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 chasing seasonal beauty, the Mount Hood Railroad delivers a unique blend of nostalgia and nature in one perfectly timed adventure.

The 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 Columbia River Gorge 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 Mt Hood train ride. 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 be equal parts relaxing and exhilarating. The train 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, it’s 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 your mood and travel style. The most popular is the Scenic Train Ride, a round-trip journey from Hood River into the Upper Valley, typically ending near Parkdale. This ride gives you a front-row seat to views of Mount Hood, stretches of golden orchards, historic farmsteads, and forested hillsides. In the fall, the scenery is vibrant with reds, oranges, and golds. For those looking to add a little extra flair, the Western Train Robbery Ride is a fun, themed experience with actors on board. Couples and adult travelers will love the Mount Hood Railroad’s brunch and dinner trains, where you can enjoy a full meal while taking in the views. If you’re into wine, look for one of the wine and cheese rides, which often feature local Oregon wines and curated pairings. Each option offers a slightly different take on the same unforgettable scenery, so there’s truly something for everyone.

What makes this train ride especially appealing in fall is how immersive it feels. The windows are large, the pace is unhurried, and the route winds past fruit stands and fields lined with pumpkins. You’ll pass through the Hood River Valley, where harvest is in full swing, and on clear days, you’ll catch picture-perfect views of Mount Hood standing tall over the landscape. The Mt Hood train captures the essence of what a fall getaway in the Gorge is all about—natural beauty, local flavor, and a slower pace that lets you soak it all in.

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, the Hood River railbikes are a perfect addition to your Columbia River Gorge itinerary. Operated by the same folks who run the Hood River 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 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, and a favorite among couples looking for something different and engaging.

The ride itself 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 and Mount Hood are stunning from the train, they feel even more intimate from a railbike, where you’re low to the ground and surrounded by the scents and sounds of the changing season.

The Hood River train ride and railbike tours together create a balanced, elevated way to experience the best of the Columbia River Gorge. 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 cabin is designed with adults in mind—think private porches, soaking tubs, gas fireplaces, and views of the surrounding mountains and meadows. It’s the kind of place where 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 Hood River train ride, you can return to your cabin, open a bottle of local wine, and let the peaceful setting work its magic.

Choosing Carson Ridge Cabins means you’re close 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 fall getaway now!