Fodor's Travel Talk Forums - Portland Oregon and vicinity

Quote:

Originally Posted by wkwb42a (Post 16948766)

We have 8 nights in Sept. in the Portland area. We would like to spend 3 nights in Portland, and divide the other 5 nights among the Columbia River gorge, the wine country, and the Coast. We would appreciate advice as to the most efficient way to plan this trip, and your favorite places to stay and eat along the way. Thanks for your help.

We are flying into the Portland airport. We thought about renting a car and going immediately to the Columbia River gorge area and staying 1 night. Then heading over to the wine country for 2 nights. Then to the Coast for 2 nights, and ending up in Portland for the last 3 nights. Any help is appreciated!

I'm confused now. I liked your prior plan.
Arrive PDX
Drive straight to the Gorge
1 night Gorge

Two nights Wine Country
2 nights Coast
Three Nights Portland.

Now you are suggesting to add one night Timberline after the Coast?

If I were you....
First, I don't love Hwy 30 drive that much over just coming back on US26 from Seaside. It takes longer and you really don't see the river that much. You will have to get off the highway and stop places, and those aren't really marked.

It makes no sense to drive to Timberline after having been in the Gorge earlier on your trip.

Instead, after the Gorge (which I would give two nights if you do this), take Hwy 35 to Mount Hood, some stunning views along the way and circle back there toward Portland on US26E

Timberline Lodge is indeed a landmark. It was a WPA project in the 1930s. You could stay but truthfully, you get nearly the same enjoyment if you stop for a meal at the Lodge and some time during the day. Then head on to Wine Country.