marcy evidential: New in Oregon's Mt. Hood Territory; Kayak Fishing, National Historic ...

Close to Portland, but a world away, Oregon?s Mt. Hood Territory invites European visitors to play in our great outdoors. The rivers that served as landmarks on the historic Oregon Trail are now hotbeds for fly-fishing and whitewater rafting. Hikers, skiers, snowboarders and mountain bikers populate the forested hills once braved by pioneers. As the leader for nursery activity in Oregon, the Mt. Hood Territory lands that were home to the region?s earliest farms now boast vineyards and fruit farms, ranking the county seventh in national agricultural output. The area has evolved to keep pace with the world while cultivating its love of and commitment to the land.

*NEW ? eNRG Kayaking takes you close to mighty Willamette Falls and along the historic riverways of Native American trade and early industry. (30 minutes from PDX)

* New ? Timberline Lodge & Ski Area ? Located at the 6,000-foot (1828-meter) level of Mt. Hood, historic Timberline Lodge was built in 1936 and celebrates its 75TH Anniversary this year. Timberline?s Palmer Snowfield offers the longest ski season in North America. Today, visitors enjoy the year round opportunity to ski and snowboard on the 11,245- foot (3,427-meter) dormant volcano.

*NEW ? Ag-Ventures on the Molalla Farm Loop offer easy and authentic farm experiences. Meet the cheesemaker, visit an elk ranch and pet baby lambs and alpacas. (45 min from PDX)

Winter Recreation

-Once the snow flies, Mt. Hood Skibowl entertains snow sports enthusiasts as the largest night ski area in the nation. Timberline Lodge boasts Oregon?s only ski-in/ski-out lodging. Climb aboard for an exhilarating snowmobile ride through high mountain and back country terrain with Mt. Hood Adventure. Inexperienced and never ridden a snowmobile? No worries, since experienced guides lead the way. Visitors can get maps and information on conditions for regional cross-country ski and snowshoe trails through the Mt. Hood Visitor Centers in Sandy and Government Camp. Wine makers dinners held in a tucked-away alpine hut, while sleigh rides, snowshoeing, and tubing hills make this a dream for outdoor sports enthusiasts as well as for those whose tastes require warmer indoor activities.

Spring In Mt. Hood Territory

Enjoy spring?s blooms from horseback with Dream Ridge Stable. Outings take place on forested trails with exceptional views, with rides tailored to the skill level of the individual rider. Trail cookouts can be arranged in advance. Horse clinics and shows in both English and Western styles begin in the spring, when the backdrop of bright green hills show their beauty against gleaming white stables and handsome horses. Owner Karen Brauer is fluent in German and loves introducing visitors to Oregon Horse Country.

Summer Sports on the Mountain

- Skibowl Summer Action Park boasts fun for the whole family in the form of more than 20 attractions, including bungee jump, horseback rides, guided hikes, mountain bike rides, and an alpine slide. With 10,000 summit attempts per year, Mt. Hood is one of the most-climbed mountains in the world. Climbing season is mid-April to mid June and a wilderness permit is required. Local outfitters provide guide and educational services. Lodging and dining nearby, including Oregon?s much-loved and iconic Timberline Lodge & Ski Area.

Fall Festivals and Scenic Drives

- Mt. Hood Scenic Byway is home to some of Oregon?s most scenic landscapes, including Oregon?s highest peak. The Byway boasts an exceptional number of recreation opportunities such as biking, hiking, fishing, year-round skiing and fertile farmland. Autumn is an excellent time of year to participate in our artistic offerings. Now visitors can watch working artists at the Arts Cabins Project in the Village Of Government Camp, as well as participate in classes range from jewelry making, glass work and blacksmithing. Visitors traveling to our Territory in autumn are treated to Willamette Valley winery open house weekends, where special music, food and new vintages are available.

September and October are excellent months to see the leaves in full color, tour working farms, see where food really comes from and realize just how glorious a picnic lunch by a winding river can be. Regional Farmers? Markets abound, bringing fresh produce and locally grown foods to locals and travelers alike. On your leisurely country drive, allow time to pull off at one of the many roadside stands for a homemade pie or fresh-picked apples and pears.

Whether in a fishing boat, whitewater raft or flatwater kayak, on skies, a touring bike or a camper van, experience Oregon?s wild places for yourself. It?s easy to reach us!

From Portland, OR

- an easy 30 minute to 1+ hour drive to Oregon Wine Country or Mt. Hood From Seattle ? 50 minute flight / 3.5 hour drive ? From San Francisco ? 1 hour, 45 minute flight / 10 hour drive.

April 6, 2012 ? Posted?in:?United States NorthWest