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Oregon Fall Vacation Trip Planning Guide
Posted by Mt Hood Vacation Rentals | Friday, August 21, 2020
Fall in Oregon is absolutely magical. Temperatures begin to cool a little and leaves start to change colors, offering spectacular conditions for hiking and mountain biking. Crowds are subsiding from attractions and trails as kids make their way back to school. Apples and pears are ripe for picking and something in the air seems to whisper "warm chili and cozy fireplaces"! As locals at Mt Hood in Oregon, we've experienced many memorable Oregon falls, and we'd like to share some of our favorite tips and tricks with you.
Planning The Ultimate Oregon Fall Vacation
Get a Great Deal on a Fall Vacation Rental
One of the reasons we love Oregon fall vacations so much is because the price is right! Families are heading back home for the school year which means more vacation rental availability and lower prices. Imagine spending the day leaf-peeping and then coming home to a private cabin that you only paid $125 a night for. Choose a cabin below your budgeted price and then spend that extra money on activities or a special meal, or stay in a cabin with all the bells and whistles that you normally wouldn't splurge on. Whatever you choose, be sure to book directly through a vacation rental manager's website like ours, that way you don't have to pay the extra fees associated with big vacation rental listing sites.
Find Great Deals in Fall Vacation Cabins
Make Your Must-Do Activity Checklist Ahead of Time
With smaller crowds, crisper air and vibrant colors, fall is easily one of the most relaxing times to take an Oregon vacation. It's so relaxing that you might find yourself opting for a book on the deck of your vacation cabin instead of going for a mountain bike ride. While we're 100% on board with the relaxation, we would be remiss if we didn't tell you to make time for a short hike or a trip to the Hood River County Fruit Loop. Check out our recommendations for fun fall activities and put one or two on your must-do checklist for the complete Oregon experience.
Pack & Wear Layers for Fall Weather
No matter what the weather forecast says, you'll want to pack a good assortment of clothing for your trip. The temperature in Oregon can feel really different from the actual temperature, and your surroundings and elevation will also affect that. If you go on a hike, you may be warm at lower elevations and cold at higher elevations. If you decide to leave your cabin for an adventure, be sure to bring a jacket even if it feels warm out. And while the sun in the sky during the day will be warm, the nights cool down during the fall.
Come Home to a Crockpot Meal
Oregon is truly an adventure state, so there will surely be a day or two where you get back to your vacation rental later than planned with a big appetite. On those days, there's nothing like a crockpot meal waiting at home to keep you going. All of our vacation rentals come with crockpots, so all you need is a quick recipe and the ingredients. If you don't have time to get the crock pot going in the morning then cook up one of these cozy and quick comfort dishes instead.
Start Planning Your Fall Trip to Oregon
Vibrant fall colors, ample opportunity for outdoor adventure and cozy cabins... sounds like the makings for a perfect vacation. Start planning your trip to Oregon today by finding the perfect vacation cabin. We offer homes with fireplaces and cabins with hot tubs too. You can even bring Fido along in one of our pet friendly rentals.
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Mt Hood Vacation Planning
Where to See Mt Hood Fall Colors
Posted by Mt Hood Vacation Rentals | Tuesday, August 11, 2020
When to See Mt Hood Fall Colors
Throughout Oregon, mid- to late-October tend to be the best time to view fall foilage. However, prime fall color viewing varies each year depending on the weather and what nutrients the trees had all year. The Mt Hood area can entertain bright bursts of fall foilage as late as mid-November. If you're planning a fall color trip, late October is a great choice!
Where to See Mt Hood Fall Colors
Mt Hood Fall Color Hikes
One of the best ways to see fall colors, especially if you're looking to snap some pics, is by hiking. Bring a jacket and pack your camera and some snacks, here are three places to hike and see the brilliant fall foilage.
