Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy.
The Columbia River Gorge waterfalls are a must-see when visiting Portland, Oregon! Within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, cascading falls spill over sheer cliffs into swift streams that flow into the Columbia River. The lush forests are crisscrossed by trails and the region is ripe with epic landscape vistas.
Conveniently linked by a historic Oregon scenic highway, it is an easy and beautiful drive from Portland through the gorge to five incredible waterfalls.
How To Plan a Columbia River Gorge Scenic Drive
Driving the Columbia River Gorge is a top Portland activity. Fortunately, it is fairly easy to plan a Columbia River road trip on your own. If you are waterfall junkies like us, you will want all the details on the best Columbia Gorge waterfalls.
Before you start one of the best drives in Oregon, we are going to cover everything you need to know to plan a visit to Columbia River Gorge.
In addition to discussing the basics, we will answer frequently asked questions about the Columbia River Scenic Highway. Plus, we highlight what to see, things to do and what you will need for your Columbia Gorge drive.
To help you prepare, we also provide a Columbia River Gorge Itinerary with a timeline so that you can gauge what activities to include on your road trip.
Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls FAQs
Rather than just diving into what to do in Columbia River Gorge, we are going to start by answering a few of the most commonly asked questions.
How Many Waterfalls are in Columbia River Gorge?
There are dozens of waterfalls in Columbia River Gorge in Oregon – far too many to try to see in one day! In this guide, we are detailing the 5 most amazing waterfalls that are also incredibly easy to get to on a Columbia River Gorge driving tour.
Additionally, we offer tips on hidden waterfalls that can be reached by hiking trails from each of the top five Columbia River stops.
Where is the Columbia River Gorge?
Located directly east of Portland in the Cascade Range, the Columbia River Gorge runs for 80 miles. Beginning from the town of Troutdale, it stretches east along the Columbia River to the confluence with the Deschutes River.
The most scenic – and heavily visited – section of the gorge is the 30-mile stretch from Troutdale to Cascade Locks. This segment of the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area is often referred to as the Waterfall Corridor. We include a helpful map of the Columbia River Gorge at the end of this article.
How Far is Columbia Gorge from Portland?
The distance from downtown Portland to Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is approximately 15 miles. If you decide to base yourself in Vancouver, Washington instead – like we often do – the distance to Troutdale and the Columbia Gorge Scenic Area is about 19 miles.
How To Get to Columbia River Gorge from Portland?
The Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area is easily reached by highway. In fact, Interstate 84 runs right through the Columbia River Gorge. However, the most scenic route through the region is via the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway 30, which is the route we feature in this guide.
To get to Old Highway 30 from Portland (or Vancouver) make your way to I-84 East. Take the Troutdale exit (Exit 17) and follow the signs onto the Historic Columbia River Highway.
How Long is a Scenic Drive to Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls?
The time it takes to complete the round trip drive along this Oregon scenic route will depend on many factors. How many stops you make, how long you spend at each stop and how heavy the traffic is will impact your total drive time.
For the scenic drive in the Columbia River Gorge that we recommend – from Portland to Bridge of the Gods – the total drive time is about 1.5 hours. That does not include a single stop…and you are going to want to make stops to get the best views of the famed Oregon waterfalls!
We suggest allowing 3 hours for a quick trip with short stops. If you want to make it a full day trip with time for the best Columbia Gorge hikes and a picnic lunch, plan at least 6-8 hours.
What Car Should I Drive to Columbia River Gorge Falls?
The scenic drive (Portland through the Gorge) along the Historic Columbia River Highway is a mostly flat and easy-to-drive route. We had no problem maneuvering a compact car through the area on our Oregon waterfall road trip.
Just be aware, the scenic Columbia Gorge highway is narrow and curving. Also, the waterfalls along the route are cause for distraction, so it is important to pay attention to the road. We also recommend checking Columbia River Gorge road conditions before starting your journey.
If you need to rent a car for your trip to the falls in Columbia Gorge, be sure to read our tips for getting the Best Car Rental Rates.
Can I Go Hiking in Columbia River Gorge?
Yes, and we highly recommend it! There are plenty of opportunities for hiking in the Columbia River Gorge. In our road trip itinerary below, we feature some of the best Columbia River Gorge hikes.
Are There Hotels in the Columbia Gorge?
