Columbia River Gorge

The basics

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is an accessible day trip from Portland. Join a hiking or biking tour and you'll be guided to the best trails, or you can opt for a winery tour or a cruise on the river. Of the many waterfalls to see, Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, and Wahkeena Falls top the list.

Things to know before you go

• Wear sturdy shoes for any hiking or biking tours, as trails may be steep or slippery.

• Bring layers, even in the summer, as it can be windy year--round, and trail temperatures are often lower than those in the city.

• During the busy summer season, cars heading to the parking area at Multnomah Falls can back up onto the Columbia River Highway. Tour vans have reserved parking, avoiding the traffic hassle.

• Trails are not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers, but there is some wheelchair accessibility at Multnomah Falls.

How to get there

The Columbia River Gorge runs from Troutdale to Biggs on the Oregon side of the Oregon–Washington border and from Vancouver to Maryhill on the Washington side, starting about 16 miles (26 kilometers) from downtown Portland. The easiest way to visit is by car or on a tour. There are several points of interest not far from I-84, the main highway running along the Oregon side of the gorge, but the older, meandering historic Columbia River Highway offers more scenic views.

When to get there

The summer months, especially July and August, offer the best visibility. The gorge can be foggy and gray in the winter, as well as during some of the fall and spring. Winery tasting rooms are open year-round, but the fall harvest season is a popular time to visit the orchards, vineyards, and wineries. With the right clothing and gear, hikers and windsurfers can get out in almost any weather.

Where to find the best views

Vista House, which overlooks the gorge at Crown Point near Portland, provides brilliant views in both directions on clear days, and the nearby Bonneville Dam showcases the power of the river, with a fish-viewing window to see spawning in autumn. On the Washington side, the Maryhill Stonehenge monument, a replica of the landmark in England, makes for an interesting stop.

How do you tour the Columbia River Gorge?

You can visit the Columbia River Gorge on a tour from Portland, and both private and group tours are available. Tours include stops at scenic overlooks and waterfalls, including the famous Multnomah Falls. Some tours also include visiting nearby Mount Hood and the wine- and apple-producing town of Hood River.

Is the Columbia River Gorge worth seeing?

Yes, the Columbia River Gorge is worth seeing. This scenic region is considered among the most beautiful spots in the Pacific Northwest, and there are lots of picture-perfect viewpoints and waterfalls, especially on the Oregon side of the river. It’s also an excellent place for hiking, with a mix of beginner-friendly and more advanced trails.

How long does it take to explore the Columbia River Gorge?

You can explore the Columbia River Gorge’s key attractions, including Multnomah Falls and the historic Vista House, in just a couple of hours, making it possible to visit the area on a half-day tour from Portland. However, you may prefer a few extra hours for a hike and a picnic.

Do you need a pass to go to the Columbia River Gorge?

No, you don't need a pass to go to the Columbia River Gorge; tickets are required for Multnomah Falls between Memorial Day and Labor Day Weekends. Entry permits used to be required to visit a stretch of road known as the Waterfall Corridor, but the practice was ended in 2023.

Are there restrooms at the Columbia River Gorge?

Yes, there are restrooms at the Columbia River Gorge—the Vista House was designed as a rest area. You'll find additional restrooms at Multnomah Falls and many day-use sites throughout the region, most of which have flush or vault toilets.

What is the best time of year to visit the Columbia River Gorge?

Spring is the best time of year to visit the gorge if you're coming to see waterfalls, as waters tend to be at their highest due to runoff from area mountains, leading to mighty flows. September is better for hiking, when there’s generally warm weather and fewer crowds than in summer.

Ways to explore

The Columbia River Gorge is a popular destination for hikers and kayakers. Tours often focus on Waterford Alley (a string of picturesque falls on the western side of the Gorge), Hood River (a town where the streets are lined with farm-to-table restaurants and cool boutiques, surrounded by U-Pick farms), and wine-tasting tours of the region. If you’re visiting by yourself, the area makes for an excellent day trip from Portland, or as a peaceful weekend getaway.

Accessibility

Accessibility depends on which part of the Gorge you’re visiting—Snoqualmie and Multnomah Falls both have wheelchair accessible viewing platforms, but other activities may be more challenging.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water, snacks, sunscreen, cash, credit card, rain jacket

What to wear

Casual clothes suitable for hiking, good hiking shoes

Not allowed

Littering, feeding wildlife, starting fires outside of designated zones and times

Amenities

Parking, bathrooms, cafés, shops

Address 

The Columbia River Gorge spans the area between where the Sandy River and the Deschutes River meet the Columbia River, with the I-84 running along the river. Public transit serves the region, and plenty of tours depart from Portland, with included transport if you don’t have your own vehicle.

Driving

From Portland, you can access the Columbia River Gorge along the I-84—most of the waterfalls and trailheads will have parking attached.

Public transportation

The Columbia Gorge Express Shuttle is the easiest option for exploring the region, with stops at Multnomah Falls and Hood River, where you can connect to other transit options.

Best times to visit

It’s easy to spend a whole day in the area, so get an early start to enjoy quieter hiking trails.

Best days to visit

Weekdays will always be quieter; due to its proximity to Portland, plenty of locals spend their weekends in the Gorge.

Best months to visit

Visit from April to May for blooming flowers and mild weather, or October to September for changing leaves and peaceful trails.

Special events

On Saturdays from mid-June to mid-October, stock up on fresh produce at the Stevenson Farmers’ Market. Get into the spooky season at the end of October with Halloween street parties in Hood River, Stevenson, and Dalles, or get some holiday shopping done at early December winter markets in Hood River and Bingen.