Hood River with Kids
There is a reason they say “It’s all good in the Hood.” We’ve found, since making Hood River, Oregon, our home after traveling full-time, this statement to be true most of the time! Summers in Hood River consist of warm temperatures, blue skies, plenty of water to play in, and an abundance of delicious food and drink to enjoy outdoors amidst a picturesque backdrop. Winter brings snow to Mt. Hood for skiing and sledding, a cozy quiet town, and a variety of indoor fun to be had. Keeping my three kids active and entertained in Hood River is easy no matter the time of year. Visiting “the Gorge” with kids? Living locally and looking for new ways to have fun as a family? Here are my favorite ways to enjoy Hood River with kids!
Go for a Swim
When you think of Hood River, water probably comes to mind. Hood River is known for its world-renowned kiteboarding and windsurfing on the Columbia River. Even if you and the kids aren’t interested in taking up a wind sport, you still need to enjoy the plentiful access to water in and around town. Here are a few of our favorite places to swim in Hood River:
Slackwater Beach, Frog Beach, Nicholas Basin, whatever you want to call it, it’s the ideal place to swim and play in the water with littles. While technically this beach sits on the mighty Columbia River, the water and the beach are protected by a sandy peninsula known as the Spit. This creates a calm basin, ideal for swimming and even paddle boarding (when it’s not too windy). The sandy beach makes for a great place to spend the day. Pack a lunch, beach toys, and some shade, and enjoy! There is paid parking all around the beach. Dogs are welcome. The nearest bathrooms are about a 4-5 minute walk away at the Event Site.
Also on the Columbia River and (somewhat) protected is the Waterfront Park Beach. The Waterfront Park not only offers a sandy beach for playing and a dedicated, roped-off swimming cove, but it also provides a playground, grassy areas, and bathrooms. There are a number of dining (and drinking) options available just across the street from the park/beach. Grab lunch and a beer to go from pFriem Family Brewers and call it a day! There is free street parking at the park, but it can fill up quickly, as this is a very popular place for visitors and locals alike. Plenty of paid parking nearby too!
Swimming near an abandoned substation might not sound ideal, but trust me on this one. Down Powerdale Rd., off Highway 35, once sat the Powerdale Dam, but now all you’ll find is amazing access to the beautiful Hood River itself. There are small swimming holes easily accessible from the parking lot as well as further south up the river, or further north, down the river. Our favorite spot is the rocky beach just south of the parking lot and old power structure. The shallow pools are great for the kids to play in, while deeper holes are perfect for tubes and floats. For more swimming areas, head up the Penstock Flume Pipeline Trail until you find the spot that looks just right for you!
Learn a Water Sport
Hood River and watersports go hand in hand. If your family is feeling adventurous and drawn to the water in an adrenaline-packed sort of way, try kiteboarding, winging, foiling, or paddling!
Located on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find access to some of the best kiteboarding in the world at the Hood River Event Site. The Event Site is the place to be if you are experienced with wind sports, want to sit in the grass and watch in awe as the pros do their thing, or if you want to rent some gear and take a lesson for yourself! If you are a beginner with limited time in Hood River and want to get the most out of a single lesson, try a winging lesson with Doug’s. If you or the kids (10+) are feeling a bit more adventurous, consider a lesson in kiteboarding!
For more low-key fun for family members of all ages, I highly recommend standup paddleboarding in Nicholas Basin. Wylde Wind & Water offers FREE group lessons and gear every Saturday during the summer. If you’re confident in your skills, rent SUP (or kayak) gear from Gorge Paddling Center and head on out!
Located at the far west of Hood River’s waterfront area is the protected, calmer waters of The Hook. It's a great place for those just starting out with water sports to get their feet wet! The cove is perfect for beginner windsurfers, stand-up paddleboarders, and kayakers. Hood River SUP and Kayak is located at The Hook and offers rentals, lessons, and tours. Sidenote: The Hook is also a great place to watch the sunset in the summer!
