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OREGON'S MT. HOOD TERRITORY 2026 Spring Guide2 AT A GLANCE Location Oregon is located on the West Coast of the United States, below Washington State and above California. Mt. Hood is located in northwest Oregon, approximately 90 minutes east of Portland, the largest city in the state. Time Zone Oregon is in the Pacific Time Zone. Elevation Mt. Hood is a dormant or “sleeping” volcano with an elevation of 11,245 feet (3,427 meters). Taxes Oregon does not have sales tax. This means retail purchases, food and activities are all tax-free! Getting Here Portland International Airport (PDX) is Oregon’s largest airport and offers many direct flights from a variety of international and domestic destinations. Mt. Hood Territory is a perfect road trip destination no matter which direction you're heading. Interstate 5 passes directly through our area, and Highway 26 takes you from Portland toward the east. F I C O C E A N LOS ANGELES SAN FRANCISCO LAS VEGAS SEATTLE VANCOUVER, B.C MT. HOOD PORTLAND TMK CreameryTips for what you "Otter Do" to stay safe during your visit No matter when you visit Mt. Hood Territory, you're set to have a great time. Each season presents its own list of things you should know to ensure your trip is as good as possible. Monty Hood, the Mt. Hood Territory River Otter, just loves telling people what they "Otter Do" to make sure they stay safe and enjoy their adventures. You Otter Get A Guide Want to have the most fun and learn about this incredible area at the same time? You "otter" get a guide! Mt. Hood Outfitters knows all the best trails for guided hiking tours on Mt. Hood. And when it comes to water play there are a number of outfitters who will show you a great time kayaking, whitewater rafting or stand-up paddleboarding. TAKE CARE OUT THERE You Otter Ride The Mt. Hood Express Want to enjoy the beauty of Mt. Hood without worrying about driving? Then you "otter" catch a ride on the Mt. Hood Express. The Mt. Hood Express benefits locals and visitors alike, providing year-round transportation to one of Oregon's most beautiful areas while reducing traffic on our roads while increasing access to outdoor recreation opportunities. You Otter Wear A Life Jacket Personal floatation devices, or life jackets, can save lives and in many situations are required by law. So you "otter" wear a life jacket. Life jackets are available for any boating activity and the Oregon State Marine Board has lots of information on how to choose the correct one for you and your family. You Otter Stay On Trail Mt. Hood Territory has a vast trails system for visitors of all experience levels. But you "otter" stay on trail. Going off trail can damage or kill certain plant and animal species, and can hurt the ecosystems that surround the trail. Always practice Leave No Trace principles: Leave rocks, vegetation, and artifacts where you find them for others to enjoy. You Otter View Wildlife From A Distance Many species of amphibians, birds, butterflies and mammals can be found throughout Oregon's Mt. Hood Territory. You "otter" view wildlife from a safe distance. Use binoculars or a camera with zoom to view animals. This will help to protect you as well as them. omht.us/springguide 3TULIP FESTIVAL SIGNALS SPRING Tentative Dates: March 20 – April 26, 2026 Every spring in Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory, there’s a moment when winter finally seems to loosen its grip — when fields once bare burst into a living tapestry of reds, yellows, pinks and purples that stretch as far as the eye can see. That moment? When the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival opens! This is the region’s quintessential signal that spring has truly arrived. Held each year at the family-owned Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm in Woodburn, this festival transforms nearly 40 acres of farmland into a dreamlike sea of color, inviting visitors from across the Pacific Northwest and beyond to wander through vast fields of blooming tulips in more than 100 varieties. Located off I-5, just north of the Willamette River. The Hilton Garden Inn - Wilsonville offers 118 luxurious guestrooms and suites. Grab a bite or a cocktail in the on-site Parkway Grille or around the outside fire pit. Guests can enjoy an indoor heated pool, fitness facility or play a game of basketball on the outdoor sports court. Wilsonville is an excellent central location to stay and play in the North Willamette Valley area. Close to wineries, farm-to-table restaurants and of course, the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival. Suggested Lodging Option omht.us/springguide 5 Beyond the blooms themselves, the festival combines all the best elements of a seasonal celebration, from playful photo spots and children’s activities to artisan markets and local food vendors, making it as much a day of discovery as a feast for the senses. At its heart, the Wooden Shoe experience is as much about atmosphere as it is about flowers. Locals and travelers alike stroll winding grass pathways framed by vibrant blossoms, snapping photos with Mt. Hood in the distance or lingering over a glass of estate-grown wine in the festival’s tasting room. For families, the children’s play area features ticketed rides, while food carts and shaded seating areas invite longer pauses between walks through the tulip fields. The festival’s timing is shaped by nature itself. Tulip blooms depend on ground temperature and weather, which means the spectacle shifts slightly year to year. Peak color often happens in mid-April, with blooms opening in sequence across varieties, guiding visitors through a changing palette as the season unfolds. That's why the festival has "tentative dates" as the opening and closing of the