columbia river highway

zanzibar138

We loved driving the Columbia River Highway. We really enjoyed stopping off in Troutdale and at the various waterfalls along the way through to The Dalles. Everything was free and easily accessible, as well as spectacular. Couldn't ask for much more!

mnlakesgirl

we spent part of a day driving from Troutdale to Multnomah Falls. Lots of places to stop and check out the scenery. We walked in to see Bridal Veil falls, not recommended for those who don't do much walking as it was a rocky path and not paved all the way. Windy road so a slower drive but it was worth it!!

JoelZ195

Any good guide book will give you the recommended vistas, waterfalls, lodges, and fish hatcheries and dams on this route--one of america's great highways. All good fun, and easy for those who eschew walking. But do yourself a favor and build in a couple of 1-2 hour hikes on your weekend outing. There are lots of great trails on both sides of the river, and around the Cascade Locks and both the natural and man-made "Bridge of the Gods" you have several choices. For the one I did last weekend, here are the directions: 100 meters from the south entrance to the bridge, the Pacific Crest Trail starts one of its legs, and its a great two hour hike for those in moderately good condition. The little waterfall at the end is well worth the hike. But there are easier and shorter, as well as more more challenging multi-day outings that you can take part in.

ArjayW

Absolutely stunning view of the Columbia Gorge, and if you are lucky enough to pick the right day (of which there are many) hurricane force winds ready to carry you down to the river. The interior museum is a great place to catch a small glimpse of Gorge history and is Accessible for all (a ground floor elevator for those who require it).For any who haven't seen the Columbia Gorge (a protected Scenic Area), it is unique in my experience, carved by ice age floods (in particular the Missoula Floods), through which flows the 3rd largest river in the USA.Get there on the Historic Columbia River Highway, either from the Multnomah Falls end (east) or from Troutdale (I84 Lewis and Clark Exit or through town and over Sandy River), follow the signs.

CatherineJ263

My daughter had made up itinerary for me while I was in Oregon. She listed a number of places on this History Highway, but all I needed was to get on the highway for the incredibly beautiful waterfalls, river views, Chanticleer Point, Vista House, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic area (which there were so many, not sure where this started and stopped). Even if you are not looking for "photo opportunities", this journey is stunning from beginning to end. So hard to describe it all. A winding road taking through a wonderland. Definitely a must. Truly a life changing experience. I'm sure that this area has a high volume of tourist during the late Spring and Summer. I however, decided on the fall to avoid such a situation. Didn't get as much sunshine as I probably would have if I had gone during the "prime season" but I brought back 600 glorious pictures anyway. Did I mention the Fall leaves??

conniek767

We live close by and enjoy the drive through the woods and view of the gorge. The old historic highway is narrow and winding, it is also frequently used by bicyclists. I would caution visitors to slow down, drive carefully and enjoy.

Romeaux

If you do this, the best way is to take an entire day, and use the Historic Columbia River Highway. The HCRH is off the freeway, and you get a much better sense of the beauty of the place. Get off the freeway at Corbett Hill Rd, go up to the top and turn left. Don't get back on the freeway (I84) until you are past Ainsworth State Park. "Must" stops are Crown Point, Latourell Falls, Multnomah Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. There is ample parking at each, although it may be packed in the summer and on weekends. At Multnomah Falls, be sure to stop and have lunch at the Lodge. There are many other places along the road to stop and enjoy. Try not to miss Bonneville Dam, especially if you have kids; they will love the breeding ponds, and there is also a lot of history there.

匿名

I'm from Vancouver & I drive up this highway any chance I get. Not only is it fun to drive it's Beautiful!

mmoly

Gorgeous, old trees along the river. Curvy road but sufficient.Stop at the waterfalls along the way.

racingfan2014

For a day car trip you can't beat the scenic Columbia Gorge. It is one of the most beautiful places on earth. There are numerous water falls, gorgeous view points, particularly Vista House, and many interesting and historic sights to visit. There are a lot of trails all thru the Gorge, providing every thing from a short relaxing walk to an all day hike. One of my favorite stops, that's often overlooked by tourists, is the Bonneville Fish Hatchery. This is not your ordinary fish hatchery. It is beautifully landscaped, has original turn of the century buildings still in use, you can feed the fish, it has a nice gift shop,and it's a real treat to be there in the fall when the Salmon return. You can see them swim into the holding pens, and try to jump the walls into the hatchery where they were born.

TravelJohn092

This is a long stretch of I-84/I-30 that takes you along the banks of the Columbia River Gorge. You cant go wrong with taking this scenic trip as you will see Historic Houses, waterfalls, returaunts along the way. Enjoy!

MilyV_12

If you are visiting the Portland area and want to get out of the city this is a great day trip. Beautiful scenery, waterfalls and hiking trails. Stop by the hydroelectric plant and check out the salmon swimming upriver through the locks.

Ticolover

If you have never gone up the old, scenic Columbia River Highway, you are missing a true "free" treasure experience. Try to plan your trip to avoid crowded weekends or holidays as the road is fairly narrow and sometimes the parking at various falls can be limited. It's also a great place to hike.Don't forget your camera. You can pack a lunch or there are a couple places where you can get food. To get a good idea of the sights, merely google the Columbia Gorge. It's fabulous nearly any time of year - even when the falls are freezing - a winter wonderland.I used to work for the Lloyd's of London agent in Portland and whenever Japanese clients would visit, the Columbia Gorge was a place they always wanted to see. There are many places to stop and get out to stretch your legs & enjoy the various falls, so don't try to rush the trip.

casskrish

There is nothing like it. The mighty Columbia Gorge ! Go up I-84 to Hood River or The Dalles. See the Vista House at Crown Point. Pack a picnic, go to Multnomah Falls or many of the other Falls on the Old Highway. Go to Cascade Locks and eat, see the huge sturgeon at the hatchery. Bonneville Dam is great too !

nJOYing_Lif

Troutdale is the quaint and darling town we started our Columbia River Gorge sightseeing day down the Columbia River Highway on. The town is worth a stop to walk the main street up one side and down the other. The have adopt-a-pots, everywhere with beautiful florals sponsored by local businesses. Check out the Rail Heritage museum then be on your way down the highway for a multitude of sights and stops. We went as far as Hood River and thoroughly enjoyed the day.