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Planning a Mt Hood Romantic Getaway
Posted by Mt Hood Vacation Rentals | Friday, January 10, 2020
Planning a Mt Hood Romantic Getaway
Whether you're planning a honeymoon, an anniversary, or you're just looking for a spot to reconnect with your loved one, Mt Hood is the perfect escape for a romantic getaway. Mt Hood's quaint and quiet villages offer a great mix of nature, relaxation, outdoor exploration, privacy and home-town establishments... not to mention cozy log cabins with fireplaces and the best views. Just imagine watching deer walk through your expansive yard as you sip coffee in the hot tub, or enjoying a riverside picnic while the sun beams down on you! All of these scenarios play out beautifully throughout The Villages of Mt Hood in Oregon. Your significant other will love being surprised with an intimate trip away from the city.
Mt Hood Romantic Cabins
Planning a Mt Hood romantic getaway always starts with finding a cabin you can call home during your visit. Luckily there is no shortage of romantic cabins with hot tubs, fireplaces, riverside locations and decks with breathtaking views. Check out some of our favorite cabins for your upcoming trip below, or search all of our romantic cabin rentals.
River View Cabin
- Village: Welches
- Why we love this cabin: vaulted great room, wood-burning fireplace, private hot tub & panoramic views of the Sandy River
Bear Den Log Cabin
- Village: Welches
- Why we love this cabin: open great room, wood-burning woodstove, jetted whirlpool tub in the master bathroom, deck with a BBQ grill & pet friendly
Moondance Cabin
- Village: Zigzag
- Why we love this cabin: stunning wood interior, secluded creekside setting, wood-burning woodstove, private hot tub & deck with a BBQ grill
Salmonberry Retreat
- Village: Brightwood
- Why we love this cabin: on the Sandy river with surrounding woods, wood-burning fireplace, private hot tub, deck with a BBQ grill & pet friendly
Firwood Cabin
- Village: Zigzag
- Why we love this cabin: beautiful forest and mountain view, 3 private acres, open great room, private hot tub, deck with a BBQ grill & pet friendly
Dream Catcher Cabin
- Village: Brightwood
- Why we love this cabin: Riverfront on the Salmon River, vaulted great room, fireplace, private hot tub, firepit & picnic table, pet-friendly
We offer all of these romantic retreats and more! Browse our full collection of romantic cabin rentals.
Romantic Activities Around Mt Hood
Once your cabin is reserved you'll want to plan some activities to enjoy with your loved one. There are many romantic things to do throughout the Mt Hood villages for every taste, from intimate fireside conversations at your private cabin to being wined and dined around town. Here are some of our top picks for ways to spend time with your significant other:
Fireplace, Wine & Games
What could be more intimate than a night spent cozied up in front of the fireplace playing games and sipping a bottle of good wine? Take a break from TV and your smartphone and spend some time talking, planning and reminiscing by firelight!
Sunrises, Sunsets & Star Watching in the Hot Tub
Hot tubs are always great, but they're even better when you're surrounded by nature. Get up early with a cup of coffee to enjoy the sunrise from the hot tub, or have a cocktail while the sun sets. Star watching is absolutely magical in Mt Hood, and you'll stay nice and warm in the hot tub. If your timing is right, you may even see some wildlife when you're soaking.
Romantic Dining
We often don't give food enough credit for the role it plays in our lives. Taking the time to share a meal with your loved one, putting the phones down and truly connecting and sharing conversation is an excellent way to say "I love you". All of our cabin rentals have fully equipped kitchens so that you can cook an intimate dinner at home. Mt Hood also offers a great selection of restaurants if you prefer to go out. The Rendezvous Grill and Tap Room has a Happy Hour every Monday and Tuesday from 2pm - 5pm where you can enjoy $2 off adult beverages and small plates, and Wine Down Wednesdays every Wednesday.
Outdoor Adventures
We'd be remiss if we didn't mention the ample opportunity for outdoor adventuring throughout Mt Hood! You can hike year round at Mt Hood since the trails at lower elevations don't always have snow. Skiing or snowboarding is also a great activity to try out with your loved one and there are a variety of runs to accommodate everyone from beginners to advanced skiers. One of our favorite romantic outdoor activities is snowshoeing, and you can even take a guided snowshoe tour at Mt Hood Meadows. Make it extra special by coming for the Vista Showshoe Tour which starts with a scenic lift ride and ends with dinner at the Alpenstube Restaurant.
