6 Days / 5 Nights | Rating: Intermediate/Avid | Start / End: Portland, OR
- E-bikes Available
Oregon’s Columbia Gorge region is tough to beat for spectacular scenery, amazing cycling routes, beautiful hiking trails, and exciting (but not over the top!) river rafting. In short, this trip ranks as one of the most comprehensive and fun-filled summer adventures will find in the Pacific Northwest. Stunning vistas highlight rides along the Columbia Gorge Historic Highway, a gorgeous two-lane road and the first National Scenic Highway in the country. This winding route provides stunning views as it passes the world’s greatest concentration of waterfalls, and offers magnificent vistas over the Gorge. Colorful displays of wildflowers fill alpine meadows, and snow-capped peaks tower majestically above crystal clear glacial lakes. Visit a remote alpine lake fed by glaciers high on the flanks of Mt. Hood, Oregon’s tallest peak. Go for a swim or paddle a canoe in the pristine water before cycling through orchards and rolling farmland into the Hood River Valley. The town of Hood River is a cultural hub for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds and home to coffee houses, eclectic shops, cafes, and an early microbrew pioneer.
Travel the Sojourn Style
EXPERIENCES, NOT BIKE TOURS
While we love our cycling, it makes up only one facet of what a true Sojourn trip entails. We believe in immersing ourselves in local cultures and discovering the hidden gems of the world.
REGIONAL PLANNING SPECIALISTS
From Vietnam to France to Glacier National Park, we are committed to offering exceptional trips in regions with which we are deeply familiar. We personally design and operate each of our trips.
PREMIER ACCOMMODATIONS
We carefully select from some of World’s renowned hotels. From highly reviewed and acclaimed Hotel de Londres in San Sebastian, Spain or the Reverie Saigon, Vietnam, one of the leading hotels in the World.
UNWAVERING ATTENTION TO SERVICE
Our commitment to provide you with unwavering service starts from the moment you first interact with the Sojourn team. We believe the little details matter and make the Sojourn vacation a life-list worthy experience for our guests.
PROFESSIONAL TRIP LEADERS
Gracious, engaging, and intelligent, our expert team of tour leaders consist of professionals from all walks of life and make exceptional travel companions. Always a step ahead, they are adept at everything from spinning wrenches to whipping up fabulous picnic lunches.
YOUR VACATION, YOUR PACE
We believe that at the end of the day, you are at the helm of your own vacation. We offer an array of day-to-day options to enable you to approach each day at your own pace.
Day 1
Meet your tour leaders at the RiverPlace Hotel in Portland for a spin through the city along a bike path that Bicycling Magazine describes as a “must ride.” Follow the Willamette River as it passes through natural areas before returning to the bustling downtown area. The RiverPlace Hotel is one of Portland’s premiere hotels and is located in a beautiful park-like setting overlooking the Willamette River.
GOOD TO KNOW
Every Sojourn trip is different in their own unique ways. We want you to be aware of them so that you can only have the best experiences possible. Please know, whichever trip you choose we are committed to make it the trip of a lifetime!
This luxury, boutique property is just steps from the shops and restaurants lining the pedestrian walkway along the banks of the river. Unwind at the hotel, then enjoy a glass of wine before dining in the hotel’s restaurant that overlooks the marina.
LODGING:
RiverPlace Hotel, Portland, OR
503-228-3233
www.riverplacehotel.com
CYCLING OPTIONS:
16 Miles
Day 2
The Columbia River Gorge affords some of the most spectacular scenery in the Pacific Northwest. Construction was completed on the Historic Columbia River Highway in 1922 and the route is a designated National Scenic Byway and National Historic Landmark. This spectacular two-lane road winds past several waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls, the second highest year-round waterfall in the nation. Short hikes along paths at several of the falls enable up-close viewing of these towering cascades. Your leaders will host a delicious picnic lunch along the route. The Columbia Gorge Hotel, your home for the next four evenings, is a majestic, landmark
KEEPING YOU POSTED
We’re constantly looking for ways to enhance our trips. We’ll do our best to notify you of any changes in this itinerary. Other changes may be communicated to you on the trip by your leaders.
property that overlooks a 208’ waterfall and the Columbia River Gorge. This evening, relax in the gardens before a welcome reception followed by a fabulous dinner on the terrace of the hotel’s dining room— one of the most highly rated in all of Oregon.
