Travel Planner: The Dalles, OR

Here in the highlands of Mt. Hood, the Cascades are seemingly close enough for golfers to hit with a long drive. You can croquet on the only court and lawn-bowling green in the Northwest or choose from plenty of nearby outdoor activities such as fly-fishing on the Salmon River, horseback riding, white-water rafting, and all snow-related sports. Golf and skiing packages are offered, as well as comprehensive meeting and event facilities. Accommodations run from double rooms to two-bedroom condos. Each of the tastefully decorated rooms has a deck or patio overlooking the forest, courtyard, or fairway. Self-contained, the resort has its own golf shop (pros available for lessons), tennis courts, pool/Jacuzzi, gym, restaurants, bars, etc. Pros:

Every sport available, clean rooms, plenty of choices in size.

There will be crowds, may not appeal if a guest isn't a fan of golf. www.theresort.com. 160 rooms. In-room: kitchen (some), Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurants, bars, golf course, pool, tennis courts, gym, laundry facilities, some pets allowed. Credit cards accepted.

As you explore the grounds of this Georgian Revival manor, you'll feel like you've entered a European village filled with activity and beauty. Wander through 38 acres of gardens, orchards, and vineyards with a drink in your hand. Enjoy complimentary movies in the Edgefield Theater, live music in the winery, and golf at the 17-hole course. There are three restaurants and six bars to choose from, as well as a pool hall and distillery. Ruby's Spa offers an amplitude of body treatments. Be sure to make reservations ahead of time for the Black Rabbit restaurant and Ruby's Spa. Pros:

Plenty of choices for eating and drinking. A large variety of rooms and prices to choose from.

Crowds can get large at this busy place. www.mcmenamins.com. 114 rooms, 24 beds in men's/women's hostels. In-room: no TV. In-hotel: restaurants, bars, spa, parking. Credit cards accepted.

"Skamania," the Chinook word for "swift water," overlooks exactly that with its 175 acres sitting to the north of the Columbia River Gorge. So big you need a map to get around, the Lodge impresses with its multitude of windows that take in the surrounding forests and Gorge, Montana slate tiling, Native American artwork, and an immense word-burning fireplace. Outstanding recreational facilities include an 18-hole, par-70 golf course, 3 hiking trails, large indoor pool, and even a sand volleyball court. The accommodating staff will pack you a box lunch if you're going out to explore for the day. Pros:

Addresses the active guest as well as the kids, U.S. Forest Service has a kiosk in the lobby, well-suited to handle large events, conferences, weddings.

Costs can quickly multiply for a large family, can get crowded, sometimes there's a wait for table seating in the dining room. www.skamania.com. 254 rooms. In-room: Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurants, bars, golf course, pool, tennis courts, gym, spa, parking, some pets allowed. Credit cards accepted.