Mt Hood Vacation Rentals

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Jun 07 2021

Best Places to Stay Near Mt Hood Oregon

Best Places to Stay Near Mt Hood Oregon
Posted by Mt Hood Vacation Rentals | Monday, June 7, 2021


When I close my eyes and picture Mt Hood, I think of backyard BBQs with corn on the cob and frosty drinks, fall hikes with brilliant foliage, and winter adventures followed by cozy gatherings around a fireplace. It seems that no matter how many times you have visited the area, there is always a new adventure awaiting – a new village to explore. Romantic cabins line the roads that kiss Mt Hood, and the memories we make here are held near to our hearts. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or you’re on a mission to turn over every leaf in the area, here are our picks for the best places to stay near Mt Hood, Oregon.

Best Places to Stay Near Mt Hood Oregon at a Glance

  1. Welches
  2. Zigzag
  3. Brightwood
  4. Government Camp
  5. Rhododendron

Best Places to Stay Near Mt Hood Oregon Details

#1 – Welches

Welches is snuggled between Mt Hood Village and Zigzag, encompassing the Three Nines Golf Course. It extends South of U.S. Highway 26, following the Salmon River and E Salmon River Road. It’s the perfect village to score a riverside cabin surrounded by tall trees or a secluded cabin for maximum relaxation. It’s proximity to U.S. Highway 26 also offers easy access to a great selection of restaurants and grocery stores, like Barlow Trail Roadhouse and Hoodland Thriftway.

If Welches sounds like the escape you’re been pining for, check out these beautiful vacation homes:

  • Forest View Lodge (4 bedrooms, sleeps up to 10)
  • Cozy Bear Cabin (3 bedrooms, sleeps up to 8)
  • Deer View Retreat (4 bedrooms, sleeps up to 14)
  • Salmon River Rendezvous (5 bedrooms, sleeps up to 16)
  • Salmon River Condo #5 (1 bedroom, sleeps up to 5)
  • Bear Den Log Cabin (2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 6)
  • River Dance Retreat (3 bedrooms, sleeps up to 10)
  • Cedar Creek Hideaway (3 bedrooms, sleeps up to 9)
  • Cedar Springs Cabin (2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 6)
  • Sandy River Retreat (4 bedrooms, sleeps up to 8)
  • Riversong Retreat Guest Suite (2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 5)
  • Crystal Creek Chalet (4 bedrooms, sleeps up to 10)
  • River View Cabin (2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 4)
  • Thistle Dew (1 bedroom, sleeps up to 4)
  • Lazy Bear Lodge (6 bedrooms, sleeps up to 18)
  • Huckleberry Mountain Lodge (5 bedrooms, sleeps up to 14)
  • Wallace Cottage (2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 4)
  • Ripplewood (2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 6)
  • Bridlewood Cabin (1 bedrooms, sleeps up to 3)

#2 – Zigzag

Zigzag is an unincorporated community between Welches and Rhododendron. The Zigzag River and Sandy River weave throughout the area, and lush greenery surrounds homes and cabins. Several creeks with origins in the hillsides meander throughout the area, and Zigzag hums with the relaxing sound of running water. Visitors can grab comfort food at the Zigzag Inn, or stop by the Zigzag Mountain Store & Cafe for breakfast in a restored historic building. The Skyway Bar and Grill is home to the most amazing BBQ and mac and cheese, and offers live music four to five nights a week at their huge outdoor garden and dining area.

If Zigzag sounds like the escape you’re been pining for, check out these beautiful vacation homes:

  • Moondance Cabin (2 bedrooms. sleeps up to 6)
  • Zigzag Mountain Lodge (3 bedrooms, sleeps up to 11)
  • Rapid River Retreat (3 bedrooms, sleeps up to 8)
  • Firwood Cabin (2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 4)
  • River Breeze Chalet (2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 4)
  • Leilani Cottage (1 bedroom, sleeps up to 4)

#3 – Brightwood

Riverwoods Lodge

Brightwood is situated between Wemme and Sandy, and is part of the Villages at Mt Hood. Brightwood gets its name from the way the sun shines on the cottonwood trees in the spring. Just north of U.S. Highway 26, the Sandy River and the Salmon River loop through town, chilled from fresh snowmelt. Visitors can enjoy the Sandy Ridge Trail System, with miles of mountain biking and hiking trails. After a full day of adventure, unwind with dinner and drinks in the historic log building of Brightwood Tavern.

