Concierge.com's insider take:

This is Portland's playground. Mount Hood, located roughly an hour and a half from Portland, encompasses a vast and varied terrain that supports a dizzying number of diversions. In summer and early fall, hikers stroll out to the many lakes (Trillium Lake is a popular option) to swim, fish, and picnic. More adventurous types head out there for white-water rafting expeditions, mountain biking, and rock climbing. And die-hard skiers can hit the slopes year-round at the Timberline ski resort (www.timberlinelodge.com). Regardless of what activity you choose, you should make a point of visiting the massive Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landmark built entirely by hand in the 1930s as a WPA project. The rustic, simply furnished rooms are fine and offer some exceptional mountain views, but it's equally popular as a scenic place to stop for lunch or a hot chocolate. Those interested in hiking should visit www.mazamas.org for more information.