Innsitting isn't a "sit-in"

Another "must-know" from the Team at Travel the Gorge

It sounds like the ideal job, especially for those of us who love the bed-and-breakfast or country inn experience. Innsitting: You go to a lovely inn, serve an easy breakfast, visit with the guests, sightsee during the day, then back to the inn to welcome the night's guests. Right?? Way wrong!! This little-known occupation is not for the faint-of-heart.

B&B owners have huge investments in their inns. They have their own style, ambiance and standards. Most of them are at their inns every day of the week, month in and month out. But everyone needs a break now and then, even when they're passionate about their business. This the necessity leading to the invention of the Innsitter.

Not so surprisingly, the Columbia Gorge has its very own innsitter, though often too busy to actually sit an inn in The Gorge. KC's Innsitting is based in Parkdale, Oregon, but KC is more often found in Hawaii, or Colorado, New Mexico or the Oregon coast. KC, along with her husband Kirk, a retired firefighter and EMT, goes wherever a quality inn needs quality interim care; and that care is much, much more than just sitting at an inn.

Before reporting for their engagement at an inn, KC's Innsitting has researched the area - its weather, attractions, tourist activities and events. KC knows the style of the inn, how much the innkeeper usually interacts with the guests, the extent of the usual breakfast, the housekeeping standards, the check-in-and-out procedures, and any lodging software used by the inn. On arrival, she has to "become" the innkeeper, running the inn and pampering the guests as the innkeeper would, assuring that each guest has the experience to which they're accustomed. When the innkeeper returns, she and Kirk pack their bags and move on to "become" another innkeeper in another state, with a different style of inn and different procedures.

Obviously not a job for just anyone, but KC isn't just anyone. She's exceptionally bright, warm, organized and flexible. She is, however, just another exceptional person who calls The Gorge home.


The Travel the Gorge Team

Arch Erected at West End of Columbia Gorge Historic Highway

another exciting Gorge update from http://www.travelthegorge.com/ 


The Troutdale Centennial Arch, a 68-foot long arch resting on two basalt piers has been erected at the west end of the Columbia Gorge Historic Highway.

The following is exerpted from The Gresham Outlook, Mar 16, 2010 article titled "ARCH RISES ABOVE DOWNTOWN TROUTDALE

..."Orchestrated by Bremik Construction and Columbia Wire & Iron Works, the seamless operation belied four years of conceptualizing, planning, fundraising and controversy leading to the monument – a bona fide “Gateway to the Gorge” at the entrance to downtown – becoming a reality.

Among the scattered onlookers taking in the event, perhaps no one felt more relief and joy than Rip Caswell. The renowned sculptor initially conceived the arch concept and sculpted the two 7-foot-long bronze trout – appropriately twisting upstream toward the Columbia River – that grace the support structures on either side."

..."Max Maydew, a key arch fundraising coordinator, beamed with excitement as he gazed up at the 22-feet high arch. Its top letters boldly proclaim “TROUTDALE” with “Gateway to the Gorge” just below.

“I couldn’t be more pleased,” he said, noting how the span fulfills Caswell’s vision of framing downtown and Broughton Bluff above the Sandy River. “It’s just a beautiful piece of arch work.”

Along with his wife, Cheryl, a board member of the Troutdale Historical Society, Maydew developed the north side of the downtown business district in the late 1990s. The historical society raised more than $100,000 in private donations to build the arch, originally planned to mark the city’s centennial celebration in fall 2007.

After a promising start, an economic downturn slowed donations to a trickle. With a colorful balloon arch standing in during the 100-year bash, the City Council considered – and ultimately adopted – a plan to fund the remaining $258,000 from city parks funds.

“It was a struggle,” Maydew recalled. “We raised as much money as we could, well over $100,000. City Council had to put it over the top.”

..."A ceremony to celebrate the Troutdale Centennial Arch will be held at 6:30 p.m. Friday, May 7, as part of the First Friday Art Walk.