Yes, there are a few Columbia River Gorge hotels if you decide to spend longer than a day. We highlight where to stay in Columbia River Gorge area below.
What is Columbia River Gorge Weather Like?
The weather in Columbia River Gorge is seasonally similar to Portland. That said, it can get foggy or windy in the gorge. Before taking your trip, we recommend checking the weather and planning ahead for varying conditions.
What is the Best Time to Visit Columbia River Gorge?
Generally speaking, the best time to go to the Columbia River Gorge is early in the morning on a weekday. Your experience at the gorge will largely depend on the season.
Summer at Columbia River Falls
In the summertime, the weather for the Columbia River Gorge tends to be sunny and dry, which is perfect for hiking, biking and photography. However, summer is also when the narrow, two-lane road is most crowded and parking can be extremely limited.
Autumn in Columbia River Gorge
Autumn is a wonderful time of year for a scenic drive through the Columbia River Gorge. The temperatures are slightly cooler (which is great for hiking in Columbia Gorge) and the fall foliage is simply stunning.
Columbia River Waterfalls in Winter
The winter presents some issues – with rain and occasionally ice – but frozen waterfalls are a sight to behold! The biggest benefit of wintertime trips is that there are far fewer crowds.
Springtime Columbia River Gorge Scenic Drive
Springtime can be a great time to see the Columbia River Gorge! Wildflowers will be blooming and waterfalls boldly flowing. Heavy rain can also put a damper on your road trip and the Columbia River Gorge hiking trails can be a muddy mess.
Which is the Most Scenic Route: Oregon or Washington?
The Columbia River marks the border of Oregon and Washington, and both have scenic highways along the gorge. However, the Historic Columbia River Highway in Oregon features the most magnificent waterfalls.
For our Scenic Oregon Drive Itinerary, we actually recommend driving eastbound on the Oregon Historic Columbia River Highway to see the waterfalls. Then loop back to Portland by crossing the Bridge of the Gods into Washington and returning via Washington Route 14.
What’s the History of Columbia Gorge Scenic Highway?
Built between 1913 and 1922, the Historic Columbia River Highway (US Route 30) was the first road specifically built as a sightseeing route in the United States. The two-lane highway, constructed to accommodate the Ford Model T, connected The Dalles to Portland.
5 Must-See Waterfalls: Columbia River Gorge
There are an astounding number of Columbia River Gorge waterfalls – over 100 when counting waterfalls on both sides of the river. In fact, the area is one of the highest-density waterfall regions in the United States.
For the purposes of a day trip from Portland, we are detailing the 5 Best Waterfalls of the Columbia Gorge along Oregon Scenic Highway 30.
#1 Latourell Falls
One of the most impressive waterfalls along Columbia River Gorge, Latourell Falls streams in a single 224-foot drop from a columnar basalt rock cliff overhang. The waterfall itself is stunning, but the dark rock wall speckled with bright green lichen adds character to the scene.
How To See Latourell Falls
From the parking lot, visitors can take the path to the left of the informational sign up to a viewpoint. However, the better view is from the base of the falls, which is easy to get to via the path to the right of the informational plaque.
Latourell Falls Hiking Trail and the Upper Latourell Falls
In addition to the Lower Latourell Falls, there is a second waterfall, Upper Latourell Falls – which is a two-tiered waterfall nestled in a small canyon.
To get to the upper falls, visitors take the 2.4-mile Latourell Falls Loop Trail. The path ascends through forest and rocky terrain to Upper Latourell Falls. While rated as easy, the trail does have an elevation gain of 625 feet.
Latourell Falls Amenities
Access to Latourell Waterfall is fairly easy. There are small parking lots on both sides of the Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway. The Latourell Falls State Park – a short walk from the base of the falls along Latourell Creek – has a picnic area. There are vault toilets in the south parking lot.
#2 Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls is one of the waterfalls along the Columbia River Gorge that is situated deep in lush, green nature. The two-tiered waterfall tumbles down two perpendicular rock walls. The angle of the water flow makes the falls look like a bridal veil.
How To See Bridal Veil Falls
It takes a little effort to see Bridal Veil Falls – but, trust us, it’s worth it! To get to the falls, visitors take the path to the right of the informational sign.
The hike down to the falls is a descending 0.3-mile forest trail. After crossing a bridge, it’s a short walk to the viewpoint. Visitors can also scramble down to Bridal Veil Creek, but the best waterfall views are from the elevated viewing area.