season depends on the weather. Whether you’re chasing that perfect tulip photo, planning a family outing or simply craving fresh air and vibrant color, this celebration of bloom and renewal is a highlight of the Oregon spring calendar. Online Ticket Sales In order to ensure smooth operation, tickets will once again only be available for advance purchase online. Tickets can be purchased starting in early March and all tickets must be purchased online. There will be no tickets available at the gate. Choose from general admission, multi-time access and also special tours and classes.Imagine a world where vibrant colors are muted and familiar hues seem to blend together. For those with color blindness, this is a daily reality. But Mt. Hood Territory and Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm are teaming up to take a significant step to enhance the experience of these individuals by renting EnChroma color blind glasses at the annual Tulip Festival. Throughout the festival visitors to Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm will have the opportunity to temporarily borrow EnChroma outdoor color blind glasses, free of charge. For many visitors, borrowing a pair of EnChroma color blind glasses is a powerful, personal moment. It’s the first time some people truly see color as others do, and it often comes with surprise, emotion and a brand-new appreciation for the incredible world around them. These specialized glasses are designed to enhance color perception for individuals with red-green 6 omht.us/springguide SEE THE WOODEN SHOE TULIP FESTIVAL IN COLOR Borrow EnChroma Glasses And Experience Color In A New Way One of the most meaningful parts of this program is how easy it is to participate. Visitors can check out the glasses directly from the festival office during their visit for free. You'll take a quick color blind assessment and staff are on hand to help find the right style and fit. Glasses are available in multiple options, including adult and kid sizes and fit-over styles that work with prescription glasses. Once you have a pair, you’re encouraged to step outside, take your time and experience the surroundings at your own pace. Some people put them on and immediately stop in their tracks. Others take a few minutes, scanning the landscape and slowly realizing what’s changed. How Borrowing The Glasses Works color blindness. By filtering light and adjusting color wavelengths, they can help people with color vision deficiency see colors more accurately. Color blindness affects one in 12 men (8%) and one in 200 women (.5%); 13 million in the US, 30 million in Europe and 350 million people worldwide. While people with normal color vision see over one million shades of color, those with Color Vision Deficiency only see an estimated 10% of hues and shades. Common color confusions include green and yellow, gray and pink, purple and blue, and red can appear brown. This initiative is part of Mt. Hood Territory's ongoing commitment to accessible tourism. By offering EnChroma glasses to borrow onsite, Wooden Shoe Farm and Mt. Hood Territory are making it easier for people with color vision deficiency to fully participate in a shared travel experience.7 KID FRIENDLY OREGON TRAIL ACTIVITIES History Comes To Life At These Museums And Landmarks End Of The Oregon Trail Visitor And Interpretive Center The End of the Oregon Trail Visitor and Interpretive Center is located at the very spot pioneers camped in Oregon City when they finished their journey west. This museum offers fun and interactive family activities like candle dipping, butter making and packing a wagon to get a quick feel for life back in the 1800s. A film showing in their theater called "Oregon's First People" was recently created in partnership with the Grand Ronde Tribe to shed light on the indigenous peoples that lived here for centuries prior. Mt. Hood Cultural Center And Museum Located along the historic Barlow Road, which was the last section of the Oregon Trail, the Mt. Hood Cultural Center and Museum is filled with the history of Mt. Hood. Discover the ski history of the area, history of the US Forest Service and of course a collection on the Barlow Road and Oregon Trail. Philip Foster Farm Philip Foster was one of Oregon's earliest pioneers, and his farm remains today much like it was then. But of course some new has been added to the historic. Alexa skills now guide through the buildings and share stories of the fabled residents. Another recent addition is the restoration of the historic sawmill on site. Willamette Falls Willamette Falls has been an important part of the history of this region long before the pioneers arrived. Today, you can take a kayak tour with eNRG Kayaking to the base of the falls and hear about this history, and even see Native petroglyphs, along the way. John McLoughlin Historic House Known as the father of Oregon for his role in assisting exhausted Oregon Trail pioneers once they reached the end of their journey, Dr. John McLoughlin resided in Oregon City in a home he had built in 1845, which is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tours of the grounds are available; check ahead for times. Museum Of The Oregon Territory The Museum of the Oregon Territory overlooks historic Willamette Falls, offering an amazing view of this natural wonder. Kids can learn about the history of the region through fun hands-on exhibits that allow them to really put their creativity to work. Hike The Barlow Road The Barlow Toll Road, built in 1846, offered Oregon Trail pioneers a cheaper, more direct route to the Willamette Valley. The road was not easy for wagons and oxen to cross. You can still see the wagon ruts, called swales, where they travelled. No matter the distance you decide to hike, it’ll be fun for your family