The Columbia River Gorge has something for everyone. Whether you want to go on a romantic picnic with your sweetheart or reach new heights on an active volcano, you can do it in the Gorge. Here are some of our favorite Columbia Gorge excursions to enjoy during your stay at Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins!
A Local’s Guide to Columbia Gorge Excursions
Get out on the Water
Whether you consider yourself an adventurer or are just looking for a good way to cool off, getting out on the water is a must during the warmer months. The Columbia River is stunning, and it needs to be explored. For a relaxing yet invigorating workout, head to the Gorge Paddling Center.
Here, you can rent kayaks and paddleboards to take out on your own, or opt for a guided tour. We love Columbia Gorge excursions that show the beauty of our area, and the Gorge Paddling Center does just that.
Reach New Heights on an Active Volcano
If you love to explore, we know just the place. Have you ever hiked an active volcano? You can during your stay at Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins! Mount St. Helens is one of the best Columbia Gorge excursions for adventurers. Here, you can explore more than 200 miles of trails filled with wildflowers and stunning views. If you plan on trekking more than 4,800 feet up, make sure you get a climbing permit in advance.
Cast a Line
Sometimes, the best way to relax is with a fishing pole in your hand. From rivers to lakes, there are plenty of spots to cast your line. We recommend heading out with one of the local, expert fishing guides. This way, you will be taken to some of the best fishing spots in the Columbia River Gorge.
Pack a Picnic
There is no better way to take in the beautiful scenery of the Columbia River Gorge than to sit down and relax as you gaze out over the water amongst nature. Pack up a picnic and head to a peaceful spot to enjoy it.
We recommend going to Thunder Island. Cross over a small footbridge onto the island, and set up your picnic on the maintained lawns or one of the many picnic tables. You will love watching the sailboats float by on the river as you breathe in the fresh air.
Go Huckleberry Picking
If you are looking for unique Columbia Gorge excursions, go huckleberry picking. These delicious berries are similar to blueberries and are indigenous to our area. Head to the Sawtooth Berry Field in the Indian Heaven Wilderness between mid-August and mid-September to pick. Make sure you get your Free Use Berry Permit and don’t pick more than one gallon of berries in one day. Then, you can eat them as a delicious snack or take them home to bake into pies and make into jam.
Sip During a Winery Tour
Located north of the famous Napa Valley, the Columbia River Gorge is home to some amazing wineries of its own. Each of these small wineries have something different to offer. Enjoy delicious blends from local grapes or opt for a hard cider made from a local orchard. On a nice day, you can enjoy a glass or two on the patio as you look out over the vineyard. The Gorge White House is one of our favorites; they have a gorgeous orchard and garden on site.
Spelunk Some Caves
Get below the surface when you go explore some caves. Head to the Gifford Pinchot National Forest for some of the best spelunking in the state.
We recommend starting with the famous Ape Caves. These long tunnels were once filled with lava, so they left a hardened outer layer. Now, you can trek through the two tubes to see interesting rock formations.
Soak in Natural Hot Springs
Just moments down the street from Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins is Carson Hot Springs. Constructed in the 1930s, the bathhouse has been a favorite spot to soak for almost a century. The mineral water is known for a variety of benefits such as relief from pain, stress, indigestion, and more. After you are warm and relaxed, head back to your cabin for a spa treatment. You will never feel more refreshed.
Snowshoe in the Winter
If you are looking for Columbia Gorge excursions in the winter, snowshoeing is our favorite. Whether you have never been snowshoeing before or have gone countless times, it is fun for everyone. Plus, it is an excellent way to see the winter wonderland of Washington State. We have six pairs of snowshoes at Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins for our guests to use, so everyone can experience the snowy beauty of our area.
Embark on the Hood River County Fruit Loop
There are tons of Columbia Gorge excursions that will help you get to know our area. One of the best is the Hood River County Fruit Loop.
This self-guided tour brings you to countless farms, roadside fruit stands, wineries, berry patches, and more. Learn about the agricultural traditions of the Gorge along the way and enjoy some of the freshest fruit you have ever tasted.
Enjoy Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is an excellent way to explore our winter wonderland! Not only do you get a great workout, you’ll also get to gaze out at the ice-covered trees and white snow as you travel. There are miles of trails in our area and equipment rentals available.
It’s Time to Plan Your Columbia Gorge Excursions
Experience all that the Hood River area has to offer when you stay at Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins. No matter what season you join us during, there are always countless Columbia Gorge excursions for you to enjoy. Start planning your stay by browsing our cabins.
From spotless accommodations to luxurious amenities, you are sure to be refreshed and rejuvenated during your stay. The custom-made log beds and relaxing jetted tubs make the perfect home base for your adventures. Plus, you can start your day off right with breakfast delivered straight to your door each morning. We look forward to hosting you!