Bridal Veil Falls Hiking Trail to Columbia River Gorge View
From the Bridal Veil parking lot, a second half-mile looping trail veers to the left toward the river. The easy, flat trail offers stunning views over the river gorge and features informational plaques about the area.
Bridal Veil Waterfall Amenities
The parking lot at Bridal Veil Falls is on the north side of the Historic Columbia River Hwy. While there are no picnic tables, there is a large, grassy lawn where visitors can spread out a blanket.
Across the highway is the historic Bridal Veil Lodge Bed and Breakfast – which dates to the year 1926. There are also flush toilets at the trailhead.
#3 Wahkeena Waterfall
Rather than the long plunging style (like other waterfalls in Columbia River Gorge), the beautiful Wahkeena Falls is a 242-foot-long cascading waterfall that weaves and tumbles its way down the mountainside.
How To See Wahkeena Falls
The base of Wahkeena Waterfall is visible from the road – but there is a better vantage point. To get to the Wahkeena Falls viewpoint, visitors need to cross the highway from the parking lot and embark on a short hike. The gently inclining 0.2-mile trek along the Wahkeena Falls Trail #420 leads up to where it crosses the most spectacular portion of the falls.
Wahkeena Waterfall Hiking Trails
There is a network of hiking trails that either start or intersect with the #420 Trail at Wahkeena Falls. Continuing past the waterfall viewpoint on Wahkeena Trail 420, a series of switchbacks leads to Lemmons Viewpoint – which provides a panoramic view of the Columbia River Gorge.
Visitors who are up for a longer and more strenuous Columbia River Gorge hike can continue on past Lemmons Viewpoint to Fairy Falls.
From Fairy Falls, trails break off and loop around the mountain – including a route to Multnomah Falls. The moderate Multnomah-Wahkeena Loop Hike is a total of 4.9 miles and has an elevation gain of 1600 feet.
Return Trail #442 is a separate path that runs parallel to the highway and is accessed at the base of Wahkeena on the east side. The half-mile trek is mostly flat and connects Wahkeena Falls to Multnomah.
Wahkeena Falls Amenities
Parking at Wahkeena Falls consists of a small, roadside lot and a much larger, nearly hidden parking area. The big parking lot is accessed on the west end of the roadside parking lot. In the lower lot, there are picnic tables and vault toilets.
#4 Multnomah Falls
Of all the waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, Multnomah is the most famous. In fact, the waterfall is so popular that it sees more than 2 million visitors a year.
So, even though it is a natural wonder, it can feel a little Disney-esque. During the peak summer season, tickets may be required for entry to Multnomah Falls. Be sure to check before your visit if advanced tickets are required.
Multnomah Waterfall is the tallest waterfall in Oregon, with a two-tier drop of 620 feet. The Benson Footbridge, which was built in 1925, crosses the falls at an elevation of 105 feet.
Although it can get very congested, the Multnomah Waterfall is a Columbia River Gorge must-see sight!
How To See Multnomah Falls
One of the great things about visiting Multnomah Falls is that the best vantage point is at the base of the falls. The paved entrance provides direct access to the large viewing deck. From the deck, a footpath winds through the forest to Benson Bridge for another amazing view.
Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfall Hikes
Beyond Benson Bridge, the hiking trail at Multnomah Falls – officially named Larch Mountain Trail #441 – continues for several miles. Around the first bend past the bridge, visitors are greeted to an incredible view across the gorge.
From there, eleven switchbacks take hikers up to a spur trail and observation deck at the top of Multnomah Falls. Continuing along Larch Mountain Trail #441 leads to more waterfalls – and, eventually, it intersects with Wahkeena Trail #420.
Multnomah Falls Parking
One of the downsides to visiting the most-popular natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest is that the parking is horrendous. Especially when you are taking a scenic Columbia River Gorge road trip on Historic Highway 30.
The parking lot on the north side of the historic byway is very small and often closed at peak times. Do not block the road to wait for a spot and cause even more congestion. When traveling eastbound, there are limited places to turn around past the Multnomah Falls parking lot. This can make it all very stressful.
Visitors have two alternate options to parking at Multnomah Falls. The first is to continue driving east on the historic highway for 4 miles to where you can access I-84 West. Take I-84 West to Exit 31 where there is a large parking lot for Multnomah Falls. The second – and we think better – option is to leave your car parked at Wahkeena Falls. Rather than drive, hike the half-mile Return Trail #442 to Multnomah Falls.
