Trip Report: Columbia River Gorge 💦🌲🍒
Discover the stunning beauty of the Columbia River Gorge, from breathtaking waterfalls and charming towns to historic trails and serene farm stays.
Hello friends, fellow travelers, and New Year's resolutionists!
Where do you find motivation for your New Year's goals, especially now, in the middle of winter, when our democracy is crumbling and we are surviving in a world of climate disaster?
I am inspired by the great outdoors—the incredible beauty of Oregon and the breathtaking views right outside my window. Whether it’s my backyard, nearby nature, or a short journey along the river, exploring nature always lifts me.
Do you want to join me on a trip along the Columbia River Gorge? Let’s start at the Vista House.
Lace up your hiking boots, bring a rain slicker, and let’s go!
The Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge, a spectacular canyon stretching over 80 miles, begins near the confluence of the Deschutes River in Oregon and continues to the town of Washougal in Washington and creates the natural border between Oregon and Washington.
It was carved by the cataclysmic Missoula Floods at the end of the last Ice Age, around 12,000 to 15,000 years ago. These massive glacial outburst floods sculpted the landscape, moving gigantic boulders and creating rugged cliffs, vibrant forests, and cascading waterfalls.
When I stop and think about how powerful this natural event must have been, I am awed.
Indigenous peoples were here long before we arrived. For thousands of years, they called this place home, relying on the river for sustenance and transportation. The Chinook, Klickitat, and other Native American tribes have deep-rooted connections to this land, with the Columbia River sustaining and serving them.
Lewis and Clark traversed the gorge during their expedition, marking it as an important event in America’s westward expansion.
Walking along the river and viewing this magnificent landscape, I pause and reflect on the history that has shaped it—the power of nature, the Indigenous peoples who lived off the land, and the unfortunate history of taking it from them.
When I stop and think about how wrong that was, I am sorry.
Today, the Columbia River Gorge is protected as a National Scenic Area.
When I stop and think about how lucky I am to experience it today, I am grateful.
Waterfalls Along the Gorge
Our trip through the Columbia River Gorge begins with the iconic waterfalls.
The construction of the Historic Columbia River Highway, bridges, tunnels, and other infrastructure in the gorge was a monumental task. Beginning in the early 1910s, workers used picks, shovels, and primitive tools to carve out the road through the rugged terrain. Convict laborers and local farmers joined the effort, working alongside skilled Italian stone masons who built retaining walls and other features along the highway. Despite the challenging conditions, their hard work and dedication created the scenic route we enjoy today.
Here are my top ten favorites.
Multnomah Falls: The tallest waterfall in the Gorge, dropping 620 feet.
Latourell Falls: A two-tiered waterfall with a 249-foot drop.
Wahkeena Falls: A beautiful waterfall with multiple cascades.
Ponytail Falls: A hidden gem where you can walk behind the cascading water.
Shepperd’s Dell: A serene waterfall often missed by those driving by.
Eagle Creek Falls: A stunning waterfall accessible via the Eagle Creek Trail.
Horsetail Falls: A waterfall that cascades over a basalt cliff.
Coopey Falls: A lesser-known waterfall with a picturesque setting.
Tanner Creek Falls: A waterfall with a dramatic drop.
Oneonta Falls: A waterfall that requires a bit of a hike.
Hood River and the Hood River Valley
I’m hungry after hiking through the waterfall magic, so let’s make our way to Hood River, a town known for windsurfing, kiteboarding, restaurants, pubs, shops, galleries, and bookstores.
I’ve always wanted to take the train from Hood River to Mt. Hood! The Mount Hood Railroad, a century-old short line, features round-trip train rides, railbike adventures, and seasonal special events with views of orchards, vineyards, forests, and the snow-capped Mount Hood, capturing the nostalgia of classic American train travel.
Another great hike or bike ride is the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail between Hood River and Mosier. This trail follows the path of the famous Highway 30 restored for hiking and biking.
Mosier and Cherry Hill Farm
Let’s spend a few nights at Cherry Hill Farm just outside of Mosier. Cooking in the old farm kitchen, with its rustic charm and vintage appliances, felt like stepping back in time. We spent our days wandering through the lush orchards. One highlight was feeding the friendly sheep juicy carrots, which they eagerly munched on. We also met a charming black barn cat who loved posing for photos and even led us on a delightful hike through the scenic countryside.
The Black Rabbit at Edgefield
If time allows, I love to stop at McMenamins Edgefield to explore the art, history, and beauty of the venue. A meal at the Black Rabbit is a must, with its cozy atmosphere and delicious Northwest cuisine.
Thank you for joining me on a journey through the Columbia River Gorge, refueling my purpose for my 2025 resolutions.