#1 - Mt Hood National Forest
Besides evergreens, the Mt Hood National Forest is full of vine maples, oak, huckleberry and Oregon grapes shrubs with colors that strike a remarkable contrast to the dark greens of Douglas fir and hemlock in the fall. Vine maples, in particular, show off the brightest and most diverse color spectrum, from deep dark red to the most vivid yellow.
#2 - Hunchback Mountain
For a magnificent, sweeping view of the Welches Valley and the abundant autumn colors of the Mt Hood National Forest, hike up Hunchback Mountain, accessible from the Zigzag Ranger Station. While it is a somewhat strenuous hike up (an hour each way), you will be well-rewarded with sweeping views of the colorful valley and the Salmon River below once you reach the top.
#3 - Old Salmon River Trail
For a more relaxed experience, meander along the Old Salmon River Trail and watch as the fall leaves float peacefully into and down the Salmon River while the salmon are spawning.
Mt Hood Fall Color Cruises
To experience Mt Hood’s fall foliage from the comforts of your car, cruise along the Mt Hood Scenic Byway and the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway, which join to create a breathtaking loop around Mt Hood. Fall colors are particularly glorious through Hood River Valley, on Highway 35 between Government Camp and Hood River as you drive from forest to field.
Take breaks along the Hood River County Fruit Loop at the many orchards and wineries that dot the beautiful landscape, and watch apple, pear and grape harvest in full swing before tasting the fruits of the farms’ labors. Apples, pears, cider and other fall harvest fruits and vegetables are available for sale at many locations.
Photo courtesy of Gary Randall Photography
Plan Your Fall Getaway to Colorful Mt Hood
If the idea of cozy fireplaces, apple cider, brilliant fall colors and relaxation have you smiling, it's time to pack your bags and head to Mt Hood. Check out our guide to fall trip planning and four fun things to do in the fall at Mt Hood. We offer a great selection of cabins that are perfect for your next adventure. Book a romantic retreat cabin with your loved one, or choose a pet friendly cabin so your furry friend can join you.
Mt Hood Vacation Planning Outdoor Activities
Mt Hood Trivia Quiz
Posted by Betsy LaBarge | Tuesday, July 28, 2020
Over 5,000 years ago, the mountain we have come to know and love as Mount Hood began forming from volcanic eruptions. The time in between then and now has served as the basis for a rich history. It is impossible to keep track of the people, animals and plant species that have made their way through this beautiful place, but there are certainly memorable favorites.
How much do you know about Mt Hood, Oregon? This trivia quiz is the perfect activity for locals and visitors alike! 20 questions will pique your interest and take you on a journey to the slopes, through the woods and to historical buildings.
How to play: 20 questions are followed by an answer key and some history at the bottom. Gather with your friends and family and try to get all the answers without seeking too much help from Google. You might wander throughout The Villages of Government Camp, Rhododendron, Zigzag, Welches and Brightwood to look for answers. Many of the answers are physical places or landmarks that you can visit together!
Mt Hood, Oregon Trivia Questions
- Which trees at Mt Hood have a deceptive name but are actually evergreen trees?
- When was Timberline Lodge Built?
- What is the name of the first chair lift at Mt Hood?
- How many miles of trails are in the Mt Hood National Forest?
- Who was Billy Welch?
- What is Mt Hood's elevation?
- What are three native Mt Hood Wildflowers?
- What is the Native American name for Mt Hood?
- How many United States Navy ships have been named after Mt Hood?
- Which Mt Hood ski area is home to the Palmer Glacier?
- This trail was built in the 1930s and goes around the entire mountain.
- What is the name of the oldest organized ski race in the US that takes place at Mt Hood?
- Which Mt Hood destination is home to the largest night skiing area in North America?
- How many acres is the Mt Hood National Forest?
- How many glaciers are on Mt Hood's peak?
- The owner of this restaurant was known as The Duke of Government Camp.
- What is the steepest part of the original Barlow Road on the Oregon Trail?
- This river flows beneath the historic 1920s bridge that was part of the original Mount Hood Highway.
- These mushrooms are abundant in the Mt Hood, Oregon area.
