By: Gary Paasch
Founder Of: School of Send
The Bigger the Berms, the Better
Born in Parkdale and raised on the shoulder of Mt. Hood, Gary saved his pennies to buy his first mountain bike when he was 12 years old. He can say—unequivocally—that mountain biking has impacted almost every aspect of his life. “It’s important to go and explore,” he says. “I remember once when I was young, my mom dropped my bike and I off at the top of Mt. Defiance. I tried to find a new way back to our house (we were living near Post Canyon). I got lost and ended up spending the night in the woods. I discovered that day that sometimes, getting lost is the best way to find yourself.” Gary has a deep drive to share mountain biking and a sense of adventure with those around him, and so created School of Send, a mountain bike school for kids and adults. He’s also a whiz on an excavator and creates custom pump tracks and bike features in the community. In short (and if it wasn’t already abundantly obvious), Gary loves bikes.
Here are a few of Gary’s favorite spots in Hood River.
River Daze Café
You’ve gotta order the T-Rex english muffin sandwich. It’s the best breakfast in town.
The Hood River Waterfront
I love walking the dogs along the waterfront in the early morning before the wind really picks up. The view down the Gorge never gets old.
Post Canyon Shuttle
Our favorite is to shuttle to the top of Bin’s Hill then take our time riding down and sessioning our favorite trails like FMX, Extended Play, Float On, and Klee Way. Pro tip: Download the Trailforks app.
New York City Sub Shop
Their subs are huge and every one I’ve tried is delicious. My buddy Andrew used to own it and it’s always been a Hood River staple.
“I love that no matter where you are in the Hood River Valley, Mt. Hood always feels like it’s right in the neighborhood.”
Beargrass Bicycles
My good friend Joe owns Beargrass and I love swinging in when I need to grab an extra tube or have a quick conversation about what’s riding well.
Hood River Taqueria
I’ve been going to the Hood River Taqueria my whole life and the same family is always there to greet me and remember that I love the Burrito Loco. They’re awesome people that work hard and serve great food.
The Adventure Lodge
We love that the Adventure Lodge is dog friendly, has awesome views of Mt. Adams and is within walking distance of Egg River Cafe and Kickstand Coffee & Kitchen.
Anson’s Bike Buddies
Hood River is a mountain biking mecca. But it’s simply not accessible to everyone. Consider donating your old bike (you can drop it off at Mountain View Cycles!) or making a monetary contribution to this incredible local organization.
Where to stay?
Best Western Plus Hood River Inn
Experience a pleasing blend of Northwest style and attentive service at Hood River’s only waterfront hotel. Enjoy a meal or…
Hood River Hotel
Built in 1911, and on the National Register of Historic Places, the Hood River Hotel is where you should stay…
Horsefeathers Hotel
Welcome to the newest addition to Hood River's vibrant downtown, where modern comfort meets rich history.Nestled into the hillside at…
