Experience Mid-Mountain Magic: A Local's Guide to Mt. Hood's Villages

By Guest Authors: Allie & Danella

Heading toward Mt. Hood from the greater Portland area means a ride along Highway 26. Many people go straight to Government Camp for the extraordinary hiking in the warmer months and epic skiing options in the winter, but there are so many under-the radar-stops along the way!

Starting in Sandy and heading east means traveling directly through the area locals call The Villages of Mt. Hood, which includes Marmot, Brightwood, Wemme, Welches and Rhododendron. Whether you are a local looking to explore more spots off the beaten path, or a visitor spending time in Mt. Hood Territory, these towns have dozens of overlooked stops that highlight the vibe of Mt. Hood.

Check out Marmot Recreation Site, located about 7 miles off of Highway 26 just outside of Sandy. Marmot is a perfect park to have a spring picnic or to view migrating salmon in the fall. Walk the short out-and-back trail that starts at the Marmot Bridge and winds through the forest.

Danella in front of the Marmot Recreation Site bridge.

Farther east on Highway 26, you will find Barlow Wayside Park where visitors can embark on a self-guided interpretive walk to enjoy the many streams and creeks that flow throughout the park. On the south side of the park make sure to take the short walk to the confluence of the Salmon and Sandy Rivers.

Similar to Barlow Wayside Park, take a right directly off of Highway 26 in Welches, which will lead to Wildwood Recreation Area. Wildwood is often bypassed when heading up the mountain but it shouldn’t be as it is a small area with a big payoff! There are accessible trails, an underwater wildlife viewing spot and even picnic areas with charcoal grills and picnic tables.

Visitors to Barlow Wayside Park can take a self-guided interpretive walk.

If a bit more hiking is on the agenda, the Old Salmon River Trailhead in Rhododendron is the place to go. From there, hikers can navigate miles of trails winding along the Salmon River, up into the foothills and deep into the forest.

When it comes time to refuel after your hiking adventures, the small mid-mountain towns on the way to Government Camp are not without some terrific places to stop and eat. For a quick bite in Sandy, grab something from one of the many food cart options at Sandlandia. The best part of Sandlandia is that it has something for everyone.

Farther up the mountain, make sure to get your coffee fix from Fernie’s Coffee. Fernie’s features hundreds of polaroids of dogs that live on the mountain, and their mocha is an all-time favorite of locals!

Fernie's Coffee is a dog-friendly stop on Mt. Hood featuring great coffee.

There are both grab and go spots, as well as dine-in options, between Welches and Rhododendron. Grab a treat from Mt. Hood Baking or lunch from the food trucks at Goodwynns. For an absolutely delicious mountain meal we recommend the laid back Skyway Bar and Grill, Al Forno Pizzeria or Koya Kitchen or if you’re looking for an upscale experience try Rendezvous Grill which features farm-fresh fare, homemade desserts and a rotating wine selection.

If you’re staying nearby and looking to cook your own meals, Welches is home to a flourishing farmer’s market, Hoodland Farmers Market, which also features dozens of local artists and creatives, as well as a diverse population of locals who want to welcome visitors and showcase what this area has to offer. The market is open from May through October.

At Mt. Hood Baking Co. everything is baked from the owner/baker's own recipes incorporating locally sourced ingredients.

Mt. Hood has ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, as well as top spots for drinks and dining. This area encompasses several evolving mountain towns where diversity and inclusion is important to the community and culture. Experience the mid-mountain magic between Sandy and Government Camp with walks in the woods and finish your adventure with fabulous food and delicious drinks.