MileHacker Logo
Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Oregon, USA

Portland, Oregon

Approximately 30-60 minutes west of the western Gorge entrance (Troutdale).

Travel via I-84. The Columbia Gorge Express shuttle seasonally connects Portland to the Gorge. Limited public transit connections are also available.

Travel Options & Time

  • Organized Tours: Many companies run day tours from Portland to the Waterfall Corridor of the Gorge. These work well without a rental car or when preferring a guided experience.
  • Independent Travel: Greater flexibility to discover Portland's varied neighborhoods, famed food scene (food carts!), extensive gardens, and various museums.
  • Time Recommended: A full day for comprehensive exploration of Portland's main draws.
  • Book activities and tours: Find Portland Tours

Exploring Natural Escapes

Venture beyond the immediate Gorge corridor to discover more of Oregon and Washington's natural beauty.

Gifford Pinchot National Forest

This expansive forest lies north of the Gorge. It presents more rugged and less-trafficked hiking, camping, and climbing opportunities.

Highlights

  • Explore areas like Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument or the Indian Heaven Wilderness.
  • Discover volcanic landscapes, old-growth forests, and high mountain lakes.
  • A car is necessary to reach various points within the forest. A full day or even a multi-day trip for exploration.

Deschutes River State Recreation Area

Located at the confluence of the Deschutes and Columbia Rivers. This area is popular for fishing, whitewater rafting, and hiking along the old railroad grade.

Landscape & Access

  • Experience a dry, high desert canyon landscape. This contrasts sharply with the lush, western Gorge.
  • A car is necessary.
  • A half to full day.

Lost Lake Resort & Campground

Activities

  • An iconic lake with stunning views of Mount Hood.
  • Non-motorized boating, paddleboarding, fishing.
  • Hiking trails around the lake.
  • Access via a scenic, sometimes rough, forest road. A day-use fee or Northwest Forest Pass applies.

Essentials

  • Offers non-motorized boating, paddleboarding, and fishing.
  • Hiking trails around the lake for scenic beauty.
  • Access necessitates a car, often via a scenic but rough road.
  • A day-use fee or Northwest Forest Pass may be necessary.

Regional Climate & Features

  • Western Gorge Climate:Temperate Rainforest
  • Eastern Gorge Climate:Dry, High Desert
  • Annual Rainfall (West):Significant
  • Annual Rainfall (East):Limited
  • Dominant Flora (West):Lush Evergreen
  • Dominant Flora (East):Grasses & Shrubs
  • Wind Sports Hotspot:Hood River
  • Major Rivers:Columbia, Deschutes

Preparation Alert

Always check current conditions and any necessary permits before heading out on trails or to natural areas.

Cultural Excursions

Expand your cultural perception by visiting historical locations and agricultural regions beyond the immediate Gorge towns.

Maryhill Museum of Art

A unique art museum set in a remote location, featuring diverse collections including Rodin sculptures and Native American artifacts.

Stonehenge Memorial

A full-scale replica of Stonehenge, built as a memorial to World War I soldiers, offering commanding views of the Columbia River.

Columbia River Wine Region

The Hood River Valley Fruit Loop features numerous wineries and cideries. The drier eastern Gorge boasts more extensive vineyards.

Maryhill & Stonehenge

These sites are east of the main Gorge attractions, near Goldendale, WA. A car is necessary for this excursion.

Visit Essentials

  • A car for transport to these sites.
  • Allocate a half day for both the museum and memorial.
  • Refer to sections 8.1 and 8.3 for further details.

Columbia River Wine Region

The Hood River Valley Fruit Loop presents many wineries and cideries. The drier eastern Gorge has more extensive vineyards.

Exploration Options

  • Self-drive or join organized guided wine tours.
  • A half to full day for wine tasting and agricultural landscape discovery.
  • Support local vineyards and producers.

Regional Facts

Main Language:English
Local Currency:US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone:Pacific Time (PT)
State Sales Tax:None (Oregon)
Average Summer Temp:70-80°F (21-27°C)
Average Winter Temp:30-40°F (-1-4°C)

Experience the Local Culture

  • Visit local museums and art galleries.
  • Attend community events or festivals.
  • Support local artisans and craftspeople.
  • Explore regional culinary traditions.
  • Learn about the area's pioneer and Native American history.

Multi-Day Extensions

For those with more time, combine your Columbia River Gorge visit with multi-day extensions to explore more of the Pacific Northwest.

Oregon Coast Adventure

Add 2-3 days to explore Oregon's rugged coastline. Discover charming towns like Cannon Beach or Astoria.

Coastal Highlights

  • Visit stunning natural features like Tillamook Head and Cape Kiwanda.
  • Driving takes approximately 1.5-2 hours from Portland to coastal areas.
  • After the Gorge, spend a night or two in Portland, then drive west to the coast.

Bend, Oregon & High Desert

Add 2-3 days for high desert adventures, a contrast to the Gorge's climate.

Desert Exploration

  • Head south from The Dalles or Hood River, typically via US-97 or US-26.
  • Driving takes approximately 2-3 hours from The Dalles.
  • Explore high desert landscapes, outdoor sports, and craft breweries.

Seattle City Break

Add 2-3 days to visit this major Pacific Northwest city, a hub of culture and innovation.

Emerald City Connections

  • Head north from Portland or the Washington side of the Gorge via I-5.
  • Driving takes approximately 3-4 hours from Portland.
  • Amtrak train and bus services also connect Portland to Seattle.

Extended PNW Journey

For an in-depth experience, combine the Gorge with major regional highlights.

Broader Exploration

  • Consider a 2-week itinerary for diverse experiences.
  • Mix lush forests, coastal vistas, high deserts, and cities.
  • Plan stops in Portland, the Oregon Coast, Bend, and Seattle.

Travel Planning Tips

Seasonal Timing

Summer offers warm weather, while fall boasts foliage across regions.

Accommodation

Book lodging in advance, especially during peak seasons in popular areas.

Transportation

A rental car typically grants the most flexibility for multi-region travel.

Seamless Regional Travel

Expanding your trip to nearby regions presents more of the Pacific Northwest's diverse landscapes and urban attractions.
← Previous
Activities & Experiences
← Back to Columbia River Gorge
Next →
Practical Information

Next Up: Practical Information

Continue to Practical Information