Come Work and Play Welcome to the Columbia River Gorge! The Columbia River Gorge begins just east of Portland, Oregon and encompasses both Washington and Oregon states. About the Gorge & Recreation The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area stretches approximately 80 miles long and up to 4,000 feet deep encompassing both Northern Oregon and Southern Washington States. The Columbia River Gorge is truly a year-round playground. Whether you enjoy the outdoor activities, the arts & museums, attractions, a relaxing spa treatment, wine tasting, great dining & shopping or there is something for everyone! Known for it’s recreation, the Gorge is a mecca for waterfall & wildflower viewing, hiking, biking, golf, fishing, whitewater rafting & kayaking, windsurfing & kiting, scenic sternwheeler cruises on the Columbia River or Alpine & Nordic skiing or Snowboarding on Mt. Hood. The National Scenic Area The National Scenic Area was created with two main purposes: To protect and enhance the scenic, natural, cultural and recreational resource of the Gorge; and to protect and support the economy of the Gorge.
The Gorge is a place of incredible beauty and diversity. It is the only sea-level passage through the Cascade Mountain Range and has a rich cultural history spanning over 10,000 years. The 620-foot cascading Multnomah Falls, off of I-84, is just one of about a dozen waterfalls that are accessible from the Scenic Columbia River Highway off of I-84. Whether you are looking for a hike, to find one of the 15 endemic wildflower species or explore the 40 million years of geologic history, this is the place to start your journey. The National Scenic Area Office & USDA Forest Service Information Center can provide maps, directions, interpretive information and sales items to help you in your endeavors. We have included some helpful materials. Click on any of the items listed below for a downloadable brochure, map or other great information about the Columbia Gorge.
Hiking Trails: Columbia Gorge Maps & Columbia River
Gorge National Scenic Area Info:
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