Live Music
There's something extremely romantic about feeling the vibrations of live music move through you as you hold your honey's hand or look into their eyes. Several establishments throughout town offer live music throughout the week. The Skyway Bar and Grill offers live music Friday through Sunday nights and an open mic night on Thursdays. You can also catch live music at the Ram's Head Bar at Timberline Lodge and the Alpenstube Restaurant and Bar and the Vertical Bar at Mt Hood Meadows.
Plan Your Mt Hood Getaway Today
Start planning your romantic getaway to Mt Hood, Oregon with Mt Hood Vacation Rentals! We offer a great selection of cozy and cute cabin rentals, and we also offer pet friendly rentals so you can bring Fido.
Browse Romantic Mt Hood Cabins
Best Of Mt Hood Mt Hood Vacation Planning
Give the Gift of Time Well Spent This Holiday Season
Posted by Mt Hood Vacation Rentals | Tuesday, December 17, 2019
Holiday markets are abound and the end caps at stores are shimmering with paper and ribbons, but a new theme is also appearing in our holiday culture… and this one doesn’t come in a package. Articles about giving the Gift of Time this holiday season are popping up on Facebook and we couldn’t agree more. It’s time to take a small step back from our consumer culture and focus on the true spirit of the holidays - time well spent with family and friends.
Instead of wrapping up plastic toys that will be broken and tech that will only pull us further away from our family and friends, let's wrap up an experience that we can share together. There may be less to unwrap but the memories you create will serve you for years to come. Here are some solid reasons to ditch the paper and plastic and head to Mt Hood, Oregon for a holiday vacation this year.
What Are We Actually Spending All This Money On?
Did you know that the average consumer expects to spend over $1,000 during the holiday season this year? That’s enough to cover lodging for 3-7 nights at Mt Hood, Oregon! What’s more? Best-selling psychological author Oliver James said in an interview with the Telegraph that kids don’t even want or value an “extraordinary proportion” of the gifts their given.
So why do we continue to buy, buy, buy every holiday season? We want our families to know we’re thinking about them and care about them. Instead of spending $1,000 on gifts and trying to fill up the holiday season with entertaining things for the family to do, why not stay in a Mt Hood cabin where entertainment will be right outside your door? Kids will eventually outgrow their holiday presents, but memories from a family vacation will stick with them forever.
Creating Opportunities to Play Together
Psychological author Oliver James goes on to explain that what children really crave is prolonged play experiences with their families… and what adult doesn’t love a good escape from reality? While adults and children both seek different experiences out of vacations there is one common interest - time well spent with each other. It seems like when we’re not wrapping presents we’re wrapped up in work or in our phone. It’s the little moments when we stop wrapping and stop scrolling that matter.
It’s tricking dad to come outside and starting a snowball fight, or getting enough of mom’s time for that second bedtime story. It’s sneaking a cookie before dinner and staying up late playing board games next to the wood burning fireplace. It’s ordering in pizza because you spent longer than expected at the ski hill, or starting cocktail hour just a wee bit early because you spent more time falling than skiing. Whatever your family dynamics, quality time with your loved ones is a truly special gift.
Will You Join Us?
Save yourself some shopping and stressing this year. Put the ribbons and paper down and let your family and friends know you’re opting for a different type of experience this year. Tell them you want to give them a gift that can never be erased… memories! Read more about giving the gift of travel or browse our Mt Hood vacation cabins and plan your holiday experience today.
Do you have your holiday plans firmed up for this year? Reservations are now available for 2020. Booking early will give you lots of choices in vacation homes.
A Gift Certificate for a visit to a Mt Hood Vacation Rental is the ideal holiday gift, letting your loved ones choose their favorite vacation home and ideal dates for Creating Memories That Matter in their lives. Mt Hood Vacation Rental Gift Certificates can be for any dollar amount and can specify your favorite vacation rental or you can let your giftee choose the perfect cabin, chalet or lodge for their vacation. We will prepare a full-color gift certificate that will be emailed to you in PDF format, so you can print it for a card insert or in a gift wrapped box. Call us at 888-424-9168 to get started.
