Seniors Enjoy Hood River

My new Outside Magazine featured a page on the “Best Town Ever 2012″ and I became interested in one of them.  I have never visited Hood River, Oregon, but the description is very inviting for senior citizens.

Each year, Outside has scoured the nation to find those cities that offer a balance of great culture, perfect scenery, stress-free lifestyle and reasonable cost of living, and, of course, easy access to the outdoors. They are seeking input from the public and in their October issue they will announce the “official honor.”

Hood River, another Windy City

Hood River (HR) is famous for, of all things… its wind, but there is so much more for senior citizens to enjoy in this quaint town. From fabulous vistas and farmlands to great shopping and dining, HR has something for everyone to enjoy for a week or just an afternoon getaway. HR is located approximately 60 miles east of Portland Oregon on I-84. The city of HR is the seat of Hood River County, Oregon, United States. It is a port on the Columbia River, and is named for the nearby Hood River. As of the 2000 census, the city population was 5,831. In 2010, the population is estimated to have reached 7,167.

Things to See and Do in Hood River

HR’s economy has traditionally been based on three industries: agriculture, tourism, and sports recreation, but since the late 1990s, high-tech industries, such as aerospace engineering (e.g. Insitu and Hood Technologies), have become the largest employer. Situated in the Columbia Gorge, and surrounded by fields, orchards, vineyards, and at the foot of Mount Hood, HR is gaining popularity as a senior tourism destination. Twenty-eight attractions will keep you busy in the area.

The Gorge runs almost from border to border and encompasses a large area of the only sea level river running through stunning cliffs made during the Ice Age. Missoula Lake (Montana)  had a huge ice dam that formed at that time. When it broke through, the flood waters carved out the Columbia Basin and Gorge. This happened four times and each occurrence forged a deeper gorge. Some great hotels will easily accommodate your visit.  The Mt. Hood Scenic Railroad offers trips through the beautiful apple and pear orchards in the area… and look at the colors of that locomotive.  You can see it for miles.

Attention Senior Wind Surfers

Wind surfing capital of the world is HR’s latest distinction. Previously known for growing luscious apples, pears, cherries, peaches and other fruits, and for the view of the majestic snowcapped peak of Mt. Hood, HR has become the destination of choice for wind surfers from around the world. The winds from the Columbia River Gorge, best during the middle of the day, create ideal conditions for riding the waves.

Apples and Pears…and good Oregon wine

Seniors from all over Oregon make an annual trek in the fall to the many farm stands to stock up on fresh apples and pears. Other produce is available, and varies by season. The award-winning Hood River Vineyards is located on a hillside overlooking the Hood River Valley. Check out those vineyards and maybe print off a copy of this map that points out the location of each. If you have a particular favorite amongst the many varietals, this may help prior to your tasting ventures.

Historic Places to Visit

HR County abounds in some special buildings, structures, objects, sites, and districts of national, state, or local historic significance across the county and offers some descriptive information about each of them. As per usual Frommers along with Fodors and Lonely Planet offer good destination details.  Enjoy HR and your trip to Oregon. jeb