Situated in the Mount Hood National Forest, about 45 minutes outside of Hood River, sits Lost Lake. Lost Lake offers cool, alpine lake waters with stunning views of Mount Hood. The lake is not only great for cooling off when temperatures in town are high but also for kayaking, SUPing, paddle boating, and fishing. Lost Lake Resort rents all the gear you’d need. Enjoy day-use areas, camp, or even rent accommodations through the resort!
Take a Hike
With the gorge and surrounding National Forests, there is no shortage of family friend hiking around Hood River. Here are a few of our favorite hiking spots!
The first, and maybe the coolest hike we’ve done since living in Hood River is the Pipeline Trail. Hood River's Penstock Flume Pipeline Trail offers a unique and memorable experience, unlike your typical dirt path. This 2.8-mile roundtrip adventure starts on a forested path beside the Hood River, then surprises you with a 0.6-mile catwalk perched atop an old penstock pipeline. Soar 12 feet above the ground, weaving through tree branches and enjoying elevated views of the river. Imagine the history as you glimpse remnants of the older flowline beside the new pipeline, and snap iconic photos from your sky-high vantage point. Though easy and with minimal elevation gain, this trail packs a punch of novelty and charm, making it a perfect Hood River outing for hikers of all ages seeking something a little different.
While there is a bit of a steep climb on the way up, no other hike in Hood River offers a view like the top of Chinidere Mountain. On a clear day, you can see Mt. Rainier, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Adams, Mt. Hood, and Mt. Jefferson! The hike is about 4 miles round trip with an elevation gain of slightly over 1,000 ft. In addition to the panoramic views, the hike gets you up close to Wahtum Lake and allows you to weave through the forest on a section of the famed Pacific Crest Trail. Rather than going around the lake, as AllTrails suggests, just return the same way you came in, on the PCT.
Play at the Playground
If your family is like ours, your kids are always happy with a playground to pass the time and get some energy out. Whether you’re home or visiting, visiting a playground in Hood River is a great way to spend time with the kiddos!
We fell in love with Children’s Park during our first visit to Hood River. The large wooden play features include bridges, slides, monkey bars, a zip line, a climbing wall, and plenty of room for chase and hide-and-seek. There is a separate play area for younger kids, perfect for little ones aged 4 and under. Additionally, the park offers picnic tables, a grass field, a basketball court, and bathrooms, making it a wonderful place to spend a good amount of time. Feel free to say hi if you see us playing!
In 2019, we were playing at Waterfront Park with our two little toddlers when I looked around and said, 'I think I could live here.' The playground itself is awesome for kids, featuring a massive climbing structure, spinning features, and slides. What the rest of the family will love are the views of the Columbia River and Gorge, clean restrooms, picnic tables, and proximity to a variety of take-out options. Let the kids run wild while you sip coffee from Stoked, crack open a can of IPA from Ferment, or enjoy a slice of pie from Solstice.
Another fan favorite for the whole family is Jackson Park in The Heights. The playground is enjoyable for all ages, the grassy area is wonderful for relaxing or running the dog if you have one, and the stage hosts free music and other events throughout the spring, summer, and fall!
Hit the Fruit Loop
You might be familiar with the Fruit Loop—a collection of orchards, vineyards, and farms throughout the Hood River Valley offering wine tasting rooms, farm stands, and pick-your-own options featuring a diverse array of fruits such as apples, pears, cherries, and strawberries. While you might not initially think that spending a day driving through the picturesque Hood River Valley, enjoying wine, and sampling fruit is kid-friendly, I'm happy to tell you that there are a few stops on the loop that are ideal for little ones!
Feeding and petting goats. Need I say more? Draper Girls Country Farm is a charming family-owned farm that invites visitors to experience the essence of rural life. Draper Girls offers a delightful orchard where visitors can pick their own seasonal fruits, including apples, cherries, and peaches. The farm stand provides freshly harvested produce, homemade jams, and other local goodies. And goats. don’t forget the goats.