Holidays At Mt Hood
Holiday Fun at Mt Hood (Thanksgiving to Christmas to New Year's Eve)
Posted by Mt Hood Vacation Rentals | Wednesday, November 20, 2019
Fun Activities and Events at Mt Hood for the Holidays
Whether you're spending a few days in a Mt Hood Vacation Rental this holiday season or just visiting the Villages of Mt Hood for a few hours, there are a ton of activities for you to enjoy. From snow play to shopping, Christmas caroling, visiting Santa Claus and more, there is something for everyone in the family. From Thanksgiving through New Years Eve, here are some of our favorite things to do at Mt Hood during the holidays.
2019 Winter Holiday Events & Activities at Mt Hood
Events on Thursday, November 28th, 2019
Thanksgiving Dinner at Cooper Spur (1pm, 3pm & 5pm) - Just 12 miles North of Mt Hood Meadows, Cooper Spur Mountain Resort offers an excellent Thanksgiving meal with all the fixings. Seatings are available at 1pm, 3pm and 5pm. Reservations are required, so be sure to call ahead at 541-352-6692.
Thanksgiving Dinner at Timberline Lodge (1pm - 7pm) - Thanksgiving Dinner at Timberline Lodge is sure to please! A multi-course meal will be available from 1pm - 7pm in the Cascade Dining Room and Main Lobby Headhouse. They offer a huge menu, with options like Wild Pacific King Salmon, Cascade Natural Beef Prime Rib, Rubbed Turkey Breast and more. Reservations are required, so be sure to call ahead at 503-272-3267.
More Thanksgiving Dinners:
- Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet at Mt Hood Oregon Resort (11am - 4pm) - Call 503-622-3101 for reservations
- Thanksgiving Dinner at The Shack - 15 TVs in house for the football lovers
- Thanksgiving Day Community Dinner at Camp Arrah Wanna (1pm - 4pm) - FREE Thanksgiving Dinner
Events on Friday, November 29th, 2019
Timberline Lodge Tours (11am, 1pm & 2pm) - Take a tour of the Historic Timberline Lodge with a US Forest Service Ranger! Admission is free and tours start at 11am, 1pm and 2pm.
Cosmic Tubing Season Opener (5pm, 7:15pm & 9:30pm) - Take an innertube downhill to the tune of rocking music and colorful lights at the Cosmic Tubing Season Opener at the Mt Hood Skibowl. Reservations are recommended as this is a popular event.
Events on Saturday, November 30th, 2019
Holiday Artisan Fair at Mt Hood Oregon Resort (9am - 6pm) - This Annual Event is a must! The local artisans of Mt Hood come together under one roof to offer jewelry, bath products, wines, knit goods and so much more. You can attend this free event in the Cascade Ballroom at the Mt Hood Oregon Resort.
Timberline Lodge Tours (11am, 1pm & 2pm) - Take a tour of the Historic Timberline Lodge with a US Forest Service Ranger! Admission is free and tours start at 11am, 1pm and 2pm.
Sallies Trunk Sale (11am - 5pm) - Sallies Trunk Sale is the perfect place to pick up a unique gift for loved ones. Enjoy unique and handmade items from around the world like jewelry, clothing and textiles at the Zigzag Inn Cellar from 11am - 5pm.
Cosmic Tubing Season Opener (5pm, 7:15pm & 9:30pm) - Take an innertube downhill to the tune of rocking music and colorful lights at the Cosmic Tubing Season Opener at the Mt Hood Skibowl. Reservations are recommended as this is a popular event.
Oregon Civil War Game at The Shack - Don't miss the Oregon Ducks versus the Oregon State Beavers on 15 TVs at The Shack. There will be a special food menu for the big game.
LIVE MUSIC! Lloyd Jones at Skyway Bar & Grill (9pm) - Live music at the Skyway Bar & Grill is always a treat. Enjoy Blues music from Lloyd Jones, who will have your soul hopping to his contemporary tunes.
Events on Sunday, December 1st, 2019
Holiday Artisan Fair at Mt Hood Oregon Resort (10am - 3pm) - This Annual Event is a must! The local artisans of Mt Hood come together under one roof to offer jewelry, bath products, wines, knit goods and so much more. You can attend this free event in the Cascade Ballroom at the Mt Hood Oregon Resort.
