reconsidering Hood River hotel choice/itinerary-thoughts?

For those that have done the Gorge trip--plans were for us (mom and I--we%26#39;re leaving the boys at home) to leave PDX on a Friday and head to Hood River. Along the way we were planning to take the historic Columbia River Highway and stop at various turnouts along the way to admire the view and/or do some short hikes. Also thinking of going to the Bonneville lock and dam. We want to do the Bridge of the Gods, but were considering doing that Saturday when we head off to Mt St Helens (crossing and driving on the Washington side--unless that is not advisable. Actual driving routes are still being determined.) Still up in the air is the Sternwheeler Cruise-- sounds interesting, has anyone done it? We are currently booked at the Vagabond Lodge in Hood River (in the new building, but not a suite). Can anyone recommend anything we might be missing or provide any suggestions?

reconsidering Hood River hotel choice/itinerary-thoughts?

Definitely do the Sternwheeler Cruise. It%26#39;s a gorgeous trip, and you get to learn a lot. I would also advise eating at Charburger in Cascade Locks. If you get a window seat there is an awesome view of the bridge. Downtown Hood River is SUPER cute, but watch how you drive because too many tourist clog up the roads down there. OH! And there is a relatively short (1 mile) and easy hike across the road from Bonneville Dam that leads to a GORGEOUS waterfall. I would recommend that also. Have fun and good luck!

reconsidering Hood River hotel choice/itinerary-thoughts?

Definitely do the Sternwheeler Cruise. It%26#39;s a gorgeous trip, and you get to learn a lot. I would also advise eating at Charburger in Cascade Locks. If you get a window seat there is an awesome view of the bridge. Downtown Hood River is SUPER cute, but watch how you drive because too many tourist clog up the roads down there. OH! And there is a relatively short (1 mile) and easy hike across the road from Bonneville Dam that leads to a GORGEOUS waterfall. I would recommend that also. Have fun and good luck!