- This historic hotel on Mt. Hood starred as a backdrop in the movie, “The Shining.”
Mt Hood, Oregon Trivia Questions Answer Key
Which trees at Mt Hood have a deceptive name but are actually evergreen trees?
Douglas firs (also known as Doug firs) have a deceptive name and are actually (extremely large) evergreen trees. Specifically, they are an evergreen conifer species in the pine family. Did you know that they are also known as the Oregon pine or the Columbian pine? Mt Hood is home to an abundant amount of Douglas firs... can you identify one?
When was Timberline Lodge Built?
Timberline Lodge was built by local artisans between 1936 and 1938 during the great depression. In September of 1937, Timberline Lodge was dedicated by President Franklin D Roosevelt and is now a national historic landmark. Did you know that Timberline Lodge is actually in the Mount Hood National Forest?
What was the first chair lift in Mt Hood?
The Magic Mile was the first chairlift at Mt Hood and the second chairlift in the world. It was built in 1938, and at the time it was the longest chairlift in the world. It has been replaced twice since its original debut, and you can still ride on it today! Take a "footsie" ride up during the summer and hike back down to the lodge.
How many miles of trails are in the Mt Hood National Forest?
Mt Hood National Forest has more than 1,200 miles of hiking trails. Did you know that the Mt Hood National Forest is present in six different counties? There is endless opportunity to explore.
Who was Billy Welch?
Billy Welch was the son of a homesteader who developed what is now known as Welches, Oregon. The Welches family built a store, post office, dance hall, cow pasture, orchard and much more. There is now a golf course where the cow pasture used to be!
What is Mt Hood's elevation?
Mt Hood is 11,235 feet in elevation. Did you know that it is actually a potentially active stratovolcano? Mt Hood had a minor eruption in August 1907, but based on its history the chances of it erupting soon are very low and it is informally considered dormant. The official height of Mt Hood has varied over the years due to modifications in measuring the elevation of mountains. Other "recorded" elevations have been ranged between 11,239 feet and 11,250 feet. Early explorers and scientists during the 1800's estimated Mt Hood's height to be anywhere from 10,000 feet to 19,000 feet.
What are three native Mt Hood Wildflowers?
Some native Mt Hood wildflowers are: Penstemon, Desert Parsley, Lupine, Partridge Foot, Pussypaws, Spreading Phlox, Sulphur Flower, Red Columbines, and Yarrow. Learn more about Mt Hood wildflowers like when and where to spot them!
What is the Native American name for Mt Hood?
While there is some debate over whether the name was given by the Multnomah or author Frederic Balch, Mt Hood was once referred to as Wy'east. Did you know that the Molalas, Kalapuyans, Chinookan Clackamas, Shinookan Wascos, Northern Paiute peoples, and Sahaptin speakers all once lived in the area that is now known as Mt Hood?
How many United States Navy ships have been named after Mt Hood?
Two United States Navy ships have been named after Mt Hood. The ships were the USS Mount Hood (AE-11) and the USS Mount Hood (AE-29). Unfortunately, the USS Mount Hood (AE-11) exploded in November of 1944, in Seeadler Harbor, Manus. Hundreds of men would vanish with the ship that day.
Which Mt Hood ski area is home to the Palmer Glacier?
Palmer Glacier is partially within the Timberline Lodge ski area. The Palmer Glacier is the only place in North America that offers skiing 12 months a year. Did you know that Palmer Glacier is actually a remnant of the massive glaciers formed during the most recent ice age and is actually a permanent snowfield?
This trail was built in the 1930s and goes around the entire mountain.
The Timberline Trail was built in the 1930s and goes around the entire mountain. This historic trail is 39 miles long and passes through sections of the Mount Hood Wilderness and Pacific Crest Trail. There are several shorter sections of the trail available, so you do not need to hike all 39 miles to enjoy it!
What is the name of the oldest organized ski race in the US that takes place at Mt Hood?
The Golden Rose Ski Race is the oldest organized ski race in the US. The Golden Rose Ski Race began in 1936 and is the only USSSA-sanctioned summer race. This yearly event occurs in June.
