SIGHTSEEING IN THE GORGE
This is probably the toughest subject for a website about The Columbia River Gorge. The sights to see are everywhere, all around us, all the time. What earns a spot on the page and what doesn't? Locals happily get in the car and drive to Portland with the smallest purpose; the drive is national-park-breathtaking.
If your time is limited and you want to be sure you don't miss a single "must" we recommend booking with one of the area's tour guides: |
If you're eager to head out on your own, we've listed some
of our favorite spots. You're sure to have your own before the day is out.
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Sandy River – exit 18 On I-84, just east of Troutdale becomes a very pretty drive along the river
Rooster Rock – originally named Cock Rock by less “PC” visitors - for obvious reasons. At exit 25 on I-84
Beacon Rock – the second largest single rock on the planet. The Rock of Gibraltar is larger. At milepost 35 on Highway 14.
Women’s Forum – wide range viewpoint along the Columbia. At the west end of the Historic Columbia River Highway.
Crown Point – Art deco building and great views. Accessible from exits 17 and 22 on I-84.
Wahkeena Falls
Horsetail Falls
Oneonta Gorge
and
Multnomah Falls , which is also accessible from exit 36 on I-84.
Rock Slide at Dodson – near milepost 35 on I-84. The home inundated by the landslide of 1996 is still there filled with earth and rocks.
Bonneville Dam abd Fish Hatchery - at exit 40 on I-84.
Swell City – One of the hottest windsurfing spots on the Columbia. Best viewed from the grounds of the Columbia Gorge Hotel at exit 62 on I-84.
The Spit – A popular windsurfing launch point and family beach on the Columbia River just below Hood River. Accessible by foot fron exit 64 and by vehicle from exit 63 on I-84.
Highway 35 Scenic Byway – The road to “THE MOUNTAIN” begins at exit 65 on I-84. Awesome views of Mt. Hood and the orchards of Hood River Valley.
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