Hood River — Rocky Top Barbershop opened its doors July 1, bringing a traditional, community-focused barbershop experience to the Heights neighborhood.
Owner Miguel “Mikey” Rocha said the shop had been years in the making. After nearly a decade in the profession, he knew early on he wanted to create a smaller, neighborhood-style shop.
“I’ve been cutting hair for nine years, and from the very beginning I always knew I wanted to open a classic neighborhood barbershop,” Rocha said. “Not too many chairs, not too big.”
Rocky Top Barbershop operates with a simple setup. Rocha is joined by fellow barber Isaiah Trujillo, who has more than four years of experience. The two previously worked together before deciding to open the shop.
The shop offers a range of traditional barber services, including classic haircuts, beard trims and hot towel shaves. Each haircut is finished with a hot towel neck shave, emphasizing that classic approach.
“We specialize in short to medium hairstyles,” Rocha said. “That doesn’t exclude genders. If you’ve got short to medium hair, come on in.”
Inside, the shop reflects that traditional feel. Rocha said many of the furnishings are vintage, including barber chairs more than 100 years old, made of steel and enamel, and waiting chairs that come from the Bingen Theater. The space is designed to feel intentional and welcoming.
Beyond haircuts, Rocha said he hopes the shop becomes a gathering place for the community.
“This is a neighborhood barbershop,” he said. “We belong to the Heights. We’re here for everyone. It’s a spot where people can come in, whether it’s for a haircut, a shave, or even just to cool off, have a drink, or play pinball for a few minutes.”
Looking ahead, Rocha said the focus is on building long-term connections within the community.
“The goal is longevity,” he said. “We want to be involved in everything from youth sports to back-to-school haircuts to local events and just help make the Heights even better.”
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