Travel through the Columbia River Gorge on the Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway, HCRH, and around majestic Mt Hood on the Mt. Hood Scenic Byway. For the sustainable traveler the HCRH and the Mt Hood Scenic Byway have been combined to create one of six Electric Byways in Oregon, the Mt Hood and Columbia River Gorge Electric Byway.
Sustainable Travel through the Gorge. Drivers of electric vehicles can now circumvent the mountain from Portland, with charging stations strategically installed along the way. Through a grant from Travel Oregon we installed two stations at the Old Parkdale Inn. Due to the location of EV charging stations along this route, drivers of vehicles with a range of 60 miles or less should travel this electric byway in a counterclockwise direction
The Historic Columbia River Highway
The Historic Columbia River Highway, is a national treasure, each view point so spectacular that people come from all over the world to marvel at the vistas. Construction of the HCRH began in 1913 and was considered one of the greatest engineering feats in the modern age.
When the highway first opened in 1916, Teddy Roosevelt praised its scenic grandeur and remarkable engineering and The Illustrated London News went on to call it “the king of roads”. With its mossy stone walls and graceful viaducts winding past dozens of waterfalls, this All-American Road still reigns as one of the world’s most glorious drives.
The Mt Hood Scenic Byway
The Mt Hood Scenic BywayThe Mt. Hood Scenic Byway takes visitors on a majestic route around Mt. Hood, the highest point in Oregon at 11,240′. One of Oregon’s 7 Wonders, the now-dormant volcano is believed to have been formed 11 to 14 million years ago and is home to 12 glaciers and the source for five rivers that run into the Columbia.
Channel your inner explorer. Trace the steps of Lewis and Clark along the Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway. Retrace the route of a pioneer and walk in the ruts left behind by immigrants on the Oregon Trail. Yours to explore near the Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast. There is a scenic drive in Oregon with your name on it for sure.
Travel Tips
Don’t own an electric vehicle? You can rent an electric vehicle from Rental24h at the Portland Airport and almost any reputable car rental agency.
For the most up-to-date information about EV charging stations around Oregon, download the PlugShare app. This online resource provides real time detail about station locations and services as well as trip planning features.
We’re taking reservations with our promise of a safe and great escape. Thank you for trusting us to be your home away from home. We’ve posted our Hospitality and Health Update on our website. Purchase a gift certificate for yourself or a loved one.
We invite you to read online reviews for the Old Parkdale Inn. And then we encourage you to go directly to our website and Book Direct: for all the right reasons. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Reserve your Stay Now
We’re your home base for exploring and enjoying the Hood River Valley and beyond. After a full day, you’ll love the peace and tranquility of the Old Parkdale Inn. Relax in the gardens, perhaps with your favorite beverage, by the bonfire, roast some s’mores, weather permitting of course.
What’s to do
The Hood River Fruit Loop is located in the beautiful Hood River Valley at the foot of majestic Mt. Hood offering you a variety of wines, fruits, vegetables, flowers, ciders, and food. Outdoor adventures such as kayaking, windsurfing, skiing, snow boarding, and hiking await. Mt. Hood Meadows, Cooper Spur Mountain Resort, and Timberline Ski areas are only a short drive away, as is the Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood National Forest where trails and wildlife abound.