Timberline Lodge Tours (11am, 1pm & 2pm) - Take a tour of the Historic Timberline Lodge with a US Forest Service Ranger! Admission is free and tours start at 11am, 1pm and 2pm.
Sallies Trunk Sale (11am - 5pm) - Sallies Trunk Sale is the perfect place to pick up a unique gift for loved ones. Enjoy unique and handmade items from around the world like jewelry, clothing and textiles at the Zigzag Inn Cellar from 11am - 5pm.
Cosmic Tubing Season Opener (5pm, 7:15pm & 9:30pm) - Take an innertube downhill to the tune of rocking music and colorful lights at the Cosmic Tubing Season Opener at the Mt Hood Skibowl. Reservations are recommended as this is a popular event.
Events on Friday, December 6th, 2019
Timberline Lodge Tours (11am, 1pm & 2pm) - Take a tour of the Historic Timberline Lodge with a US Forest Service Ranger! Admission is free and tours start at 11am, 1pm and 2pm.
Sandy Ski Swap & Warren Miller Ski Movie (5pm - 10pm, Movie at 6pm) - Peruse a great selection of new and used snowsports equipment, join a silent auction and raffle, and catch Warren Miller's "Timeless". All proceeds benefit the Sandy High School Ski Team.
Winter Friends Paint & Sip Night (6pm - 8pm) - Enjoy a cozy evening of painting wintery scenes and fireside cocktails at Mallard's Pub.
Events on Saturday, December 7th, 2019
Sandy Ski Swap & Warren Miller Ski Movie (10am - 7pm, Movie at 6pm) - Peruse a great selection of new and used snowsports equipment, join a silent auction and raffle, and catch Warren Miller's "Timeless". All proceeds benefit the Sandy High School Ski Team.
Timberline Lodge Tours (11am, 1pm & 2pm) - Take a tour of the Historic Timberline Lodge with a US Forest Service Ranger! Admission is free and tours start at 11am, 1pm and 2pm.
Geren's Farm Store Pictures with Santa (11am - 2pm) - Come take pictures with Santa and enjoy face painting and balloon animals! Dogs are welcome at this event, and the admission is a suggested donation of 2 cans per person for Gerens food drive. Each group gets one free picture, with additional pictures just $1.
Lindsoe Clayworks Holiday Studio Sale (10am - 5pm) - Find the perfect hand-crafted holiday gifts made of hand-made pottery in Dulcie's Mt Hood studio.
Live Music! Winter Season Kickoff Party at Mt Hood Meadows (5pm - 8pm) - This family-friendly event will feature music from Junior on the Prowl, Double Mountain Brewery's release of their Cascade Corduroy beer and much more. This free event takes place from 5pm - 8pm at the Vertical at Mt Hood Meadows.
Events on Sunday, December 8th, 2019
Special Needs Santa Visit (8am - 10pm) - Santa comes to Geren's Feed Store for a visit just for kids with special needs and sensory issues. There will be less crowds and no overhead music, so everyone can get a photo with Santa!
Breakfast With Santa at the Mt Hood Oregon Resort (9am - 11am) - Do more than just take a photo with Santa, eat breakfast with him!
Timberline Lodge Tours (11am, 1pm & 2pm) - Take a tour of the Historic Timberline Lodge with a US Forest Service Ranger! Admission is free and tours start at 11am, 1pm and 2pm.
Hoodland Farmers' Market (12pm - 8:30pm) - Find the perfect gifts for your loved ones at this holiday market.
Teacup Tea Party Cross Country Ski Day (10am) - Enjoy ski lessons, ski demos, soup, tea and cookies at the Teacup Tea Party Cross Country Ski Day! Season Pass holders get in free, or you can purchase a Day Pass to join. Bring cookies to share with everyone.
Lindsoe Clayworks Holiday Studio Sale (10am - 5pm) - Find the perfect hand-crafted holiday gifts made of hand-made pottery in Dulcie's Mt Hood studio.
Events on Thursday, December 12th, 2019
Aaron Meyer Holiday Concert at the Ant Farm (6pm) - Enjoy Concert Rock Violinist Aaron Meyers at the Ant Farm! There will be a silent auction and desserts. Kids 18 and under are free and adults are $20. This event does sell out, so be sure to get tickets early.