Nestled amidst the orchards and foothills of Mount Hood, Grateful Vineyard is a family-run winery, cidery, and brewery offering a unique experience that blends the bounty of the farm with stunning Mount Hood views. Relax in their welcoming tasting room or on the outdoor patio, sipping on handcrafted wines, ciders, and beers, and indulging in delicious pizzas made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon, soaking up the Hood River sunshine and savoring the local flavors. The best part? There is endless room for the kids to run free, and there is a playground! Sip a glass of wine while the kids play! And don’t forget to walk through the orchard to visit Carlos the Steer!
The Gorge White House is a quintessential spot along the Fruit Loop where the beauty of nature meets agricultural charm. Surrounded by the breathtaking landscape, offering views of both Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams, this historic estate features a charming farmhouse turned tasting room, showcasing an array of locally produced wines and ciders. The expansive orchards and flower fields provide a stunning backdrop for enjoying a glass of wine or cider on the outdoor patio. Visitors can also partake in u-pick experiences, choosing from a variety of fruits in season. The onsite food truck serves some of the best food in the Gorge, in my humble opinion (IMHO). Kids and adults alike will love the flatbread pizzas featuring ingredients grown right on the farm. The wait for food can be long, but with room to run and places to explore, the kids won’t mind, and with the tasty wines and ciders, adults won’t mind either.
Ride a Bike
Hood River takes biking pretty seriously. The bike rack at the kids' elementary school looks like a top-of-the-line mountain bike shop! But, that doesn’t mean we don’t have fun with it too! Whether you and your family are seasoned bikers or looking to take a leisurely ride, there are plenty of family-friendly biking options in Hood River! Need to rent equipment? Check out Evo for mountain bike rentals and Sol Bikes for e-bikes! Sol also offers some fun tours!
Embarking on a biking adventure along the Hood River Waterfront Trail for a picturesque journey along its 2.8-mile paved path. This well-maintained trail system, connecting The Hook on the western waterfront to the Best Western Plus Hood River Inn on its east side, offers cyclists a captivating experience with stunning views of the Columbia River, linking numerous parks and recreation sites. The Hood River Waterfront Trail caters to all skill levels. The paved paths provide a smooth and accessible route, making it ideal for riders of any age.
Biking with the family becomes an exhilarating adventure at Family Man in Post Canyon. This designated family-friendly mountain biking area offers an array of trails suitable for all skill levels, ensuring an enjoyable experience for riders of any age. The well-maintained trails wind through lush forests, providing a scenic backdrop for a day of outdoor fun. Families can explore gentle, beginner-friendly paths or opt for more challenging routes, catering to both novice and experienced riders. The thrill of biking through this scenic terrain, coupled with the joy of family camaraderie, makes Family Man a top choice for those seeking a memorable biking experience in Hood River. If you’re in Hood River in the spring or summer, check out Families at Family Man, a free weekly event! A parking pass is required to park anywhere in Post Canyon. Grab a day or annual pass here.
A family biking journey along the Mosier Twin Tunnels Trail is a captivating experience that blends history with stunning views. This scenic trail, once part of the historic Columbia River Highway, meanders through the breathtaking cliffs of the Columbia River Gorge. Bike (or walk) along the 4.5-mile trail between Hood River and Mosier, originally built for the historic Columbia River Highway, now transformed into a car-free section of the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail. The route gains 300 feet from the Hood River trailhead and 430 feet in elevation from the Mosier trailhead, ensuring a dynamic biking adventure with varying terrains. If you are looking for an easy ride, rent e-bikes and hit the trail! You can ride away right from the rental shop. Make a day of it and stop at La Vaquita Taqueria in Mosier before turning around and heading back. A State Parks pass is required to park at either trailhead, but if you rent e-bikes and ride in, you can avoid paying to park in the State Park.
Stay Indoors
Thanks to the rain shadow effect, Hood River enjoys more sunshine than some other places in Oregon. However, we certainly have our share of days when indoor fun is the preferred option. Fortunately, Hood River offers a variety of kid-friendly indoor activities to keep everyone entertained!
