Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area - Oregon

Tel: (541) 308-1700

The Columbia River Gorge is a spectacular river canyon, carved thousands of years ago by glacial floods. At 80 miles long and up to 4,000 feet deep, the Columbia River Gorge cuts the only sea level route through the Cascade Mountain Range, and acts as a funnel for North America's fourth largest river, whose tributaries include the mighty Snake River.

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is neither a wilderness nor a park, but does include endless natural beauty blended with urban areas. The most popular attractions are the waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls, the second highest year-round waterfall in the United States.

The list of outdoor activities at the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is endless, and includes hiking, climbing and water sports. Camping in the area is an ideal way to appreciate the splendor of the Columbia River Gorge, or choose from inns, heritage buildings and hotels that offer accommodation. The best way to enjoy this spectacular area is by car; this enables you to cover it all and decide which of the many spectacular features deserves more attention.

Access to the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is easy. The Columbia River Highway/I-84 intersects with I-5 in Portland and follows the river's edge to Umatilla, at the east end of the Columbia River Gorge. Highway 14, on the Washington side offers a scenic view but with less access to roadside attractions.