Is it possible to visit Hood/Gorge and the Coast in two days?

You can absolutely do it! My suggestion would be to drive from Portland to the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway. Take in the waterfalls, take in the misty air, take in the probable rain (bring a rain jacket) and then stop for ice cream at EastWind Drive Thru in Cascade Locks before making your way to Hood River. There’s a little coffee shop/restaurant called Doppio’s Cafe on Main Street. They’ve got the best sandwiches in town and even better coffee.

After leaving Hood River, head toward Mt. Hood. Make a quick stop at Tamanawas Falls trailhead and hike through the forest to the jaw-dropping waterfall. It’s an easy 4-mile round trip hike that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired to see what else you can find. Continue heading toward the mountain. You can take in some killer views at Trillium Lake or drink the world’s best hot chocolate at Timberline Lodge in front of a roaring fire. When you’re finished with that, you can drive through Government Camp and stop for pizza or beers, or both!

You can make it back to Portland in time to recharge and plan out the next day.

The Coast is sure to blow your mind. Head west on Highway 26 until you hit Cannon Beach. If you’re looking for a view, stop at Haystack Rock and take it in. This is the most photographed area of Oregon. How cool is that? From there, take a short drive down to Oswald West State Park and walk through the forest for about a mile before it opens up to the Pacific Ocean. You’ll feel like you’re in Jurassic Park, but I assure you, dinosaurs won’t bother you here.

If you’re still feeling jazzed about the Coast, you can head on over to Hug Point State Park, just down the road. It’s a similar beach and is just as rocky and wild as the others, but this one has caves and a waterfall. Just to keep you on your toes. From here you might be chasing the sunset so I’d recommend settling in and taking a few deep breaths because sunsets on the Oregon Coast are about the closest thing to a religious experience I’ve ever had.

From there, you can head back to Portland.

Take lots of pictures. Use our hashtag (#traveloregon) and soak up the experience. There’s no place like Oregon!