- States:
- Oregon
Combine outdoor adventure and the region’s “liquid assets” in this itinerary through Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory.
Mt. Hood invites nearly endless exploration on its snowy slopes and in its lush forests. The pure waters that melt from and surround Oregon’s highest peak create a thrilling bucket list for anglers and paddlers too, plus a delicious bonus: These waters nurture the ingredients that make epic craft beers and wines.
Greater Portland Region
Spend the day rafting or kayaking the whitewater of the officially designated “Wild and Scenic” Clackamas River, or exploring historic Willamette Falls by kayak or standup paddleboard, and you’ll earn your reward. In Lake Oswego, head to Stickmen Brewing Company for seasonal and year-round selections, including The Bee’s Knees, a pilsner featuring Oregon wild blackberry honey. (Nab a seat with a lake view and pair your beer with anything off the hearty menu.) The views of Mt. Hood and the Willamette Valley from Pete’s Mountain Vineyard are similarly spectacular. Soak in the scene with a glass of Pinot Noir or Pinot Gris.
Enjoy the scenic thrill of exploring Willamette Falls by kayak before refueling at the area’s many restaurants and pubs.
Mountain Region
Chances are, you’re here for Mt. Hood, which boasts one of the longest ski seasons in North America. In the South Slope town of Government Camp, share a pitcher of Ice Axe India Pale Ale and flavor-packed pub fare – maybe chicken wings in sweet chili apricot sauce – at Mt. Hood Brewing Company. At the base of the Mt. Hood National Forest in Estacada, warm up with craft beer and a steamy bowl of chili at Fearless Brewing Company. And in the Mt. Hood foothills of Sandy, drop into Buddha Kat Winery to sample award-winning varietals and wines made with rhubarb, blueberry and other fruits.
Need an après-ski treat? Grab a pint at Fearless Brewing at the base of the Mt. Hood National Forest.
Willamette Valley
Hook up with a guide to fish Willamette Valley’s rivers and lakes, picture-perfect and teeming with salmon and freshwater trout. Celebrate your efforts at Wooden Shoe Vineyards, tucked amid acres of spring tulips on Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm in Woodburn. Request a flight of white or red to sample several varietals. Or, raise a glass of handcrafted wine at Alexeli Vineyard and Winery in Molalla. Take a seat on the patio for a view of the vines. In Wilsonville, there’s no better place to toast Oregon’s bounty than at McMenamins Old Church and Pub, a century-old church repurposed as a brewery and restaurant. Hang out here for ciders and ales such as Ruby, crafted with Oregon raspberries. For your entrée, order wild salmon with cranberry-hazelnut butter, naturally.
Sample the many wines of Wooden Shoe Vineyards while admiring the rainbow of colors at Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm in Woodburn.
Getting There
Portland International Airport (PDX) serves as the ideal gateway to Oregon's Mt. Hood Territory, which is only 19 kilometers away.
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