LODGING:
Columbia Gorge Hotel, Hood River, OR
541-386-5566
www.columbiagorgehotel.com
CYCLING OPTIONS:
16 Miles
23 Miles
36 Miles
43 Miles
Day 3
Mount Hood and the Hood River Valley – Begin your day with a challenging ride to a remote alpine lake or save some energy for the rest of the day’s activities by getting a lift in the van to the lake, where you will enjoy a lovely hike which offers spectacular views Mount Hood, Oregon’s highest peak at 11,239’. You might also opt to paddle a canoe in the crystal-clear waters before your tour leaders host a delicious picnic lunch overlooking the lake and Mount Hood. Coast your way downhill from this alpine oasis into the patchwork farmland of the Hood River Valley. Visit a historic farm with amazing orchards that produce refreshing pear wines and hard ciders, not to mention fields of flowers, scrumptious fresh fruit, and spectacular mountain views. Ride through pear and apple orchards along the valley’s gently rolling roads. Following a return to the hotel, browse the shops in Hood River and seek out a restaurant for dinner this evening. Beautiful, friendly, and funky Hood River has frequently been named one of the top US towns for outdoor enthusiasts.
LODGING:
Columbia Gorge Hotel, Hood River, OR
541-386-5566
www.columbiagorgehotel.com
CYCLING OPTIONS:
35 Miles
49 Miles
HIKING OPTIONS:
3 miles
Day 4
Cycle Washington and Raft the White Salmon River – A short shuttle carries you across the Columbia River (no bikes allowed on the bridge) north to Washington’s quiet roads. Ride past open fields with views extending to massive Mount Adams, the dormant volcano not far from Mount Saint Helens. Pass through a wildlife refuge that provides habitat for a variety of waterfowl, birds of prey, and other wildlife. Ride lightly traveled roads that sweep through farmland and a coniferous forest. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the banks of the glacier-fed White Salmon River, one of the first to be designated a Wild & Scenic River. This afternoon, see the countryside from another perspective during an exhilarating raft trip conducted by professional river guides. The White Salmon provides a safe and enjoyable introduction to rafting, while still affording a level of excitement. The river alternates between short stretches of Class III and IV rapids and longer sections of flat water. Seasoned guides are at the helm of each raft to ensure safety and fun for all participants. Following your trip on the river, the group will head back to Hood River for sustenance and libations at a local favorite brewery.
LODGING:
Columbia Gorge Hotel, Hood River, OR
541-386-5566
www.columbiagorgehotel.com
CYCLING OPTIONS:
26 Miles
33 Miles
Day 5
Hike Mount Hood’s Alpine Meadows – This morning, your guides will lead you on a hike that will feature stunning views and the best examples of wildflowers of the season. Visit Mount Hood’s famed Timberline Lodge, built during the Great Depression as part of the Works Progress Administration’s emergency relief program.
MULTIPLE ROUTE OPTIONS
Itching for that EPIC (Extra Pedal if Crazy) ride? No problem, we’ll show you our favorite hills. Looking for more downtime? Your trip leaders will tell you the best days to take a break. All Sojourn tours have multiple route options to accommodate your riding skill or desires!
Numerous movies have been filmed at the Lodge, including Steven King’s, The Shining. Walk on the glacier and hike along a nearby trail before lunch at the Lodge, which features expansive views south over the Cascades. The highest peaks of the Cascades, such as Mount Hood and Mount Adams, are glaciated and remain snow-covered throughout the summer and make for exceptional photographic opportunities. Return to Hood River for an afternoon bike ride, a visit to nearby wineries, a windsurfing lesson, a round of golf, a massage, or hire a guide and go fishing. This evening, toast the week’s adventures with your fellow travelers during a final dinner together in the Columbia Gorge Hotel’s dining room.
