New Weekend Shuttle Offers Connection to Hood River, White Salmon and Bingen Flavor, Fun, and Farmer's Markets
From pool dips to sips of wine: CAT’s new weekend shuttle offers a chance for fun-filled exploration of neighboring communities.
Photo Credit: Cole Goodwin
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By Cole Goodwin
White Salmon, WA, August 15, 2023– Since July, residents and tourists alike have been enjoying a seasonal weekend shuttle connecting Hood River, Oregon, White Salmon, Washington and Bingen, Washington. Run by Columbia Area Transit, (CAT) the weekend shuttle offers an economical and environmentally friendly way to travel between the two communities. But if you're planning to take advantage of this service, you'll need to act quickly – it ends September 6th.
The shuttle aims to boost local tourism and encourage economic activity by providing a direct link between two of the Columbia Gorge region's most vibrant towns and showcases the best of what they have to offer.
White Salmon Farmer’s Market has plenty to offer! Photo Credit: Emily Reed
Farmers markets, a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, are made even more accessible by the bus route. Shoppers can easily visit markets on both sides of the river, exploring a wider selection of locally grown fresh produce and artisanal goods while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
For White Salmon residents who live within the city limits, the bus route offers a hassle-free way to reach the Hood River Pool and use their free pool passes become even more valuable as residents can easily cool off during the summer heat without worrying about transportation.
The bus service promotes responsible and sustainable travel choices, too. Passengers can enjoy the scenic ride along the river without the stress of driving and parking. This is especially appealing for those visiting White Salmon’s new wine bar, Soca. By taking the bus, wine lovers can sample to their heart's content and still get home safely.
For those looking for non-alcoholic fun, White Salmon's newly opened Nativ Cafe, which serves artisan coffee, pastries, and soothing kava is at the top of the list of destinations.
Inside Nativ Cafe. Photo Credit: Cole Goodwin
Or if you’re looking to beat the heat with a sweet treat, Cool Beans, the town's new ice cream shop, tempts you with homemade ice cream sandwiches and locally roasted espresso.
Photo Credit: Cole Goodwin
Other attractions include Bingen's newly opened Gogi Grill, which serves up delicious Korean barbecue and the all time local favorite Beneventi’s Pizza.
For those looking for handmade artisan jewelry, incense, art, and some crystals for their collection Moon Mountain Highway has it all.
Riders can also take their dog on the bus to the Bingen Waterfront park for a romp on the waterfront, or enjoy a plunge into The Society Hotels indoor saltwater soaking pool, outdoor hot pool, cold plunge pool, or cedar sauna.
Also on the must see list is Margie’s Outdoor Store, lauded as “the most unusual store in the gorge” this is an ideal place to file a paranormal report and get a feel for paranormal activity in the area.
The new shuttle hopes to benefit everyone involved: locals gain better access to amenities, tourists have more convenient transport options, and businesses can increase their visibility.
“We’re very excited about connecting White Salmon/Bingen and Hood River by reducing transportation barriers on summer weekends. We look forward to continuing our partnership with MATS and the Cities of Bingen and White Salmon to provide this service!” said Amy Schlappi, Executive Director of Columbia Area Transit.
With only a month left in the summer season, now is the time to take advantage of this unique bus route. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, hop on the bus and explore the distinctive charms of Hood River and White Salmon before the weekend shuttle ends!
Check out the weekend shuttle schedule, stops, and nearby attractions at: https://www.ridecatbus.org/white-salmon/.
Photo Credit: Emily Reed
Need to travel between Hood River and White Salmon during the week?
Mt. Adams Transportation Services has you covered!
For their most current schedule and map visit:
https://gorgetranslink.com/transit-agencies/mt-adams-transportation-services/.
“Our routes will continue to run on weekdays throughout the year,” said Sharon Carter, Director of Mt Adams Transportation Services. “It’s a great way to get across the bridge, with or without your bike. And a great way to avoid parking issues, gas prices or the bridge toll.”
Looking to Ride Year Round?
To purchase an unlimited-ride annual GOrge Pass for fixed routes on CAT, The Link, MATS, & Skamania transportation visit: https://gorgepass.com/. The pass is good for a year from purchase. The pass costs $40 for adults and $20 for kids under the age of 17.
