What is the Columbia River Gorge?
Often known as “The Gorge,” Columbia River Gorge is an extraordinarily picturesque region, rich in recreational opportunities. Due to its favorable wind conditions, it has become an international hotspot for windsurfing and kite sailing. The unique beauty of the Gorge, shaped by the floods of the Ice Age, is preserved by local, state and US agencies as parks and public lands and has been officially designated as the Columbia Gorge National Recreation Area. Approximately 80 miles long, the gorge goes from a temperate rain forest ecosystem in the west to dry pine forests and grasslands in the east.
Beautiful waterfalls and amazing basalt rock formations can be found on both sides of the river.
Where is the Columbia River Gorge?
While there are several gorges along the 1,243-mile-long Columbia River, the Columbia River Gorge is at the point where the river traverses the Cascade Range. Forming part of the Oregon-Washington state border, the gorge runs roughly from the city of Troutdale to The Dalles (west to east).
Things to See and Do in Columbia River Gorge
Whether you’re planning to visit for a weekend or an extended vacation, you won’t be short of great attractions and activities during your visit to Columbia Gorge.
- Fun things to do on the Washington side
- Fun things to do on the Oregon side
- Outdoor activities on the Washington side
- Outdoor activities on the Oregon side
- Lewis and Clark sites along the Columbia River
Where to stay in the Columbia River Gorge
You’ll find a range of visitor services and lodging in the parks and communities that line the gorge. There are luxury resorts, boutique hotels, no-frills motels, historic cabins, campgrounds, and trailer parks.
- Hotels and lodging along the Columbia River Gorge
- Hotels near Portland International Airport
- Hotels and Accommodations in Vancouver, WA
How to get to the Columbia River Gorge
By plane
If you’re traveling by plane, you’ll want to fly into Portland International Airport.Driving
Interstate 84 is the main highway parallel to the Columbia River. It stretches along the Oregon side from Portland through the Gorge communities of Troutdale, Hood River, and The Dalles. On the Washington side of the river, State Highway 14 is the main route.Bridges spanning the Columbia River Gorge between Oregon and Washington
There are only 3 bridges that cross the river within the gorge.
- In Cascade Locks using US 30 freeway
- The Hood River Bridge
- The Dalles Bridge using US Highway 197
When to visit the Columbia River Gorge Las
Conditions vary with each season, with winter being the only time to avoid the gorge. Spring loads the waterfalls and brings wild flowers. However, trail conditions can be wet and muddy so be careful. Summer and fall are incredible seasons to visit, offering a dry and sunny climate and excellent conditions for recreation on land and water. The fall foliage along the Columbia River Gorge is impressive.