to follow in the footsteps of those pioneers. Philip Foster Farm Willamette FallsYOUR PERFECT SPRING ROAD TRIP 3 Days Of Tulip Fields, Farm Experiences, Whitewater Rafting And Mountain Views Spring is when Mt. Hood Territory really shows off. One minute you’re wandering through colorful tulip fields, the next you’re soaking in a hot spring or hiking beneath towering trees with Mt. Hood peeking through the clouds. This three-day road trip starts just south of Portland and gradually climbs from farmland to forest to mountain villages with plenty of memorable stops along the way. Day 1: Portland To Woodburn Tulips, Farm Life And A Cozy Stay It doesn’t take long to leave Portland behind and feel like you’re somewhere completely different. As you head toward Woodburn and the Willamette Valley, spring arrives early in the form of wide-open farmland and bright blooms. Start your day with visits to local farms like Frog Pond Farm and Triskelee Farm. Spring is when these places really shine with green fields, blooming trees and, if you’re lucky, baby animals out exploring alongside their mothers. Seeing baby llamas and kids (the baby goat kind) wobble through the grass is one of those small moments that instantly puts you in a springtime mindset. Late morning, make your way into Canby for lunch at the Canby Beer Library . With an ever-changing tap list and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a great spot to relax, refuel and enjoy a casual midday break before heading back out into the countryside. In the afternoon, head to Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm for the flowers! After the tulips, keep the relaxed pace going with a stop at Hanson Vineyards for a wine tasting, located just down the road from Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm. Spring in the vineyard is peaceful and scenic, with budding vines and open views across the valley. It’s a lovely way to wind down the day and toast the start of your road trip. End the day with a stay at the Whiskey Hill Store , the closest lodging to the Tulip Festival. This historic 1920s bungalow turned charming overnight stay is the perfect place to slow down, reflect on your day and enjoy a quiet night after a full day outdoors. Day 2: Woodburn To Estacada Hot Springs, Waterfalls And A Night In A Yurt Day two trades farmland for rivers and forest as you head east toward Estacada . The drive itself is part of the experience, with scenery shifting quickly as you follow the water. If you’re craving adventure, book a rafting trip on the Clackamas River. Spring snowmelt means higher water levels and exciting runs, whether you’re new to rafting or looking for a thrill. Prefer to stay dry? Watching the river rush past from the banks is just Estacada Hanson Vineyards as impressive this time of year. If you visit in May you can stay for the Upper Clackamas Whitewater Festival where rafters and kayakers take on the rapids in a historic event. 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of the festival. From there, continue deeper into the forest to Bagby Hot Springs. The hike in is part of the experience and soaking in the tubs surrounded by towering trees feels especially rewarding on a cool spring day. Be sure to check access and conditions ahead of time, as spring weather can impact trails and roads. Before settling in for the night, stop at Milo McIver State Park for a hike. Spring brings fresh greenery and wildflowers, making the trails especially scenic. It’s a great place to stretch your legs and enjoy the quieter side of the Clackamas River. The park also features great disc golf courses. Don't have a disc? No problem! The Ranger Office rents them out or you can purchase your own there. Wrap up the day at Camp Colton, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by forest. The property features yurts, a tiny home, cabins or tent sites. It’s peaceful, unplugged and a perfect contrast to the bustle of everyday life. Relax by the waterfalls on property or take a canoe out on the pond. Day 3: Estacada To The Villages Of Mt. Hood Bigfoot, Old-growth Forests And Mountain Views Your final day heads up Mt. Hood, with a mix of fun stops and classic Mt. Hood scenery. Depending on the snow level spring can still mean snow up high. So visit these spots to not get into the snow, unless you want to! First up is the North American Bigfoot Center. Whether you’re a true believer or just curious, it’s a fun and unexpected stop that leans into the folklore and legend of the Pacific Northwest. Stop into Sandy and grab lunch at AntFarm Cafe and Bakery. This nonprofit organization has a priority to bring fresh, local, and healthy food to Sandy, Oregon while supporting local youth through service work, tutoring, life skills, and employment. Continue on to Wildwood Recreation Site , where an easy trail travels through old-growth forest and leads to an underwater viewing platform. In spring, the river runs fast and loud, and the forest feels alive with new growth. Before reaching your final destination, make time for a hike on the Salmon River Trail . This mossy, riverside trail is a spring favorite, with rushing water, towering trees and that fresh forest smell that defines Mt. Hood Territory. The trail is low enough in elevation that you shouldn't encounter snow. End your road trip in The Villages of Mt. Hood. Grab dinner at one of the many restaurants and check in at The Mt. Hood Oregon Resort. After a few days on the road, it’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy mountain views and reflect on everything you’ve packed into a short but memorable spring getaway. Their newly remodeled spa and year-round outdoor heated pool provide the perfect end to a perfect road trip. North American Bigfoot Center Mt. Hood Oregon ResortNext >