Open Mic Night at the Skyway Bar & Grill where everyone has a chance to get up on the stage starting at 9pm. All ages welcome until 10pm.
Events on Friday, December 13th, 2019
Timberline Lodge Tours (11am, 1pm & 2pm) - Take a tour of the Historic Timberline Lodge with a US Forest Service Ranger! Admission is free and tours start at 11am, 1pm and 2pm.
Christmas Tree Lighting at Timberline Lodge (6pm) - Kick off the holiday season with Timberline Lodge as they light their 30' evergreen tree in the Main Lobby Headhouse! Afterwards, everyone is welcome to join in singing carols and decorating the tree.
Events on Friday, December 13th, 2019 through Saturday, January 4th, 2020
Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides in Government Camp (10am - 4:30pm) - Get into the holiday spirit with a horse-drawn sleigh ride through Government Camp. Belgian horses pulling the sleigh will take you through town ending your 20-minute ride at the holiday lights of the village Christmas Tree! Reservations required.
Events on Saturday, December 14th, 2019
Winter Brewfest at Mt Hood Meadows (1pm - 5pm) - Try out the Northwest's finest microbrews at the Winter Brew Fest. This event will be at the Vertical North and kids are welcome in the Vertical during the event.
LIVE MUSIC! The Strange Tones at Skyway Bar & Grill (9pm) - Live music at the Skyway Bar & Grill is always a treat. Enjoy blues, rock, surf and R&B fusion music from The Strange Tones at 9pm.
Metal Head Christmas Party & Annual Winter Steelhead Clinic (9am - 4pm) - Calling all fly fishers! Enjoy 15% off everything in the store, free food, prizes, programs and demonstrations.
Christmas Tree Lighting in Government Camp (6pm) - Join Santa, Frosty, and Hoodland fire trucks at this very special tree lighting in Government Camp! There will be Christmas carols, donuts and hot cocoa.
Events on Thursday, December 19th, 2019
Open Mic Night at the Skyway Bar & Grill where everyone has a chance to get up on the stage starting at 9pm. All ages welcome until 10pm.
Events on Friday, December 20th, 2019
Timberline Lodge Tours (11am, 1pm & 2pm) - Take a tour of the Historic Timberline Lodge with a US Forest Service Ranger! Admission is free and tours start at 11am, 1pm and 2pm.
LIVE MUSIC! The Steelhead Stalkers at Skyway Bar & Grill (9pm) - Live music at the Skyway Bar & Grill is always a treat. Enjoy Jazz music from The Steelhead Stalkers at 9pm.
Events on Saturday, December 21st, 2019
Nordic Opening Day Celebration at Mt Hood Meadows (11am) - Celebrate the opening of the Nordic Ski Season with a 5k skate race. Registration begins at 9am with races starting at 11am.
Timberline Lodge Tours (11am, 1pm & 2pm) - Take a tour of the Historic Timberline Lodge with a US Forest Service Ranger! Admission is free and tours start at 11am, 1pm and 2pm.
Christmas Song Sing-a-Long (3-5pm) - Jil Heimensen with pianist Jim Heimensen leads a spirited Family Friendly Christmas Song Sing-a-Long at the Skyway Bar & Grill.
LIVE MUSIC! The Resolectrics at Skyway Bar & Grill (9pm) - Live music at the Skyway Bar & Grill is always a treat. Enjoy Rock & Soul music from The Resolectrics at 9pm.
Events on Sunday, December 22nd, 2019
Breakfast with Santa at Mt Hood Meadows (8am & 9am) - Enjoy a fireside breakfast with Santa at The Vertical at Mt Hood Meadows. There will be a build your own waffle and yogurt bar.
Timberline Lodge Tours (11am, 1pm & 2pm) - Take a tour of the Historic Timberline Lodge with a US Forest Service Ranger! Admission is free and tours start at 11am, 1pm and 2pm.
Christmas Song Sing-a-Long (3-5pm) - Jil Heimensen with pianist Jim Heimensen leads a spirited Family Friendly Christmas Song Sing-a-Long at the Skyway Bar & Grill.
Events on Tuesday, December 24th, 2019
Christmas Eve at Timberline Lodge - Welcome Santa, singing carols around the fireplace and enjoy a delicious Christmas Eve dinner at Timberline Lodge. Reservations are required, so be sure to call ahead at 503-272-3267.