Multnomah Falls Amenities
There are numerous amenities at Multnomah Falls. These include the Multnomah Falls Lodge and Restaurant, a gift shop, snack bar, the Columbia River Gorge Visitor Center and proper bathrooms. However, there is not a picnic area – and with the crowds, we do not recommend trying to eat a picnic lunch here.
#5 Horsetail Falls
A plunging 176-foot-long waterfall, Horsetail Waterfalls in Columbia Gorge is a magnificent sight! The thundering falls cascade into a shallow aqua pool then flow into Horsetail Creek and eventually the Columbia River. The waterfall is named for the fact that the spouting water resembles the tail of a horse.
How To See Horsetail Falls
Located right on the highway, Horsetail Falls is the easiest waterfall to see. You don’t even need to get out of your car, although, we suggest that you do so that you can relax and enjoy it!
From the parking lot, carefully cross the street for a fantastic view. You can also walk down to the water’s edge for an even better viewpoint and feel the mist!
Horsetail Falls Hiking Trail to Ponytail Falls
A steep trail, Horsetail Falls Trail #438, climbs up the mountainside via a series of switchbacks to Upper Horsetail Falls – a.k.a. Ponytail Falls. From Ponytail Falls, the trail continues to a rocky bluff overlooking Oneonta Creek. While the trail is considered to be easy, be aware that there are steep cliffs and no barriers.
Just prior to reaching Ponytail Falls is an unmarked spur trail. The route, called Rock of Ages Trail, inclines steeply to a rock arch and an amazing viewpoint of Columbia Gorge.
Horsetail Falls Amenities
The parking lot at Horsetail Falls is on the north side of the street – across from the waterfall. Although it is small, people tend to come and go quickly so it wasn’t too difficult to find a spot. Timing is everything!
More Things To Do: Columbia River Gorge
If you are wondering what to do at Columbia River Gorge besides see waterfalls, we’ve got it covered! We are outlining the best things to do in the Columbia Gorge to help you plan your day.
Columbia River Gorge Hikes
After gawking at waterfalls, hiking is one of the best things to do in the Columbia Gorge! Highlights of hiking Columbia River Gorge are the phenomenal views and hidden waterfalls.
In the above section, we featured what we believe are the best hikes in Columbia River Gorge for day trippers. Avid hikers staying in the region longer can find detailed information about hikes in the Columbia River Gorge in this highly rated trail guide.
Bicycling the Gorge
Bicycling is a popular activity in the Columbia River Gorge. In fact, there are ample opportunities to engage in pedal power throughout the region. Before you set off, be certain to review all the details, rules and tips on road cycling.
Need a bike or want a guide? Join a highly rated Hiking and Bicycling Tour through CRG!
Columbia River Gorge Viewpoints
The vast Columbia River Gorge is a stunningly beautiful sight. On a day trip from Portland we recommend stopping at a few different spots to take in some of the most amazing views.
Crown Point State Park and Vista House
The Vista House at Crown Point offers one of the best view of Columbia River Gorge. The viewing deck and Vista House are located right on Old Highway 30. The historic octagonal structure, was built in 1917 and today welcomes visitors with educational displays and informational tours.
The Vista House Museum has an onsite gift shop stocked with souvenirs and an espresso bar for coffee, snacks and refreshments.
Chanticleer Point Portland Women’s Forum Viewpoint
The small Portland Women’s Forum State Lookout is a favorite Columbia River Gorge viewpoint – and it is easily accessed via the scenic byway. From the Chanticleer Point observation deck, the easterly view showcases the grandness of the Gorge.
Sherrard Viewpoint
Perhaps one of the most epic viewpoints in the region, Sherrard Viewpoint is a must-see for mountain lovers. From the Sherrard Viewing platform, visitors nearly have a 360-degree view over the Cascade Range. On clear days this includes awesome views of Mount St. Helens, Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, Mount Hood and Mount Jefferson.
Located within Mt Hood National Park on top of Larch Mountain, Sherrard Viewpoint is a bit of a detour from the Historic Highway 30. However, with the right conditions, the 14-mile detour up Larch Mountain Road is worth it!
Note: There is plenty of parking at Sherrard Viewpoint (and toilets), but there is a required $5 park fee (or you can display an Interagency Pass if you have one).
