Best Things to do in the Columbia River Gorge

There are some incredible things to do in the Columbia River Gorge. Carved between Oregon and Washington, this rugged canyon is where towering cliffs, dense forests, and roaring waterfalls collide to create one of the most epic adventure destinations in the Pacific Northwest.

With more than 90 waterfalls, endless miles of hiking trails, and viewpoints that will leave you breathless, the Gorge is a true playground for outdoor lovers and a dream for hikers, explorers, and anyone craving time in nature.

From chasing waterfalls like Multnomah Falls, Wahkeena Falls, and Horsetail Falls to trekking along legendary trails such as the Eagle Creek Trail or Dog Mountain, every turn offers new adventure.

Add in epic drives along the Historic Columbia River Highway, windsurfing on the river, and camping under starry skies, and you’ve got the perfect backdrop for your next outdoor adventure escape.

In this guide, we’ll cover the best adventure-filled things to do in the Columbia River Gorge – whether you’re here for a weekend road trip or a longer trek into the wild. The Columbia River Gorge is one of my favorite places to visit in the Pacific Northwest. 

About the Columbia River Gorge

Before we get started with the best things to do in the Columbia River Gorge, let’s get into a little more detail about this area. The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the Pacific Northwest, stretching over 80 miles along the Oregon-Washington border.

Carved by the mighty Columbia River, the gorge is famous for dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and epic hiking trails. It’s also a National Scenic Area, which means it’s protected for both its natural beauty and Native American culture.

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic area also has a thriving wine region, especially for pinot noir, syrah, and chardonnay. Breweries and cideries also thrive in Mount Hood and Cascade Locks.

Best Towns to Visit in the Columbia River Gorge

Hood River is the adventure capital of the Gorge. Famous for windsurfing, kitesurfing, breweries, ciders, and wineries. Hood River is a great base for exploring both Mount Hood and the Gorge. It has a cool downtown with shops, coffee houses, and great farm-to-table dining.

Cascade Locks is the gateway to the Bridge of the Gods, a scenic crossing into Washington. This town is a hiker’s hub with direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). It is also home to the Thunder Island Brewing Company, right on the Columbia River.

Stevenson is a quieter, laid-back town across from Cascade Locks located on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge. It’s a great spot for craft beer (Walking Man Brewing) and access to Beacon Rock State Park. This town is less touristy but still central for exploring.

The Dalles is located on the eastern edge of the Gorge with sunnier, drier weather. It’s full of history and museums, including the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center. It’s known for its fruit orchards, wine tasting, and river views.

White Salmon is located across the ricer from Hood River. This town provides more of a local vibe, with cozy cafes and fewer crowds. It’s a great jumping off point for rafting and kayaking on the White Salmon River.

Things to do in the Columbia River Gorge

Chase Waterfalls along the Historic Columbia River Highway

No trip to the Columbia River Gorge is complete without chasing its legendary waterfalls, it’s by far one of the most popular things to do in the Columbia River Gorge. The Historic Columbia River Highway is lined with some of the most breathtaking falls in the Pacific Northwest, each offering its own charm.

The iconic Multnomah Falls, plunging 620 feet and Benson Bridge, a Columbia River Gorge must see, but don’t stop there – Latourell Falls dazzles with its basalt columns, Wahkeena Falls flows gracefully through mossy canyon walls, and Bridal Veil Falls offers a quieter experience.

For a quick stop, Horsetail Falls is right off the highway and perfect for photos (pictured above on the right). I had a blast chasing waterfalls along the scenic highway on a gloomy fall day. You won’t want to miss the Historic Columbia River Highway scenic drive.

💦 Read Next: 12 Epic Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge

Go Hiking in Columbia River Gorge

It’s no secret that the Columbia River Gorge is a hiker’s paradise and one of my favorite things to do at the Columbia River Gorge. 

Best Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge

• Eagle Creek to Tunnel Falls – 12 miles round trip to Tunnel Falls (pictured above). This iconic Gorge hike features dramatic cliffs and waterfalls plunging into narrow canyons. Tunnel Falls is the star – you literally walk behind a waterfall.
• Multnomah Falls to Larch Mountain – 14 miles round trip. Starts at Oregon’s most famous waterfall, then climbs to panoramic views of five Cascade mountains (Hood, Adams, Jefferson, St. Helens, Rainer) from Sherrard Point.
• Dog Mountain (Washington state) – 6.5 miles round trip. A steep hike that rewards with epic Gorge views and legendary wildflower meadows in late spring.
• Angel’s Rest – 4.5 miles round trip. A shorter, popular Columbia River Gorge trail that leads to sweeping cliffside views of the Columbia River. Perfect for sunset hikes.
• Latourell Falls Loop – 2.4 miles round trip short hike. This is a family-friendly hike that showcases both the lower and upper tiers of Latourell Falls, one of the most photogenic waterfalls on the highway.
• Hamilton Mountain – 7.5 miles round trip. Features waterfalls, wildflowers, and panoramic views from the summit – one of the best all-around hikes on the Washington side.
• Mosier Plateau Trail – 3.5 miles round trip. A hidden gem near Hood River with wildflowers, oak savanna, and wide views over the eastern Gorge.
• Cape Horn Trail (Washington) – 7.5 mile loop with cliffside views, wildflowers, and a seasonal waterfall. One of the best Gorge hikes for vistas.
• Wahclella Falls Trail – 2 mile family friendly hike that winds through mossy canyons to a gorgeous two-tiered waterfall.
• Table Mountain (Washington) – 15 miles, one of the toughest hikes in the Columbia River Gorge, with steep climbs and a rocky scramble to the summit.