Christmas Eve Karaoke (8pm) - Sing your favorite holiday songs in front of a crowd at the Skyway Bar & Grill.
Events on Wednesday, December 25th, 2019
Christmas Dinner at Timberline Lodge - Enjoy a multi-course meal in the Cascade Dining Room at Timberline Lodge. Reservations are required, so be sure to call ahead at 503-272-3267.
Christmas Dinner at the Mt Hood Oregon Resort (2pm - 6pm) - Relax while the chefs at Mt Hood Oregon Resort serve up Christmas Dinner! For reservations, call 503-622-3101.
Events on Thursday, December 26th, 2019
Open Mic Night at the Skyway Bar & Grill where everyone has a chance to get up on the stage starting at 9pm. All ages welcome until 10pm.
Events on Friday, December 27th, 2019
Timberline Lodge Tours (11am, 1pm & 2pm) - Take a tour of the Historic Timberline Lodge with a US Forest Service Ranger! Admission is free and tours start at 11am, 1pm and 2pm.
Events on Saturday, December 28th, 2019
Timberline Lodge Tours (11am, 1pm & 2pm) - Take a tour of the Historic Timberline Lodge with a US Forest Service Ranger! Admission is free and tours start at 11am, 1pm and 2pm.
Vintage Ski Movie Outtakes (7pm - 9pm) - This family friendly event is a blast. Check out vintage ski movie outtakes at the Mt Hood Cultural Center and Museum.
LIVE MUSIC! Billy D and the Hoodoos at Skyway Bar & Grill (9pm) - Live music at the Skyway Bar & Grill is always a treat. Enjoy Blues-Rock music from Billy D and the Hoodoos at 9pm.
Events on Sunday, December 29th, 2019
Timberline Lodge Tours (11am, 1pm & 2pm) - Take a tour of the Historic Timberline Lodge with a US Forest Service Ranger! Admission is free and tours start at 11am, 1pm and 2pm.
Events on Tuesday, December 31st, 2019
Live Music! New Year's Eve at Timberline Lodge - Enjoy a multi-course dinner, champagne toast, fireworks, favors and live music from Nobody's Sweetheart. Reservations are required, so be sure to call ahead at 503-272-3267.
Live Music! New Year's Eve at Mt Hood Meadows (8:15pm - 12:15am) - Get the whole package at the New Year's Eve Celebration at Mt Hood Meadows! There will be dinner, dancing, fireworks, music and late night lifts.
Live Music! New Year's Eve Extravaganza at Mt Hood Ski Bowl (8pm - 2am) - Don't miss two spectacular fireworks display, live music from DJ Blair and DJ Casey, a torch light parade, cosmic tubing, multiple beer gardens, dance parties and much more.
Live Music! New Year's Eve Party at The Skyway Bar & Grill (9:30pm) - New Year's Eve for just a $5 cover? Get it at The Skyway Bar & Grill!
Lodging For Your 2019 Holiday Getaway to Mt Hood
Mt Hood is magical in the winter, and we've got the perfect cabin for you and yours to cozy up in during your stay. We offer over 30 carefully selected cabins throughout the Mt Hood area. Find a pet friendly rental so you can bring Fido, or choose a Government Camp Rental to be close to all the ski action.