Bridge of the Gods
The modern Bridge of the Gods is a cantilever structure in Cascade Locks that spans the Columbia River. Connecting Oregon and Washington, the bridge is part of the famed Pacific Crest Trail.
Bridge of the Gods was constructed in 1926 as a toll crossing and measures 1,858-feet-long. A faded but interesting mural is painted on the bridge foundation on the Oregon side.
One of the fun Columbia River Gorge activities is to drive across the marvelous Bridge of the Gods – and to do so, you will need $2 cash.
Note: Before crossing over the bridge, consider a stop at Thunder Island Brewing. The popular craft brewery also has a full food menu, beer to go and provides stunning Columbia River views in Cascade Locks!
Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum
Those interested in learning more about the geology of the area and the civilizations that have resided in the region should stop at the Columbia River Gorge Museum. Located on the north side of the Columbia River in Stevenson, Washington, a ticket is required for entry ($10).
Boat Tours Columbia River Gorge
Columbia River Gorge boat tours offer a unique vantage point and a memorable experience. Hop aboard the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler paddlewheel replica boat in Cascade Locks for a fun Columbia Gorge river cruise. More information!
Columbia River Gorge Tour
Choose a convenient, no-hassle day trip to Columbia River Gorge from Portland with a professional guide. The oh-so-popular half-day waterfalls tour from Portland is a top pick among fellow travelers. In addition to making stops at 4 waterfalls and 2 viewpoints, participants have an on-board guide to narrate the sights of the day. Reserve your spot!
Columbia River Gorge Waterfall Trip Itinerary
Now, let’s put it all together! We wrap up the top things to do in Columbia Gorge on our road trip itinerary. The timeline works best with minimal-to-moderate traffic. If you are making the trip in the summer on a weekend, the scenic drive to Columbia River Gorge will likely take a lot longer than what is listed.
8:30am – Depart Portland (or Vancouver, WA)
Take I-84 East to Exit 17 to Troutdale. Follow the signs for the Historic Columbia River Highway.
9:00am – Arrive at Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpoint
Make a quick stop at this viewpoint for your first incredible look at the Gorge. If the weather is clear, detour onto Larch Mountain Road a half mile east of Portland Women’s Forum Viewpoint. Enjoy the forested scenery along the 14-mile drive to the Sherrard Viewpoint.
9:30am – Arrive at Sherrard Viewpoint in Mt Hood National Park
Hike up the stairs to the Cascade Mountain peak viewing platform. After you take in the views, don’t linger too long – because there is a lot to see today! Return back onto the Historic Columbia River Hwy heading east. Once on Highway 30, it is just a short drive to Crown Point.
10:20am – Arrive at Crown Point and Vista House
Take in the view from the Crown Point Columbia Gorge observation deck and step inside Vista House for the exhibits. Spend about 15 minutes at this stop. From here the road snakes 2.5 miles on Oregon Historic Route 30 to Latourell Falls.
10:45am – Latourell Falls
At Latourell Falls, take a leisurely walk down to the base of the falls at the right of the information sign. If you got an early start (or skipped Sherrard Viewpoint), consider taking the 2.4 mile loop trail to the upper falls.
11:10am – Bridal Veil Falls
Spend a half hour hiking down the forested trail to see Bridal Falls. If time allows, spend 10 minutes walking the Gorge Loop Trail and reading the informational plaques displaying Columbia River Gorge facts.
Three miles further down the scenic byway is Wahkeena Falls. Drive east and access the larger parking lot by turning sharply at the west end of the street-side parking spaces.
12:00pm – Wahkeena Falls
After walking up to the Wahkeena Falls viewpoint, continue trekking up the switchbacks to Lemmons Viewpoint. Depending on your schedule and fitness level, you could continue hiking to Fairy Falls and then on to Multnomah.
For a less strenuous trek, retrace your steps back down to the base of Wahkeena Falls. Instead of crossing the road and getting into your car, hop on Return Trail #442 and make the 15-minute, relatively flat walk to Multnomah Falls.
1:00pm – Multnomah Falls
Follow the signs – and the people – to the base of Multnomah Falls. Plan on spending at least an 1 hour here.
