Government Camp, Oregon, also known as "Govy" by residents and frequent visitors, is the highest elevation community on Mt. Hood. Known as "Mt. Hood's Alpine Village," Govy is the jumping off point for outdoor adventures. Government Camp also has a charming mix of lodging options, from rustic to luxurious, as well as quaint dining and shopping choices along its black iron art-lined street. Its name actually comes from an ill-fated military detachment stationed to guard the Barlow Road section of the Oregon Trail, along which Government Camp sits.
While Government Camp is best known as an ideal skiing base camp. Once the snow melts, usually in early June, the closest ski resort to Portland (which happens to be smack dab in the middle of the village) becomes Mt. Hood Summer Adventure Park at Skibowl, with over 20 fun filled attractions. Ride alongside the kids as you take on the S-curves of the half-mile dual alpine slide, go bungee jumping and zip lining or take the littlest ones on the kiddy karts.
For those visiting in the winter months, Mt. Hood has become a premier winter destination, drawing visitors with its abundant powder, two world-class ski resorts and a wealth of snow sports. Timberline Lodge and Ski Area boasts the nation’s highest vertical drop, while Mt. Hood Skibowl features the largest night skiing area in the U.S. Add to that cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobile tours, and it's no surprise that Mt. Hood is a winter paradise. But how do you avoid the crowds? Visit midweek! You'll enjoy shorter lift lines, more time on the slopes and often better deals on passes and accommodations.
Adventures on Mt. Hood aren’t limited to skiing and snowboarding. Guided tours are a fantastic way to safely explore new activities and learn about the region. Mt. Hood Outfitters offers amazing tours no matter the season. Try snowmobile, snowshoe or cross-country ski tours in the winter and hiking, kayaking and rafting tours in the warmer months.
No gear? No problem! Valian's Sports is a mainstay on the mountain. During the winter, it has all the gear necessary to get out and play in the snow. Come summertime, its merchandise switches to bikes, paddleboards and anything else you need for outdoor adventures. Mt. Hood Outfitters also offers plenty of winter and summer activity rentals. Paddle enthusiasts will appreciate its seasonal waterside rentals at popular sites like Timothy Lake.
Perched at 4,000 feet on Mt. Hood’s southernmost slopes, Government Camp has stayed true to its alpine roots. The Bavarian-style downtown has plenty of dining and activity options tucked into historic buildings. One such place is the chalet-style eatery The Ratskeller. The building was built by hand in 1938 and was a ski shop until 1963. Come for the legendary-size pizzas and stay for the famous cocktails featuring house infusions. Tip: Head upstairs for over 15 classic arcade games. Another alpine outpost is the family owned Glacier Public House, which is located in the old Govy country store. It serves hearty sandwiches, European dishes like bratwurst and its classic haus schnitzel.
Kick back with friends over a hyperlocal pint at Mt. Hood Brewing Co. Ales are brewed with glacial waters from Mt. Hood. Menu items such as the blonde beer fondue are created using its beer. Charlie’s Mountain View has been a family friendly restaurant and local favorite since 1977. It’s perhaps best known, though, for its nightlife. The bar side becomes a top hangout for locals and visitors wanting to keep the evening going. Expect a boisterous atmosphere and live music.
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