The Columbia River Gorgeis located approximately 51 minutes east Of Portland Oregon. There you can find numerous waterfalls, numerous hiking trails, boating, fishing, windsurfing, kite surfing, and much more.
From Portland head east on Hwy 84 and stop at the Troutdale Visitor Center.Hwy 30 which runs 20 miles from Troutdale to Multnomah Falls is a not to miss portion of the Historic Columbia River Highway open to automobiles. At the Troutdale Visitor Center, you’ll be able to pick up maps and learn more about current conditions along the scenic route.
Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpointis
Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpointis your first stop for stunning views of the gorge.
Crown Point and Vista House
Crown Point and Vista House provide more scenic views of the gorge. The Vista House is a hexagonal stone structure with stained glass windows and domed tile roof. A staircase takes you to the upper-level viewing deck, where you can enjoy a new perspective on the gorge.
Waterfalls
Then head east and see the following waterfalls in this order. All are visible from the road, or the parking lot, or after a short walk. Lower Latourell Falls, Shepperd’s Dell Falls, Bridal Vail Falls, Wahkeena Falls, Multnomah Falls, LowerOneonta Falls, and Horsetail Falls.
The most famous and most recognized waterfall is Multnomah Falls.
Bridge of the Gods
Bridge of the Gods is nearby in Cascade Locks. It crosses the Columbia River to bring you to Washington. Pay the toll and bring your camera.
Bridgeside
Bridgeside is a historic restaurant in Cascade Locks next to the Bridge of the Gods. You’ll love the views of the gorge and the Bridge of the Gods while eat. And the food was good.
At the base of the bridge right by the restaurant native Americans set up booths and sell fresh salmon that they caught the night before. It was amazing. We bought fresh salmon steaks and cooked them on the grill. Wow!
Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler
Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler – take ride on this paddle wheeler for great views from the middle of the Columbia River. They offer a sightseeing cruise, a brunch cruise, and a dinner cruise. You’ll love watching windsurfers and kite surfers. They take advantage of the strong winds coming off the Pacific Ocean and blowing through the gorge like a wind tunnel. Standing on the bow of the boat facing into the wind was difficult. If you are lucky the captain might let you sit in his seat and steer the boat. (portlandspirit.com/sternwheeler.php)
Wind Surfing
If you are really brave you might consider wind surfing yourself in the Columbia River. You can sign-up for lessons from these two companies.
Big Winds Hood River – surfing rentals/lessons (bigwinds.com)
Hood River WaterPlay – surfing rentals/lessons – kayaks paddle boards etc (hoodriverwaterplay.com)
The Bonneville Lock and Dam
The Bonneville Lock and Dam spans the Columbia River, providing electricity and flood control, as well as creating recreational areas. Tours are available at both the Oregon Bradford Island Visitor Center and the Washington Shore Visitor Center. The Oregon side includes the Fish Hatchery and the Washington side has tours of the Powerhouse and Dam. There is a self-guided tour which takes you around most of the dam and lock complex, but if you sign up for one of the three daily Ranger Tours you get to go behind the scenes as well to restricted areas. The tour ends with a visit to the fish ladders that bypass the dam where you can see salmon, trout and other species making their way up the river. You’ll love seeing a boat moving through the Lock And don’t miss the famous fish viewing windows and don’t miss Herman the Sturgeon!
Mount Hood
Mount Hood – Heading east from Portland on Hwy 84 take Hwy 35 north at Hood River. Experience the fruit loop, numerous wineries, and magnificent views of Mount Hood. Make sure you take the cable car to the top and don’t forget to stop and explore the historic Timberline Lodge (a National Historic Landmark). You might consider spending the night.
The 35-mile scenic drive known as the Fruit Loop has something for everyone. As you drive along the Loop past pear, cherry, nectarine, apple, and peach orchards you’ll find win series, breweries, farm stands, lavender farms, alpaca ranches. Taste some fresh jams, jellies, pies, wines, and beer.
MountNbarreL – bike and wine tour
Martin’s Gorge Tours
Sol Rides – ebike tours
Northwest Rafting Company– multi-day rafting on Middle Salmon River, Rogue River, and Illinois River.
Gorge Paddling Center– offers paddle boards and kayaking
River Drafters – White Salmon River Rafting – 1/2 day trips in Washington
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