Travel

The Columbia River Gorge stretches from Biggs, Oregon on the eastern end, to Troutdale, Oregon on the western end. The National Scenic Area of the Columbia River spans this 80 mile outdoor wonderland offering diverse climates, culture, and recreation activities. Encompassing both Oregon and Washington, the Gorge offers something for everyone.

The Gorge is easily accessible to Portland/Vancouver Metro area residents by way of Interstate 84 on the Oregon side of the river and U.S. Highway 14 on the Washington side. For a more leisurely drive through the Gorge, consider a jaunt on the Historic Columbia River Highway, which parallels I-84 from The Dalles to Mosier at the east end of the Gorge and between Troutdale and Dodson* on the west end,offering breathtaking views of waterfalls, wildflowers, and scenic overlooks.

* Due to the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire, the Historic Columbia River Highway and State Trail is closed from Bridal Veil to Ainsworth State Park. A six-mile section of the Historic Highway is open from Larch Mountain Road to Bridal Veil. Find a list of alternative hiking trails to try here.

Recreation

Renowned for its breadth of outdoor activities, the Columbia River Gorge offers year-round recreation. Nestled between Mt. Hood in Oregon and Mt. Adams and Mt. St. Helens in Washington, the Gorge bisects the Cascade Mountain Range, yielding broad climate diversity. From high desert and rolling wheat fields in the east to dramatic waterfalls in the west, your vacation getaway to the Columbia Gorge is sure to have something for everyone.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy rock climbing, windsurfing, whitewater rafting, kiteboarding, kayaking, biking, hiking and salmon, small-mouth bass, northern pike minnow, steelhead and sturgeon fishing. Winter activities include downhill and cross country skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing.

For a more leisurely stroll through the Gorge, consider visiting one of the many great museums including the Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center in The Dalles, Oregon. Other activities include first-class wine tasting, microbreweries and cideries, breathtaking views of wildflowers in the spring, and many easily accessible waterfalls, including the world renowned Multnomah Falls. During the summer, enjoy river boat cruises, camping, fishing, or one of the Gorge’s many breweries. There truly is something to catch everyone’s imagination!

If you have any questions about an upcoming trip to the Gorge contact us at the Port, or give the folks at The Dalles Chamber of Commerce a call. Find additional travel information for the Gorge at Travel Oregon or Experience Washington.