Columbia River Gorge Oregon, USA Travel Guide
Visa requirements vary based on your nationality and the length of your intended stay in the United States. Many travelers may qualify for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), while others will need to apply for a non-immigrant visa.
For VWP-eligible citizens from 41 countries, entry to the U.S. for tourism or business up to 90 days is possible without a traditional visa. An approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is necessary prior to travel. This online application typically costs $21.00 USD and remains valid for two years, or until your passport expires, whichever occurs first. Secure your ESTA well in advance of your journey.
Carry all required documentation with you for U.S. Entry.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. Have a printed or digital confirmation of your visa approval or ESTA authorization. Provide proof of your intent to leave the U.S., like a confirmed return flight ticket or a ticket for onward travel. Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses, like bank statements or credit card limits, is helpful. Passport-style photos are typically needed for visa applications. Upon arrival, prepare to present your passport and a customs declaration form to Customs and Border Protection officers. They will collect biometric data, including fingerprints and a photograph.
No general entry fees beyond visa/ESTA costs.
Upon arrival, present passport and customs form; biometric data is collected. Answer all questions clearly.
Currently, no universal health-related entry requirements are in place.
America the Beautiful Pass for federal sites.
Oregon State Parks have separate day-use fees ($5-$10/vehicle) or an annual pass.
Some overnight trails or wilderness areas may have permits available at trailheads or ranger stations.
Apply online for Visa Waiver Program eligibility.
Passport valid for six months beyond your stay. Some country exceptions apply.
Present a confirmed return or onward ticket.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD or $). Bills include $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. Coins are 1¢ (penny), 5¢ (nickel), 10¢ (dime), and 25¢ (quarter). Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are widely available in towns like Hood River, The Dalles, and Stevenson, and at Portland International Airport (PDX). Credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover, are accepted almost everywhere. It is advisable to notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to prevent any card freezes due to suspicious activity.
A budget traveler might spend $70-$120 USD/day, including hostel dorms or camping ($30-$60), self-cooked meals or fast food ($25-$40), and minimal transport ($5-$10) for trailhead fees or free activities. Mid-range travelers typically spend $150-$250 USD/day, with mid-range hotels ($80-$150), casual restaurants ($50-$80), and rental car fuel ($15-$30). Luxury travel often exceeds $300+ USD/day, featuring boutique hotels ($200+), fine dining ($100+), and premium transport ($40+).
15-20% for good service (pre-tax).
$1-$2 per drink, or 15-20% of the bill.
15-20% of the fare.
Bellhops $2-$5 per bag; Housekeeping $2-$5 per day.
15-20% of tour cost or $10-$20 per person per day.
Consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass if you anticipate visiting multiple national parks or federal recreation sites across the U.S. within a year. This pass can yield savings on entrance and day-use fees.
The Columbia River Gorge area maintains a generally safe environment with low crime rates, especially outside of Portland.
Dial 911 for police, fire, or ambulance services nationwide in the U.S. Hospitals are available in larger towns near the Gorge, like Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital or Mid-Columbia Medical Center in The Dalles. Urgent Care Clinics for non-life-threatening conditions are also in Hood River and The Dalles. Pharmacies are widely available in these towns, including major chains like CVS and Walgreens.
Dehydration during summer hikes necessitates carrying sufficient water. Sunburn and heatstroke are risks under high UV indexes; apply Sunscreen with SPF 30+, wear hats, and seek shade. Poison oak exists along trails; learn to identify it and wear long clothing in brushy areas. If contact Occurs, wash affected skin immediately with soap and water. Ticks are present in grassy/wooded areas; wear long pants, use Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, and perform tick checks. Hypothermia is possible if wet and exposed to wind; layer clothing and carry waterproof rain gear. Pack allergy medication if susceptible to seasonal pollen.
Tap water in the Columbia River Gorge and throughout Oregon is safe for drinking. Food hygiene standards are high in licensed establishments throughout the U.S. You can confidently trust the safety of food from restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores.
