Hood River Named Best Adventure Town by Sunset Magazine

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT Amy Hunter [email protected] (503) 927-­‐5872 Hood River Named Best Adventure Town by Sunset Magazine – First annual award recognizes the Columbia River Gorge town for its scenic setting and endless outdoor experiences – Hood River, Ore. – May 27, 2015 – Hood River, Oregon has been declared the Best Adventure Town by Sunset magazine, the premier guide to living in the West. Hood River is one of 30 winners of the first-­‐ever Sunset Travel Awards, which honor the West’s top destinations in lodging, dining, cultural tourism, outdoor adventure, environmental stewardship, and more. Chosen by a panel of noted travel experts over numerous other entries from 13 Western states and British Columbia, Hood River stood out as a five-­‐star destination for adventure seekers. “Hood River represents an unparalleled experience for any Western traveler,” said Sunset. “To be a finalist for a Sunset Travel Award puts you in extremely good company; to be a winner puts you amongst a group of elite A-­‐list destinations and experiences.” Noted Sunset in its award coverage, which is featured in the June issue of the magazine, “The scenic setting, in the shadow of snow-­‐capped Mt. Hood and at the meeting of the Columbia and Hood Rivers, resonated with our judges, as did the startling breadth of experiences possible in this Oregon town – hiking, biking, fishing, rafting, skiing, paddle-­‐boarding, and the West’s best windsurfing. The après-­‐
adventure craft beers had fans too.” Hood River sits in the heart of the world-­‐renowned Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, within a short drive to Oregon’s iconic peak, Mt. Hood. Its temperate climate attracts people looking for adventure during all four seasons. Long recognized as the Windsurfing Capital of the World, Hood River has consistent easterly winds that lure kiteboarders, windsurfers and standup paddle-­‐boarders to its beaches. It also offers scenic hikes, approachable mountain bike trails, family-­‐friendly road biking, beginner and expert ski runs and terrain parks — together with small-­‐town charm. “We’re thrilled that Sunset Travel Awards has recognized Hood River as the best adventure town in the West,” said Mike Glover, CEO of the Hood River County Chamber of Commerce. “Not only do we have this amazing natural setting with tons of outdoor opportunities, but we also have great specialty stores, rentals and lessons to support visiting adventurers. Our outstanding breweries, restaurants, shops and accommodations seal the deal for visitors of all kinds. We welcome adventurers of any sport or speed to plan their vacation in our great town.” About Hood River, Oregon Located at the crossroads of the spectacular Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and the magnificent Cascade Range and just an hour from Portland, Hood River is wildly gorge-­‐ous, offering outdoor recreation, dramatic vistas, historic landmarks, bountiful fruit and fantastic food, wine, beer and cider. With accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to historic B&Bs, Hood River is a four-­‐
season destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, weddings, corporate events and more. The Hood River County Chamber of Commerce supports economic and tourism development in Hood River, Cascade Locks, Odell, Parkdale, Pine Grove, and Mount Hood. hoodriver.org ###