Traveler Alert: This area was impacted by the recent Eagle Creek Fire. Before you head out, please check with USFS for the most up-to-date information on closures.
With 292,500 acres in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, there is plenty to see and do. Go see it for yourself and discover why it’s one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon:
Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway: It’s easy to see why this scenic byway is known as the “King of Roads;” it’s a beautiful mix of visionary architecture, incredible scenery and rich history.
Vista House at Crown Point: Just a short drive from Portland, the Crown Point viewpoint offers a stunning look at the Gorge. The famous Vista House was built in 1916 at the same time as the Historic Columbia River Highway and is an iconic symbol of the Gorge.
Waterfalls: There are so many waterfalls in the Gorge that it can be difficult to know where to start. Try Horsetail Falls Loop, which begins at Horsetail Falls and loops behind the waters of Ponytail Falls. From this trail, you can connect to Triple Falls, Lower Oneonta Falls and the most famous waterfall of them all, Multnomah Falls.
Hood River: In Hood River, the Windsurfing Capitol of the U.S., you can try kiteboarding and windsurfing on the Columbia River, or just watch the pros do it from the tasting room at Full Sail Brewing. Don’t miss the orchards and lavendar farms on the Fruit Loop or the hand-scooped ice cream at the iconic Mike’s Ice Cream downtown.
The Dalles: Soak in 300+ days of sunshine while biking the Riverfront Trail on the way to visit the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center. Enjoy the truly unique wine tasting experience at the Sunshine Mill and the sweeping views of Mt. Adams and Mt. Hood at scenic Sorosis Park.