Things to know

Facts about the Troutdale Centennial Arch spanning Historic Columbia River Highway
• Approximate total cost is $363,000
• Composed of three pieces, the center arch weighs 12,000 pounds, is 68 feet across and rises 22 feet above the roadway
• Columns are decorated with Columbia River basalt rock built on micro-pilings buried as deep as 25 feet
• Built-in lighting will illuminate the two metal support sculptures with 7-feet trout; additional lighting can be added
• It’s designed to withstand winds up to 110 mph and 3 inches of ice
• A gas-sealed time capsule will be installed in the south column to be opened in 2110
• A plaque covering the capsule will include those who donated $1,000 or more to the arch

Arch credits

• Original concept and artwork: Sculptor Rip Caswell of Rip Caswell Sculptures of Troutdale
• General contractor: Bremik Construction Inc.
• Architect: Michael McCulloch
• Structural engineer: Bob Grummel
• Fabrication: Columbia Wire & Iron Works, Swan Island in Portland

Contributions for the arch are still being accepted through the Troutdale Historical Society by calling 503-661-2164 or visiting troutdalehistory.org.

Copyright 2010 Pamplin Media Group, 6605 S.E. Lake Road, Portland, OR 97222 • 503-226-6397

HIghway 14 Construction and Closures

Another travel update from http://www.travelthegorge.com/

Extensive highway construction is scheduled for the spring and summer of 2010 on Wahington's Highway 14 between the Bridge of the Gods on the west end and the Hood River Bridge on the east end.  There will be on-going highway closures and travel lane restrictions continuing intoSeptember, as crews clear potential rockfalls from cliffs above the highway.

While there will be a lot of work done near Dog Mountain, the Dog Mountain trailhead parking lot and trail will be open unless blasting is scheduled.  The highway itself will be closed from 4-6 p.m. weekdays through June 14, then more frequently through Sept. 2.  Delays of no more than two hours are expected and can be avoided by crossing to I-84 on the Hood River Bridge or the Bridge of the Gods.

Frustrating but necessary.  Visit WSDOT for traffic alerts and updates.

Your TTG Team

In Neutral at 10-Speed

another frothy cup of wisdom from http://www.travelthegorge.com/

Just as there are different types of coffee, there are different types of coffee spots.  Some are amped up and noisy,  the place to go if you need to get your motor running.  Others offer just the basics - a quick hello and your "usual" handed through the window.  The 10-Speed Coffee Roasters, located on 13th Street on the Heights in Hood River and on the flats in Mosier, offer great coffee and a whole lot of mellow.

The Hood River 10-Speed is right off the sidewalk at a busy corner.  But step inside and the bustle outside becomes just a bit of white noise.  Low lighting, the hiss of the frother, and rich coffee smells provide a soothing backdrop for a latte with a long-time friend or a new one at the next table - or just to enjoy a few moments alone with your newspaper and a good pastry.

The 10-Speed in Mosier,  just 5-miles east of Hood River, sits off by itself, a cozy cabin with a roomy parking area, indoor and outdoor seating and a lot of peace and quiet - AND an eclectic breakfast and light lunch menu with local wines and beers available.  Walk in for the first time and you feel as though you've come home.  No pomp or pretense, just a warm welcome, a great cup of coffee, good food, and some friendly conversation if you're in the mood. 

Oh, and take home some of their yummy coffee to brew at home!

The TTG Team

For a complete listing of Coffee spots in The Gorge, visit http://www.travelthegorge.com/coffee.asp

A Day Not Fishing in the Columbia River is a Day Wasted

A few fishy thoughts from the Team at http://www.travelthegorge.com/

Fishy can be a good thing!  Fish smell fishy. The gear from your last fishing trip smells fishy and reminds you that it's time to get back out there...and now's the time.  The spring Chinook salmon run is underway in the Columbia River, in what may prove to be record numbers.  The "Springers" are considered some of the best eating fish found in North America and are known as good fighters on the hook. 

