Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge, Oregon, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge, Oregon, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge
  2. Important essentials for Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge
  3. Activities for Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge
  4. Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge, Oregon, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge, Oregon, United States of America, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge, Oregon, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge, Oregon, United States of America by month

January

In January, Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge is very cold. Temperatures routinely are in the high 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you decide to visit Bridal Veil Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

February

In February, Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge is pretty cool. Temperatures routinely are in the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you decide to visit Bridal Veil Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

March

March in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge is brisk. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) to high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you decide to visit Bridal Veil Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

April

If you are traveling to Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge in April, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain or snow 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you decide to visit Bridal Veil Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

May

May here can be chilly. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

If you decide to visit Bridal Veil Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

June

June in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge is mild. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right kind. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you decide to visit Bridal Veil Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

July

July in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge is warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the necessary type. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you decide to visit Bridal Veil Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

August

August in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you decide to visit Bridal Veil Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

September

September in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge is balmy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right kind. Most adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you decide to visit Bridal Veil Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

October

October in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge is chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you decide to visit Bridal Veil Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

November

November in this region is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains or snows about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the right kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you decide to visit Bridal Veil Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

December

December in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge can be brisk. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains or snows about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you decide to visit Bridal Veil Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

What to do in Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge, Oregon, United States of America

The stunning regions of Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge in Oregon, USA, are a true sight to behold. With awe-inspiring natural beauty, rich history and cultural heritage, this region is an excellent tourist destination. The landscape of the area presents visitors with a great variety of options for exploration, relaxation and taking in the refreshing mountain air. In this article, we will have a look at some of the top attractions that Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge have to offer.

1. Mount Hood

The huge, majestic Mt. Hood sits in the heart of the Hood River Valley and boasts the highest point in Oregon. The mountain provides an amazing backdrop for visitors, and offers an extensive range of outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, snowboarding and much more. One of the most popular ways to experience Mt. Hood is by taking the Timberline Lodge's Ski Lift, offering unparalleled views of the mesmerizing surrounding mountains.

2. Waterfalls

There's no shortage of waterfalls in the Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge area. The region is home to the Columbia River Gorge waterfall area, with scenic vistas, including Multnomah Falls, Punchbowl Falls, and Horsetail Falls available right at your fingertips. These waterfalls carve their way through the landscape, providing visitors with the majesty of nature in all its glory.

3. Hood River

The Hood River Valley is a prominent tourist destination that entices visitors with its stunning view and verdant landscapes. From here, the Mt. Hood Scenic Byway starts, taking you through a foliage-rich valley known as the "Fruit Loop." Visitors can stop at numerous fruit stands, wineries, and farms along the way. During weekends, the Hood River Valley hosts a farmers’ market celebrating local produce and flavors. Additionally, the river and its gorge offer great opportunities for kayaking, windsurfing, and kiteboarding.

4. Columbia River

The Columbia River is the scenic heart of the Columbia Gorge, encircled by towering cliffs, lush forests, and countless waterfalls. The river is one of the most recognized natural landmarks of the Pacific Northwest and provides a great opportunity to explore the area's history and culture by traveling on the river's sternwheeler. The river tour includes informative guides, visual history presentations, and live music.

5. Hood River Lavender Farms

With fragrant, colorful fields of lavender, the Hood River Lavender Farms are an ideal place for a blissful visit. The farm offers visitors the chance to indulge in the aroma and texture of the plant, and visitors can enjoy the calming effects of the violet wanders around the area at their own pace. For tea lovers, there is a 'Lavender Tea Bar' where the prepared tea contains lavender blossom and leaves for a unique and relaxing experience.

In conclusion, Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge offer a remarkable experience to visitors and unforgettable memories. From scenic hiking trails to travels back through time, the region is a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich culture. So if you're planning your next vacation, make sure to visit these top tourist attractions at Mt. Hood and Columbia Gorge and be transported to a world of awe-inspiring landscapes and serene ambiance.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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