12 Reasons To Plan A Vacation In Mt. Hood Territory
Every year, millions of vacation days go unused — and that’s time you’ve already earned! Think of it like leaving part of your paycheck on the table. Don't let your time to rest or your time to make new memories slip away.
January 27, 2026, is National Plan for Vacation Day, and there’s no better excuse to start plotting your next getaway. Whether it’s a snowy escape on Mt. Hood, spring wildflower hikes, summer river adventures, or cozy fall vineyard visits, now is the time to claim those days and make them count.
To get you inspired, we’ve rounded up 12 can’t-miss Mt. Hood Territory activities that will help you plan that next trip.
Spring Trip Ideas
The Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival (March 21 – April 27, 2025) occurs annually and lures families from all over the world to witness the 40 acres of rainbow colored tulips. Visit midweek for less crowds.
Experience Oregon's largest gathering of paddlers at the annual Upper Clackamas Whitewater Festival (2025 dates TBD) or utilize the expertise of one of the many rafting guides and outfitters in Mt. Hood Territory to raft the Clackamas River yourself!
Spring means rain in Oregon and sometimes you just want to be inside, creating the perfect time to visit our one-of-a-kind interactive museums. From delving into the mysteries of the elusive Bigfoot to reliving the challenges of traveling the Oregon Trail, visitors are offered a glimpse into this region's past and present.
Summer Trip Ideas
Who can resist the charm of adorable baby animals? Each summer, Alpacas at Marquam Hill Ranch and Triskelee Farm welcome baby alpacas, known as "cria." If you're craving even more cuteness (and delicious treats), head over to TMK Creamery to meet their "cowlebrities" and try the single-cow cheese.
One of the great things about having a mountain is that it creates awesome mountain biking trails. From beginners to experts, there are some great rides that will get your heart pumping. Hit the trails at Sandy Ridge Trail system or try the lift-assisted Timberline Bike Park. After a day of riding, refuel and relax in a charming Mt. Hood Village.
Through August and September everyone flocks to Swan Island Dahlias to their annual Dahlia Festival. It's a can't miss display of over 15,000 cut blooms plus acres and acres of dahlia varieties. They even rent EnChroma colorblind glasses so everyone can truly experience the beauty of their fields.
Fall Trip Ideas
The fall months are special in Mt. Hood Territory as our farms celebrate rich traditions such as corn mazes, hayrides and pumpkin patches. With an abundance of farms to choose from, everyone can get that perfect picture of them with the perfect pumpkin. Follow the Harvest Trail for even more fun as you collect punches to earn a prize.
The many trails of Mt. Hood Territory are the perfect areas to immerse yourself in the colors of autumn foliage. From easy hikes to more challenging ones, we have something for everyone. If you're interested in a guided hike, Mt. Hood Outfitters has several tours in the Mt. Hood National Forest and is a great option to get you started safely if you are a novice.
Thanksgiving weekend is a magical time to sip, sample and savor local wines in Oregon's Mt. Hood Territory. All weekend long, winemakers keep the tasting room fireplaces crackling, light candles to inspire a cozy mood and pour special releases surrounded by acres of vineyards.
Winter
Mt. Hood is home to some of the best Oreon ski resorts. Ski, snowboard and tube on Mt. Hood at Mt. Hood Skibowl with the largest night skiing available in the country and their evening cosmic tubing, or enjoy the longest ski season in North America at Timberline Lodge & Ski Area. Both resorts offer top-terrain, fantastic events and appeal to your inner foodie to boot.
You don't have to ski to enjoy the snow and that's where Mt. Hood Outfitters comes in — your go-to for every fun and exciting winter activity on Mt. Hood. Try a guided snowshoe, cross country skiing or snowmobile tour.
Trust us, we get it. When it's raining it's hard to get the kids outside and you don't always want to head to the snow to play. But you're in luck! When you're ready to get out of the elements, you can find some incredible places to explore indoors that the whole family can enjoy.
