Columbia River Gorge, Hood River, OR

The Columbia River Gorge in Hood River, Oregon is one of the most spectacular natural sites North America has to offer. The Columbia River Gorge runs farther than the Hood River area as it is actually eighty miles long. The gorge is 4,000 feet deep in the north canyon, which is actually in Washington State. The south canyon walls are no less impressive in Oregon State. Columbia River Gorge is the only section of river canyon that is at sea level. The gorge is part of the Cascade Mountain Range.

Recreation activities include hiking, mountain biking, windsurfing, camping, fishing, wildlife watching, birdwatching, boating, photography, rock climbing, and picnicking. All of this can be done at the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

Visitors to the Columbia River Gorge area can spend time hiking a variety of different trails. Along these trails are numerous waterfalls. Over time the water in the gorge has created areas where the water must go over higher peaks in the Cascades, allowing for breathtaking views to be created. Multnomah Falls is the second highest water fall in the United States. It is also the second largest to remain year round rather than stop during winter when water is frozen. The falls are quite popular at all times of the year.

The Columbia River Gorge has taken 31,000 years to form. A number of civilizations have taken up residents near the gorge for the water source it provides. This includes the Folsom and Marmes people who came over the Great Continental Divide from Asia. Geologists and archeologists have found evidence of these individuals during excavations. Other excavations near Five Mile Rapids, which is east of The Dalles have shown human remains. It was discovered as a great place for salmon fishing about 10,000 years ago.

Geologically the Columbia River Plateau was formed due to basalt flows. These flows covered 164,000 square kilometers over time running through northeast Oregon, southwest Washington and the west of Idaho. The gorge as part of the national park can have some closures throughout the year based on danger. Fire closures, restrictions, and certain road conditions can account for the closures.

A new trail bridge is open at Triple Falls. This trail takes visitors through a small area of the gorge with many trees and water to welcome visitors. Oneonta trail is going to be closed for a time in 2009 between Horsetail Falls and the new bridge. The river that runs through the gorge is actually 1,200 miles long with water from the Snake River emptying into the gorge.

In the Spring, Summer, and early Autumn it is possible to camp within the park. There are camp sites set up for visitors with amenities. Other options for staying near the Columbia River gorge include wineries, hotels, and bed and breakfasts. There are a number of small towns along the way, like Hood River. Hood River offers attractions, scenic drives, and windsurfing. The town is 60 miles east of Portland on highway 84.