If Brightwood sounds like the escape you’re been pining for, check out these beautiful vacation homes:

  • Riverwoods Lodge (4 bedrooms, sleeps up to 8)
  • Salmonberry Retreat (2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 6)
  • Riverwood Hideaway (1 bedroom, sleeps up to 2)
  • Dream Catcher Cabin (2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 4)

#4 – Government Camp

Government Camp is Mt Hood’s Alpine Village, with out-the-door access to trails and skiing. Many sports enthusiats come here to train in the winter, and the scenery is breathtaking. Government Camp is just across Mt Hood Highway from Mt Hood Skibowl East, and just down the road from skiing and cosmic tubing at the Mt Hood Skibowl. Charlie’s Mountain View restaurant is an absolute favorite for apres-ski and the Mt Hood Cultural Center and Museum offers the perfect break from the sun.

If Government Camp sounds like the escape you’re been pining for, check out these beautiful vacation homes:

  • Moosewood Cabin (3 bedrooms, sleeps up to 10)
  • Tom’s Creek Haus (2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 6)
  • Cedarwood Lodge (5 bedrooms, sleeps up to 12)
  • Chalet am Berg (4 bedrooms, sleeps up to 10)
  • Marshall Cabin (3 bedrooms, sleeps up to 10)
  • Holzhutte (4 bedrooms, sleeps up to 10)

#5 – Rhododendron

Rhododendron is just past Welches, and before the Mt Hood Ski Bowl. Several creeks and rivers cross through the area, including Henry Creek, the Still Creek and Zigzag River. Hikers love Rhododendron, with quick access to Pioneer Brindle Trailhead, Flag Mountain Trailhead and Castle Canyon Trailhead. The Oregon Trail 1845 Historic Marker is in the center of town, and visitors enjoy great eats at the Still Creek Inn and Mountain High Coffee.

If Rhododendron sounds like the escape you’re been pining for, check out these beautiful vacation homes:

  • Mountain View Hideaway (3 bedrooms, sleeps up to 8)
  • Storybrooks Cabin (3 bedrooms, sleeps up to 8)
  • Hearthstone Retreat (4 bedrooms, sleeps up to 11)

Plan Your Mt Hood Vacation Today

Planning a Mt Hood escape is a breeze with Mt Hood Vacation Rentals. We offer a great selection of cabins throughout the Mt Hood area, and pet friendly lodging means that your dog can come too!

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Written by Dusan Dzurdzic · Categorized: Best of Mt Hood

Jun 05 2021

6 Top Things To Do With Your Dog at Mt Hood

6 Top Things To Do With Your Dog at Mt Hood
Posted by Tiffany Quillan | Saturday, June 5, 2021


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!

  1. Mt Hood Dog Friendly Hikes
  2. Dog Friendly Sno-Parks at Mt Hood
  3. Dog Friendly Restaurants at Mt Hood
  4. Mt Hood Dog Friendly Lodging
  5. Teach Your Pup Some New Tricks
  6. 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.
  • Pub 26: Fun tavern for hand-crafted cocktails and local beer. Bar menu with amazing fried chicken sandwiches, burgers and grilled cheese with housemade tomato soup. Covered all-weather outside dining. Open 4 – 10 PM daily.
  • Koya Kitchen: Asian-inspired food cart with large outside dining area serving cocktails, beer and saki.

 

Mt Hood Dining Guide

#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.

Browse Pet Friendly Rentals

 

#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.

Pet Friendly Cabins


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Written by Dusan Dzurdzic · Categorized: Best of Mt Hood

Jun 04 2021

9 Beautiful Cabin Rentals at Mt Hood Oregon

9 Beautiful Cabin Rentals at Mt Hood Oregon
Posted by Mt Hood Vacation Rentals | Friday, June 4, 2021


Staying in a cabin rental at Mt Hood in Oregon offers an experience that you’ll never want to leave while creating memories to last a lifetime. We know that finding the perfect vacation rental can be overwhelming, so we’ve comprised a list of our favorite Mt Hood cabin rentals to make your trip planning easier.