This vibrant haven welcomes budding artists of all ages, offering a smorgasbord of classes, camps, and open studio sessions. Fruit Loops fosters a playful and inclusive atmosphere where imagination takes flight on wings of paint, clay, and glitter. Whether you're a seasoned artist seeking inspiration or a curious newcomer dipping your toes into the world of art, Fruit Loops promises a delightful dose of artistic fun. If you live in HR, sign the kids up for weekly arts or theatre club! If you're visiting, stop by for an open studio session!
My kid's home away from home. Chalk is a gym just outside of town catering to little gymnasts, flippers, jumpers, and anyone needing to burn off some energy. Chalk offers ongoing classes in areas such as gymnastics and parkour, as well as open gym sessions, camps, and even drop-off kids' night out events!
Brimstone is not just a climbing gym; it's specifically a bouldering paradise situated in the heart of Hood River. Housed in a charming old church, the vibrant climbing walls come to life with sunshine filtering through stained-glass windows. Stop by for an hour or two of open gym time, and don't worry if it's your first time – rental shoes are available, and the super-friendly staff will guide you through. With climbing options catering to all skill levels, including a beginner's area perfect for kids, Brimstone welcomes everyone. For locals, ongoing youth classes and a climbing team are available. If you're looking to take up climbing as a new hobby, don't miss the free bouldering 101 class offered each month!
Grab a Bite to Eat
Deciding where to eat in Hood River can be tough. There are so many tasty places to choose from! If you’re going out with little diners, here are some of the best family-friendly restaurants in Hood River!
If you are looking for a quiet meal, this might not be a good fit. If you are looking for yummy pizza and an arcade to keep the kids having fun, this is the place for you! Established in 1957, Pietro's Pizza in Hood River is not just a pizza place; it's a culinary destination that caters to diverse tastes. From classic favorites to unique creations, Pietro's menu boasts a variety of pizza options, including the famous Taco Pizza and Hula Loola. The family-friendly atmosphere extends to the kids' menu, featuring animal-shaped tenders and creative salad options. Pietro's even caters to dietary preferences with gluten-free and vegetarian pizza choices. But it's not just about the food – Pietro's takes the concept of family restaurants to the next level by offering a delightful selection of craft beers, quality wines, and microbrews.
If keeping the kids calm at the table while eating out sounds like a challenge, then why not let them enjoy the open space? Head to the Waterfront, where they can run in the grassy fields and play on the playground while you indulge in some delicious food truck fare! Throughout the Spring, Summer, and Fall months, a diverse selection of food trucks lines the waterfront. Choose from mouthwatering BBQ at Grasslands, grab a slice of pizza from Solstice, or savor an oversized burrito from the Mexican food truck.
My kid’s favorite breakfast in town — M&M pancakes with sausage links from Bette’s. Bette's Place is a warm and inviting restaurant serving up breakfast, lunch, and tempting baked goods in Hood River. Whether you're looking for a hearty start to your day or a delicious midday pick-me-up, Bette's has something to satisfy your cravings. Their menu features classic American fare with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. From fluffy pancakes and omelets to juicy burgers and sandwiches, there's something for everyone at Bette's. And don't forget to save room for a slice of their famous pie or a decadent brownie - you won't be disappointed!
No matter what you have for dinner, make sure to save room for ice cream at Mike’s! Mike's Ice Cream is a beloved seasonal scoop shop bringing smiles and sweet treats to the community from spring to autumn. With the first warm rays of sunshine, Mike's throws open its doors, tempting locals and visitors alike with a vibrant array of homemade ice cream flavors. From classic chocolate and strawberry to adventurous huckleberry and lavender, each scoop is a burst of summery goodness. Whether you're savoring a cone on a sunny stroll or staying to eat at the shop so the kids can eat in the tree house, Mike's Ice Cream is a quintessential Hood River experience. And don’t forget your cash or check, because that’s all they take. Unless you plan on returning then an IOU is an option!
How ever you spend your family time in Hood River, I hope you enjoy or special place! Want to experience Hood River like we first did? Rent an RV in Oregon or rent a camper van in Oregon and camp!