Oregon, USA
Geological forces and massive floods shaped the Gorge. Millions of years ago, volcanic activity created the layers of basalt rock visible in the canyon walls. Later, during the last Ice Age, the catastrophic Missoula Floods scoured the landscape, carving the gorge to its present depth and revealing the numerous waterfalls that cascade down its steep cliffs. This powerful geological history created a landscape of immense beauty and dramatic contrasts.
The Gorge includes several communities, each with a distinct feel.
Troutdale marks the western entrance. Cascade Locks borders the historic Bridge of the Gods. Hood River, often called the "Wind Sport Capital of the World," bustles with outdoor enthusiasts. Further east, The Dalles presents a view into pioneer history and a drier landscape. These towns serve as bases for exploring the wider Gorge area.
The Columbia River Gorge is a deep and complex history, shaped by millennia of natural processes and human endeavors. Before European arrival, Native American tribes thrived here for over 10,000 years. The Columbia River, especially at Celilo Falls near The Dalles, acted as a lifeblood, serving as a powerful fishing ground and a central trade hub for tribes across the Pacific Northwest. The falls, a series of cascades and rapids, represented a spiritual and economic nexus, supporting a vast network of intertribal trade and cultural exchange. Though Celilo Falls are now submerged by The Dalles Dam, their historical and spiritual resonance remains a profound aspect of the Gorge's heritage.
In 1805, the Lewis and Clark Expedition navigated the Columbia River through the Gorge, marking a significant moment in American exploration. Their journals describe the dramatic landscape and the various Native American communities they encountered, offering some of the earliest written accounts of the area. Following their path, pioneers later traversed the Gorge, notably as a challenging segment of the Oregon Trail. Many avoided the treacherous river section by taking the Barlow Road, a toll road that skirted the base of Mount Hood, before rejoining the Columbia.
Native American tribes establish communities and trade routes along the Columbia River.
Lewis and Clark Expedition navigates the Columbia River Gorge.
Pioneers traverse the Gorge as an important part of the Oregon Trail.
Construction of the Historic Columbia River Highway, an engineering marvel.
U.S. Congress designates the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
Throughout the 20th century, hydroelectric dams transformed the Columbia River, bringing power and irrigation but also submerging ancient fishing sites like Celilo Falls. The Gorge also gained recognition for its recreational appeal, specifically for wind sports in Hood River, which grew into a global destination for windsurfing and kiteboarding due to the consistent, strong winds funneled through the canyon.
The early 20th century saw the construction of the Historic Columbia River Highway, an engineering marvel completed between 1913 and 1922. This scenic highway, with its ornate stone viaducts, bridges, and tunnels, was among the first planned scenic highways in the United States. It opened the Gorge's wonders to automobile tourism, allowing visitors to readily access its many waterfalls and viewpoints, including the iconic Vista House at Crown Point. Its design prioritized aesthetic beauty and harmony with the natural landscape, a pioneering concept for its time.
Hood River's consistent and strong winds, funneled through the canyon, made it a prime location for wind sports. The town developed into a world-class destination for windsurfing and kiteboarding. This recreational growth further cemented the Gorge's status as an outdoor adventure hub, drawing enthusiasts from across the globe.
Recognizing its unparalleled natural, cultural, and recreational values, the U.S. Congress designated the area the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area in 1986. This designation protects its unique resources while encouraging local economic development.
The Columbia River Gorge presents a travel experience with striking contrasts and abundant opportunities. Over 90 waterfalls, from the accessible Multnomah Falls to hidden gems requiring a hike, decorate the landscape. The western Gorge features lush, temperate rainforests, while the eastern Gorge transforms into a drier, high-desert landscape. This climate shift means you experience different outdoor activities and scenery within an hour's drive.
Wind sports thrive in Hood River, making it a hub for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts from around the world. Miles of hiking and biking trails cross the Gorge, suiting various skill levels, from paved, accessible paths to strenuous climbs with panoramic views. The region’s agricultural heritage shines through its fruit orchards and a growing number of wineries, breweries, and cideries, offering local flavors. Historical sites and interpretive centers provide context to the Gorge's natural and human stories, including its Native American past and pioneer history.
Discover numerous cascading waterfalls, from roadside views to hiking destinations.
Hood River draws windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts globally with its consistent winds.
Experience lush temperate rainforests in the west and dry high-desert in the east.
The area caters to different travel styles, from budget-friendly camping and outdoor adventures to more luxurious stays with fine dining. Prepare for changeable weather, especially in spring and fall, by packing layers. A rental car provides the most flexibility for exploration, though seasonal shuttles offer access to popular western Gorge waterfalls.