LODGING:
Columbia Gorge Hotel, Hood River, OR
541-386-5566
www.columbiagorgehotel.com
CYCLING OPTIONS:
17 Miles
HIKING OPTIONS:
3 miles
Day 6
The Rowena Crest and Columbia Gorge Discovery Center – Your final day of cycling offers spectacular riding through the Gorge to the east of Hood River. Follow a beautiful bike path as it winds out of town to connect with the two-lane Historic Columbia River Highway high above the Gorge. This section of the ride was described by Bicycling Magazine as one of the best rides in the US, and the stunning scenery along this winding and rolling route serves to confirm this. Visit the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, the official interpretive center for the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Exhibits detail the volcanic activity and floods that formed the gorge during the last Ice Age. There are also cultural exhibits related to Lewis & Clark’s journeys as well as the Native American inhabitants so important to the region’s history. Return to the hotel for showers before being transported back to the airport in Portland.
CYCLING OPTIONS:
19 Miles
24 Miles
47 Miles
Tour Accommodations
RiverPlace Hotel, Portland
This boutique Kimpton property graces the banks of the Willamette River and is adjacent to shops and restaurants of the River Place. (1 night)
1510 SW Harbor Way
Portland, OR 97201
www.riverplacehotel.com | 888.869.3108
Columbia Gorge Hotel, Hood River
A classic Mediterranean Revival Style hotel built in 1921. This lovely restored property is situated above a 207’ waterfall and overlooks the Columbia River. The Hotel’s amenities combine to make this a perfect base for your active vacation. Spa, restaurant, bar. (4 nights)
4000 Westcliff Dr
Hood River, OR 97031
www.columbiagorgehotel.com/ | 541.386.5566
Travel & Tour Quick Facts
TOUR START | 1:00pm Day 1 – Meet at the RiverPlace Hotel, Portland. |
TOUR CONCLUSION | 4:00-4:30pm Day 6 – Group return to Portland International Airport. Departure flights should not be scheduled prior to 6:00pm. |
TRAVEL TO/FROM TOUR | Fly into Portland International Airport (PDX). Parking available at PDX for those driving to tour. |
DAYS/NIGHTS | 6 Days/5 Nights |
INCLUDED MEALS | All breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners. |
ACTIVITIES | Cycling, hiking, river rafting, options for wind surfing, golf and fishing. |
RATING | Intermediate/Avid - This tour offers certain days or sections of routes that might require riders to push their riding to a new level with occasional steady or steep climbs. However, those instances will be few and far between and the overall trip is at an intermediate level for cyclists who do not mind a few gently rolling hills with some longer grades. Van options are available for tougher segments if you choose to opt-out. Routes average 20-50 miles a day with longer options available. |
What’s Included?
EQUIPMENT | Road or hybrid bike, helmet, rear light, seat bag for road bike or rack bag for hybrid, map case, water bottle, and jersey. Bring clipless pedals, seat, or helmet for a more personalized fit. |
VAN SUPPORT | Rides supported by a Sojourn van as well as a tour leader on a bicycle. |
TOUR LEADERS | Two experienced tour leaders guide each trip from start to finish. |
RIDE NOURISHMENT | A selection of snacks and refreshments are supplied throughout all rides. |
RIDE INFORMATION | Detailed route directions, maps, downloadable GPS routes, and a daily briefing are provided. |
OFFICE SUPPORT | At your service 9:00am – 6:00pm EST, Monday – Friday. 802-425-4771 |
DETAILED INFORMATION | A full complement of detailed trip and travel information will be provided upon confirmation of reservation. |
E-BIKES & TANDEMS | Limited Electric Assist Bikes are available on all tours. Tandems are also available on on our US and Canada tours for an additional fee. Call us at 1-802-425-4771 for details |
Weather
Portland, OR | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
High °F | 67° | 74° | 80° | 80° | 74° | 64° |
Low °F | 44° | 50° | 54° | 52° | 45° | 38° |
Precip. Inches | 1.0 | 0.7 | 0.3 | 0.6 | 1.1 | 2.3 |
WE’RE HAPPY TO CHAT!
Call: 802.425.4771
Write: info@gosojourn.com
Visit: GoSojourn.com
PRICES & SCHEDULE
All prices and schedules are subject to change at any time.
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