic Drive to The Dalles via Mosier

3. Drive Historic Highway 30 through Mosier Depart Hood River and take the Historic Columbia River Highway (Highway 30) east toward Mosier. Enjoy the scenic drive through orchards and cliffs. Stop briefly in Mosier if you’d like for a photo op or a quick walk.

4. Rowena Crest Viewpoint Continue on Highway 30 to the iconic Rowena Crest Viewpoint. Park and take in the stunning panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge. This is a fantastic photo stop and a highlight of the drive.

Afternoon: Arrive in The Dalles

5. Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Lunch After enjoying the Rowena Crest, drive on to The Dalles and visit the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center. Explore the exhibits and have lunch at a local suggested spot in The Dalles.

6. Fort Dalles Museum Post-lunch, head over to the Fort Dalles Museum for a bit of pioneer history. Spend about an hour here.

7.Tom McCall Nature Preserve Hike or The Dallas Dam tour

8. Dinner in Hood River End your day with dinner at one of Hood River’s excellent restaurants or brewpubs double Mountain brewery Full Sail or The Cebu lounge; The riverside views and local cuisine will be a perfect wrap-up.