This Town in the Pacific Northwest Has Scenic Wineries, Windsurfing, and More

"Life in Hood River revolves around water and mountains. With the Columbia River bordering the city to the north and Mount Hood, a stratovolcano in the Cascades, to the south, the small city is a playground for people who like to be active outside year-round. And while the destination has all the hiking, biking, and skiing opportunities you could want, it may be best known for a sport that's a bit more niche: windsurfing."

"Travelers with other interests are sure to enjoy Hood River as well. "Known as Portland's backyard, Hood River is not just for skiers, mountain bikers, hikers, and kiteboarders, but also for art lovers, beer and wine enthusiasts, and foodies," says Ashley Huckaby, a Hood River local and account manager with DVA Advertising & Public Relations, who spoke with Travel + Leisure via email."

"The rich, volcanic soil of Mount Hood makes the Hood River Valley a paradise for farmers and locavores, too. This region is the largest producer of Anjou pears in the U.S., with local growers also producing award-winning apples, cherries, and grapes. The latter crop has made the area home to some of the best wineries in the Pacific Northwest-and locally made beer is just as prevalent."

Hood River sits between the Columbia River to the north and Mount Hood to the south, offering year-round outdoor recreation including hiking, biking, skiing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. Strong winds funneling up the Columbia River Gorge make it a global center for windsurfing, especially June through September. The valley's volcanic soil supports abundant agriculture, producing U.S.-leading Anjou pears plus apples, cherries, and grapes that sustain notable wineries. The area also features a high density of craft breweries. Hood River serves art lovers, beer and wine enthusiasts, and foodies, and functions as a compact town of under 10,000 with visitor accommodations.

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