When I moved to Portland from the east coast, "The Dalles" was directional, meaning if I was driving towards The Dalles I was heading east. I never drove past Hood River and actually went to The Dalles until a year ago and I was pleasantly surprised! Since that first time, I've been back dozens of times. As you drive east on I-84, the lush fir trees, foliage and orchards of Hood River give way to more arid land and lots of Ponderosa pines. The majestic Columbia River widens as you drive through Mosier and the scenery is incredibly beautiful. Keep driving and the basalt cliffs across the river along the Washington side are stunning. A deep sage green in the spring turning shades of off white and golden brown in the hot summer months. When you reach The Dalles, the golden mountains are the backdrop everywhere you turn. Face south and from some viewpoints, Mt. Hood is standing tall and proud. Over the past two years I've enjoyed exploring the area and have been in awe of the high desert beauty. The Riverfront Trail is a wide paved path that follows The Columbia River down to the southern bank where the river makes a dramatic 90 degree turn. In the summer a cruise ship often anchors here. On the north end by the dam, I stop and marvel at the hundreds of pelicans in the water or flying above looking down for dinner. At dusk, especially November through January during the northern migrations, dozens of eagles eagles hunt for prey then perch in the trees along the dam. From Sorosis Park high on the hill you can take in a 180 degree view of the city, the dam and river below, perfect sunset viewing from this area. I come back often so I can admire the change in seasons. Lush and green in spring, golden brown in summer and in the fall, the few trees that turn colors dot the landscape below. The downtown area has several breweries, restaurants (old saloon type vibes) and shops. Willow & Bark is one of my favorites offering stylish and affordable women's clothing and accessories. Klindts Bookstore is a must! The oldest bookstore in Oregon is charming with its hardwood floors, wooden interior and lots of books and even gift items. Go on a First Friday when stores are open late and people are wandering in and out. Or attend one of the many festivals throughout the year - an old fashioned tree lighting ceremony at a Christmas time, old car shoes, Cherry Festival, the Mural Festival to name a few. And speaking of murals, so many buildings have gorgeous murals painted on a wall, most depicting a significant part of The Dalles history and the cultures that have influenced its past and present day. The murals are painted in soft muted tones to compliment the landscape. I'm always walking around searching for them and snapping pics. Kudos to the artists and their talent. As the largest town in Wasco County, The Dalles also has the basics covered: Home Depot, Safeway, Fred Meyers, Dick's Sporting Goods, Petco, The Goodwill, The Dollar Tree, Walgreens, RiteAid, Bargain Market, Bi-Mart and a plethora of fast food places. All the usual suspects - McDonald's, Taco Bell, Subway, Papa Murphy's and more. Plus lots of food trucks, Chinese and Mexican restaurants, bakeries (Mike's Batkitchen) pubs and breweries. And of course a quaint farmers Market in Saturday mornings. When I'm out in Hood River and Mosier for extended stays, I always come out to The Dalles to hit up the stores and explore nature. I can't speak to what it's like to live here or to have grown up here, but I would assume that some love it and remain here while others may seek a place not so distant from other towns. As a visitor, I enjoy The Dalles and all it has to offer. read more

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The Dalles is very unique. It has it's own Desert like beauty. Very hot and windy for most of the summer and calms down for the winter. Wild fires are a big problem in the Gorge. Winters are cold, but not as windy. Sometimes you may even get to enjoy some snow. It almost has everything you need to survive in the Gorge. Fred Meyers, Grocery Outlet, Coastal, Petco, Home Depot ect.. But forget about being part of the community. Let me just say... if you are looking for a friendly community in a small town.... The Dalles is NOT it, UNLESS... you'r religious, go to church every Sunday and your VERY patriotic. If your just looking for a cheaper place to live instead of Hood River, and don't care about community, then this might be the place for you. I've lived in a lot of different states, cities and little towns, but The Dalles is one of the hardest places I've ever lived. The attitudes of the people can really destroy a town. Don't get me wrong, I don't have a problem with religious or patriotic people, they just have a problem with me. Within the first month of living in the Dalles, I was asked by 8 different people, what church I belonged to. I would always say the same thing..." Sorry, I don't do church." They would look at me as if I had some strange disease. It was so weird. Anyway...I am now moved away from The Dalles after a very LONG year of living there. NEVER again. The Dalles can keep their attitudes. Let bygones be bygones. . read more

An active community and lots to do! Yes it gets hot in the summer but it's not Arizona or Nevada hot. Plus there's cool shady hiking trails and waterfalls and pools and the river and lakes you can swim in nearby. The cost of living is on the lower side for how much this community has to offer, especially compared to Hood River which is filled with tourists on the weekends and gets just as hot or hotter. read more