Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area — Attraction in Cascade Locks

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a breathtaking testament to the raw power and beauty of nature. Nestled between Oregon and Washington states, this expansive area showcases an exquisite blend of lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and towering cliffs, making it a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

One of the most striking features of the Columbia River Gorge is its sheer diversity. As you embark on a journey through this remarkable landscape, you'll encounter an array of natural wonders that will leave you in awe. The gorge boasts over 90 waterfalls, each with its own unique charm and character. From the iconic Multnomah Falls, with its two-tiered cascades, to the ethereal beauty of Wahkeena Falls, the sights and sounds of these majestic waterfalls create a truly magical experience.

Beyond the waterfalls, the gorge's sprawling forests offer a sanctuary for a wide range of flora and fauna. Towering evergreen trees, vibrant wildflowers, and fern-covered canyons create a mesmerizing tapestry of colors and textures. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to spot bald eagles soaring through the sky, ospreys diving for fish in the river, and the occasional glimpse of elusive creatures like black bears and cougars.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Columbia River Gorge provides an abundance of recreational activities. Hiking trails wind through the landscape, offering opportunities to explore hidden gems and witness panoramic views of the river and surrounding cliffs. Mountain biking and horseback riding trails provide thrilling adventures, while kayaking and windsurfing on the Columbia River allow for exhilarating water-based escapades.

In addition to its natural wonders, the Columbia River Gorge is also rich in cultural heritage. The area has a rich history, with evidence of Native American settlements and the Lewis and Clark expedition. Visitors can delve into the past by visiting historic sites, such as the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, which offers fascinating exhibits that tell the story of the region's natural and cultural history.

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area truly encapsulates the magnificence of nature's artistry. Its breathtaking waterfalls, diverse ecosystems, and outdoor activities make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking solace in nature's embrace. Whether you're an avid adventurer or a casual traveler, the gorge's beauty will leave an indelible mark on your soul, making it an experience that will be cherished...

Such a beautiful place to call home! The intense wind and rain can take getting used to but this is one of the most beautiful and lush places I've ever lived. The drive to work and back to Portland can be tiresome and daunty and have you questioning why you do this to yourself and then you gey to the city and all the traffic andd ride people remind you. Once you start to get past Troutdale on 84 heading East or Washougal on SR 14 East, you can feel the stress of the day melt away while you get to enjoy Mother Nature's Beautiful scenery as you decompress from your long day and arrive home relaxed. I 84 can be a nightmare in icy weather due to the moutain passes, hills and dips along the way. That being mixed with the fact the Oregon doesn't salt their roads (slowly getting the clue) and during the rainy months the ruts from all the truckers and normal traffic create an ugly drive. The truckers will throw sheets of water at you from both sides of the Interstate as you try and maneuver through these ruts, trying not to hydroplane into the car next to you, off the road or into the center barricade. SR 14 in Washington is a very beautiful drive and has more of a backwoods country road feel to it. They do salt and plow the roads during winter and are really good about keeping the rocks that fall into the roads cleaned up (if and when you do happen across a rock, you just call Skamania County non emergency or Clark County depending on wjere you are on SR 14 and they are really quick to get it handled). SR 14 is definitely the more dangerous of the 2 sides of the Columbia River. SR 14 is 2 lanes whereas I84 is a 4 lane divided. It has lots of sharp turns like a switch back road, sheer drop offs around almost every corner. Getting stuck behind a semi truck can be very frustrating because your climbing most of the way from Wahougal headin East until you reach Cape Horn and then you begin your downward trek. There are many great places to stop for pictures along the way on either route but I feel SR 14 is more intimate because of the country road feel, less traffic etc definitely more of a...

As someone who loves nature and outdoor adventures, I can confidently say that the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a must-visit destination. Located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, this area is home to some of the most breathtaking natural scenery I have ever seen.

One of the highlights of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is the Columbia River itself, which winds its way through the area and provides countless opportunities for outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and boating. But what truly sets this area apart are the stunning waterfalls that dot the landscape.

Multnomah Falls is undoubtedly the most famous of these waterfalls, and for good reason. The sight of the water cascading down the rocks in a mesmerizing display of natural beauty is truly awe-inspiring. But there are many other waterfalls in the area that are just as breathtaking, such as Wahkeena Falls and Horsetail Falls.

In addition to the waterfalls, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is home to a wide variety of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. One of my favorite hikes was the Angels Rest Trail, which takes you up to a high point where you can see panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge.

The area is also rich in history and culture, with several Native American tribes having called the region home for thousands of years. The Columbia River Gorge Interpretive Center Museum is a great place to learn more about the history of the area.

Overall, I highly recommend a visit to the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The natural beauty, outdoor activities, and rich history and culture make it a truly unforgettable...