Tag: Mountains

Chasing Wind and Mountains in Hood River, Oregon

Tucked between the mighty Columbia River and the towering peak of Mount Hood, Hood River, Oregon, offers a rare blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure that appeals to travelers year-round, as per this travel blog article from Travel + Leisure. Known for its windswept waterfront and mountainous surroundings, this small city has earned its reputation as a destination where people come to play—whether that’s on land, water, or snow.

One of the city’s most distinctive features is the strong wind that barrels through the Columbia River Gorge, making Hood River a global hotspot for windsurfing and kiteboarding. Often called the “windsurfing capital of the world,” the area comes alive between June and September as water sports enthusiasts flock to its breezy banks. For those who prefer to stay on land, the terrain provides endless opportunities for hiking and mountain biking. The Coyote Wall Trail, just across the river in Washington, rewards hikers with sweeping views and seasonal wildflowers, while Mt. Hood Meadows offers ski slopes in winter and hiking trails in warmer months. Timberline, another ski area on Mount Hood,boasts North America’s longest ski season, allowing visitors to experience both snow sports and water activities in a single trip.

Although Hood River is a destination with something to offer every season, summer is particularly popular. Mild temperatures and steady breezes create ideal conditions for lounging by the river, taking a dip, or setting off on a paddleboard. For snow lovers, January through March is the best time to hit the slopes. And for food enthusiasts, October is a prime time to visit, thanks to the Hood River Harvest Fest—a celebration of local produce, cuisine, and craftwork set against the stunning backdrop of the Columbia River.

To experience the agricultural bounty of the region, take a scenic drive along the Hood River Fruit Loop. This 35-mile self-guided tour winds past dozens of fruit stands, flower fields, and artisan shops. It’s a flavorful way to explore the valley while enjoying picturesque views and regional delicacies.

Beyond the outdoor adventures, downtown Hood River presents a charming array of shops and locally owned businesses. Arome is a standout for culinary travelers, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of spices, oils, and kitchen goods. Regular tasting events and knowledgeable staff make it a must-visit for those inspired by flavor. Twiggs, a stylish boutique, features handcrafted jewelry and home goods, often hosting artist meet-and-greets to give visitors insight into the creative process behind their purchases.

For stylish, outdoor-inspired fashion, Doug’s has been a staple since 1984. With brands like Patagonia and Roxy, it’s the perfect place to gear up for your next hike or just blend in with the laid-back Hood River vibe.

Dining in Hood River reflects the city’s casual and welcoming atmosphere. Solstice Wood Fire Pizza, located along the waterfront, serves up freshly fired pizzas and slices perfect for a relaxed meal by the river. Another unexpected gem is Riverside, housed in a Best Western hotel. With gourmet dishes and patio seating overlooking the gorge, it’s a local favorite that impresses from first bite to last view.

Accommodations in Hood River range from boutique elegance to rustic comfort. The Columbia Gorge Hotel & Spaprovides a serene escape just minutes from downtown, with Art Deco-style rooms and gardens that spill toward the river. For a more central stay, the Hood River Hotel offers historic charm right in the heart of downtown, with a variety of room options and close proximity to the city’s best shops and cafes.

Whether you’re scaling peaks, catching wind on the water, or tasting your way through the valley, Hood River offers a refreshing escape where nature and small-town charm coexist in perfect balance.

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Skip the Beach for the Mountains on Your Next Spring Trip

The beach isn’t the only spring trip destination, despite it often being the location most often associated with Spring Break. Though, thanks to TravelPulse, there are plenty of non-beach alternatives to choose from when planning your next springtime-foray.

As always, it should be noted that when traveling, especially in 2021, you should regularly check the CDC recommendations and travel advisories whenever traveling while in the midst of a pandemic. State and local health department websites are your best resource. Keep in mind that restrictions can change rapidly depending on local conditions. Check back for updates as your trip gets closer.

Coastal cities, sand-laden beachfronts, crystal-clear waters are often synonymous with springtime vacations, be it a “Spring Break” or even just a weekend getaway. In addition to it being an optimal location for recreation, it even allows for plenty of social distancing room and wide-open spaces for families to stay together while still having fun. Despite these benefits, it’s always fun and even a good idea to think outside the box, branch outside of your comfort zone, and set your sights somewhere less sunny and possibly more northbound with the following locations, as suggested by TravelPulse.

Yosemite National Park

The famed park, located in California, offers its patrons an environment that’s not necessarily as warm as Sandals, Jamaica during a spring trip, but the sights taken in are simply inspiring. Once inside the forest’s enclosure, you’ll be greeted by nature itself as well as utterly massive, prehistoric trees that you’ll struggle to capture with your camera. Though, it’s likely that you’ll simply be awe-struck by their majestic stature.

Salt Lake City, Utah

Up north there is a majestic city near the Upper Peninsula that blends together nature and modern conveniences, it goes by the name of Salt Lake City, Utah. Set the GPS today and make your first stop at the Great Salt Lake State Park. Alternatively, you’ll be able to visit the Bonneville Salt Flats and take in the iconic sights of the 12-by-5 mile expanse that emcompasses 300,000 acres. The salt crust has been around since the latest Ice Age, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Sonoma Valley, California

This location is perfect for two travelers who want to get a little off-path from the beach but still in the California sun during a spring trip. Here, you’ll see the lovely splendor of wine country, and once you set your sights on those gallant hilltops lying beneath a sunrise or sunset, you’ll likely assume you’ve booked a vacation inside a postcard.

San Antonio, Texas

See the lush greenery of this southern gem in March or April before it gets too hot in later months. San Antonio holds a lot of history within its limits, but it also stands tall as a living testament to the culture of its modern-day inhabitants. Take in the shops, eateries, and attractions along the riverfront, and you’ll begin to see why this southern town just north-of-the-border is often called the Venice of Texas.

Denver, Colorado

In the heart of the United States is the modern, bustling metropolis of Denver. The air is clean, the city is large, and frankly, the people don’t seem at all bothered. Stop by City Park for some lovely sights and space to move around or head out of town to a nearby hiking trail. The downtown scene is always home to a new recreation-based business venture like virtual reality or indoor puzzle rooms, so there’s always plenty to do in this strikingly vibrant city lying on the forefront of modern spectacle.

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