Which Mt Hood destination is home to the largest night skiing area in North America?
The Mt Hood Ski Bowl is home to the largest night skiing area in North America. It is an absolute must while staying in Mt Hood! The Mt Hood Ski Bowl is also home to Cosmic Tubing.
How many acres is the Mt Hood National Forest?
The Mt Hood National Forest is 1.2 million acres! You can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, birding and much more in this natural environment.
How many glaciers are on Mt Hood's peak?
11 glaciers are on Mt Hood's peak. The largest glaciers are named Eliot and Coe. Other glaciers include: Palmer, Coalman, White River, Newton Clark, Langille, Ladd, Glisan, Sandy, Reid and Zigzag.
The owner of this restaurant was known as The Duke of Government Camp.
Charlie Sperr owned Charlie's Mountain View restaurant, and was known as The Duke of Government Camp. His son Charlie now owns and operates the infamous bar. Stop by Charlie's Mountain View restaurant in Government Camp and check out the awesome Mt Hood memorabilia. This is a great spot to go for apres-ski!
What is the steepest part of the original Barlow Road on the Oregon Trail?
Laurel Hill is the steepest part of the original Barlow Road on the Oregon Trail. Laural Hill is infamous for its being treacherous for emigrants heading west. Travellers used to tie their wagons to logs or drag large logs behind them in hopes of making it down Laurel Hill alright.
This river flows beneath the historic 1920s bridge that was part of the original Mount Hood Highway.
Little Zigzag River flows beneath the historic 1920s bridge that was part of the original Mount Hood Highway. The bridge marks the start of the aforementioned Laurel Hill - making this the perfect 2-for-1 item on the trivia / scavenger hunt list. It's a beautiful bridge and definitely worth stopping by.
These mushrooms are abundant in the Mt Hood, Oregon area.
Chanterelles are abundant in the Mt Hood, Oregon area. A permit is required to harvest mushrooms in the Mt Hood National Forest, so be sure to pick one up unless you're just looking! It is really easy to get lost when you're mushroom hunting, so remember to pack a map and go with a buddy.
This historic home on Mt. Hood starred as a backdrop in the movie, “The Shining.”
Timberline Lodge on Mt. Hood starred as a backdrop in the movie, “The Shining.” The Shining actually used two hotels to film the movie. Timberline Lodge was used for the exterior hotel shots and a hotel in Estes Park, Colorado was used for the interior hotel shots. Stop by and have lunch at the Wy'East Cafe or the Y'Bar - both located inside Timberline Lodge.
Plan Your Mt Hood Getaway
Plan your escape to Mt Hood, Oregon today with Mt Hood Vacation Rentals. We've got all the details on what to do in town in our area guide. Plus, find the perfect vacation cabin with a riverfront location or pet-friendly amenities.
Best Of Mt Hood Outdoor Activities
Top Things To Do With Your Dog at Mt Hood
Posted by Betsy LaBarge | Tuesday, July 21, 2020
If you're a dog-person, you know the amount of work that can go into planning a pet-friendly vacation. You need to find lodging that your dog will be comfortable in, and you also need to plan activities so that your pup isn't just sitting at the rental all day. Your furry friend is part of your family, and as a good dog mom or dad you want them to be involved in the fun as much as possible. As dog people ourselves, we couldn't imagine living anywhere else besides Mt Hood, Oregon. This vacation destination offers four magical seasons and plenty of pet friendly activities that the whole family can participate in. Here are some of our favorite things to do with our furry companions in beautiful Mt Hood - we hope you enjoy!
