We are going to stay at the Columbia River Gorge Hotel for our honeymoon. It is just a short trip, Oct13-16, with the trip to Europe coming next year. Are there wineries within driving distance? Spectacular hikes you would recommend? Is it too late in the season to go kayaking? Dining besides the Hotel itself? Thanks in advance.

The Sunday NY Times just had a huge article about the Hood River area (this past Sunday, 9/22). It lists the good restaurants in the area and lots of stuff to do. It might be available on their website. I don't think there are wineries in the area, but there are tons of fruit orchards and you will be there during apple and pear season.

On the Washington side, you could visit Cascade Cliffs Winery (Wishram), Maryhill Winery, Marshal's Winery (Dallesport), or Wind River Cellars (Husum). On the Orgon side, you are close to Hood River Vineyards and Flerchinger Vineyards, both in Hood River.

As for kayaking, I don't know - I think it will be getting kind of cool (and stormy) by mid-October.

Good hiking trails on the Washington side include Sam's Walker Trail,
Hamilton Mountain, Wind Mountain, Observation Peak, and Soda Peaks Lake. On the Oregon side:Tooth Rock, Larch Mountain Crater, Angel's Rest, Herman Creek, vil's Peak Lookout, and Cooper Spur.

Not as fancy as the Columbia Gorge Hotel, but you might enjoy McMenamin's Edgefield in Troutdale - on-site microbrewery and winery, BYOB&B (beer and burger) movie theater, trails, several bars inside and outside the former Poor Farm main building, lots of fun things to see.

I think Edgefield is normally a great choice, but it's not a honeymoon hotel in my opinion.

Oh I agree, I wouldn't suggest staying there, but Nanette asked about wineries and alternative places to eat. Even on a honeymoon a beer is permitted.