Looking for the best ways to explore the Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood region this summer? Be carefree by going car free! Spend your time thinking only of the scenery you’ll see, the communities you'll visit, and adventures you’ll have, without worrying about the hassle of parking or traffic. Below are a couple of great options!
Trying to get up into the mountains? Take the Mt. Hood Express from Sandy! Running seven days a week, year round, the Mt. Hood Express is a great option to come along for the ride and fully take in the scenery of the Mt. Hood area. Bring your bike on the shuttle to explore the gorgeous mountain trails along the river in Estacada. Make a trip of it and stay overnight in Rhododendron at the perfect mountain cabin nestled in the woods. Keep going to stop at the alpine village of Government Camp as the perfect jumping off spot for numerous hiking trails. Or head to the historic Timberline Lodge for incredible mountain summit views. Full round trip day passes are only $5.
Looking to explore the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway and beyond? Opt for the Columbia Gorge Express to avoid the parking congestion at some of the more popular destinations. Find yourself along the three miles of river access at Rooster Rock State Park, or take in the splendor of the Multnomah Waterfall Corridor. Stop for a view of the historic Bridge of the Gods in Cascade Locks, and break for refreshments with a view at Thunder Island Brewing. Or head all the way to Hood River for a walk along the river and a trip to the nationally acclaimed Full Sail Brewing. You can catch the Columbia Gorge Express from the Gateway Transit Center in Portland, which offers free parking on the weekends. Did we mention you can do all that at affordable ticket prices? The Columbia Gorge Express offers year-round service.
If you’re looking to explore the gorgeous recreational areas and numerous historic sites of The Dalles, check out the free Saturday shuttle from Hood River! Service resumes this weekend on June 29th. The shuttle makes multiple stops along the way. We’d recommend head to the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Wasco County Historical Museum first, which is a great stop for families, and curious explorers of all ages. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Take the Columbia Gorge Express to Hood River, and rent a bike to make the 26 mile ride through the dramatic gorge landscape to The Dalles.
Want to leave the planning to the experts? Check out the numerous car free itineraries at www.columbiagorgecarfree.com. And for an even better experience, take advantage of these car free options mid-week for less crowded destinations.
