4 Great Travel Tips for the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Take a trip to the region where Oregon’s highest peak, Mount Hood, stands; then make your way through the beautiful Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. What will you see? Before you will be a lovely and popular city called Hood River.

There’s so much to be said about this cozy, great place, but if we had to mention our favorite things about it, it’s probably the biking and hiking trails-we suspect outdoor and sports enthusiasts will agree with us too. You’re going to have so much fun exploring them, but you have to be prepared, of course, and we’re here to help you with that. Have a read below and see out to travel tips for the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

• Get Up Early!

Yes, this is a simple tip but you won’t believe how much trouble it will save you. Hood River can get quite congested, especially during the holiday season, so an easy way to avoid crowds is to just get up early and head to the trails before the sun is fully up. Besides, it will still be peaceful so early in the morning, and that’s a plus, don’t you agree?

So, how early, exactly? At least before 10 am. That way, you can avoid the mandatory congestion at the most popular trailheads.

• East is Your Target

Why should you go East? For one, that’s the region where the Columbia Hills State Park, a very beautiful hike, is located. Granted, it’s not the most popular of hikes but that doesn’t mean it’s not a fun place to be in.

• Head Up North

We’re going North, now? Yes, because the region also has its share of beautiful hikes too. Our favorite is the Weldon Wagon Wheel trail. It’s perhaps one of the best hikes in the eastern Gorge.

• Make Sure it’s Midweek

Midweek? Why? It all boils down to congestion, again. Weekends are easily the busiest times in the Gorge. The period between the months of April and October, in particular, can get pretty hectic pretty quick. Avoid large crowds by visiting midweek.

Okay, what’s the next travel tip? Well, it’s less a tip and more a recommendation. Hiking is a physical activity and you’re bound to get sweaty, so why not head to a place where all that sticky sweat gets cleaned off while your body is being treated too?

We’re talking about Spa Remedease, Hood River’s famed spa, rest and relaxation center. Come see us and treat yourself to full-body massages, manicure, pedicure, even eyelash extensions! Spa Remedease is exactly the kind of place to end a tiring albeit fun-laden day in Hood River.