Gorge summer activities: A starter pack

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If you are looking for a hike with a view, Multnomah Falls may be the first place that comes to mind. This iconic sight about 45 miles from Hood River offers a modest walk to the first waterfall view, followed by an optional 2.3 mile out-and-back trail for the more adventurous. A parking permit is required at this site, which can be purchased at www.recreation.gov.

Another slightly less-known waterfall hike in the area is the trail to Wahclella Falls in Cascade Locks. At the end of a light hike, you are rewarded with a waterfall with a glacial pool. A parking pass is required.

For the adventurers with mobility concerns, the entire Historic Columbia River Highway is an easy and accessible drive that has many waterfalls, forests, and lookout points to appreciate the nature and views. The Old Highway offers access to Vista House, which has an exceptional view of the river and the surrounding forests. This historic site has a museum, coffee shop and gift shop to explore after taking in the sights from the upper walkway. Another beautiful point to look at the river — with views of Mount Hood on a clear day — is Panorama Point. This area is located off Oregon Route 35. Both of these sites are drive-up, with space to park, and are good places to see the expanse of the Gorge. Details of the highway and its sights can be found at traveloregon.com.

After seeing the sights from Panorama point, you can head back into town for a bite to eat, or head up Route 35 to stop for a meal at the Gorge White House. This u-pick flower farm is the perfect place to appreciate a beautiful day while enjoying flatbreads and cider.

If u-pick is the goal, the Gorge has a number of places to participate, including a number of lavender fields, blueberry fields and orchards that can make for a day trip and outdoor adventure. Many of these orchards have farm stands where ice cream, food and drinks can be found. More information about the local farms can be found at the Gorge Grown directory at gorgegrown.com/business-directory.

Many of these farms also sell their products at farmers markets throughout the summer. The Hood River Farmers Market is every Saturday in the summer from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in downtown Hood River and includes live music, food, drink, and activities for kids. The White Salmon Farmers Market is open every Tuesday from 4–7 p.m. in Rheingarten Park, where a playground and live music offer fun for the whole family. The Mercado Del Valle, beginning June 27 at 5 p.m. in downtown Odell, features local farmers and was created by and for the Latinx community with music, food and activities for kids.

This list just skims the surface of the fun activities you can do this summer. The Gorge is a playground for the adventurous and outdoorsy and has amazing places to gather with friends and family to enjoy music, food and nature throughout the year.