Columbia River Gorge

Located east of Vancouver, Washington, the Columbia River Gorge invites you to slow down and experience dramatic cliffs, sweeping views, outdoor adventure, and local history. An 80-mile stretch was designated as the country’s largest National Scenic Area in 1986, and it’s easy to see why. Wind your way along Washington’s Highway 14, stopping for ridgeline hikes, wineries, small towns, and endless scenic viewpoints right off the highway.  

The area is known for its diversity in climate, with cooler and wetter conditions in the west giving way to hotter and drier conditions in the east. With so much to do, here’s a look at what you can expect in Washington’s Columbia River Gorge.

Washington’s Columbia River Gorge

Outdoor Adventures

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or looking for wildflowers, you’ll find plenty of scenic hikes. Follow trails that climb to panoramic overlooks, lead to cascading waterfalls, or skirt wildflower meadows bursting with colorful blooms come spring and summer. The 848-foot-tall Beacon Rock offers a unique hiking experience thanks to its series of switchbacks, boardwalks, and handrails that follow along the basalt column. It’s also a top destination for rock climbing.  

For fun on the water, kiteboarders and windsurfers flock to the Columbia River Gorge thanks to strong and reliable winds. Paddling, rafting, and fishing are also on offer. The White Salmon River, a tributary of the Columbia, boasts Class II and Class III rapids perfect for a heart-pounding adventure.

Also See: 15+ Washington State Hikes

Culture and History

Learn about Native American heritage and visit historic landmarks and museums as you travel part of Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery route. Visit the Columbia Gorge Museum in Stevenson to learn about the area’s Indigenous communities and early settlers, stargaze at the observatory in Goldendale, stroll Carson’s quaint streets, or take a mural walk in White Salmon and Bingen. In Maryhill, discover a full-scale replica of England’s Stonehenge monument at the Maryhill Museum of Art. The area is also home to multiple hot springs resorts.

Also See: Gorge to Coast Road Trip

Culinary Adventures

Dotted with vineyards and wineries, the area is home to the Columbia Gorge AVA (American Viticultural Area) and a thriving wine scene. Sip chardonnay or pinot noir from tasting rooms overlooking the river, or swing by one of the Gorge’s many local breweries for a post-hike beer. White Salmon has become a culinary hub, with farm-to-table menus at Henni’s Kitchen & Bar and artisan pastries from White Salmon Baking Co.

Columbia River Gorge Communities

Each town along the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge offers its own charm. To the west, explore galleries and cafes in historic downtown Camas or head to nearby Lacamas Lake. Enjoy a growing craft beer scene and nearby hikes in Stevenson and Carson, while White Salmon and neighboring Bingen combine an artistic spirit with adrenaline-filled watersports. To the east, enjoy stargazing and wineries in Goldendale and Lyle. Looking for the ultimate relaxing getaway? Head to one of the hot springs resorts sprinkled throughout the Gorge.

Know Before You Go

• How long to stay: While you can drive through the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area in a day, plan to stay at least one or two nights to truly experience the landscapes and towns that make this area special. Bonus: Staying overnight in the Gorge means you’ll beat the crowds to hiking trails.
• Getting around: Highway 14 is the only major highway along Washington’s Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
• When to go: Spring and summer are popular for wildflowers, waterfalls, and hiking, so aim to visit mid-week or arrive early if visiting during this time. For a quieter alternative, consider fall and winter.