After taking your photographs, embark on the short hike up to the Benson Bridge. Continue past the bridge for a gorgeous trailside Columbia River Gorge overlook. Then, trek up the inclined switchbacks to the top of Multnomah Falls. If time allows – and you have the energy – continue a mile further to see Dutchman, Wiesendanger and Ecola Falls.
Retrace your steps on Return Trail #442 to your car at the Wahkeena parking lot. Drive 3 miles east, passing Oneonta Gorge and Tunnel to Horsetail Falls.
Top Tip: If you didn’t bring a packed lunch, grab something from the café or – if you have time – sit down at the Multnomah Lodge Columbia River Gorge restaurant.
2:45pm – Horsetail Falls
Park your car and spend just 5 minutes viewing the Horsetail Waterfall. If you are bursting with energy, scamper up the steep trail to Ponytail Falls!
Driving east after Horsetail Falls, you have the option to get onto I-84 West toward Portland. We suggest that you continue 8 miles further on I-84 East to Cascade Locks and the Bridge of the Gods.
3:05pm – Bridge of the Gods in Cascade Locks
Pull into the parking lot at the bridge’s foundation and take a few minutes to snap photos and gaze at the impressive structure. When you are ready, pay the toll and cross the Bridge of the Gods into the state of Washington.
Note: While in Cascade Locks, you may want to consider taking one of the Columbia River Gorge cruises.
3:10pm – Begin the Drive to Portland on Washington State Route 14
Part of the Lewis and Clark Trail Scenic Byway, WA SR 14 follows the Columbia River west to Vancouver, WA. We prefer to take this route back to Portland so that you can see the Columbia River Gorge on the Washington side, too.
The drive on Route 14 in Washington from Bridge of the Gods along the Columbia River Gorge to Portland takes about 50 minutes. We suggest making some or all of these stops along the way.
Beacon Rock
Embark on a mile-long trail of switchbacks to the top of the 848-foot-tall Beacon Rock. It’s an iconic rock formation along the Columbia River Gorge. The moderate hike offers dazzling views every step of the way.
Cape Horn Lookout
A small, roadside pull off with terrific views over the Columbia River Gorge. There’s no parking lot and use caution crossing Highway 14.
Vancouver, Washington
State Route 14 ends in downtown Vancouver, Washington. Although not as popular as Portland, there are many fun things to do in Vancouver, WA – including some excellent craft breweries!
4:00pm – Arrive in Portland
Complete your road trip back in Portland in the late afternoon or early evening. If you need tips for things to do in the City of Roses, read our helpful Portland Itinerary.
Map of Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Columbia River Gorge Waterfall Map. When you open our map of Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls, click on the icons for more information.
Alternate Scenic Drive Columbia River Gorge
Above, we detailed the best route to see Columbia River Gorge. Our itinerary for the Columbia Gorge historic highway drive encompasses what we believe are the prime viewpoints and waterfalls. However, there other ways to plan a trip on the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway.
Multnomah Falls Scenic Drive
If you are short on time and only want to see Multnomah Falls, simply take Interstate 84 to Exit 31. At the Multnomah Falls exit, there is a large parking lot and it’s just a short walk to the waterfall.
Alternatively, you can complete a Columbia River Gorge loop drive utilizing the Old Columbia River Highway 30 and Interstate 84. Drive to Multnomah Falls on the scenic route and return via I-84.
Same Route, More Hikes, More Waterfalls
We featured the top waterfalls to see when driving Columbia River Gorge historic highway from Portland to the Bridge of the Gods. However, there are many more waterfalls you might want to seek out on your Columbia River drive. Eagle Creek Falls and Dry Creek Falls are two highly rated Columbia River scenic highway waterfalls that can be access via hikes.
Eagle Creek Falls and Trail
One of the most popular trails in the Oregon, Eagle Creek Trail leads to some of the best waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge. The 4 mile roundtrip hike takes trekkers to Metlako, Punch Bowl and Tunnel Falls.
Dry Creek Falls
Nestled deep in a crevice, it takes a little effort to find the Dry Creek Waterfall, but it’s a gorgeous hike! Note: Park at the Bridge of the Gods trailhead and follow signs for the Pacific Crest Trail to the south. The hike is about 4.5 miles roundtrip.
The Gorge Oregon: Portland to The Dalles
One of the oldest settlements in Oregon, The Dalles is best known as marking the end of the famed Oregon Trail.
