“I have a therapist. Her name is nature.” — Finn Dato
Hiya! Sasquatch here. Squatch for short.
While I’m out foraging in the forest and avoiding humans, I write all about my home, Hood River and the Gorge.
So far this summer Hood River has very few COVID cases. Therefore this mecca-for-the-outdoorsy is open for visitors!
If you’re seeking ideas for what to do here while you’re not hiking, biking, wine tasting and kite surfing, here are some ideas.
First, peek at The Gorge Current for local events.
In Oregon, go by The White House u-pick fruit stand along the Fruit Loop. Choose one of several picnic tables out on the lawn and order some hot food. If you are feeling spicy, order a cider sampler or one of the local brews on draft.
For experienced and new climbers, there’s a bouldering gym in Hood River called Brimstone Boulders. It used to be an old church downtown and has a great vibe!
On the Washington side in Bingen, get a day pass at the Society Hotel Day Spa. It gets you into the Hot Pools, Steam Room, Sauna and Cold Plunge. Definitely call ahead for a reso.
A trip to the Gorge is not complete without white water rafting and kayaking with White Planet. The amazing staff puts safety first — rain or shine — and they’re experts at making fun on the river!
Favorite eating and drinking spots with outdoor seating:
In Hood River:
Kickstand Coffee: Breakfast, lunch and dinner with delicious coffee, beers, seating outside and a gas fire pit.
4and20Blackbirds: Not your average food truck. Shane changes up the menu every day but everything is fresh and delish.
Lake Taco: Bomb Tacos. Don’t go here if you’re in a hurry, but the wait is worth every bite.
Across the bridge in Washington Side:
Everybody’s Brewing: In White Salmon. Known for their beer, but their food never disappoints
Huck Truck: In Bingen. Try the breakfast sandwich in the morning and spicy pulled pork for lunch.
Looking to get away and get outside? Hood River is the place.
If you are in a group of couples, moms, families, co-workers or birthday celebrators, consider a group getaway with to Lodge 902 — a 6-8 bedroom/bath home right on Oak Street, Hood River’s quaint central avenue.
All the bedrooms have their own bathrooms. Some even have jetted tubs.
Standard rental is for 6 uniquely styled bedrooms, all with their own bathrooms. Two 1- bedroom apartments downstairs are available for rent in addition. Otherwise, they stay locked. Therefore, the Lodge offers comfortable accommodation for 12-16 people. When you rent the whole place, kids are welcome, too.
In the front hallway there’s a guest wall to sign in the ‘Selfie Booth.”
One company hosted a small retreat at the Lodge. Their Org Chart is in there somewhere.
Guests savor coffee and wine while overlooking the majestic Columbia River, play games by the large fireplace, and create tasty boisterous meals in the fully outfitted kitchen. Local chefs are available to cook for groups as well.
Just hanging around
in the newly refurbished entertainment area downstairs.
