Getting Here and Getting Around
Whether you’re arriving by plane, train, bus, or bike, getting to Hood River is easy. Once you’re here, one of the Pacific Northwest’s most robust rural transit networks, along with bike-friendly infrastructure and local transportation services, make it simple to explore without relying on a car.
Getting to Hood River — From Portland Intl. Airport (PDX)
Hood River is located approximately 60 miles east of Portland International Airport and is easily reached by car via Interstate 84. Visitors can also arrive by bus, shuttle, or train, making Hood River an accessible destination for travelers looking to leave the car behind.
- Greyhound Bus — Greyhound offers service between Portland, Hood River, and The Dalles. Please note: Greyhound buses do not accommodate bicycles.
- Amtrak — Amtrak’s Empire Builder route connects Portland’s Union Station with nearby Bingen, Washington. From Bingen, visitors can arrange transportation to Hood River using a Hood River taxi service.
- Gorge PDX Shuttle — Experience dependable, seamless Portland-to-Gorge and back travel throughout the scenic Columbia River Gorge.
- Lyft — Lyft service is available from Portland to Hood River. Service is generally one-way, and return trips may be limited.
- Uber — Uber service is available from Portland to Hood River. Service is generally one-way, and return trips may be limited.
Getting Around Hood River Without a Car
- Columbia Area Transit (CAT) — Travelers looking to explore Hood River without a car will find one of the Pacific Northwest’s most robust rural transit networks through Columbia Area Transit (CAT).Local fixed-route service connects downtown Hood River with neighborhoods, shopping districts, and key visitor destinations seven days a week, making it easy to navigate the community once you arrive.Beyond town, the Columbia Gorge Express links Hood River with Cascade Locks, Multnomah Falls, Troutdale, and Portland, offering a scenic, stress-free way to experience the Columbia River Gorge without parking hassles.During the winter season, the Gorge-to-Mountain Express provides direct service from Hood River to Mt. Hood Meadows, Teacup Sno-Park, Parkdale, and other mountain destinations, allowing visitors to access world-class skiing, snowboarding, and Nordic trails while leaving the car behind.
Together, CAT’s services make Hood River one of the most accessible adventure destinations in the West for car-free travelers.
- Gorge TransLink — Gorge TransLink helps travelers find transportation services throughout the Mid-Columbia River Gorge, with connections to Portland and Vancouver, Washington.
- Columbia Gorge Car Free — Need help planning a car-free adventure? Columbia Gorge Car Free provides trip-planning resources and transportation options for exploring the Gorge without a vehicle.
Taxi and Local Transportation Services
Several transportation providers offer local rides, airport transportation, and scheduled service throughout Hood River and the Columbia Gorge.
- Hood River Pedicab / EV Taxi & Delivery — Electric vehicle taxi service, pedicab transportation, local rides, scheduled reservations, and delivery services.
- Gorge Taxi — Local taxi service throughout Hood River and the Columbia Gorge, including airport rides and scheduled reservations.
- Pedicab Service — The Hood River Pedicab is an open-air electric-assist taxi service and a fun way to get around town.
Plan ahead: Pedicabs and taxis can be busy during summer evenings and weekends year-round.
Explore Hood River by Bike
From scenic state trails to mountain biking adventures, Hood River is one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier cycling destinations.
Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail — Sixty-eight of the original 73 miles of the Historic Columbia River Highway are now open to travel, with only five miles remaining to complete the connection.
- Troutdale to Cascade Locks — This segment passes many iconic Columbia Gorge attractions, including waterfalls, Crown Point Vista House, and the Bridge of the Gods.
- Cascade Locks to Hood River — A restored car-free state trail connects Starvation Creek Trailhead to Viento State Park.
The Mitchell Point Tunnel project was completed in 2025 and is now open to cyclists and pedestrians. - Hood River to The Dalles — This section includes the scenic four-mile car-free route through the Mosier Twin Tunnels and continues to Rowena Crest Viewpoint.
Visitors can also bring bicycles aboard Columbia Area Transit vehicles. Learn more at gorgepass.com/bikes.
Gorge Bike Trips
Combining transit and cycling is one of the best ways to explore the Columbia Gorge. The Columbia Gorge Express carries up to nine bikes per bus, and even the most remote routes have space for at least two bikes.
| Daily Routes | Weekday Routes Only |
Bike Rentals and Cycling Services
Whether you’re looking for an e-bike, mountain bike, guided ride, or local expertise, Hood River has plenty of options.
Guided Tours and Transportation Services
Prefer to leave the logistics to the experts? These operators offer guided experiences, transportation, and excursions throughout Hood River and the Columbia River Gorge.
Transportation Planning Resources
For additional trip-planning information and car-free travel inspiration, explore these regional resources:
Up for adventure? Down for a drink? No matter your style, find your fun in Hood River.
