Hood River
Located at the crossroads of the spectacular Columbia River Gorge and the magnificent Cascade Range, Hood River County is a scenic wonderland of natural beauty in every season.
About the Town
Hood River may be the most scenically blessed and recreationally diverse town in Oregon, if not in the United States. No wonder so many people who come here to visit, end up staying. Located at the crossroads of the spectacular Columbia River Gorge and the magnificent Cascade Range, Hood River County is a scenic wonderland of natural beauty in every season. Here you’ll discover a world of year-round outdoor recreation, dramatic vistas, historic landmarks, fantastic food, wine and beer—and best of all, warm, friendly people.
The fertile Hood River Valley has been famous for its orchards for more than a century. From blossom time to the turning of the leaves, the more 14,000 acres of commercial pear, apple, cherry and peach orchards provide miles of scenic beauty. Fruit grown here is of such exceptional quality that the county leads the world in Anjou pear production, and 50% of the nation’s winter pear crop comes from Hood River. The local “Fruit Loop” is a favorite with visitors and locals alike.
This beautiful gorge city welcomes sports enthusiasts in all seasons. In addition to being the windsurfing capital of the world, it offers kiteboarding and standup paddleboarding, mountain and road biking, hiking, whitewater kayaking and rafting, fishing, world-class skiing and snowboarding, and snowshoeing. With two ports and two boat basins, the area also serves both commercial and recreational boating.
Livability and quality of life are priorities in Hood River County. The mild climate, clean mountain air, year-round recreational activities for the whole family, and fresh, local culinary delights and award-winning wineries make it a popular destination for visitors from around the world. Festivals, art and cultural happenings, plays and music, and sporting events occur throughout the year so there’s always something going on. We invite you to visit this place of stunning beauty and discover your next adventure here.
Mt. Hood Railroad
Enjoy the splendors of the scenic Columbia Gorge while climbing the tracks through the spectacular Hood River Valley. Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams supply the dramatic backdrop. In the springtime, fruit blossoms bathe the valley in soft colors. Summer brings lushness to the foliage, a blush to the fruit, a deeper blue to the sky. Autumn sets the orchards and mountains ablaze in fiery yellows, oranges, and reds.
The fun begins the moment you step aboard this century-old railroad. Dating from the early 1900s, the Excursion Train is comprised of enclosed Pullman coaches, a concession car offering light food and beverage, a red caboose and an open air car. The Excursion Trains are steam-powered with a Vintage Steam Engine!
There are two and four hour Excursion Tours. Sit back, enjoy the great views and visit with friends and family as you travel along the river, forests, meadows and numerous fruit orchards. A live narration along the way covers local history and key points of interest. During the layover, have a picnic in the park, sample local cafés, browse the shops and take in stunning views of Mt. Hood. Be sure to bring a camera.
All trains depart from and return to the Mount Hood Railroad depot in Hood River. Reservations are recommended on all scenic excursions trains, however, walk-ins are welcome and seated on availability.
The Excursion Train offers light concessions onboard and cars are heated. The dome cars also have air conditioning. The Dinner and Brunch Trains are comprised of air-conditioned and heated cars. All trains are equipped with restroom facilities.
Advance reservations are required in order to confirm train reservation.
For more information on the dates and pricing click on the link.