If you’re planning a trip from Portland to Mount Hood, you’re in for a real treat. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge, numerous waterfalls, and lush green forests. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a quick escape from the city, this road trip is perfect for you.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Portland to Mount Hood drive, including distance, drive hours, stops along the way, the best driving route, and more. So, let’s get started!
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Portland to Mount Hood Drive
The distance from Portland to Mount Hood is approximately 76.5 miles (123.1 km). Depending on traffic, the drive takes around 1 hour and 16 minutes.
The drive from Portland to Mount Hood takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. As you make your way eastward, you’ll pass through the Columbia River Gorge, where you can stop at several viewpoints to take in the stunning scenery.
How far is Portland from Mount Hood?
Mount Hood is located approximately 76.5 miles (123.1 km) southeast of Portland. The drive takes around 1 hour and 16 minutes, depending on traffic.
What is the time difference between Portland and Mount Hood?
Portland and Mount Hood are both in the Pacific Time Zone (PT). There is no time difference between the two locations.
The Cheapest Way to Get from Portland to Mount Hood
The cheapest way to get from Portland to Mount Hood is by car. If you’re traveling with a group, renting a car and splitting the cost can be an affordable and convenient option. You can also consider taking public transportation, but keep in mind that it may take longer and may not drop you off at your desired location.
Portland to Mount Hood Drive – Rent A Car In Portland
Here are some rental car companies to rent a car from in Portland:
- Enterprise: starts at $53 per day
- Hertz: starts at $55 per day
- Avis: starts at $64 per day
- Budget: starts at $70 per day
- Alamo: starts at $82 per day
Gas prices will also vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $60 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $3.997 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas.
Portland to Mount Hood – Driving Stops Along The Way
Here are some of the best driving stops along the way:
Multnomah Falls
This iconic waterfall is one of the most popular attractions along the Columbia River Gorge. You can take a short hike to the viewing platform or climb to the top of the falls for a breathtaking view.
Vista House
This historic observatory offers panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge and surrounding mountains.
Hood River
This charming town is known for its outdoor recreation, including windsurfing, hiking, and biking. Take a stroll through the downtown area and check out the local shops and restaurants.
Timberline Lodge
This historic lodge is located at the base of Mount Hood and offers stunning views of the mountain. You can take a tour of the lodge or hit the slopes for some skiing or snowboarding.
Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Oregon and is definitely worth a stop on your drive from Portland to Mount Hood. The falls are located in the Columbia River Gorge and are visible from the Historic Columbia River Highway. You can take a short hike to the viewing platform to get a closer look at the falls, which drop a total of 620 feet. There are also several other waterfalls in the area, including Horsetail Falls, Wahkeena Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls, that are worth checking out.
Vista House
The Vista House is a historic observatory located on Crown Point in the Columbia River Gorge. The observatory offers panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge and surrounding mountains. The building itself is also impressive, with its octagonal shape and stunning architecture. The Vista House is open year-round and admission is free.
Hood River
Hood River is a charming town located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. The town is known for its outdoor recreation, including windsurfing, hiking, and biking. You can take a stroll through the downtown area and check out the local shops and restaurants. There are also several breweries in the area that offer tours and tastings.
Timberline Lodge
Timberline Lodge is a historic lodge located at the base of Mount Hood. The lodge was built in the 1930s as part of the Works Progress Administration and is now a National Historic Landmark. The lodge offers stunning views of the mountain and is a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding in the winter. You can take a tour of the lodge or grab a meal at one of the on-site restaurants.
Best Driving Route from Portland to Mount Hood
The best driving route from Portland to Mount Hood is via US-26 E. This route takes you through the Columbia River Gorge and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The drive is approximately 60 miles and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Along the way, you can stop at several viewpoints and attractions, including Multnomah Falls, Vista House, Hood River, and Timberline Lodge.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, the Portland to Mount Hood drive is an excellent option for nature lovers or anyone seeking a quick escape from the city. With stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge, numerous waterfalls, and lush green forests, the drive offers breathtaking scenery throughout. While the drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, there are several stops along the way, including Multnomah Falls, Vista House, Hood River, and Timberline Lodge. Whether you choose to drive, fly, or take public transportation, this road trip is worth the trip and promises to create lasting memories.