By: Stephanie Adams
Owner of: Flow Hood River: Yoga * Move * Connect
Remembering to pause and fully take in your surroundings may seem like a faraway dream.
After all, we’re programmed to stay busy with our never-ending to-do lists. But Stephanie’s Play List is the reset button we all need—it’s gentle encouragement to nurture the mind, body, and soul, especially when inhabiting such an extraordinary place. “We are surrounded by two majestic snow-capped mountains, rolling hills, and three major rivers. We are in the middle of the Cascade Mountains at about sea level,” Stephanie surveys. “It’s a beautiful location full of people who truly love, revere, and respect nature.” So whether you’re flowing through a vinyasa by the river, or recharging over a hearty meal, Stephanie’s words are the reminder to stay present, open, and humble throughout every step of this rejuvenating journey.
Here are a few of Stephanie’s favorite spots to unwind and reset in Hood River.
- Relax
Flow Yoga
Start your day cultivating balanced energy by incorporating a Flow Yoga class into your morning schedule. The studio welcomes all levels of expertise, offering Gentle, Flow, and Power Flow classes, along with great energetic movement offerings such as BarreFlow fusion (BFlow classes), and Strength classes.
- Drink
- Dine
Best Balanced Eats
After some movement goodness, nourish your body with a fresh, natural brunch at River Daze downtown, where their menu beams with handcrafted concoctions—including salads, smoothies, waffles, baked fresh breakfast sandwiches, pastries, soups and more. Another local favorite is Egg River Cafe where you can find fresh, seasonal dishes. Searching for a quicker nutritional boost? Head to Remedy Cafe for organic juices, smoothies, and filling bowls.
- Recreation
Explore the Falls
Spend your afternoon exploring one of Hood River’s waterfall gems. A mid-level hike, venture along Tamanawas Falls Trail while surveying the landscape of summer wildflowers, or autumnal colors, until you reach Tamanawas Falls. Experience Umbrella Falls as another worthy excursion, especially during the Bear Grass bloom in July.
- Dine
- Drink
Soothe Your Appetite
After a full day of body-loving movement and soul-nurturing nature, it’s time to satisfy your hunger with something hearty and whole. Celilo’s sustainable farm practices make this eatery a go-to for thoughtful indulgence. Or head to Solstice Pizza for wood fired pizza sure to warm you up. If you’re looking for spectacular views to accompany your meal, Riverside is your spot for a locally sourced menu and a riverfront scene.
“In our fast-paced world, yoga provides us an opportunity to move our bodies gaining strength, balance and flexibility while also improving the health of our cardiovascular system, immune system, nervous system, oxygenating our blood, hydrating our tissues, lowering inflammation, and improving brain function. With all of this, we are simply happier, more patient, and sleep better, too!”
- Relax
- Stay
Retreat for the Night
When it’s time to say goodnight, head to the Best Western Hood River Inn. Nestled on the Columbia River shoreline, you’ll wake up to scenic river views with access to a private beach. If you’re in search of a more historic escape, cozy up at the Hood River Hotel—your base camp for being a hop, skip, and a jump from other downtown eateries and shops.
- Relax
Poolside Yoga
Cap off your revival weekend by enjoying yoga beneath the blue sky! When the weather’s warm, this is the spot for stretching, bending, and unwinding poolside. Roll out your mat as you flow next to the Columbia River, then remedy sore muscles by soaking in the Hood River Best Western Plus riverside pool, sauna, or hot tub.