First Nature Tours: Outdoor Adventures Around Mt. Hood & Columbia Gorge

First Nature Tours leads travelers into the rugged and richly varied landscapes of Oregon’s iconic Columbia River Gorge and the towering peak of Mt. Hood. Operating out of Portland, this locally rooted company offers a comprehensive suite of outdoor adventures that blend active exploration with cultural discovery—ideal for visitors seeking far more than a standard sightseeing trip. From whitewater rafting beneath dramatic waterfall cliffs to mountain biking through dense Douglas-fir forests, their curated trips introduce travelers to the dynamic outdoor playground just east of Portland.

The Columbia River Gorge is a natural force shaped by cataclysmic floods, carving a deep canyon with sheer basalt cliffs and over 90 waterfalls within a compact, accessible area. First Nature’s guided hikes bring you face-to-face with floral diversity, including wild orchids and native ferns along trails like the Botanical Discovery Hike. For those drawn to water, stand-up paddleboarding on the Columbia offers a new perspective on the river’s sweeping vistas and migratory birds.

At Mt. Hood, the company’s loops combine flavors of local farm-to-table cuisine with day hikes across volcanic terrain textured by lava rock and alpine meadows. Snowshoeing and skiing packages at Timberline Lodge uncover winter’s quiet in the Cascade foothills. Guests appreciate First Nature’s thoughtful approach—whether it’s customizing half- or full-day private tours or weaving urban culture into the journey with quirky Portland neighborhood outings.

Their expert guides like Gabe and Katelyn receive praise for blending detailed local knowledge with a welcoming, adaptable style that suits multigenerational and varied-interest groups. This balance of adventure and comfort makes First Nature Tours a standout gateway to the Pacific Northwest’s wild heartland. Whether chasing waterfalls, savoring wine country, or igniting a fireside stargazing night photography session, the company connects visitors with authentic terrain and stories that endure long after the hike ends.