Everything You Love About Hood River—Without the Crowds
If you’re looking for where to stay in the Columbia River Gorge, the Washington side is a lovely alternative to the more popular Hood River, Oregon area. The Gorge is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most spectacular landscapes—a dramatic canyon carved by ancient floodwaters, lush with waterfalls, wildflowers, and world-class wineries. Millions of visitors make the pilgrimage every year, and nearly all of them land in the same place: Hood River, Oregon. However, there’s (in our opinion) a better base camp just across the bridge.
Where is White Salmon?
White Salmon, Washington, sits perched on a basalt bluff above the Columbia, just 10 minutes from Hood River and about 1 hour and 10 minutes from Portland. Our idyllic spot offers something increasingly rare in the Gorge: genuine tranquility, authentic community, and that feeling of having found a place before everyone else does.
Right on the main drag, find the Inn of the White Salmon, our historic boutique hotel that has welcomed travelers since 1937.
White Salmon vs. Hood River: An Honest Look
Hood River’s lively downtown, fruit loop farms, and proximity to Mount Hood make it a beloved Oregon destination. It’s a bustling community. However, a summertime visit can mean busy streets, crowded trailheads, and waitlists at popular restaurants.
White Salmon, by contrast, offers walkable and unhurried streets. We still have that small-town feel. From the Inn of the White Salmon—nestled right in the heart of town on West Jewett Boulevard—you can stroll to exceptional coffee, freshly baked sticky buns, local beer, and farm-to-table dinners without ever getting in your car. Browse the White Salmon dining options.
A Hotel with Heart & History
Established in 1937, the Inn of the White Salmon—originally called the Hood View Hotel, was built by local businessman Derrick Zwynen as a cozy retreat for travelers and blue collar patrons passing through the Gorge. In the early 1980s, it was transformed into a European-style inn and renamed to reflect its new elegance.
Today, owners Flo and Nicole Nimesch bring a fresh, modern sensibility to the property while honoring its heritage.
The Inn has been recognized by Sunset Magazine, The New York Times, The Seattle Times, The Oregonian, and Portland Monthly.
The Best Views of Hood River are in Washington
Here’s something Hood River visitors often miss: the best views of the Gorge are from the Washington side. Sure, we might be a little biased, but it’s surprising how many of our first-time guests have never driven along Highway 14 or hiked on our side of the river.
Enjoy the verdant Oregon landscape from across the river with some of the Gorge’s most iconic hikes. See our top 3 favorite hikes, plus other incredible Washington-side-of-the-Gorge activities.
Adventure on Both Sides of the River
The Inn is perfectly positioned as a launchpad for the full range of Gorge adventures—whichever side of the Columbia River you wish to explore. Within minutes, you can be:
- Paddle the White Salmon River—One of the Northwest’s premier whitewater runs, just a short drive from the Inn, offering thrilling class III-IV rapids through a stunning basalt canyon.
- Kayaking or paddleboarding on the Columbia—The Inn puts you right at the gateway to the river’s flat water and world-famous windsurfing and kiteboarding conditions.
- Hiking and biking in the Gorge’s National Scenic Area—Washington’s trails are often less crowded than their Oregon counterparts, with equally jaw-dropping views of the river and canyon.
- Skiing Mount Hood—A scenic 45-minute drive brings you to one of North America’s most accessible ski mountains, with terrain for every level.
- Exploring the Hood River fruit loop—All of the Oregon side’s beloved farms, orchards, and tasting rooms are just across the bridge, fully accessible for day trips.
And every evening, you return to the calm of White Salmon—to the Inn’s garden, a glass of Ridge of Wonders wine, and the kind of quiet that recharges you for another day of Gorge adventure.
The Garden. The Wine. A Beautiful Oasis.
Our beautifully landscaped back garden has become one of the Inn’s most beloved features—a lush, peaceful oasis perfect for a slow morning coffee or an evening glass of wine under the open sky.
The Inn’s wine tasting experience features Ridge of Wonders wines—crafted from grapes grown and harvested in the Columbia Gorge AVA— and offers guests a chance to settle in and taste the region without leaving the Inn.
Experience the Quiet Side of the Columbia Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most magnificent places in America, and White Salmon is its best-kept secret. Staying at the Inn of the White Salmon means peaceful accommodations, walking to breakfast, exploring one of the most adventure-rich corridors in the Pacific Northwest—and ending each day in a place that feels like your own corner of paradise.