- Mt Hood Dog Friendly Hikes
- Dog Friendly Sno-Parks at Mt Hood
- Dog Friendly Restaurants at Mt Hood
- Mt Hood Dog Friendly Lodging
- Teach Your Pup Some New Tricks
- End the Day with a Special Treat
Your Guide to Enjoying Mt Hood with Your Dog
#1 - Mt Hood Dog Friendly Hikes
Guests who rent our pet friendly cabins frequently ask us where they should hike with their furry friends. Luckily, the answer is that there are many dog friendly trails at Mt Hood. These trails have gorgeous views, and many of them lead to streams or lakes that Fido is welcome to swim in. Be sure to bring a portable water bowl on your hike and please remember that dogs must be on leash on trails. And most importantly, bring a poop pickup bag and pack it out. We do not have poop bag patrol to pick up the bags left behind on the trails.
- Mt Hood National Forest: Mt Hood National Forest is a mecca for pet friendly hiking trails.
- Trillium Lake Loop Trail: The 1.9 mile loop around Trillium Lake is pet friendly and offers excellent views and refreshing dip in the lake after your hike.
- Bennet Pass Trailhead: This 5.1 mile hike offers splendid wildflower viewing.
- Burnt Lake Trail: This 8-mile round-trip hike in Rhododendron offers a beautiful lake for swimming at the top.
- Ramona Falls Trail: This 7.1 loop in Rhododendron is definitely worth the hike. You'll be rewarded with a waterfall.
#2 - Dog Friendly Sno-Parks at Mt Hood
Mt Hood is a year-round destination, and when hiking is out of the question it's time to take your dog to a sno-park to snowshoe or cross country ski! Dogs are welcome to enjoy winter fun with you at many of our local sno-parks.
- White River West Sno-Park: Located in the Mt Hood National Forest, White River West Sno-Park is great for snowshoeing and cross country skiing with your pup.
- Barlow Pass Sno-Park: 2 miles north of US 26, Barlow Pass Sno-Park offers the perfect snow play opportunities for you and your dog.
- Pocket Creek Sno-Park: Pocket Creek Sno-Park is a bit longer of a drive, but you will be rewarded with plenty of space for Fido and you to play.
#3 - Dog Friendly Restaurants at Mt Hood
After a long day of adventure with your pup, you might be ready to let someone else do the cooking. Mt Hood is very pet friendly, and many of our restaurants offer outdoor seating where your dog can join you. Some restaurants even have special treats on the menu just for Fido!
- Mt Hood Brewing Co: This pet friendly pub in Government Camp offers patio seating where your dog can join you. You'll enjoy fresh brews and pub fare like fish-n-chips and burgers.
- Ratskellar: This pizzeria in Government Camp offers outdoor seating where your dog can join you for lunch, dinner or drinks.
- Barlow Trail Roadhouse: Enjoy historic sites and delicious eats at the Barlow Trail Roadhouse in Welches. Fido is welcome on the outdoor patio.
- All Natural Wraptitude: Enjoy gourmet wraps, burgers, sandwiches, beer, wine and more at the outdoor tables at Wraptitude in Welches! Wraptitude also offers live entertainment in the summer.
- Altitude Restaurant & Lounge: Altitude Restaurant and Lounge offers casual upscale dining and welcomes dogs at their outdoor tables.
- Dairy Queen: Dairy Queen in Rhododendron offers the usual classics like hamburgers, fries and ice cream treats. Dogs are welcome to join you in the outdoor seating section and you can even ask for an ice cream treat for your furry friend.
#4 - Mt Hood Dog Friendly Lodging
There's nothing like kicking back with a glass of wine while you watch the sunset and play fetch with Fido. The sense of joy you get from seeing them run around to their heart's content is really fulfilling. Some vacation planning experiences can be stressful when you're trying to figure out where to stay and what to do with your dog - but Mt Hood makes it easy. We offer a great selection of pet friendly rental cabins at Mt Hood. Find a secluded cabin where your dog can have the lay of the land, or choose a riverfront rental if your pup loves the water.
#5 - Teach Your Pup Some New Tricks
It's easy to get wrapped up in the day-to-day noise that can distract us from working on obedience with our pets. That's why vacation is the perfect time to break out the treats, tennis ball, or clicker and work on some training techniques. You might want to work on some advanced skills if you've already mastered the classics like "sit", "lay down" and "heel". Can you teach your pup to rollover? What about telling them to "wait" as you walk a few feet in front of them? Connecting with your dog and checking in on their obedience skills will make hiking, running, and snowshoeing with them much more enjoyable.
