Lewis and Clark journeyed this way on their epic voyage to the Pacific Ocean and returned along its route. Now it is a scenic corridor offering many unique opportunities for exploration in the modern sense.
The Columbia River Gorge
Meandering along the border between Oregon and Washington, the Columbia River passes through a 75-mile stretch of scenic beauty. From John Day Dam in the east to Portland suburbs on the west, the river winds through rock cliffs, passes small towns, goes by native American fishing spots, and creates an amazing vista for travelers.
Historic Route 30 still provides the route that was laid out for the Nation’s first scenic highway built from 1913 to 1922. It covers the area between Troutdale and Cascade Locks before joining Interstate 84. Along the roadway are countless viewpoints and parking areas for hiking to the natural wonders of rock formations and waterfalls that abound there.
In 1986, President Ronald Reagan signed the Columbia River Gorge Natural Scenic Area Act. This legislation protects the beauty of the gorge and prevents encroachment by developers. The legislation was no easy feat as the gorge includes two states, six counties, thirteen towns and four Native American tribe treaty rights. They all were involved in the discussion.
Waterfalls Throughout the Gorge
One of the spectacular natural wonders of the gorge is the abundance of waterfalls. Most well known is Multnomah Falls, a 620 feet high cascade tumbling down over two terraces. At Multnomah there is an historic stone lodge containing a gift shop, restaurant and museum. Several hiking trails lead to the falls, and they range from easy to difficult. Multnomah Falls are easily seen from the historic roadway and are accessible for viewing by everyone.
While Multnomah may be the most famous and most popular, there are about 70 named waterfalls plus many seasonal flows spilling down to the river. There are hikes of varying difficulty available to reach the many falls. Hikers of all ages can be found on the trails. Bridal Veil Falls is a moderate hike that leads to a beautiful and scenic cascade. The path slopes down the hillside, crosses on a wooden bridge, and leads to an overlook where photographers can find that “perfect” shot.
Vista House Overlook
Rising 733 feet above the river is a stone building affording gorgeous views from its commanding position. Built in 1917 when the road through the gorge was declared the first National Scenic Highway, the circular structure contains an information center, gift shops and observation areas, both indoors and out.
Approaching the gorge from the Portland side, the Vista House becomes a first stop from which to view the expanse of river and cliffs awaiting the traveler. If heading west, the Vista House is the last glimpse of the geologic features just traversed.
Lewis & Clark and the Columbia River Gorge
The legendary journey of Lewis & Clark ended with the navigation of the Columbia River. All along its length there are memorial plaques honoring these pioneers. Their journal entries have detailed notations of their trip through the gorge and, today, visitors can see the same places the expedition of 1805 discovered.
Within the gorge, the several museums dedicate at least a portion of the exhibit space to Lewis & Clark. In bookstores, gift shops, and visitor’s centers there is material related to the expedition. Recently, newly commissioned bronze sculptures of the Native American guide, Sacagawea, and Seaman, the dog that accompanied the explorers were unveiled at the Cascade Locks marina. Here, too, can be found a visitor’s center, restaurant, and stern-wheeler tours on the Columbia in season.
Artists Find a Home in the Columbia River Gorge
In the small towns that dot the Columbia River Gorge, resident artists have found a home for their studios and an outlet for their handicrafts. There are artists working in glass, sculpture, painting, woodworking, metal crafts and more.
A stop in Hood River, Troutdale, Cascade Locks or Goldendale will find an art center or studios open to the public. We enjoyed observing artisans at work and were engaged by their willingness to share their craft techniques with those who came to watch. Throughout the year there are art shows and events that bring visitors to the gorge area.
The Columbia River Gorge is truly a scenic wonderland.
Ethel Brodie - Intrigued by the world, encouraged to write my observations, published in newspapers and magazines, and sharing special places.
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