Those who wish to travel the complete length of the Columbia River Gorge from Portland should aim for The Dalles. It is possible to drive nearly the entire route on the historic Highway 30. Along the way there are a few more things to do along Columbia River Gorge. These include the Mosier Twin Tunnels, the Tom McCall Preserve (known for epic landscapes and wildflowers) and the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center.
Mt Hood – Columbia River Gorge Loop
An alternate way to complete a Columbia River Gorge road trip is to drive all the way to Mount Hood and the Hood River. Then, from Hood River, hop on the Mount Hood Scenic Byway via OR-35 and US-26 to get back to Portland.
The Mt Hood Scenic Loop takes you through dense forests, fruit valleys and around the southern side of the iconic mountain. The Hood River Scenic Drive distance is about 100 miles and you should plan for a 3- to 4-hour road trip.
Where To Stay: Columbia River Gorge
If you are planning a Columbia River Gorge vacation, you likely want to find accommodations close to the waterfalls and natural attractions.
Best Western Plus Columbia River Inn
The Best Western Plus Columbia River Gorge Hotel is located in Cascade Locks, just east of the Bridge of the Gods. The property has an indoor pool and hot tub and gets rave reviews from fellow travelers. Check rates and availability!
McMenamins Edgefield Hotel Troutdale
One of the unique hotels in Oregon, McMenamins Edgefield is so much more than a place to stay! The site is inclusive of multiple bars and restaurants as well as a soaking pool, golf and movie theater. It should be noted that there are only shared bathrooms and no air conditioning. Check the reviews and amenities!
Comfort Inn Troutdale
Recently renovated, the Comfort Inn Troutdale is one of the hotels on Columbia River Gorge that gets excellent reviews. Located just two minutes from the beginning of the Columbia Gorge Historic Scenic Highway, the Comfort Inn features spacious rooms, comfy beds and a good breakfast. Check rates and availability!
Camping: Columbia River Gorge
We have yet to camp the Columbia River Gorge. However, you can find information about renting cabins and camping the CRG on the official Forest Service Website.
What To Bring on Columbia River Gorge Drive
Now that you know what to do in Columbia River Gorge and how to plan your Oregon scenic drive, we have a few final tips on what you will want to bring with you!
Water Bottle
Once on the historic highway, there is only one place to buy water: Multnomah Falls. Be sure to bring plenty of water with you – especially if you are planning on hiking. We like to use Klean Kanteen bottles when out on treks, but these collapsible water bottles are also great for travelers!
Oregon Hiking Shoes
Even if you don’t plan on hiking you will want to wear durable shoes. Most of the waterfalls require a short trek to the best viewpoints. For day trips like this one, I go with these lightweight sneakers and Kris prefers wearing Merrell Trail Shoes. Looking for something else? Consider the reviews in our guide to choosing the Best Shoes for Travel.
Binoculars
One of the best things about the Columbia Gorge Waterfalls is that you get right up to them! That said, we suggest bringing a pair of binoculars to appreciate the details and for nature spotting.
Travel Camera
The falls in Oregon on the Columbia Gorge are breathtakingly beautiful and incredibly photogenic! Rather than trying to capture it with your phone, we highly recommend upgrading to a real travel camera.
For our trip, we shot with a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens – which takes excellent quality photographs. Have a look at all our tips for finding the Best Budget Camera for Travelers.
Day Pack
Whether you are hiking Oregon trails or just taking in the views, it is essential to carry a good day pack. We love Osprey Day Packs to secure all our everyday travel items. Find more styles in our reviews of the Best Day Packs.
How To Plan Your Oregon Trip
Visiting Columbia River Gorge is one of the top things to do on a trip to Oregon. However, it is far from the only attraction in the area. Use our free and honest travel guides to help plan your trip to the PNW!
- Best Things To Do in Oregon
- What To Do in Portland
- Visiting Vancouver, Washington
- Driving the Oregon Coast
- Best Things To Do in Florence, OR (and Nearby Hikes!)
- Top Bend Attractions
Discovering More of the Pacific Northwest?
Read our Weekend in Seattle Itinerary, a guide of Things To Do in Spokane, and top tips on Visiting Glacier National Park to plan your adventures!
Trip Organization
As you plan your Columbia Gorge Drive and other things to do on your Oregon vacation, keeping track of the details is essential. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner to stay organized.
Start planning your trip to the PNW, USA! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board.
Comments are closed.