#6 - End the Day with a Special Treat
All of our Mt Hood cabin rentals have full kitchens, so you can whip up something sweet for your awesomely good doggo! It's surprising how easy it is to make homemade dog treats, and you might even get some bonus cuddles for all of your hard work. Here is one of our favorite treat recipes, perfect for a weekend with your pup. If you have two dogs consider doubling it!
Spot's Peanut Pumpkin Sweet Treats
- 4 T Pumpkin Puree
- 1/2 C Peanut Butter
- 1 Egg
- 1 1/4 C Flour (preferably whole wheat, but white flour is okay too)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350
- Mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and egg together until well combined
- Slowly add in flour until combined
- Knead the dough slightly then roll it out to a 1/4" thickness of a floured surface
- Cut into whatever shapes you like (Spot prefers bone shaped)
- Place on baking sheet and bake 20 minutes
- Let cool before serving
Plan Your Pet Friendly Mt Hood Getaway
We've got all the details on planning the ultimate pet friendly vacation to Mt Hood, Oregon. Browse our pet friendly cabins and contact us with any questions.
Best Of Mt Hood
Mt Hood Summer Scavenger Hunt for Kids
Posted by Betsy LaBarge | Thursday, July 2, 2020
It's absolutely amazing how quickly children learn, and it's a gift to watch them become inspired by something new. In a world that increasingly includes cell phones, tablets and video games, it's an extra special treat to watch them interact with nature. Mt Hood, Oregon is the perfect place to let your children or your grandchildren explore the beauty that is nature! We offer a great selection of vacation cabins you can plan a secluded family vacation in, that way your little ones can explore to their heart's content.
Once you've settled into your Mt Hood cabin, a scavenger hunt is a great way to get the kids started. They'll have a great time recognizing and finding these natural items, and the scavenger hunt doubles as a coloring page when they're done. Download and print our Mt Hood summer scavenger hunt for kids now and get started!
What's in our Mt Hood Summer Scavenger Hunt for Kids?
- Mt Hood
- Stars
- Fir Cones
- A Bird
- Animal Tracks
- A Leaf
- Wildflowers
- A Bug
- A Butterfly
- Bonus Item (Surprise your Kids)
Download the Mt Hood Summer Scavenger Hunt for Kids
Want More Mt Hood?
You will enjoy these fun, family-friendly activities at Mt Hood:
- 6 Lakes at Mt Hood for Summer Cool-Down Fun
- 10 Beautiful Mt Hood Birds to Watch For
- Mt Hood Wildflowers
Best Of Mt Hood
6 Lakes at Mt Hood for Summer Cool-down Fun
Posted by Mt Hood Vacation Rentals | Tuesday, June 30, 2020
What better way to cool down on a sunny summer day at Mt Hood than to visit the lake? There are actually more than 150 lakes and 14 wild and scenic rivers throughout the Mt Hood National Forest, but these six are some of our favorites (and they are nearby our Mt Hood vacation cabins).
Six Lakes at Mt Hood to Enjoy this Summer
- Burnt Lake - in the Mt Hood Wilderness and ideal for hikers
- Trillium Lake - just 3 miles east of Government Camp
- Timothy Lake - 12 miles southeast of Frog Lake
- Frog Lake - just 5 miles past Trillium Lake
- Lost Lake - about 15 miles up Lolo Pass Road
- Mirror Lake - just off the highway, 1 mile west of Government Camp
#1 - Burnt Lake
Burnt Lake is a high-alpine lake that is only accessible via a 6-8 mile out-and-back hiking trail which can be accessed from the north or the south. Access to the trail is a ways down LoLo Pass, so even though the hiking distance is relatively common, you can usually expect Burnt Lake to be a little less crowded than other lakes. You can also do a thru-hike if you pre-arrange a shuttle - either way you'll want to bring food, water, and a towel if you plan to take a dip.
