There are great wingshooting lodges, and then there are legendary ones. One of the best examples of the latter is Oregon’s Highland Hills Ranch. Talk to those who have been there, and they likely will rate it as one of the top places they have visited. The list of things that make Highland Hills so special is literally too long to print, but here are five great reasons for all of the lofty reviews.
Shoot a Valley Quail
Opportunities to shoot valley quail (aka California quail) are rare for most shooters. While there are no guarantees in the world of wingshooting, at Highland Hills the chances of bagging one of these elegant topknotted critters is better than even—and, with a little luck, the quail you shoot will be part of a “grand slam” harvest that will include pheasant, chukar and Hungarian partridge.
Dine Finely
You can go to gourmet restaurants in New York, San Francisco or anywhere and still not experience finer cuisine than that served at Highland Hills Ranch. There’s a strong case to be made that if HHR were ever to shut down its hunting operation (God forbid!), it could successfully transition to being a foodie destination. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all memorable events for those who truly appreciate exquisitely prepared meals. Among those lucky shooters who frequent the nation’s best upscale lodges, HHR is often said to have the best cuisine of all the 5-star establishments.
Admire the Lodge
Highland Hills’ 10,000-square-foot luxury lodge is downright spectacular. By every conceivable measure, it rates toward the upper strata of the “best of the best.” Take a tour when you arrive and you’ll see why. Yes, it’s spacious. Yes, it’s warm and comfortable. But what strikes visitors the most is the structure's fetching architectural features (hand-peeled timbers, oversize rock fireplaces and so on) as well as opulent appointments, such as handwoven rugs and custom furniture. Roam around and take it all in. It’s sure to be one of the standout memories of your stay.
Visit a Winery
Highland Hills is located within 90 minutes of the Columbia River and, more specifically, the Columbia River Gorge—one of the West’s premier wine-making regions. The Gorge is known for its Cabernet Sauvignons, Syrahs and Zinfandels, and thanks to a plethora of local wineries and vineyards, there are plenty of opportunities in which to partake. Tacking a day or two onto the front or back of your HHR visit is a great way to raise your Oregon experience to an epic level.
Take in the View
Much is made of the lodge experience at HHR, but there’s more to it than the structure itself. Just as important is the majestic setting in which it is located. The building is situated on an elevated perch that overlooks a high-desert oasis. Panoramic views and wildlife sightings abound while you’re afield, but these ocular treats can also be savored through practically any window in the lodge. Just another of the seemingly endless ways to enjoy yourself at HHR . . . .
Highland Hills Ranch is a full-service Shooting Sportsman Endorsed Lodge. To learn more or to make a reservation, call 541-296-2447 or email info@highlandhillsranch.com.
Lodge and field photographs courtesy of Highland Hills Ranch. Photograph of valley quail by David Levinson from Pexels.
