The Columbia River Gorge and the Mt Hood National Forest hosts more than 2 million visitors a year. Visitation often exceeds the automobile capacity along the Historic Columbia River Highway. Parking and traffic congestion is degrading the visitor experience and causing safety problems. To truly experience the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area the way it was meant to be experienced:
There are more options than ever before to explore the Historic Columbia River Highway without a car. Whatever method of transportation you choose, to truly experience the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and the Mt Hood National Forest the way it was meant to be experienced we suggest:
- Get an Early Start – Start you trip before 10 a.m. to beat the crowds and enjoy the afternoon exploring one of the amazing Gorge communities.
- Head East – Explore the lesser-known and equally beautiful hiking trails and waterfalls in the eastern Gorge.
- Bike – Enjoy breathtaking views, abundant wildflowers and world-class trails.
- Go Midweek – Visit the Gorge at a slower pace by visiting Tuesday–Thursday. The weekends are the busiest times to visit the Gorge, especially between April and October. You’ll avoid crowds if you can visit mid-week. Even better, consider planning a midweek multi-day stay to check out the towns, museums, wineries and other attractions throughout the Scenic Area.
- Plan your trip to Multnomah Falls (Exit 31 I-84) with a Timed Use Permit
We recommend you plan your visit to Multnomah Falls by purchasing your permit in advance or visit earlier in the day to avoid the crowds. From Memorial Weekend through Labor Day a timed use permit will be required to access Multnomah Falls from Exit 31 off of Hwy 84 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily. The timed-use permit is in place during the busiest months of visitation to alleviate overcrowding. Permits are available 14 days in advance.Multnomah Falls permits are available On Line Here for a $2 transaction fee per vehicle. A limited number of permits will be available for pickup without a fee at the Gateway to The Gorge Visitor Center in Troutdale and Cascade Locks Historical Museum in Cascade Locks.
- Navigation: A physical topographic map and compass (your primary backups), plus a GPS device or a phone with downloaded offline maps.
- Sun Protection: SPF 30+ sunscreen, UV-blocking sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Extra Clothing: An extra layer designed for the worst possible weather you might encounter, such as a rain jacket, a fleece/puffy jacket, and a warm hat.
- Illumination: A reliable headlamp or flashlight, plus extra batteries.
- First-Aid Supplies: A pre-packaged or customized first-aid kit, including blister care and personal medications.
- Fire: Waterproof matches, a lighter, and emergency fire starters to ignite a fire for warmth or as a signaling device.
- Repair Kit & Tools: A pocket knife, a multi-tool, and basic gear repair items like duct tape.
- Nutrition: Pack an extra day’s worth of high-energy, easy-to-digest food in case you get stuck out longer than planned.
- Hydration: Ample drinking water and a way to treat or filter water from natural sources.
- Emergency Shelter: Lightweight and packable emergency gear (like a space blanket, bivy sack, or tarp) to protect you from the elements
Thank you for trusting us to be your home away from home. We’ve posted our Hospitality and Health Policy on our website. We invite you to read online reviews for the Old Parkdale Inn. And then we encourage you to go directly to our website and Book Direct for all the right reasons.
We’re your home base for exploring and enjoying the Hood River Valley and beyond. After a full day, you’ll love the peace and tranquility of the Old Parkdale Inn. Relax in the gardens, perhaps with your favorite beverage, by the bonfire, roast some s’mores, weather permitting of course.
What’s to do
The Hood River Fruit Loop is located in the beautiful Hood River Valley at the foot of majestic Mt. Hood offering you a variety of wines, fruits, vegetables, flowers, ciders, and food. Many outdoor adventures, such as kayaking, windsurfing, skiing, snow boarding, and hiking, await. Mt. Hood Meadows, Cooper Spur Mountain Resort, and Timberline Ski areas are only a short drive away, as is the Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood National Forest where trails and wildlife abound.
Book your stay at the Old Parkdale Inn and take advantage of our partnerships:
Wet Planet Whitewater Adventures – A 10% discount will be applied at checkout when you use the code we provide to book online.
Cascade Canyon Guide – request code for 10% off trips
