Hood River, OR

Neglected and dilapidated with peeling paint, broken windows, leaking roofs and plenty of other problems, if houses could talk we might be surprised at their history. Houses can be loved again and gain addtional years of useful life with the right care and handling. Here are some before and after house pictures I took of homes in the Gorge. The first one is the Historic Colby House, a 1905 Victorian located at 1219 Columbia Ave in Hood River. The Second one is located on Montello Ave in Hood River. The third one is a house located in Stevenson Washington. All of these homes were in dire need of repairs and are now leading useful lives again.

EASTSIDE HOOD RIVER is located east of Hwy 35. Turn east just past Tum a Lum Lumber at the China Gorge Restaurant (watch for the big panda bear) and head up through the sharp curves to Eastside Rd. You can also take Whiskey Creek Rd. about a mile further South and East off of Hwy 35. Steep and winding narrow roads lead to the Eastside area. It is convenient to the Mosier Twin Tunnel Trail for walking or riding bikes. There is a rural country feeling and many of the homes and properties have views of the Columbia River. The Eastside is a rather exclusive area with few homes ever on the market at any given time. With the narrow and steep roads I don't find it as family friendly for young children. It is not too far from downtown Hood River, but not what one would consider walking distance either.

WESTSIDE HOOD RIVER

When you're looking for a home or property near Hood River it's good to know the general area. Westside Hood River is located on the west side of town. It is a beautiful area at the furthest I'd say 10 minutes from downtown Hood River. Many people like Westside Hood River because it has a rural country feel, yet is still convenient to town. It is generally level and good bike riding, near the schools, etc. Many homes and properties have mountain views. Some even have double mountain views of both Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams. Another thing people like about Westside Hood River is the domestic water is supplied from Ice Fountain Water District. This is very good drinking water. Many properties also have irrigation rights from Farmers Irrigation. If you like to garden and landscape it's really nice and affordable to have this irrigation water from May till Oct.

In recent years a number of subdevelopments have been built on Hood River's Westside. If you take May St. by the Hood River Middle School and Aquatic Center and head west you pass many newer homes. One development off May St. is Fox Hollow with larger sized homes. Willow Ponds is another nice development with very custom homes.

Conveniently located at 902 Oak St. in Hood River is the Columbia Villa Bed & Breakfast. This beautiful historic home was built in 1911. The massive stonework columns on the porch give you a glimpse of what to expect inside this luxurious house. There are five guestrooms to choose from as well as enjoying the Great room, Dining room, and Sun room during your stay. A Gourmet breakfast is served every morning made from scratch and using many locally grown organic foods. You will enjoy many wonderful views of the Columbia River, Gorge, and Mt. Adams during your stay at the Columbia Villa. Wireless internet is available for guests and the Columbia Villa is located just 3 blocks to downtown Hood River for your shopping and dining pleasure.

Disclaimer: I assume no responsibilty for accuracy of information provided within this post and blog. Many entries on this blog are based on the opinions and ideas of the author and are provided without warranties of any kind, either expressed or implied.

We have had such a great fall with beautiful colors but now the rain has finally come to the gorge. The trees are starting to lose their colorful leaves. Even though it's been damp and drizzly it can still be pleasant to get outside for a walk around town. Here are some Hood River pics I took on Sunday around town.