#2 - Trillium Lake
Trillium Lake is perfect for swimming because only non-motorized boats are permitted. Being a smaller lake, the water is warmer! You can fish, canoe, kayak and paddle board at Trillium Lake. There are also several trails for all abilites for hiking, running and biking around the lake. Stay at the Marshall Cabin in the Trillium Lake Basin and you will be just 2 miles to the lake. Mt Hood is also popular for romantic retreats. Many of our cabins have played a part in engagements, honeymoons and anniversaries.
#3 - Timothy Lake
Timothy Lake offers spectacular views of Mt Hood, several trails, fishing, boating, picnic tables and a bathroom. It is the one of the few lakes that allows motorized boating (10 MPH speed limit) making it easier to explore the entire lake or to go fishing. Timothy Lake Trail #528 is the most popular trail and offers views of Timothy Lake, Mt Hood and Mt Jefferson. The trail is 7.4 miles one way, and you can either turn around or take one of several loop options. Timothy Lake Trail #528 is open to hikers and horses and most of the trail is also open for mountain bikers.
#4 - Frog Lake
Frog Lake is named for the frogs that live in the trees near the lake (they are actually Western Mountain Toads). During the early summer, you will find lots of tadpoles swimming in the shallow areas of the lake, and by mid-July they will be toads! There are several trails you can access from the Frog Lake parking area including the Twin Lakes Trail. This is a great spot for kids to explore on your next family reunion trip at Mt Hood.
#5 - Lost Lake
Lost Lake is the most difficult to get to requiring some gravel road driving, but the views are well-worth the drive and some of the best in the Mt Hood area. Lost Lake is surrounded by rugged mountains and you'll enjoy an abundant amount of fauna and flora. You can fish, canoe, kayak, paddle-board and hike at Lost Lake. Boat rentals are available at the lake, too!
#6 - Mirror Lake
Mirror Lake is just off the highway near Government Camp. This is one of the most popular hiking trails in the area, so you will want to hit it early. The good news is that the Forest Service has built a new parking lot and trailhead at the west end of the Mt Hood Adventure Park parking lot to ease the congestion. Dogs are welcome to take a dip at Mirror Lake, and they're also welcome in our pet-friendly vacation rentals.
Where to Rent Gear for Your Lake Excursion
No need to bring heavy, bulky water gear with you - you can rent what you need once you get here. Kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddle boards are all available at Mt Hood Outfitters in Government Camp. They will even meet you at the lake with the boats and pick them up when you are finished boating!
Plan Your Mt Hood Getaway
Your Mt Hood adventure awaits! We've got all the details on planning the perfect Mt Hood getaway in our area guide. Plus, browse a huge selection of vacation cabins with pet friendly amenities and riverfront settings.
View All Mt Hood Vacation Rentals
Outdoor Activities
Shelter in Place in This Place - Mt Hood Cabins and Lodges
Posted by Mt Hood Vacation Rentals | Monday, May 25, 2020
Find Comfort in a Private Cabin or Lodge at Mt Hood
We've all been itching to get out of our homes and apartments and enjoy experiences that make this world feel a little more normal right now. As regulations begin to ease and our communities start phased plans to reopen, we wonder how we can take a little time for ourselves while still respecting our communities and keeping our loved ones safe. Searching for and appreciating this balance is what makes humankind and our culture truly beautiful. We hope we can help be a part of that process, by providing smart vacations at Mt Hood, Oregon. Here are our top 6 suggestions for getting a little "me time" in the summer and fall of 2020 in a way that is respectful, smart and kind.
