Hiking, windsurfing, kiteboarding, kayaking, SUP’ing, mountain biking, sailing, fishing, or just relaxing and enjoying breathtaking views with a tasty microbrew… No matter what you’re into, the Columbia River Gorge has it. Traveling east down I-84 from Portland, you will find yourself following the Columbia River amidst sweeping cliffs, countless waterfalls, and so much to stop and do at every turn. Drive up to the Vista House at Crown Point to get a birds eye view of the entire gorge. Since 1918, this regal sight has enthralled millions of travelers. From its surrounding vantage point 733 feet above the Columbia River, countless sightseers and photographers have enjoyed a step back in time and one of Oregon’s most inspiring views. Few places combine nature’s wonders and human architectural brilliance so majestically. Once called “Thor’s Heights,” Crown Point is a basalt promontory shaped by the same volcanic lava flows, floods and winds that created the Columbia River Gorge. Cited for its “exceptional value in illustrating the natural history of the U.S.,” it was designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1971. It is protected as a state park property known as the Crown Point State Scenic Corridor. Just down the road a few more miles, you will come to Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon. You can see the falls as you drive by, but we recommend stopping and really taking it in. No hiking is required to see the falls, though a short uphill hike will get you to Benson Footbridge, approximately 105 ft above the lower falls. The Multnomah Falls Lodge is a great place to enjoy a fine lunch and refuel before carrying on in your journey east. Just under 15 miles from the falls, you will come to the small town of Cascade Locks. This is a great place for RV camping and tent camping alike. This lovely little town has a tucked away KOA Campground with a pool, hot tub, wi-fi, bike rentals, pavillion, and more. There is also RV and tent camping available at the Marine Park Campground. This small campground is right on the Columbia River and offers the most amazing views. It should be noted that the clearance down into this park is 12ft. There are 15 sites, 10 with full hook ups, restrooms/showers, dump station, wi-fi, and even a book exchange. This park has a fantastic play area for kids that’s nearby (but not so close that it is noisy), and you’ll definitely want to buy some fresh caught fish from the local fisherman. Walk across the foot bridge to explore Thunder Island, take a little time to visit the local historical museum, and have a bite to eat at the Locks Waterfront Cafe, or the Cascade Locks Ale House. For more to do and see, you can head just another 20 miles east to Hood River, the mecca for windsurfing and kiteboarding in the United States, and the town known for having the most breweries per capita… Full Sail, Double Mountain, Pfriem, and Everybody’s Brewing just to name a few. So if you’re looking for an easy, breezy, weekend getaway with some good food, good beer, and good times, The Columbia River Gorge is where it’s at. See you on the river!
photo credit:portofcascadelocks.org