One of the Team's best spring fishing experiences was with Glenn Summers of RiversbendOutfitters in The Dalles, Oregon.  Glenn has been around for about forever, and knows every angle - pun intended - about fishing in The Gorge.  He's wonderful with first-timers - even made the Team's klutz feel like a fisherman - and he's a great storyteller.  Glenn's equipment is meticulously cared for and he has a real gift for combining adventure with safety. 

The fishing season in The Gorge lasts into the winter, depending on your fish of choice, and it would be wise to book your outing now.  Glenn is highly thought of and books up fast.

The TTG Team
Find other great outdoor adventures at http://www.travelthegorge.com/outdoor.asp

Stonehedge Gardens - not just for special occasions!

Another epicurean tidbit from the Team at http://www.travelthegorge.com/

As of this writing, Stonehedge Gardens is probably the finest "fine dining" in The Gorge.  Yes, there are fancier buildings and more expensive menus, but Stonehedge Gardens, a Hood River icon for over 25 years, offers unfailingly flavorful fare in an environment that sets the standard for warm and cozy.  Low lighting, a gently crackling fire, rich colors and yesteryear decor are embraced by banks of windows looking out on their lush northwest gardens.  Owners, Mike and Shawna Caldwell, are on site most nights along with a highly-trained and accommodating staff.  Many of the servers have worked together for years and service is is seamless and friendly. 

For locals, Stonehedge is the first restaurant that comes to mind for a truly special occasion, but that is a crime against the customer.  To save this pampering experience for a few have-to occasions a year is a waste.  Prices are very reasonable and the staff is as welcoming when you come in for an appetizer and a drink as they are when you're there for the BIG event. 

Stonehedge Gardens
3405 Cascade Avenue
Hood River, OR
541-386-3940

Sawtooth Roadhouse is Cutting Edge

More pithy ditherings from http://www.travelthegorge.com/

Just kidding there – but the Sawtooth Roadhouse IS a very pleasant place for some good food and good company. Just in front of the old Hanel Mill site, on Highway 35, 9 miles south of I-84, the Sawtooth gives you an excuse – if you’re the type who needs one – to drive this National Scenic Byway into the foothills of Mt. Hood. The views of Mt. Hood and upper valley orchards would be reason enough for the drive; add a great lunch with warm service to the trip and you’ll become a regular.

The TTG Team feasted here on what could have been a dreary Friday. Skies were overcast, Mt. Hood appeared fleetingly, and it was too cold to want to get out of the car. But the lure of fresh-baked lasagne, an authentic Reuben and crisp-crust pizza was inescapable and we ended up sitting in their cozy bar, being waited on by the owner and regaled by the chef.

It’s hard to define exactly what about the food sets the Sawtooth apart from standard roadside fare – it’s an unexpected mix of California fusion with northwestern cowboy that really works. The Thai Pizza was full of oriental flavor and crunch, and the potato soup – not two things you would expect to find on the same menu, was rich and full-bodied with bacon and onion. Beer and wine were reasonably priced.
It isnt always obvious that they are open for lunch most days of the week. You might want to call first - 541.354.2511 - just to make sure they’re ready to welcome you.

The TTG Team
For a complete directory of dining in The Gorge, go to www.TravelTheGorge.com/casual.asp

Columbia Gorge Wineries Passport Weekend

Another bit of "wining" from the Team at Travel the Gorge

Your passport to a great wine time in the Columbia River Gorge can be found at the Columbia Gorge Wine Region website.  The Passport to a World of Wine in 40 Miles, is a great opportunity to visit Gorge wineries, experience Gorge dining options, learn a little bit about wines - and Gorge wines in particular, and take advantage of specials on wine purchases and lodging. 

