SIGHTSEEING IN THE GORGE
This is probably the toughest subject for a website about The Columbias Gorge. The sights to see are everywhere, all around us, all the time. What earns a spot on the page and what doesn't? Locals happily get in the car and drive to Portland with the smallest purpose; the drive is national-park-breathtaking.
If your time is limited and you want to be sure you don't miss a single "must" we recommend booking with one of the area's tour guides: |
If you're eager to head out on your own, we've listed some
of our favorite spots. You're sure to have your own before the day is out.
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Sandy River – exit 18 On I-84, just east of Troutdale becomes a very pretty drive along the river
Rooster Rock – originally named Cock Rock by less “PC” visitors - for obvious reasons. At exit 25 on I-84
Beacon Rock – the second largest single rock on the planet. The Rock of Gibraltar is larger. At milepost 35 on Highway 14.
Women’s Forum – wide range viewpoint along the Columbia. At the west end of the Historic Columbia River Highway.
Crown Point – Art deco building and great views. Accessible from exits 17 and 22 on I-84.
Wahkeena Falls
Horsetail Falls
Oneonta Gorge
and
Multnomah Falls , which is also accessible from exit 36 on I-84.
Rock Slide at Dodson – near milepost 35 on I-84. The home inundated by the landslide of 1996 is still there filled with earth and rocks.
Bonneville Dam abd Fish Hatchery - at exit 40 on I-84.
Swell City – One of the hottest windsurfing spots on the Columbia. Best viewed from the grounds of the Columbia Gorge Hotel at exit 62 on I-84.
The Spit – A popular windsurfing launch point and family beach on the Columbia River just below Hood River. Accessible by foot fron exit 64 and by vehicle from exit 63 on I-84.
Highway 35 Scenic Byway – The road to “THE MOUNTAIN” begins at exit 65 on I-84. Awesome views of Mt. Hood and the orchards of Hood River Valley.
Mt. Hood – The tallest peak in Oregon is visible from Hood River, The Dalles and most points east, and many higher elevations in southern Washington. Glaciers allow year-round skiing.
Panorama Point – Accessed from Highway 35 (the first left after leaving I-84) and well-signed. Expansive view of the Hood River Valley and Mt. Hood.
Lost Lake – Exquisite pristine lake reflecting Mt. Hood, about 20 miles southwest of Hood River. No motors are allowed on the lake Great picnic spot.
Rowena Overlook – accessible from exits 69 and 76 on I-84. In the middle of the Tom McCall Wildflower Reserve and beautiful all year long. Great views up and down the Columbia.
Schreiner Farms – This private farm allows visitors to drive in and get glimpses of the exotic animals they raise and protect.
Deschutes River - accessed from exit 97 on I-84. Good camping, fishing and river rafting.
Eagle Watching - A large number of bald eagles winter in The Gorge. While it is possible to sight a bald eagle almost anywhere along the river, park rangers recommend the Robins Island and North Shore recreation areas at Bonneville Dam and Seufert Park at The Dalles Dam during the colder winter months. |