9 Beautiful Cabin Rentals at Mt Hood Oregon At a Glance

  1. Cedar Creek Hideaway
  2. Ripplewood
  3. Firwood Cabin
  4. Bear Den Log Cabin
  5. Salmonberry Retreat
  6. Storybrooks Cabin
  7. Moondance Cabin
  8. Cedar Springs Cabin
  9. River View Cabin

 

9 Beautiful Cabin Rentals at Mt Hood Oregon Details

#1 – Cedar Creek Hideaway

Cedar Creek Hideaway

Cedar Creek Hideaway Interior

  • Bedrooms: 3
  • Sleeps: 9
  • Featured Amenities: Secluded, Geodesic Dome, Woodstove, Dog-Friendly

 

Find peace at the beautiful and unique Cedar Creek Hideaway in Welches. Sitting on seven private acres, this cabin rental at Mt Hood in Oregon allows you and your family a deserving getaway. Hang out on the wrap-around deck grilling dinner on the gas BBQ and take in all of the beauty of the Mt Hood area.

#2 – Ripplewood

Ripplewood

Ripplewood riverside deck

  • Bedrooms: 2
  • Sleeps: 6
  • Featured Amenities: Private Hot Tub, Dog-Friendly, Riverfront, Fireplace, Romantic Getaway or Rejuvenating Retreat

 

At the end of the road on an acre along the Salmon River, the Ripplewood, is a special place for getting away from it all and rejuvenating your soul. Sip your morning coffee and enjoy the view of the Salmon River from the riverside deck. Soak in the hot tub and gather around the large dining table for memorable meals. You’ll never want to leave this Mt Hood cabin rental.

#3 – Firwood Cabin

Firwood Cabin Mt Hood Vacation Rental

Firwood Cabin Rental at Mt Hood Oregon

  • Bedrooms: 2
  • Sleeps: 4
  • Featured Amenities: Forest and Mountain View, Outdoor Hot Tub, Private 3 Acres, Dog-Friendly

 

Wake up to stunning Cascade Foothills views at the secluded and cozy Firwood Cabin. Off the beaten path and sitting on three private acres, this cabin rental at Mt Hood, OR is in close proximity to Mt Hood National Forest trails. Spend the afternoon on an adventurous hike or settle in and relax at this peaceful cabin.

#4 – Bear Den Log Cabin

Bear Den Log Cabin Mt Hood Rental

  • Bedrooms: 2
  • Sleeps: 6
  • Featured Amenities: Dog Friendly, Creekfront, Fireplace, Classic Log Cabin

 

A classic log cabin experience, Bear Den Log Cabin is nestled alongside Billy Creek and is just a short walk to the Salmon River. Enjoy the sounds of the brook flowing and find your peaceful moments during your Mt Hood vacation.

#5 – Salmonberry Retreat

Salmonberry Retreat Interior

Mt Hood Salmonberry Retreat Exterior

  • Bedrooms: 2
  • Sleeps: 6
  • Featured Amenities: Riverfront, Private Hot Tub, Fireplace, Dog Friendly

 

An abundance of natural light greets you every morning at the Salmonberry Retreat cabin. The warm and inviting atmosphere of this cabin rental at Mt Hood is sure to be a hit amongst you and your family. Dine at the outdoor picnic table, explore Mt Hood and then soak away your tired muscles after the day’s adventures in the private, outdoor hot tub.

#6 – Storybrooks Cabin

Storybrooks Cabin

Kitchen Creek at Storybrooks Cabin

  • Bedrooms: 3
  • Sleeps: 8
  • Featured Amenities: Vintage Steiner Cabin, Dog Friendly, Fireplace, Creekside

 

Surrounded by two creeks, the Storybrooks Cabin is a magical getaway for families looking for a classic Mt Hood Vacation. Close to hiking trails and bike parks, you will have fun whether you venture out or just stay in and relax by the creeks. This cabin rental at Mt Hood, OR makes for an amazing Mt Hood getaway.

#7 – Moondance Cabin

Moondance Cabin Mt Hood Vacation Rental

Moondance Cabin Interior

  • Bedrooms: 2
  • Sleeps: 6
  • Featured Amenities: Fireplace, Creekside, Secluded, Private Hot Tub

 

Moondance Cabin’s classic mountain charm and character make for a peaceful retreat to the mountains. This cabin’s secluded, creekside setting allows you to sit right next to Clear Creek, listening to the water flowing by. The Moondance Cabin is popular for romantic getaways but is also perfect for two couples or a small family.

#8 – Cedar Springs Cabin

Cedar Springs Cabin Mt Hood

Cedar Springs Cabin Interior

  • Bedrooms: 2
  • Sleeps: 6
  • Featured Amenities: Secluded, Fireplace, Private Hot Tub, Romantic Retreat

 

Cedar Springs Cabin is a new custom-built and artfully crafted cabin located in Welches. This Mt Hood cabin rental comes with everything needed for your Mt Hood escape including a private hot tub, amazing views, and a secluded setting next to Mt Hood National Forest.