Browse Mt Hood Vacation Cabins
Holidays At Mt Hood
Where to See Mt Hood Fall Colors
Posted by Mt Hood Vacation Rentals | Wednesday, October 2, 2019
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
4 Fun Fall Things To Do at Mt Hood
Posted by Mt Hood Vacation Rentals | Sunday, September 29, 2019
Vibrant Fall Colors + Crisp, Cool Days + Quiet Walks in the Woods
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| Fall is one of our favorite seasons around Mt Hood. The weather is still sunny, but not too hot with crisp, cool nights and ever-changing colors on the big leaf maples, vine maples, alders and cottonwoods surrounded by the deep greens of the Douglas fir and cedar trees. And because this is our Quiet Season, the rates are reduced, especially when you stay midweek. | |
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HIKING
Fall is the best time for hiking. The trails are less crowded and the fall colors on the trees are vibrant making for an eye-popping scenic adventure. Some of our favorite trails are: Little Zigzag River Trail: A short 1.2 mile out and back hike that is easily accessed by most people including small children and less-abled walkers alike Old Salmon River Trail: A relatively flat trail that follows the Salmon River for 5 miles total, out and back. Or you can hike the Salmon River Trail (trailhead is at the bridge) for up to 9 miles one-way! Trillium Lake: Not only will you see a spectacular view of Mt Hood at the lake, but you will also see lots of fall colors. You can hike, run or bike around the lake on forest roads or hike the 1.9 mile trail that goes around a portion of the lake. Castle Canyon Trail: This 2.2 mile out and back hike is rated moderate, but feels difficult and is not for the less fit, however it you want to get a workout and spectacular pinnacle views, this is a must-do hike. Watch for chantrelles along the trail, too. Timberline Trail and Pacific Crest Trail from Timberline Lodge: These two trails are popular for summer hiking and should be considered for fall hiking before the snow falls. You can do as little or as much as you like from Timberline Lodge with amazing views of Mt Hood. Then head into the lodge for a snack and hot beverage. Check out all of the hiking trails in the Mt Hood National Forest. For trails near your Mt Hood Vacation Rental, we are surrounded by the Zigzag Ranger District. |
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SALMON SPAWNING
Salmon will be spawning in the rivers around the Villages of Mt Hood during the fall. The exact timing is different every year based on weather (rainfall and temperatures), but once they arrive to spawn, the show lasts for a few weeks. The salmon run is when the salmon swim upstream from the ocean back to the rivers to lay eggs for the next year's new fish. In our case, the salmon have a long trip from the Pacific Ocean up the Columbia River to the Sandy River, then on up to the Salmon River and other tributaries like Still Creek. After this arduous and tiring trip, the eggs are laid and fertilized, then the salmon die. When the salmon eggs develop into new fish, these fish will eventually swim back to the ocean, only to return to the same river they were born in to spawn and then die just as their parents did. The aptly named Salmon River is the best place to see the salmon spawning, but check out this video of salmon in Still Creek from a few years ago. |
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HOOD RIVER COUNTY FRUIT LOOP
Just a short drive to the east side of Mt Hood, you can visit the Hood River County Fruit Loop when vacationing at Mt Hood. Fall is apple and pear season in the Hood River Valley and their are many farm stands open with freshly picked apples and pears of multiple varieties as well as fresh-pressed apple cider. They will also be selling pumpkins and other squash and late season vegetables just harvested from their farms. Bring the apples back to your vacation rental and make an apple pie with the kids (all of our vacation rentals include pie pans). Our favorite recipe is Martha Stewart's Mile-High Apple Pie. Of course, you an buy a pre-made pie crust and just make the filling to make things easier. The adults may want to do a little wine tasting at one of several wineries in the Hood River region as well. |
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GATHER AROUND THE FIREPIT
As the nighttime air chills down during the fall, the outside campfires in the firepit at your vacation rental become more fun. Gather around the fire with a hot beverage and make s'mores for dessert. Everyone will have fun talking about the day's adventures and where you want to go next. |
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Looking for more things to do? From listening to live music, running a 50K trail run, visiting local farmers' markets and more, there is something fun and interesting to do at Mt Hood for everyone this fall. |
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The best part about visiting Mt Hood during the fall is that it is our Quiet Season, so there are less crowded trails, restaurants and stores and less traffic on the roads plus you can stay in a Mt Hood Vacation Rental at reduced rates especially midweek. When is your trip? For friendly, personalized assistance in finding the best vacation rental to meet and exceed your expectations, call a Vacation Planner at 888-424-9168. |
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Mt Hood Vacation Planning Outdoor Activities
Oregon Fall Vacation Trip Planning Guide
Posted by Mt Hood Vacation Rentals | Friday, August 30, 2019
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.
Browse Mt Hood, Oregon Cabin Rentals
Mt Hood Vacation Planning
Cozy & Quick Comfort Food Dishes for Fall
Posted by Mt Hood Vacation Rentals | Thursday, August 29, 2019
Easy Versions of Favorite Fall Comfort Foods
ell pepper for about 5 minutes. Add the sausage and cook until browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for a couple of minutes (do not let the garlic turn brown). Add the marinara sauce and cook for 5 more minutes to meld the flavors.
Holidays At Mt Hood
