A North Pole Experience at This Columbia Gorge Town

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Forget the North Pole. This Columbia River Gorge town is one of the most happening spots for the holidays.

Courtesy of Mount Hood Railroad

Family Activities

Courtesy of Cedar Creek Alpacas

At the top of the Hood River holiday bucket list: a jolly joyride on Mt. Hood Railroad’s Polar Express (from $49). Carol-singing elves, complimentary hot cocoa and a visit from Mr. Claus himself round out the 1.5-hour-long trip. To feast your eyes on holiday lights, stop by the Columbia Gorge Hotel’s Festival of Lights to see all-white bulbs sparkle against the snow.

During the daylight, stop by Christmas on the Farm at Cedar Creek Alpacas, where you can walk around the decorations and, of course, make new four-legged friends. (Reindeer, eat your heart out!)When you’ve had your fill of holiday events, snowshoe through the winter wonderland. We love the trails at Pocket Creek Sno-Park, which is about a half-hour drive from Hood River, for the snow-draped firs and mostly flat trails ideal for little legs. You can rent gear from Doug’s Hood River.

Family Dining

Courtesy of Solstice Wood Fire Pizza

We love the wood-fired pizza at Solstice and the kids’ menu at pFriem (nom on their house-made Nutella-like spread with apples or spoon it directly into your mouth — we won’t judge).

Where to Stay

Cozy up in the historic Hood River Hotel, where you and your pets are within shouting distance of downtown restaurants and shops. For families who love to swim, book the Best Western Plus (with a heated outdoor pool and many rooms that overlook the Columbia) or the Hampton Inn & Suites (with an indoor pool and a free hot breakfast). 

Catherine Ryan Gregory
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