County of hood river

History & Founding

Located in north-central Oregon, this county was established in 1883 from parts of Wasco and Multnomah counties. Its name honors Captain Nathaniel Hood, a Hudson’s Bay Company employee who tragically drowned in the Columbia River in 1846 while attempting to rescue a Native American woman. Hood’s bravery and the circumstances of his death resonated with early settlers, solidifying the name’s adoption. The area’s history is deeply intertwined with the Columbia River, serving as a vital transportation route for fur traders, settlers, and later, fruit growers. The construction of the Celilo Falls dam in the early 20th century, a project that dramatically altered the river’s flow and displaced the Warm Springs people who relied on the falls for fishing, remains a significant, and often controversial, event in the county's past. Interestingly, a preserved wagon, believed to have been used by early settlers crossing the Columbia, was discovered remarkably intact in the riverbed near Odell, offering a tangible link to the county’s pioneering era.

Geography & Landscape

The county’s geography is strikingly beautiful and diverse. Situated in the Cascade Mountain rain shadow, it lies at the eastern edge of the Columbia River Gorge, a dramatic canyon carved by the Columbia River. The terrain ranges from steep, forested slopes along the river to rolling hills and fertile orchards further inland. The Columbia River itself is a defining feature, providing stunning views and recreational opportunities. Mount Hood, Oregon's highest peak, dominates the eastern horizon, contributing to the county’s dramatic scenery. The climate is semi-arid, characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters, thanks to the rain shadow effect. Notable natural features include numerous waterfalls cascading down the gorge walls, such as Multnomah Falls, which draws visitors from around the world.

Economy & Communities

The county comprises six incorporated towns: Hood River, Odell, White Salmon, Dufur, Biggs, and Maupin. Hood River, the county seat, is the largest and most vibrant community, serving as a hub for commerce, recreation, and tourism. The economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, particularly fruit growing. Apples, pears, cherries, and peaches flourish in the fertile soil and favorable climate. Tourism plays a crucial role, drawing visitors eager to experience the stunning scenery, windsurfing opportunities (the Gorge is world-renowned for its wind), and outdoor recreation. Other industries include light manufacturing, timber, and the burgeoning craft beverage scene. Notable employers include fruit packing houses, wind turbine manufacturers, and tourism-related businesses. The overall character of the area is a blend of rural agricultural heritage and a modern, outdoor-oriented lifestyle.

Points of Interest

Points of interest abound, catering to a wide range of interests. The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area offers countless hiking trails, breathtaking viewpoints, and opportunities for water sports. Historic orchards and fruit stands dot the landscape, offering a taste of the region’s agricultural heritage. The Hood River History Museum provides insights into the county’s past. Annual festivals, such as the Fruit Loop and the Gorge Kite Festival, celebrate the region’s bounty and unique culture. The county has attracted a number of notable residents, including athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs drawn to the area’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The county holds the record for the highest wind speeds ever recorded in the continental United States, further cementing its reputation as a windsurfing paradise.