There are several outdoor activity options in Hood River, a picturesque town. There are countless activities in Hood River, Oregon, and we will cover them all, whether your interests lie in the orchards and wineries, thrilling water sports and hikes, or one of the longest ski seasons in North America.

One of our favorite little towns in Oregon is Hood River, which is surrounded by vineyards and fruit orchards and sits on the banks of the powerful Columbia River. The Hood River Valley, where it is nested, has a brighter and drier temperature than the coast, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities.

Hood River offers a lot of activities, including sandy riverbanks, a charming downtown area, and towering mountain peaks like Mount Hood and Mount Adams in the distance.

The Best Activities in Hood River

These are our top picks for Hood River, Oregon activities if you're seeking for the best:

1. Travel The Fruit Loop Of Hood River

One of the greatest things to do in Hood River is definitely driving the witty Fruit Loop!

Nearly thirty of the area's wineries, farms, orchards, food markets, breweries, cideries, and flower fields may be seen during the 35-mile picturesque trip across the country. A few coffee shops, antique shops, and rural stores are also scattered throughout.

Decide on a few places and plan your own self-guided tour to make it a day excursion. We advise visiting a range of establishments, such as a brewery or cidery, a few fruit vendors, and a winery or two (or three – no judgment here!).

Even though the Fruit Loop is open all year round, many of its establishments are seasonal and might not be open during the off-season. For the most recent details about openings and other activities, visit the Hood River Fruit Loop's official Facebook page.

2. Admire The Panorama At Panorama Point

Seeing the breathtaking views from Panorama Point must be at the top of your list of things to do in Hood River, regardless of how long you plan to stay or how short your trip is.

You can drive right up to this incredibly accessible viewpoint, which is about ten minutes from downtown. It's a powerful sight.

Once there, take in the expansive (as the name suggests!) views of the Hood River Valley, which includes all of the picturesque apple orchards between Mount Hood and Mount Adams. Mount Saint Helens may even be visible on clear days!

3. Examine The Brewing Scene In Hood River

Although Hood River is undoubtedly known for its vineyards and cideries, its burgeoning beer culture is one of its best-kept secrets. The emergence of several craft breweries in recent years has enhanced Hood River's appeal as a travel destination. We beer lovers can now have it both ways (or perhaps "and drink it, too" would be more accurate).

Additionally, a lot of Hood River breweries are located along the Fruit Loop, so you can cross off two things off your list. Additionally, the majority of Hood River's breweries provide wonderful cuisine and offer breathtaking views!

4. Give Kiteboarding A Try (Or Watch!)

It should be no surprise that Hood River is a popular kiteboarding destination given its reputation as the Windsurfing Capital of the World.

The Columbia River Gorge is surrounded by mountains that form a narrow, deep valley with constant wind. But crucially, these breezes are constant rather than gusty, which makes them ideal for wind-related activities like kiteboarding.

Extreme athletes are drawn to Hood River because of the picture-perfect surroundings, plethora of outdoor activities, and the relaxed local atmosphere.

5. Go To Vineyards In Hood River

One of the greatest things to do in Hood River, in case you haven't guessed it now, is to visit the vineyards. There is definitely something to fit every taste, mood, and price range among the more than 80 vineyards and over 40 wineries. over all of them also offer amazing vistas and outdoor sitting places.

Why does this little town have so many wineries? Thank you for asking!

Hood River has a somewhat warmer and drier climate than the coast, and its soil is quite fruitful. All of this is related to Hood River's distinct topography, which includes the Cascade Range and the Columbia River as backyards. It is also the ideal formula for growing grapes and producing wine.

Hood River's very small size makes it feasible to visit two or three vineyards in one day. After a walk or a drive around the Fruit Loop, we love to stop at a few of our favorite wineries for a glass of wine and some light fare.

Read Also: Top Activities in New York City

6. Treat Yourself To Ice Cream

We understand your thought process. How can an ice cream shop earn a position on your Hood River to-do list? Yes, as it's really that wonderful! Having operated in the same location downtown for more than 30 years, Mike's Ice Cream is a Hood River tradition.

Mike's physical store alone is a good incentive to visit. It's cute, with lots of shade, colorful benches and Adirondack chairs for sitting, and a green front yard. Take a big scoop inside (try the salted caramel or anything in season!), then find a place outdoors to eat your cone while people-watching.