The Best Neighborhoods to Build Your Dream Home in the Columbia River Gorge
Building your dream home is a big decision, and choosing the right location is an important part. Here, we take a look at some of the best spots in the Gorge, so you can get an idea of what you have in store depending on your tastes.
Hidden Oaks
Hidden Oaks in Oregon is a premier view community featuring modern custom homes nestled into tall hillsides immersed in unimaginable views of the Hood River Valley. It hosts Premier property building sites.
Why you should build here:
Choosing to build in Hidden Oaks within the Gorge offers the distinct advantage of securing a home in a gated community that boasts tremendous views. This exclusive locale combines the privacy and security that come with gated community living, along with the beauty of the Gorge's natural landscape. The scenic vistas available from Hidden Oaks provide a serene backdrop for residents, making it an ideal setting for those seeking a peaceful retreat without sacrificing the sense of community and safety. These features make Hidden Oaks a highly desirable location for building a new home, where the majesty of nature meets the comfort of secure living.
The Dalles
The Dalles is an industrial driven riverfront community known as one of the first major trading posts in Oregon and was a destination of Lewis and Clark's expedition. Mt Hood sets the backdrop for this historical city. The Dalles hosts major employers for the entire Gorge including those in industrial operations, tech, wind and healthcare.
Why you should build here:
The Dalles presents an appealing and reasonable choice for those looking to build or remodel. It offers a unique opportunity to purchase a home with the intent to teardown and redo, making it a very affordable entry point into this desirable area. The region features homes with tall, 9 to 10-foot ceilings that add to their charm and character. Also, the downtown area is notably spacious, boasting ample available space that remains easily accessible, enhancing the appeal for both potential builders and renovators.
The Dalles is not only recognized as a National Scenic Area, highlighting its natural beauty and appeal, but it also carries significant potential for growth, making it especially attractive to younger families seeking a blend of scenic living and urban conveniences. It's dubbed as one of the hottest spots in all of Oregon, quite literally, due to its susceptibility to heatwaves, which adds a unique climate aspect to consider. For new builds, permits in the area contribute directly to local schools with fees at $13,000, investing in the community's future. This combination of affordability, historical significance, potential for growth, and community investment makes the Dalles a prime location for those looking to build or renovate, offering a blend of scenic beauty, urban accessibility, and the opportunity to contribute positively to the community's educational resources.
Trout Lake
Trout Lake is a quiet, peaceful retreat community at the base of Mount Adams. Surrounded by endless trails, streams and mountain vistas. This is a perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. The wild huckleberries bring visitors seeking refuge in the Gifford forest in the fall and the summers attract rafters on the White Salmon river.
Why you should build here:
This area stands out as an idyllic place to build, offering the charm and potential to become a sought-after destination, akin to the renowned Jackson Hole. It boasts a small airport, enhancing its accessibility and appeal to those looking for a gateway to adventure and natural beauty. Despite its secluded feel, the community ensures connectivity and accessibility, with roads that are diligently plowed in winter, guaranteeing year-round access. This locale is not just any mountain town; it is a haven for white water rafters and outdoor enthusiasts, with spots positioned halfway to Trout Lake and conveniently located right off highway 141. This combination of natural beauty, accessibility, and recreational opportunities makes it an exceptional choice for anyone looking to invest in or become part of a thriving mountain community.
Stevenson
Stevenson is a small community situated along the Columbia River looking out towards the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge. Stevenson is rich with greenery as the rainfall here is significant in comparison to the other communities in the gorge. It is sure to quench the thirst of those needing nature's aquatic rejuvenation and healing properties.
Why you should build here:
Building in Stevenson offers an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds — breathtaking views and urban convenience. This area boasts a plethora of amazing views that can be your daily backdrop. Its proximity to Portland and the bridge means you're just a 45-minute drive from the city's vibrant life and only an hour away from the Lloyd Center, allowing for easy access to urban amenities while living amidst nature's splendor. Despite its desirable setting, there are still view lots available that haven't reached the million-dollar mark, offering river views at a reasonable price. This area also benefits from a nice downtown area, thanks to being the county seat, resulting in an unusually decent Main Street that adds to the locale's charm. This blend of natural beauty, accessibility to major urban centers, and affordable lot prices in a well-serviced downtown area makes it an ideal place for building your dream home.