Once you’ve gotten a dose of adrenaline at the Mt. Hood Skibowl Adventure Park, the fun doesn’t have to stop.
The Mt. Hood area boasts a wealth of family-friendly summer activities that cater to both adventurous and “treat-yourself” interests. A stone’s throw from Skibowl is Government Camp, an alpine village nestled at the foot of Mt. Hood that bursts to life in the winter and summer months alike. Just a short drive through the towering trees of the national forest lies the bustling Villages of Mt. Hood.
We’ve put together a list of things to see and do around Mt. Hood during your next visit. Whether you ramp up the thrills or bring it down to a more relaxed pace, the choice is yours!
The outdoor adventures continue with Mt. Hood Outfitters, where you can rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to cruise nearby lakes. Have a wild hair? Staff can also help set up guided outdoor tours like whitewater rafting trips and hiking excursions in the forest.
Take in awe-inspiring sights along the .75-mile Cascade Streamwatch Trail that winds along the Salmon River at the Wildwood Recreation Site. Fin-tastic tip: Don’t miss the fish-viewing window that provides an under-water glimpse at life in the river.
Pop over to Burnt Lake for a moderate 6.6-mile hike with scenic streams, a large waterfall and sweeping views of Mt. Hood’s reflection in cool waters. The lesser-known Flag Mountain Loop offers incredible views of the mountain along a nearly seven-mile trail. Break for a bite in any of these areas and find a variety of scenic picnic lunch spots near Ski Bowl.
If cycle-powered expeditions are more your thing, the Sandy Ridge Trail System is a collection of some of the best mountain biking trails in the Pacific Northwest. More than 17 miles of track at varying levels of difficulty welcome both beginners and experts alike.
No matter your adventure of choice, we want to make sure you take care out there. Here’s a list of things you “otter do” to stay safe and have fun when visiting The Territory.
There is no shortage of arts and culture on the mountain. Get crafty at the Cascadia Center for Arts & Crafts and take classes about fiber arts, blacksmithing, glass, jewelry making and more. Or, step back in time at the Mt. Hood Cultural Center and Museum for a history lesson and to see works from local artists showcasing the area.
Get your swing on at the Mt. Hood Golf Course, which offers three courses with a total of 27 holes to play. With the stunning backdrop of lush green forest and clear blue skies, what else could you wish for?
If you’re in the mood for some pampering, treat your tired muscles at The Spa at Mt. Hood. Tip: Make sure to check out the Infiniti Tea Garden for enhanced relaxation.
Perhaps your idea of an adventure is more culinary in nature (we’re here for it!). Get a taste of mountain fare at an array of restaurants, cafes and breweries. Grab a slice at Al Forno Ferruzza or stop by Skyway Bar and Grill for roadhouse style BBQ and live music. The Huckleberry Inn offers both a great place to stay and a café to fuel up on breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Start your morning off with delectable baked goods from Dragonfly Café and Bakery, or get your caffeine fix with a cup of handcrafted gourmet small batch coffee at Mt. Hood Roasters.
Cool down with a brew at Mt. Hood Brewing Company, whose distinctive ales contain pure glacial water. (Bonus: Sign up for Mt. Hood Territory’s Tap Trail for exclusive discounts and prizes!)
Longing for more time to do it all? Make it a weekend trip and squeeze in more summer fun near Mt. Hood! From a tiny house village to camping to resorts, there’s a wide variety of places to stay around the mountain that strike the fancy of people from all walks of life.