Six Smart & Kind Ways to Get Away in the Summer & Fall of 2020
#1 - Mt Hood Riverfront and Creekside Rentals
If restrictions are beginning to ease in your area, you've probably noticed the rush of people heading to the rivers and shores. It's no wonder why - riverfront settings are relaxing and refreshing, and there's something about moving water that can create that sense of "zen" you've been searching for. Did you know that the negative ions created from the moving water in the rivers at Mt Hood actually build up your "so-called happiness hormones" - endorphins and serotonin - in your body, creating a positive mood and sense of well-being. Many of our Mt Hood cabins and lodges are located along rushing rivers and meandering streams, offering a socially-distanced way to get your water fix without adding to the crowds in more public spaces. Find your ideal happy place in a Riverfront Mt Hood Vacation Rental.
Riverfront Cabin Rentals at Mt Hood
#2 - Secluded Mt Hood Cabin Rentals
Space is something we could all use a little of by now. We've spent our time away from others, but we've done so in the confines of our home. We want to feel the expansive sky above us and close our eyes while we listen to the birds sing. We hope our secluded vacation cabins at Mt Hood can help you do this. Picture long roads, tall trees and amazing views all around as you and your loved ones make your way to our private and secluded cabins. Solitude awaits you at our cabins fit perfectly for social distancing.
#3 - Working from "Home" in a Mt Hood Lodge
Working from home is a new reality, with many big tech companies already letting employees know they will be doing so through 2020. You might be ready for a change of scenery if you've been working off a stack of books in your kitchen or doubling as a teacher for your kids. If you're a remote worker, you can certainly get away even if you can't take time off for a vacation right now. Even though our vacation cabins at Mt Hood are secluded, most of them still offer Wifi - just ask us about the best homes for fast Internet connections. If you're taking the opposite approach and you're ready for an "unplugged" trip, we have a few homes with slower speeds that will make it easier to unplug. Call us to find the perfect "Working from Home" Home or Cabin for Unplugging at 888-424-9168.
#4 - Bring Your Family Dog with You to Mt Hood
This is an unprecedented time for our pups too. Shelters are emptying out, so many dogs have brand new families. Dogs with 9 to 5 parents are surely confused why their best friends are home all day, all the time (and why they keep telling them they cannot bark at squirrels during conference calls)! Whether your pup is a brand new addition or has been with you for a long time, they're probably in need of some outdoor adventure and sunshine too. Your dogs are welcome to join you in most Mt Hood Vacation Rentals, because making a cabin or lodge your home away from home means your family's best friend needs to come along with you. There are plenty of meadows for playing fetch, paths for long walks, rivers for swimming and sunny decks for afternoon naps at our cabins and lodges. Find your dog's favorite cabin among our Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals.
Pet-Friendly Cabins at Mt Hood
#5 - Self-Isolating & Celebrating in a Mt Hood Cabin
Maybe you share a home with your elderly parents and want to keep them safe, or maybe you want a memorable place to celebrate your child's birthday since they cannot have their regular party. Maybe you've just tied the knot and need a socially-distanced approved honeymoon spot. We're resilient, and our lives keep moving forward even in the toughest of circumstances. We will always find ways to persevere, and we hope our cabins at Mt Hood can bring you some socially-distanced approved opportunities to celebrate life. It is easy to socially distance in the forest when you are surrounded by nature, magnificent trees, meandering streams, blue skies and stunning Mt Hood views. Get away from the city and give yourself and your family much welcomed quiet time to find your centers and refresh your souls. Search our Mt Hood Log Homes.
#6 - Extended Stay Specials
We understand many of you may want to come for an extended period of time. Maybe your car ride is a little long, or maybe you need to be out of your house for a few weeks. For a limited time, book an extended visit in a Mt Hood Vacation Rental this summer and save. The longer you stay, the better the savings.
- When you book 2 weeks, you will save 10% off the regular nightly rate.
- Stay 15-20 nights and save 15% off the regular nightly rate.
- Stay 21-28 nights and save 20% off the regular nightly rate.
- Valid for new reservations booked between May 25 - 31, 2020 with stay dates between June 12 - September 6, 2020.
- Discounts will automatically calculate upon booking. Not available with other discounts, offers, promotions or specials.
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Mt Hood Vacation Planning
