Late winter – when the snow is coming and going, and the skies are covered in high clouds – one thing travelers can count on in Oregon is magnificent waterfalls. And the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area is one of the most gorgeous places I know of to take a leisurely drive – view, eat, hike, explore and savor as you go along. (Photo left courtesy of the Wasco County Historical Society/)
Or you could hang out on the couch with a good book, but for the sake of our vitality, let’s go Road Tripping.
There are 77 waterfalls on the Oregon side of the Columbia River, but we’re going to take a teeny slice of this area – just 15 miles along Highway 30. On this section of the Historic Columbia River Highway, off the busy and beaten path of I-84, you can see five stunning waterfalls as they cascade through the Gorge. We’ll be heading east out of Portland, starting at Crown Point Vista House and culminating our trip at the magnificent Multnomah Falls. Where you can also have lunch! (Photo left courtesy of the Wasco County Historical Society/)
In the mean time, you can see LaTrourell Falls, Shepard’s Dell, Bridal Veil Falls, Wahkeena Falls and then the Highest waterfall in Oregon, Multnomah Falls.
While you’re at it: for an incredible 5-mountain view take a 14-mile drive up to Larch Mountain, where you’ll see Mt. St. Helen’s, Mt. Rainier, Mt. Adams, Mt. Hood and Mt. Jefferson. Wow. Go on a clear day, for sure.
Wine Tasting
After a vigorous day of adventure, you might want to savor the experience with a glass or two from one of the regions 24 winemakers. If you’re landing in Hood River, you’ll find four tasting rooms in the historic downtown core, including Naked Winery – always compelling, Springhouse Cellar, Quenett Tasting Room and The Pines 1852 Tasting Room. Link here to the Columbia Gorge Winegrowers Association.
Events of Note
Spring is one of the most spectacular seasons in the Columbia River Gorge. You’ll want to mark your calendar for the following outdoor opportunities. (Photo left courtesy of the Hood River County Chamber)
The Hood River Valley Blossom Festival: April 16-17. Nothing is prettier in the spring than fruit trees in bloom, and the Hood River Valley Blossom Festival, now over 50 years old, celebrates the arrival of spring in style. The Festival’s main stars — the beautiful pink and white fruit tree blossoms — are best viewed from the comfort of your car. The Blossom Festival tour route is 47 miles long and averages about 1.25 hours. Most of the Hood River Fruit Loop member farms are located on the route and offer special blossom-time activities during this very special weekend. Website
Hiking: Also on March 12, you can start taking guided hike with the Friends of the Columbia Gorge. Let Friends guide you to special places in the Columbia Gorge. Each year Friends of the Columbia Gorge leads over 80 hikes open to the public, free, featuring classic Gorge trails, hidden gems and properties held in trust, not open for public use. Their hikes will educate you about Gorge ecology, history, geology, botany and more, all while being inspired in one our nation's natural treasures. Website
Wildflowers: The combination of rain, sun, rock and river bring out the wildflowers in raucous gatherings of color exploding on the landscape. One best places in Oregon for wildflower viewing include the Columbia River Gorge and the particularly the Tom McCall Nature Preserve. You can view some Oregon wildflowers from your couch by linking on our photo gallery here. (Photo left courtesy of Tom McCall Preserve)
Other Gorge Travel Resources
Destination: The Dalles
River County Chamber of Commerce
Columbia Gorge Discovery Center
America’s Byways
Biking the Historic Columbia River Highway
Where to Stay for Half Price
Buy $500 in lodging at Columbia Cliff Villas for only $250. Some restrictions apply. http://www.oregonlakesandrivers.com/content/columbia-cliff-villas-50
