The Columbia River Gorge Essential Guide

The best time to visit is between September and December. Portland, OregonMultnomah falls, which has two drops and is 620 feet tall, are a popular attraction in the Columbia River Gorge. The gorge is also home to North America’s most spectacular waterfalls. concentration of waterfallsThey’re only a small part of what this river canyon can offer.

Stretching over 80 miles in length and reaching depths of up to 4,000 feet, the Columbia River Gorge—a designated National Scenic Area since 1986—is a geological wonder. It’s a land that is a mix of contrasts. Formed by volcanic eruptions and carved out by Ice Age floods. Semi-arid grasslands, rugged bluffs, and rainforests all coexist. The Columbia River is framed by massive basalt cliffs that mark the border between Washington and Oregon.

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, according to Krystyna Woliniakowski of the Executive Director of the National Park Service is the most diverse and ecologically rich scenic area in America. Columbia River Gorge CommissionAn organization that protects National Scenic Area.

The area is not only a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, but also a haven for foodies, as it has farms, orchards and other agricultural products. American Viticultural Area wine region This supports “gorge-to table” dining.

What you should know before you plan a trip to Columbia River Gorge.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Skamania Lodge

The grand hotel is surrounded by 175 acres (about 275 acres) of wooded area. Skamania Lodge offers a choose-your-own-adventure style of stay with traditional lodge rooms, cabins, glamping tents, and elevated tree houses. After hiking in nearby Beacon Rock State Park If you want to relax before dinner, or try a sport like golf on site, the spa is waiting with relaxing massages or hot-tub soaks.

Sakura Ridge Farm & Lodge

This five-bedroom, log-style cabin is situated on a farm and orchard of organic apples and pears, approximately eight miles away from Hood River. Sakura Ridge This romantic retreat has it all: cozy rooms, soaking bathtubs, and breathtaking views of Mount Hood. Breakfast is a delicious selection of farm-fresh, seasonal foods. You can also enjoy other culinary treats like bento box dinners and chef-led meals.

Society Hotel

The boutique Society Hotel The hotel is located in an old schoolhouse, with a variety of accommodation options for travelers: private rooms, bunk rooms and cute cabins. It is easy to look at with its sleek, Scandinavian-style designThe spa and Bathhouse has a number of unique features, including a cedar sauna and cold plunge, as well as a saltwater soaking tub.

Under Canvas Columbia River Gorge

Open from late spring until late October. Under CanvasThe stylish glamping units at’s latest property immerse you in the outdoor splendor of the Gorge. The site is located near White Salmon in Washington and offers glampers a hilltop view of Mount Hood. They can also enjoy on-site amenities such as locally-sourced food, nightly S’mores, fun programming like live music, etc.

The Best Things to do

Chasing waterfalls Here is a given. But there’s much more you can do or see outdoors. A spokesperson for the U.S. Forest Service says, “We encourage people who visit these fragile ecosystems to recreate responsibly.” She reminds visitors to adhere to Leave No Trace principles as well as obtain any necessary permits.

Explore the roads, trails and waterways.

There are many opportunities for adventure, on land as well as in the water. Hiking is massive. over 200 trails There are many ways to get into the forest and explore lush canyons, such as Eagle Creek. Or you can climb up on a leg-busting route with spectacular views. “My personal favorites are hiking up Dog Mountain … for the wildflower bonanza in May, and to Rowena Crest viewpoint,” says Wolniakowski. Oregon allows cyclists to ride through cliffside tunnels, along car-free sections and even up Dog Mountain. Historic Columbia River Highway and State TrailKiteboarding, paddleboarding and whitewater rafting are all available in the Gorge.

Get fishy.

As a result, the Columbia River has become a popular fishing destination. fishing spots. Walleye can be caught all year long, including during the salmon run. If you’re lucky, you may get a sturgeon on the line—these prehistoric “living fossils” are the biggest fish in North America and reach up to 800 pounds. Head to the Bonneville Fish Hatchery during the fall season to view spawning coho, Chinook and other salmon.

Hood River Fruit Loop: Enjoy the fruits of the Hood River Fruit Loop.

The unique soil composition of the Hood River Valley allows for a wide variety of fruits and vegetables to grow. You can enjoy the fruits of the Hood River Valley’s unique soil composition. Hood River Fruit LoopThe valley is home to 32 farmstands and wineries. You can pick your own seasonal produce at “U-Pick” farms Around the area

Wineries, cideries and distilleries are great places to whet your whistle.

