Understand

Prepare to be amazed as you journey along the trailblazing route pioneered by Lewis and Clark in 1805. The Columbia Gorge, a natural wonder, slices through the majestic Cascade mountain range, which is predominantly composed of volcanic (basalt) rock. As you traverse this breathtaking landscape, you'll encounter a series of awe-inspiring cliffs that will leave you speechless. But that's not all - the Columbia Gorge is also home to an abundance of stunning waterfalls that tower above the river. The west side of the Cascades, with its plentiful water sources, contributes to the creation of these magnificent cascades. Get ready to witness nature's power and beauty in action! However, it's the unique climatic conditions of the gorge that truly set it apart. Brace yourself for winds that can reach speeds of over 30mph. This phenomenon occurs because the gorge acts as a wind tunnel, connecting the warm and dry east end with the cooler and damp west end. Feel the rush as you experience the forces of nature firsthand. Speaking of harnessing natural power, you'll notice the presence of wind turbines strategically scattered along the ridges of both sides of the gorge. These turbines take advantage of the mighty winds that whip through this area, generating clean and renewable energy. It's an impressive testament to the ingenuity of mankind. By now, you may be wondering how such a remarkable setting came to be. Well, it turns out that mass floodings at the end of the last ice age were instrumental in shaping the Columbia Gorge as we know it today. The collapse of ice dams near Missoula, Montana unleashed colossal walls of water that soared to heights exceeding 1000 feet, and still remained more than 2000 feet deep by the time they flowed into present-day Portland. It's an astonishing reminder of the extraordinary power of nature's forces. To preserve the unparalleled beauty and charm of this region, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area was established. This protected area ensures that any new development takes place within existing towns, safeguarding the scenic quality of the gorge for future generations to enjoy.

Get in

Planning a road trip from Portland? Head North on the I-205 and merge onto the I-84 East toward the Dalles. From there, get ready to embark on an exciting adventure to the beautiful destination of your choice!

Map & Climate