#9 – River View Cabin

River View Cabin

River View Cabin View

  • Bedrooms: 2
  • Sleeps: 4
  • Featured Amenities: Riverfront, Fireplace, Secluded, Private Hot Tub

Spend some quality time with your loved one during your getaway to the River View Cabin. Soak in the private hot tub after a day of exploring Mt Hood or snuggle in the great room by the wood-burning fireplace. With views of the Sandy River and the Cascade Foothill mountains, this warm and cozy cabin is sure to be perfect for your special trip.

 

Plan Your Mt Hood Vacation Getaway

Our Mt Hood vacation rentals offer space to relax, unwind and enjoy Mt Hood’s beauty. Browse our selection of Mt Hood vacation rentals to reserve the perfect property for your retreat. We know that vacation planning can be overwhelming, so our Vacation Planners are available to assist you.

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Written by Dusan Dzurdzic · Categorized: Best of Mt Hood

Apr 16 2021

5 Family Friendly Hikes at Mt Hood

5 Family Friendly Hikes at Mt Hood
Posted by Mt Hood Vacation Rentals | Friday, April 16, 2021


Wanting to experience the great outdoors with the whole family? These 5 family friendly hikes around Mt Hood invite nature enthusiasts of all skill levels to enjoy a day out on a hiking trail! Enjoy the journey to see a stunning waterfall in the Oregon wilderness or take a hike at high altitude to gaze into a breathtaking canyon.

Check out these family friendly hikes at Mt. Hood, Oregon!

1. Tamanawas Falls Trail 

  • Length: 3.4 miles

This moderate hike takes you to a stunning 100 ft tall waterfall. Approximately 3.4-miles round trip, this out and back trail offers scenic views of Cold Spring Creek as well as wildflowers and more. Dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed, and this trail is easy enough to be a great outing for families!

2. Zigzag Overlook Hike 

  • Length: 4.4 miles

Starting from Timberline Lodge, the Zigzag Overlook Hike is a popular trail to take in an incredible view of the Zigzag River Canyon. Climb just over 800 ft in elevation during this 4.4-mile out and back hiking trail. Enjoy this easy-going hike while enjoying views of the canyon as well as local wildflowers and views of the peak of Mt Hood!

3. Trillium Lake Loop Trail 

  • Length: 2 miles

This relaxed hike is perfect for families looking for a day spent outdoors! The 2-mile loop is accessible for strollers and visitors with limited mobility and features stunning views of Mt Hood. Enjoy a stroll along the lake and birdwatchers will delight at the opportunity to spot local species. Take a break by sitting on a bench along the way or pack a lunch to eat at the Trillium Lake campground. Opens Memorial Day Weekend.

4. Bald Mountain Trail 

  • Length: 6.6 miles

This trail follows a part of the Pacific Crest Trail to the summit of Bald Mountain. A 6.6-mile round trip out and back trail, this hike features breathtaking views of Mt Hood and takes you along easy-going switchbacks. You can expect to climb just about 1,400 ft during the hike making it pretty attainable for hikers of all skill levels. Cool off with a dip in the lake at the turn-around point.

5. Tom Dick and Harry Mountain Hike 

  • Length: 7.7 miles

Located conveniently off Highway 26, this out and back style trail leads to stunning views of Mirror Lake and Mt. Hood. This trail is a bit more difficult, so it is perfect for families with older children. Perfectly located near Government Camp, this popular trail is a perfect day hike. Dogs are welcome to join you during this hike as long as they stay leashed!

Book a Mt. Hood Vacation Rental! 

Find your hiking home base in a Mt Hood Vacation Rental! There is nothing like returning after a long day on a hiking trail to take a soak in a private hot tub or enjoy the views from a spacious deck! Book a riverfront cabin, a pet-friendly rental, or a romantic cottage today to enjoy the best of life at Mt Hood!

Browse Mt. Hood Vacation Rentals


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Mar 18 2021

7 Best Things to Do Around Mt Hood Oregon in Summer


7 Best Things to Do Around Mt Hood Oregon in the Summer

60 miles east of downtown Portland is the most popular mountain in Oregon. Depending on your interests, Mt Hood is perfect for summer activities, making it the ideal summer vacation destination. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best things to do around Mt Hood, OR to make your vacation planning easier. Book a Mt Hood vacation rental to feel at home and enjoy the hiking, scenery, and even skiing (yes, skiing!) that await!

