Search Columbia River Gorge
Just 30 miles (48 km) east of Portland, the Columbia River Gorge offers amazing views, hiking and mountain bike trails and more than 90 waterfalls.
Know Before You Go
COVID-19 Update: the most popular Columbia River Gorge destinations are open and welcoming visitors.
For information regarding what trails and campsites are open, please visit the U.S. Forest Service; Ready, Set, Gorge; Friends of the Gorge. For road conditions and closures, visit ODOT.
Travel 30 miles (48 km) east of Portland and you’ll discover the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, a deep canyon forged by the Columbia River that’s home to gorgeous waterfalls, epic vistas and seemingly endless options for outdoor recreation. Along the way, historic landmarks and small towns provide places to rest and relax while exploring this one-of-a-kind Oregon destination. Read on for our top picks on what to do when visiting the Columbia River Gorge.
Explore the Gorge
Discover the best things to do in the Columbia River Gorge.
Hiking in the Columbia River Gorge
The gorge has hiking trails for all ages and abilities. There are short treks to waterfalls hidden from the road and challenging uphill hikes to scenic vistas. Some hikers reach the Columbia River Gorge by following the Pacific Crest Trail from California.
Friends of the Columbia Gorge has a hiking trail tool that can help you narrow down your list of options. Sort by distance, elevation and other factors.
Some of the most popular hikes have limited parking and may require a permit. Avoid disappointment by scouting out your options and planning ahead.
Know Before You Go
Between July 20, 2021, and Sept. 19, 2021, all Multnomah Falls visitors must book an advance ticket to take in the sight of Oregon’s tallest waterfall as well as to explore the historic 1925 Multnomah Falls Lodge. Visitors who ride a shuttle to Multnomah Falls do not need to book an advance ticket — they just need to show their shuttle pass at the entrance instead.
Also, before you head out, check with USFS for the most up-to-date information on alerts, conditions and trail closures.
Know Before You Go
The gorge draws more than two million visitors a year. To get the most enjoyment out of your trip, we recommend:
– Traveling car-free
– Explore east of Hood River
– Use The Oregon Department of Transportation’s Trip Check website to look at current road conditions
Watersports
The Columbia Gorge is one of the most famous kiteboarding and windsurfing locations in the U.S. World champions soar over the water, while beginners hone their skills in an enclosed lagoon known as “The Hook.” Visit one of the many outfitters in Hood River for lessons and equipment rental. Read more about windsurfing in the Columbia River Gorge.
If flying above the water while clinging to a sail doesn’t sound like fun, you can rent a paddleboard or kayak instead. Gorge Paddling Center offers a popular sunset kayak tour every evening from May through mid-September.
The White Salmon River empties into the Gorge not far from Hood River, Ore. But before the little river spills into the mighty Columbia, it takes whitewater rafters on an exciting ride. Outfitters based in White Salmon, Wash., offer half-day and full-day guided rafting trips on class III rapids with an optional class V waterfall.
Scenic Views
The stretch of Interstate 84 between Troutdale, Ore., and The Dalles, Ore. is one of the most scenic drives in the United States. You can see a lot from the freeway; but for a truly spectacular view, take the road less traveled.
Off the Historic Columbia River Highway atop a 733 foot (223 m) cliff stands Crown Point Vista House. Get a birds-eye view of the Gorge from the parking lot and snap postcard-worthy pics.
Want more? Jump back on the freeway and head east to Hood River, Ore. On a clear day, you can see Mount Hood to the south and Mount Adams to the north. Drive the Hood River County Fruit Loop and enjoy fresh produce and award-winning wine with a side of majestic mountain views. Discover more things to do in Hood River.
Stretch your legs and enjoy one last scenic view by traveling 12 minutes east of Hood River to the town of Mosier. Follow the Mosier Plateau Trail through the pioneer cemetery, past the small waterfall and up some stairs and switchbacks to a panoramic view from the plateau. The 2.7-mile (4.3-km) round trip hike is especially beautiful when spring wildflowers are in bloom but can be prohibitively hot on summer afternoons.
Learn More About the Columbia River Gorge
Can you see Multnomah Falls without hiking?
Editor’s note: Starting July 20, 2021, advance tickets are required in order to visit Multnomah Falls through September (tickets won’t be required if you shuttle or take a guided tour instead). Here is everything you need to know about how to book your tickets to Multnomah Falls.
Where does the Columbia River Gorge start and end?
What are the top things to do in the Columbia River Gorge?
There’s a lot to do for foodies too. Local breweries, wineries and U-pick farms are a great place to connect with local makers and literally enjoy the fruits of Mother Nature.
Was this page helpful?