Chasing Waterfalls, Hot Gossip & A Perfect Fall Getaway

Trip Overview

The Columbia Gorge has been on my list for a while, but I'm realizing it's even better in the fall. This trip was a particularly special one: my partner, Karthika, and I on our first "just us" solo getaway. The goal was simple: get out of town for a weekend, soak in some nature (and some hot springs!), and just enjoy the calm.

Even with a little fog and rain—or maybe because of it—the vibe was all cozy, nature-filled, and, honestly, pretty romantic.

Most Memorable Moments

Lunch at the Lodge

We had lunch at the historic lodge at Multnomah Falls. I'll be honest, you're not there for five-star cuisine. But that doesn't matter. You're there to sit in a cozy, historic stone building, look out the window at beautiful waterfalls, and feel like you've stepped back in time for an hour. It was the perfect, enjoyable pit stop.

The Sauna… and the Gossip

It turns out that sitting in the sauna is the perfect time to listen in on a group of middle-aged women enthusiastically gossiping about their entire social circle. It was better than most reality TV. 10/10, would recommend for the anthropological experience alone. And screw Becky.

The Fireplace > Candlelit Dinner

One evening we pulled a couple of chairs right up in front of a giant stone fireplace, poured a drink, and played a few rounds of cribbage. It was quiet, warm, and felt like an upgraded, super-cozy version of a candlelit dinner. Simple, and absolutely perfect.

Absurdly Beautiful Apple Picking

You can't go to the Gorge in the fall and not do the Fruit Loop. We went apple picking at a Kiyokawa Family Orchards which was just… absurdly beautiful. We're talking clear-day, dramatic views of both Mt. Hood and Mt. Rainier in the distance. The apples were crisp, the vibes were high, and the views were staggering.

Logistics & Practical Information

ACCOMMODATION

Bonneville Hot Springs and Resort: A classic spot that's… perfectly fine. My advice: go with medium expectations, and you'll be perfectly happy with the experience.

TRANSPORTATION

Our car: You absolutely need a car here. It's the only way to hop between the waterfall corridor, Hood River, and all the Fruit Loop stops.

NOTABLE FOOD

Édeske Patisserie (Hood River): This place is a must-stop. Seriously. The pastries and savory dishes are exceptionally high-quality. I'll be dreaming about them and will 100% stop here every time I'm in the area.

ACTIVITIES

Driving the Historic Columbia River Highway and stopping for waterfalls.
Soaking at Bonneville Hot Springs (and listening to the local gossip).
Exploring the Hood River Fruit Loop (apple picking, cider, etc.).
Playing cribbage by a giant fireplace.

Tips for Travelers

Multnomah Parking

Parking at Multnomah Falls is, to put it lightly, a nightmare. Plan ahead, expect to pay, or prepare to be (very) inconvenienced.

Waterfall Gear

If you're hiking <em>any</em> of the waterfall trails, wear waterproof shoes that you don't mind getting muddy. You will thank me later.

Check the Fruit Loop

Check the Fruit Loop websites before you go! Make sure the farms you want to visit are open and that the fruit you want is actually in season.

Reflections & Final Thoughts

This was one of those weekends that reminds you just how beautiful the PNW is in the fall. The Gorge, with all its fog, rain, and changing colors, was the perfect backdrop. But more than that, this was our first real trip together, and it was full of other "firsts"—our first time seeing a waterfall together, our first time playing cribbage by a fire. It was a calm, loving, and much-needed getaway, and a perfect reminder of how wonderful it is to be falling in love.