The official Passport Weekend is april 9-11, 2010, but there are fun wine happenings earlier in the week, too.  Nora's Table at 110 Fifth St in Hood River is offering a six-course, six-wine gourmet experience Wednesday evening, April 7th,  and the Columbia Gorge Community College (541.506.6011) is presenting a class on the affects of Gorge Geology on local wines at Mt. Hood Winery, at 6:30 on Thursday April 8th. 

For lodging, the Columbia Cliff Villas, The Dalles Inn, The Lyle Hotel and Mt. Hood Hamlet Bed and Breakfast are all offering specials or discounted rates for the weekend.

This is historically a lovely weekend in The Gorge and a good time is had by all.  So come Gorge yourself.  Your wine cellar will thank you!

The TTG Team

Sorosis Park, The Dalles, Oregon

More insightful comments from the team at http://www.travelthegorge.com/

No, it wasn't named after a liver disease of a different spelling.  According to the Historic The Dalles website, the name has a much more elevated origin:  Sorosis is from the Greek meaning “a multiple fruit formed from many flowers.” The word "soror" means "sister" in Latin.

This park by any other name would be as delightful.  At "the top" of The Dalles, this 15-acre park is the town's largest  and includes a spacious picnic area, playground with a massive climbing toy, tennis court, frisbee golf, and a walking trail around its circumference.  There is a well-tended rose garden with benches overlooking the valley and there are some huge shade trees obviously grown for shady napping. The Veteran’s Memorial is on the overlook point. 

On a recent outing, the TTG Team experienced much of what the park has to offer.  The path is gently sloped and great for dogs.  Poop bags are located near the west-side parking lot for anyone taking a last minute walk with their best friend.  Squirrels abound, children and families are playing and wayward frisbees from the park's excellent frisbee golf course create endless temptations. - so it's even more important to keep your barking buddy on a leash.

One of our team members had never been to the park inspite of many years in the area.  If you've also overlooked it, Spring is near and Sorosis Park would be a great place to welcome it in.

The TTG Team

For great sightseeing possibilities in The Gorge visit http://www.travelthegorge.com/sightseeing.asp

A Spot That Should Be Hot

Another  pithy posting from http://www.travelthegorge.com/

The Windseeker Restaurant down by the port in The Dalles, Oregon is a too-often-overlooked treasure.  A new chef has come on board recently and we expect good things.  However, what is already noteworthy is the location, the view, the outdoor seating, the ample free parking, and the restaurant's proximity to The Dalles' Riverfront Trail.  Prices for local wines aren't bad either!

On a recent sunny afternoon in the Gorge - yes, sun in winter - the Team and a friend or two took a Saturday walk along the mostly-level  Riverfront Trail. Starting in the SE corner of the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center parking lot (leave one car at the Windseeker if you only want to walk one way), the River Walk takes you along not quite 4 miles of the Columbia River, through Taylor Lake Park, along the back of the Google Campus, to the patio at the Windseeker Restaurant.  You share this gentle walk with river birds,  a few power walkers and polite cyclists, and a whole lot of pretty. 

Our destination was an excellent bottle of Cathedral Ridge Chardonnay and assorted appetizers on the Windseeker's garden patio.  The owners have taken great care with their garden of indigenous flowering trees and perennials, rose bushes, Dutch bulbs and water elements.  The fenced patio offers ironwork tables and springy ironwork arm chairs.  The elements are hard on them, but they are comfortable and kept as clean as being outdoors permits. 

The best thing about the Windseeker is just being there - at the edge of the river, looking over at low basalt cliffs and greening hills.  Amtrak's Empire Builder follows the north side of the river, and the occasional freight train moves across the view.  Seagulls announce the arrival of a loaded barge headed downriver and pleasure boats move languidly out of the way.  There is seldom much wind in this protected location and the sun warms your shoulders much more often than west-of-the-Cascades dwellers would believe.

The TTG Team strongly recommends this experience - and a groundswell of local support to make this a really hopping spot.  You'll thank yourself!  For a complete listing of casual dining in The Gorge, go to http://www.travelthegorge.com/casual.asp.