National Treasures

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Stretching across a dramatic landscape shaped by wind and water, the Columbia River Gorge is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most breathtaking natural wonders — and the largest National Scenic Area in the U.S. It's a place where awe-inspiring beauty meets endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.
 

From east to west, the Columbia River Gorge offers an unforgettable blend of scenic wonder and historic intrigue. At Cascade Locks, the Bridge of the Gods—a toll bridge spanning Oregon and Washington—is steeped in Native legend, said to be the site of a great stone bridge gifted by the spirits and once known as “The Great Cross Over.” Just downstream, the Bonneville Dam and Bradford Island Visitor Center invites travelers to learn about hydropower, explore interactive exhibits, and watch salmon surge upstream through the fish ladder—located near the very island where Lewis and Clark camped on April 9, 1806. Driving west along the winding Historic Columbia River Highway 30, visitors pass some of the Gorge’s most iconic landmarks: Multnomah Falls, the second-highest waterfall in the U.S. at 620 feet; Latourell and Bridal Veil Falls; and the scenic Vista House perched above the river. Near Troutdale, Rooster Rock State Park marks the spot where Clark wrote, “we encamped under a high projecting rock.” And in Portland, the Gorge journey concludes at the Oregon Historical Society Museum, home to sweeping exhibits that celebrate the state’s past in grand style.

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The Enduring Landscape of the Lower Columbia River

Even after two centuries of natural shifts and human impact, the lower Columbia River remains instantly recognizable. Landmarks like Cape Disappointment’s headlands and the basalt formations of Beacon Rock, Rooster Rock, and Crown Point still stand tall—just as the early explorers saw them. Major island formations, including the “Seal Islands” in the Lewis & Clark National Wildlife Refuge, are also still visible today.

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Expedition Timeline: Down the Columbia River to the Pacific Ocean

📍October 16, 1805 – Pasco, Washington (Sacagawea State Park)
The Corps reached the confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers. A canoe struck a rock in the rapids. Indigenous communities welcomed them with dancing and trade.

📍October 19, 1805 – Umatilla, Oregon (near Hat Rock State Park)
The Corps traded with local tribes, and Cruzatte played his fiddle, which delighted their hosts. A chief received a peace medal.

📍October 21, 1805 – Near John Day Dam, WA
The Corps bought food and firewood; beer was made from local roots.

📍October 25, 1805 – The Dalles, Oregon (Fort Rock Camp)
The Corps passed dangerous rapids, entering calmer waters near The Dalles, an ancient Indigenous trading hub.

November 3, 1805 – Diamond Island (near Camas, WA)
Whitehouse journaled about Indian signs that the ocean was only "two sleeps" away. The Columbia widened with many large islands.

📍November 7, 1805 – Near Pillar Rock, WA
“Great joy in camp… we are in view of the ocian!”
Though they were seeing the estuary, the Corps believed they had reached the Pacific Ocean.

📍November 15, 1805 – Haley’s Bay, WA
Lewis reached the true Pacific shoreline. Clark noted 11 days of constant rain as they camped near the coast.

📍November 23, 1805 – Near Fort Columbia State Park, WA
A historic vote was held: every member, including Sacagawea and York, voted to cross to the Oregon side for winter. Elk were plentiful there, and a site to make salt could be established along the seacoast.

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Top Recreation Opportunities in the Columbia River Gorge

• 🌲 Hiking & Nature Walks: Explore popular trails like Angel's Rest, or take in the seasonal wildflowers at Rowena Crest.

• 🚴‍♀️ Biking: Ride scenic roads near The Dalles or hit the trails in the Post Canyon mountain bike network.

• 🌊 Water Sports: Try windsurfing, kiteboarding, or paddleboarding — Hood River is world-renowned for its perfect wind conditions.

• 🥾 Waterfall Adventures: Discover hidden falls and iconic viewpoints along the Historic Columbia River Highway.

• 🚶‍♂️ Strolling the Waterfront: Enjoy a relaxing walk along the riverfront paths in charming Gorge towns.
   

With its mix of dramatic landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and thrilling activities, the Columbia River Gorge is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike.

Whether you're chasing adventure or simply soaking in the views, there's a little magic here for every kind of explorer.