If you’re looking for unforgettable things to do in the Columbia River Gorge, the Mount Hood Railroad should be at the top of your list. This historic train ride out of Hood River, Oregon takes you on a scenic journey through orchards, forested foothills, and panoramic mountain views that light up with fall color. Whether you’re a history lover, a fan of classic Americana, or simply love immersing yourself in the seasonal beauty of places like the Gorge, this attraction brings with it a unique blend of nostalgia and nature in one perfectly timed adventure.
This classic Hood River train ride isn’t just about the views, though those are spectacular. It’s a sensory experience. You’ll feel the rhythm of the rails under your feet, smell fresh apples in the air during harvest season, and hear the soft hum of conversation and laughter as locals and visitors alike take in the sights. The Mt. Hood Railroad has themed rides throughout the year, too, like fall foliage tours and wine tasting excursions, which make it especially fun for couples or groups of friends planning a getaway. It’s one of the most memorable things to do in Hood River in autumn, and it perfectly complements a trip packed with outdoor adventure and small-town charm.
Of course, the Mount Hood Railroad is just one part of a well-rounded escape. When you’re done with your Hood River train experience, there’s so much more to explore. You can sample bold reds and crisp whites at boutique wineries, hunt for hand-thrown pottery or vintage finds in tucked-away shops, and hike to waterfalls you might just have to yourself. Adults looking for quieter, more elevated activities will love the art galleries in White Salmon, cider tastings on the Fruit Loop, or watching the sunset from Rowena Crest.
To round it all out, stay on the Washington side at Carson Ridge Cabins. These upscale cabins near Hood River offer a peaceful place to reset, complete with luxe amenities, fireplaces, and views that stretch out toward the forested hills. It’s the perfect home base for exploring all the best things to do in the Columbia River Gorge, including that unforgettable Mount Hood Railroad. Book your stay today!
Stunning Ride on the Mount Hood Railroad
Riding the Mount Hood Railroad is one of those Columbia River Gorge experiences that manages to strike a balance between being relaxing and exhilarating, but it’s also something that often gets overlooked when planning out itineraries to the Gorge. In part, that’s because there are just so many things to here! We’re here to tell you, though, that the Mount Hood Railroad deserves a spot on your adventure list for this fall.
The Mount Hood Railroad departs right from downtown Hood River, a charming riverfront town known for its wineries, small-town energy, and mountain views. The rail line dates back to the early 1900s and was once used to haul fruit from the valley’s orchards. Today, the Mount Hood Railroad is a leisurely, family-run operation that focuses on offering scenic rides through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. There are several train ride options available depending on the season, your interests, and what kind of adventure you’re looking for.
If you travel now, you can enjoy the gorgeous Summer Train, which is a nostalgic journey through Oregon’s breathtaking Hood River Valley. This scenic round-trip excursion offers panoramic views of snow-capped Mt. Hood, lush orchards, and rolling vineyards, capturing the essence of the Pacific Northwest as it meanders along the lower main fork of the Hood River. Midway, enjoy a delightful layover at The Fruit Company, where you can sample gourmet snacks, explore the gift shop, or partake in a wine tasting at the nearby Mount Hood Winery. This Hood River train ride is available through early September.
Once the summer rides through the fruit-rich valley are done for the season, it’s time to turn your attention to the dramatic colors of fall, which are best seen aboard the Fall Train. As the train meanders past golden orchards and crimson vineyards, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge alight in the colors of fall. Midway, you’ll enjoy the same stopover at The Fruit Company. This scenic train ride is available on select days from September through October.
Try the Hood River Railbikes for a One-of-a-Kind Adventure
If you’re craving something a little more active, but still want that scenic wow-factor offered by the Mount Hood Railroad, consider extending your adventure with the Hood River Railbikes. Operated by the same folks who run the Mount Hood Railroad, these two-person, pedal-powered vehicles ride along a portion of the same track but offer a more hands-on experience. You’ll cruise across a bridge and past fruit orchards, pine forests, and mountain vistas, all while pedaling at your own pace with the open air around you. It’s a surprisingly peaceful way to explore the Gorge.
The ride on the Hood River Railbikes lasts around two hours and covers about six miles round-trip. It’s not strenuous, and the bikes are fitted with electric-assist motors, so you can kick back when the trail starts to climb. Riders often spot deer, wild turkeys, and hawks along the way, especially during the quieter fall months. And while the views of the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood are stunning from the train, they feel even more intimate from Hood River Railbikes, where you’re low to the ground and surrounded by the scents and sounds of the changing season.
Between the nostalgia of the vintage train and the novelty of the railbike ride, you’ll come away with a full sense of what makes this area so special: Local charm, seasonal beauty, and experiences that can’t be found anywhere else.
The Best Cabin Getaway Near Hood River
After a day spent exploring the Columbia River Gorge, riding the Mount Hood Railroad, or pedaling your way through the valley on Hood River railbikes, you’ll want a place to unwind that feels just as special as the day’s adventures. That’s where Carson Ridge Cabins comes in. Tucked just across the river from Hood River in the quiet town of Carson, Washington, our luxury cabins offer the perfect blend of privacy, comfort, and thoughtful details that elevate your entire getaway.
Each of our luxury cabins near Hood River is designed with adults in mind. The amenities are plentiful, and the cabins feature luxe touches like private porches, soaking tubs, gas fireplaces, and views of the surrounding mountains and meadows. You can enjoy your morning coffee wrapped in a robe, then head out for a scenic hike or winery visit without ever dealing with crowds or tourist lines. After an afternoon on the Mount Hood Railroad, you can return to your cabin, open a bottle of local wine, and let the peaceful setting work its magic.
Our cabins put you in close proximity to all the best things to do in Hood River, Oregon, and the surrounding Gorge, but just far enough away to enjoy a little extra space and quiet. You’ll be minutes from trailheads, hot springs, and waterfalls, yet your evenings will be calm, cozy, and completely unplugged. Whether you’re planning a romantic fall getaway or just looking for an unforgettable base for exploring the Mt Hood Railroad and other Hood River activities, this is the kind of stay that turns a trip into a memory you’ll want to relive again and again. Book your Washington cabin getaway now!