7 Best Things to Do Around Mt Hood Oregon at a Glance

#1 – Trillium Lake
#2 – Mt Hood Cultural Center & Museum
#3 – Hike Timberline Trail
#4 – Barlow Road and Laurel Hill Chute
#5 – Mount Hood Wilderness
#6 – Mt Hood Scenic Loop
#7 – Mt Hood Adventure Park

7 Best Things to Do Around Mt Hood Oregon in the Summer

#1 Trilium Lake

Located in the Mt Hood National Forest, Trillium Lake is a popular place that offers spectacular views of Oregon’s highest point, Mt. Hood. A 5-minute drive from Government Camp vacation rentals, Trillium Lake is an extremely popular place in the summer time for cooling off and offers a wide variety of activities such as kayaking, swimming and more. Trillium Lake’s small sandy beaches provides picnic tables which makes it perfect for an afternoon lunch and is also bike friendly and dog-friendly though dogs must remain on leash at all times.

#2 – Mt Hood Cultural Center & Museum

Mt Hood Cultural Center & Museum can be found in the heart of Government Camp and is a perfect place to stop by and visit when in Mt Hood. The museum displays the history of skiing, snowboarding, early exploration, settlement and the natural history of Mt Hood. Find exhibits like the Mt Hood Gallery which includes an interactive 3D mountain model, an exhibit on the evolution of skiing at Mt Hood, a miniature replica of a fire lookout, and more! Open 9 am to 3 pm Wed-Sun   /   closed Thanksgiving & Christmas.

#3 – Hike Timberline Trail

The Timberline Trail circles Mt Hood at or near timberline and is near 39 miles. For those who are looking for a challenge, the 39-mile hike crosses multiple glacial creeks and rivers that flow from the mountain. This intermediate to difficult hike provides rewarding views of Mt Hood and the trails are well maintained. A multi-day hike for backpackers, you can choose shorter sections of the trail for day hikes. The most popular sections of the trail for hikers are accessed at Timberline Lodge.

#4 – Barlow Road and Laurel Hill Chute

Barlow Road, a portion of the Oregon Trail, was built in 1846 by Sam Barlow and Philip Foster allowing wagons to cross the Cascade Range and reach the end of the Oregon Trail in Oregon City in the Willamette Valley. Today, a portion of the road can still be driven on, but most of it is a trail. Trace the steps of pioneers from the Historic Barlow Road and enjoy highlights such as a replica of the old tollgate between mileposts 44 and 45 in Rhododendron where pioneers were charged $5 to cross. You can also see where settlers used to lower their wagons down an almost vertical slope at Laurel Hill Chute near Government Camp! 

#5 – Mount Hood Wilderness

The Mount Hood Wilderness was designated by the US Congress in 1964 and now has a total of 64,742 acres. Oregon’s highest summit, Mt Hood, (11,240 feet) is a dormant volcano covered with 11 active glaciers. More than 10,000 climbers a year come to Mt Hood making it the most visited peak in America. The most popular time to climb Mt Hood is April – June. You can find dozens of trails ranging from moderate to advanced levels of hiking within the Mt Hood Wilderness. Still wanting to ski during the summer? Head to the Timberline Ski Area where intermediate and advanced skiers can take the Palmer Express to ski the snowfield June through September. 

 #6 – Mt Hood Scenic Loop

If cruising around Oregon’s stunning views sounds like your type of thing, then hop in your car and drive around Mt Hood connecting the Mt Hood Scenic Byway and the Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway. The 105-mile drive takes three to four hours, but you will want to make it a day trip that winds you around the mountain, fruit valleys, thick fir forest, and along the Columbia River. Photographers, this is one thing you don’t want to miss as the drive provides views of Mt Hood from all sides! 

#7 – Mt Hood Adventure Park

Mt Hood Outfitters formerly known as Mt Hood Adventure Park offers an abundance of thrilling activities for those seeking adventure. Try out over 20 attractions such as zip lining, bungee jumping, miniature golf, GoKarts, Malibu Racing, rock climbing and more! One of the most popular attractions that kids and adults alike love is the Alpine Slide. The park is home to multiple attractions including a guide company that takes you on kayak tours at Trilium Lake and the Mountain Bike Park. 

Plan Your Mt Hood Trip Now

Let Mt Hood Vacation Rentals help you plan your mountain getaway. Choose from pet-friendly homes, riverfront homes, log cabins, homes with a hot tub, and more for your Mt Hood vacation.

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