There are over 30 wineries and 12 craft breweries to choose from. Cideries and distilleries can also be found. Enjoy high-altitude Pinot gris with Mount Hood views. Loop de Loop WinesWatch windsurfers while you taste beers made from locally foraged botanicals Ferment Brewing CompanyEnjoy cocktails and flights with zero-proof alcohol at Wilderton Aperitivo Co.The first distillery in the U.S. to offer non-alcoholic spirits and a tasting room.

Explore the canyons beyond their highlights.

Head to the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum Learn more about the history of the region, from ancient Indigenous residents to Lewis and Clark’s voyage. You can also drive 45 minutes from Hood River up to Mount Hood in summer for paddleboarding, or in winter for skiing.

Nightlife

Lookouts such as the Vista House at Crown PointSince the early 1900s, motorists have stopped to admire the beauty of the gorge. Rarely, the northern light have appeared.

Best Restaurants

Sugarpine Drive In

Begin your trip by Sugarpine Drive-In In Troutdale, Oregon at the western entrance of the Gorge. The drive-through window is located in a renovated 1920s gas station. Order sundaes or soft-serve, or soups and sandwiches such as waffle-ironed tomato soup with grilled cheese.

Grasslands Barbecue

The following is a list of the most popular ways to contact us Hood River barbecue truck The Texas-style barbeque is some of best in Pacific Northwest. You can fill trays with oak smoked brisket and cheddar sausages. Also, you can add pulled pork, hatch chili, and cheddar sausages. Go early, though—they sell out fast.

Hiyu Wine Farm

James Beard Awards recognized the outstanding wine program at this restaurant. Hiyu Wine FarmThe Gorge’s culinary events have become some of the most sought-after seatings. Enjoy “sense-of-place” meals using seasonal products grown or harvested on the property. Pair them with natural wines that push boundaries.

White Salmon Baking Company

Get a breakfast to fuel you for a day filled with hiking, cycling, and winery hopping. White Salmon Baking Company. Grab a Reuben Panini to take on the road and satisfy your sweet or savory cravings. The breads, which are made with wild yeast and come in a variety of flavors, are delicious.

Solstice Wood Fire Pizza & Bar

This is for you if you don’t think that fruit belongs on pizza. spot for wood-fired pies You may be pleasantly surprised by the waterfront of Hood River. Local cherries and chorizo go perfectly with blue cheese, caramelized onions and local pears. Pizza purists can choose from a variety of options that also use local ingredients such as mushrooms and salmon from the Columbia River.

When To Visit

Visit the Columbia River Gorge between late spring and early fall for long, balmy, summer days. In the summer months, many popular sites such as Multnomah Falls It can get busy, especially at weekends. So plan your visit accordingly. Locals enjoy springtime because of the bright wildflower blooms, such as balsamroot or lupine. In autumn, they can go leaf-peeping through forests and vineyards.

How to get There

Portland International Airport is only a 10-minute drive from the western entrance of the gorge. The views are worth the drive along Oregon’s Highway 84 and Washington’s State Route 14. It takes an hour from Portland to Hood River, or White Salmon on the eastern end of the gorge.

Citys to Visit

Hood River

Windsurfing Capital of the World Hood River It is also a major hub for shopping, dining, and staying in the gorge. After a Scandinavian-style breakfast at Broder ØstSpend the day riding through the farmlands surrounding the city or cycling. Mount Hood Railroad before winding down over beers and ‘za at the Waterfront Park.

White Salmon

Washington’s White Salmon, located just across the Columbia River, is a town surrounded by hiking areas, wineries and rivers offering world-class rafting. The great outdoors will always be calling, but you should also spend some time in the town to explore its vibrant art scene.

Cascade Locks

This tiny town, located about half-way through the gorge is well worth a visit. Retro Burgers and Soft-Serve is a great place to grab burgers. Eastwind Drive-inDine on smoked Salmon Quesadillas, and Columbia-caught Fish at the Indigenous owned Brigham Fish MarketTake a picture of the Bridge of the Gods.

How to Get Around

There are many ways to avoid renting a car. There are ways to avoid renting a car. Columbia Gorge Express The shuttle connects Portland, Troutdale Multnomah, Cascade Locks and Hood River in Oregon with certain Washington routes during the spring and summer. Shuttle services like Sasquatch Shuttle Also, reduce congestion at popular locations like Multnomah Fall.