There’s something to love about every season in the Columbia River Gorge, but summer really puts on a show. Wildflowers spill across open spaces, farm stands are overflowing with local produce, and long, sunny days invite you to slow down and soak it all in. One of our favorite ways to celebrate the season? Visiting the Hood River Lavender Farm—easily one of the most charming lavender farms in Hood River.
The rolling rows of vibrant purple are a striking contrast to what many expect from the Pacific Northwest. While this region may be famous for misty mornings and evergreen forests, it’s also home to some of the most beautiful Oregon lavender farms, thanks to the dry, sunny summers and rich volcanic soil. The Mt. Hood Lavender Farm, with its views of the mountain and surrounding vineyards, is a perfect example. And the expert growers at Hood River Lavender have truly mastered the art of cultivating this aromatic crop.
Of course, there are plenty more things to do in the Columbia Gorge while you’re here, smelling the lavender. You can hike to thundering Columbia River Gorge waterfalls, wander through wildflower-strewn meadows on local hiking trails, or sip your way through local wineries in the Columbia River Gorge. Whether you’re planning a scenic drive or an adventurous hike, this corner of the Pacific Northwest delivers unforgettable experiences.
After a full day of exploring Hood River lavender farms, retreat to one of our romantic cabins in Washington. With luxurious touches and thoughtful hospitality, it’s the ideal place to recharge. If you’re planning a trip around fun local events or simply want to relax among blooming fields, there’s no better place to stay. Book your stay today and discover what makes summer in the Columbia River Gorge so special.
Lavender & More at Hood River Lavender Farm
While the Columbia Gorge is home to a variety of fruit orchards and family-run farms, there’s something especially captivating about a summer day spent at Hood River Lavender Farm. Surrounded by rows of fragrant blooms and framed by a postcard-perfect view of Mount Hood, this spot stands out as one of the most scenic and welcoming lavender farms in Hood River.
Since 2003, Hood River Lavender has been cultivating their lavender organically, creating a peaceful, sensory-rich experience for visitors. Strolling through the fields in July—peak bloom season—feels like a slice of Provence in the Pacific Northwest. There’s no admission fee to explore the fields at Hood River Lavender Farm, and during the summer, guests can enjoy U-pick lavender from late June through September. It’s the kind of simple pleasure that sticks with you.
The on-site shop at Hood River Lavender Farm is worth a stop, too. You’ll find everything from handcrafted lotions and soaps to 100% pure, steam-distilled lavender essential oils made right from their fields. It’s the perfect place to pick up a locally made gift or souvenir from your Oregon Lavender Farm adventure.
And while the lavender alone is worth the trip to Hood River Lavender Farm, you’ll want to carve out time for a visit to Stave & Stone Wine Estates, conveniently located next door. Few places offer the chance to sip award-winning local wines while soaking up sweeping views of Mount Hood and breathing in the soothing scent of fresh lavender. It’s an unbeatable blend of Pacific Northwest beauty, flavor, and relaxation—an ideal way to experience summer in the Columbia River Gorge.`
Other great Hood River Lavender Farms worth visiting include Hope Ranch Lavender Farm and Lavender Valley Farms.
The Best Wildflower Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge
If you’re planning a visit to Hood River Lavender Farm this summer, extend your time surrounded by gorgeous blooms by taking one of the most beautiful wildflower hikes in the Columbia River Gorge. From late spring through early fall, the area transforms into a patchwork of blooms, with different flowers reaching their peak at various elevations throughout the season.
Whether on the Oregon or Washington side of the river, there are countless trails that offer stunning views and a colorful parade of native wildflowers. These Oregon wildflower hikes and Washington wildflower hikes range from casual walks to more challenging climbs—each with its own unique views of the Columbia Gorge, Mount Hood, and sometimes even Mount Adams. As a general rule, lower elevation hikes bloom earlier in the season, while higher trails come to life later in the summer.
Some of the most commonly spotted wildflowers on these hikes include:
- Lupine – blooms from late May through early August
- Monkeyflower – thrives from June through August
- Penstemon – shows off its colors in early to mid-summer
- Columbine – peaks from June through August
- Yarrow – blooms steadily from May through September
- Camas Lily – typically blooms from May through June
- Indian Paintbrush – bursts into color from spring through summer
Pairing a visit to one of the top lavender farms in Hood River with a wildflower hike is one of the best ways to take full advantage of the season’s natural beauty. Whether you’re on the hunt for vibrant lavender fields or flower-filled ridgelines, summer in the Columbia River Gorge is simply unforgettable.
Previously, we’ve shared a blog featuring one of our favorite spring wildflower hikes in the Columbia River Gorge: the iconic Dog Mountain Trail. It’s an unforgettable spot, especially when the hillsides burst to life with golden blooms of Arrowleaf Balsamroot each spring. We also highlighted a handful of other can’t-miss trails that offer memorable views and vibrant seasonal color. If you’re planning your own adventure and want to explore the best Oregon wildflower hikes or Washington wildflower hikes, here are six more Columbia River Gorge wildflower hikes that belong on your list:
- Rowena Plateau Loop
- Catherine Creek Natural Arch
- Coyote Wall Loop Trail
- Mosier Plateau Trail
- Memaloose Hills Trail
- Cape Horn Trail
Each one showcases a different side of the Columbia Gorge, from sweeping viewpoints and basalt cliffs to delicate floral ecosystems that bloom in stages throughout the spring and summer. It’s an ideal complement to a visit to Hood River Lavender Farm or any of the scenic lavender farms in Hood River.
And after days filled with scenic drives, lavender-scented breezes, and wildflower trails, there’s no better place to unwind than our romantic cabins in Washington. Each of our thoughtfully designed cabins includes luxurious touches like oversized soaking tubs and mineral-rich Dead Sea bath salts—perfect for soothing sore muscles after a day of hiking. If you’re dreaming of a couple’s getaway filled with natural beauty, relaxation, and the best of the Pacific Northwest, this is your sign. Book your stay at our luxury cabins in Washington today!
