Top Things To Do in Dalles - Rayland Hotel

A winding road through a scenic landscape with hills, trees, and dramatic clouds in the sky under a wide, open horizon.

Item 1

Adventure Around Every Corner

Build Your Gorge Itinerary

Just an hour and a half from Portland, Oregon, an easy twenty minutes to Hood River and in the heart of the iconic The Dalles, Rayland Hotel is the perfect place to kickstart your quest and relax once the fun-filled day is done. Embrace the spirit of boundless exploration and discover the untamed allure of the Columbia River Gorge. Located steps from your retreat at the Rayland Hotel, you can bike, hike, catch, paddle, wander, dine, visit and experience the historic small-town charm and tranquil landscapes that await. Wherever nature calls, let Rayland Hotel be your home base.

Item 1

Hiking

The Dalles, Oregon, offers stunning hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. One of our favorites is the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, which provides breathtaking views of the Gorge. Another must-see is Wahkeena Falls Loop Trail. Visit Dog Mountain, known for its challenging ascent and spectacular wildflower displays in Spring, as well as panoramic vistas at the summit. For those seeking more leisurely experiences, visit Sorosis Park and walk the Sorosis Park Loop trail or the Rowena Crest Overlook, this hike offers a short, scenic trail with beautiful views of the gorge and surrounding landscapes, making it an excellent choice for hikers of all skill levels. To learn more about the area check out one of our favorite resources at The Friends of the Columbia Gorge.

Item 1

Paddling

Paddling in The Dalles offers a unique experience with stunning views of the Columbia River and surrounding landscapes. Popular spots include the Columbia Hills State Park and the Dalles Marina which provides a scenic backdrop and calm waters ideal for kayaking and canoeing. For those interested in paddle boarding, the serene channels near the Riverfront Park are perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Need a rental? Head to the Pedal & Paddle Hood River to pickup all your gear.

Item 1

Biking

The Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area features the Historic Columbia River Highway, a well-maintained trail that allows cyclists to experience breathtaking views of waterfalls and the river. For a more rugged experience, the Syncline Trail provides a challenging ride with steep inclines and descents, rewarding cyclists with panoramic vistas of the gorge. Additionally, The Dalles Riverfront Trail runs along the banks of the Columbia River, offering a leisurely path perfect for families and casual riders, with picnic spots and access to local parks.

Item 1

Shopping

When shopping in The Dalles, Oregon, explore the historic downtown area just steps from the hotel, where you can visit unique boutiques and local artisan gift shops that feature handcrafted goods and regional products like Sunshine Mill Winery & Market, Terra Cotta Gorge Co and the Red Wagon Antiques. Additionally, take a moment to check out The Dalles Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce and handcrafted items from the surrounding areas, providing a true taste of the region. And don’t forget to stop in at Klindt’s, the oldest bookstore in Oregon, founded in 1870.

A group of people is toasting with wine glasses outside, around a table with snacks, in a vineyard setting.

Item 1

BrewerIes & Wineries

The Dalles, Oregon, offers a diverse dining scene. Just steps from Rayland is Freebridge Brewing, a local microbrewery, and down by the river, Bargeway Pub offers outdoor seating and features live music. Walk just down the street to visit Sunshine Mill Winery & Market a historic location serving wines handcrafted in the Columbia Valley. Tierra De Lobos Winery is a local winery that offers live music with a view of the Columbia River and The Dalles Dam. Travel just 30 minutes east of The Dalles to Goldendale, Washington and visit Maryhill Winery in the heart of Oregon’s most unique wine region. For more eateries, breweries, and wineries, check out the East Gorge food trail for more information.

A scenic view of a river winding through a valley with autumn foliage, rocky cliffs, and a colorful sunset sky in the background.

Item 1

Visit & Sightsee

The Dalles, Oregon, offers a variety of sightseeing opportunities for visitors. Stop by the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, where you can explore the area’s rich natural and cultural history through engaging exhibits and stunning views of the Columbia River. Another notable spot is the Historic Columbia River Highway, which features scenic viewpoints including Rowena Crest and access to waterfalls like Multnomah Falls. Visit The Fort Dalles Museum is one of Oregon’s oldest history museums. It opened its doors in 1905.

Item 1

Fishing

The Dalles, Oregon, features several excellent fishing spots catering to seasoned anglers and novices alike. With its abundant salmon and steelhead runs, the Columbia River is a prime destination, particularly near the dam, where bank fishing and boat access are available. For a quieter, experience, the lower Deschutes River is ideal for trout fishing, especially in the scenic sections that wind through canyon landscapes. Additionally, the nearby Lake Celilo and the warmer waters of the Columbia Zone are popular for bass fishing during the summer months.

Two people are windsurfing on a sunny day, balancing on boards with sails over the water.

Item 1

Windsurfing & Kiteboarding

You’ll find prime kite surfing locations in The Dalles, attracting enthusiasts with its strong winds and scenic backdrop. The Columbia River Gorge winds create perfect conditions for beginners and advanced riders. The area around The Dalles Marina features ample open water and space to launch, while the scenic views of the surrounding cliffs enhance the experience. Maryhill State Park is known for its spacious beach area and favorable wind patterns, making it a popular choice among local kite surfers. With its varied terrain and reliable conditions, The Dalles is an ideal destination for kite surfing.

A red barn stands amid lush greenery, set against a snow-capped mountain under a serene sky.

Item 1

Tours & Trails

The Columbia Gorge in Oregon offers a variety of scenic tours that beautifully showcase its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Hood River Fruit Loop features an array of orchards, wineries, and farms, allowing visitors to enjoy fresh produce and discover local artisanal products. East Gorge Food Trail highlights a selection of unique eateries and local farms, emphasizing the region’s culinary diversity. The Infinity Loop combines stunning views with engaging cultural experiences, spotlighting the area’s picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities as a thoughtfully designed route. Lastly, The Dalles Mural Trail Murals are a highlight of the city and we happen to have the largest mural at Rayland Hotel.