Mountain Biking

For thrill-seekers, the Columbia River Gorge isn’t just about hiking – it’s also home to some neat mountain biking trails. Popular areas like Post Canyon near Hood River offer a flowy trails and on the Washington side, the Syncline Trail is a local favorite.

Vista House at Crown Point

Perched high on a cliff overlooking the Columbia River, Vista House at Crown Point is one of the most iconic stops along the Historic Columbia River Highway. Built in 1918 as a rest stop and memorial, the stone rotunda provides one of the Gorge’s most spectacular viewpoints.

From here, you’ll get sweeping panoramas of the river winding between basalt cliffs, with views stretching for mils in both directions. Inside, Vista House features stained glass, marble, and exhibits that share the story of the Gorge and the highway. Great for the history buffs.

Windsurfing & Kiteboarding

If you are looking for Columbia River Gorge things to do on the water, look no further than windsurfing or kiteboarding. Known as the windsurfing capital of the world, the Columbia River Gorge draws water spot enthusiasts from across the globe.

The Gorge’s unique geography funnels steady winds through its canyon, creating ideal conditions for sailing across the river’s wide expanse. Hood River is the epicenter of the sport, offering rental shops, lessons for beginners, and launch spots for seasoned pros who want to harness the powerful winds.

It’s an iconic Gorge experience and one of the best things to do in the Columbia River Gorge and top things to do in Hood River.

Rock Climbing

With its rugged cliffs and basalt walls, the Columbia River Gorge is also a top destination for rock climbers. This area offers a mix of traditional and sport climbing routes.

Popular crags like Broughton Bluff near Portland provide steep faces and crack climbs, while Ozone Wall offers accessible routes just off the historic highway.

For those looking to push their limits, areas around Beacon Rock and the Washington side of the Gorge features long, exposed climbs that deliver both adrenaline and sweeping river vistas.

Scenic Train Rides

If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to experience the Gorge, hop aboard a scenic train ride that showcases its stunning landscapes. The Mt. Hood Railroad in nearby Hood River offers train rides that wind through orchards, vineyards, and foothills with incredible views of Mount Hood and the Columbia River.

Another favorite is the Oregon Rail Heritage Center’s special excursions, which feature historic steam locomotives running through the Gorge. These train rides are family friendly, and allow you to take in the scenery without having to hike or drive.

🍁 Travel Tip: Train rides are especially magical in the fall, when the Gorge is ablaze with colorful foliage.

Skamania Lodge & Zip Line Tours

A unique thing to do in the Columbia Rive Gorge for aerial views of the Gorge is to go zip-lining. The zip line at the Skamania Lodge in Stevenson, Washington is one of the most popular zip lines.

Guided tours take you across a series of zip lines, sky bridges, and platforms high in the forest canopy. Zip lining is a perfect Columbia Gorge activity for families, groups, or anyone looking to add a little adrenaline to their Gorge trip.

If you are looking for a splurge, I highly recommend you stay at the Skamania Lodge, this is one of the best places to stay in the Columbia River Gorge.

It’s a rustic yet upscale lodge where you can enjoy cozy rooms with fireplaces, a relaxing spa, hot tub, and farm-to-table dining. You can even stay in treehouses.

Paraglide Over the Gorge

If you’re looking for a true bucket-list thing to do in the Columbia River Gorge, consider paragliding. With steady winds and dramatic landscapes, the Gorge is one of the most spectacular places in the Pacific Northwest to take flight.

Launch sites near Hood River and Bingen, Washington allow you to soar above the river for jaw-dropping views. Floating high above the Gorge is equal parts adrenaline and serenity – an unforgettable way to see this natural wonder from an entirely new perspective.

Wine Tasting, Breweries, & Cideries

Beyond its waterfalls and trails, the Columbia River Gorge is also a hot spot for the wine enthusiast. The region’s unique geography creates diverse microclimates, making it one of the best spots in the Pacific Northwest for wine tasting.

If wine isn’t your thing, the Gorge is also home to a booming craft beer and cider scene. Hood River also has several top-notch breweries like pFriem Family Brewers and Full Sail, while cideries such as Hood River Cider and Double Mountain Cidery highlight the region’s orchard-to-glass tradition.

🍷 Here are some Columbia River Wineries to check out:

• Hiyu Wine Farm (Hood River, OR)
• Stave & Stone Winery (Hood River, OR)
• AniChe Cellars (Underwood, WA)
• Cathedral Ridge Winery (Hood River, OR)

Camping

Spending a night under the stars is one of the best ways to fully experience the Columbia River Gorge. The region is dotted with scenic campgrounds that put you close to waterfalls, hiking trails, and river views.

Top 5 Campgrounds in the Columbia River Gorge

• Ainsworth State Park – Located right off the historic Columbia River Highway, this is one of the most convenient campgrounds for waterfall hopping. Sites are tucked into a forest setting with quick access to Multnomah Falls and nearby trails.
• Eagle Creek Campground – A classic Gorge campground with direct access to the famous Eagle Creek Trail. A favorite for hikers who want to be right on the trailhead.
• Memaloose State Park – Set on the eastern side of the Gorge near The Dalles, this campground is sunnier and drier, with sweeping river views. Great base for exploring wineries, wildflowers, and the drier climate side of the Gorge.
• Beacon Rock State Park – A Washington-side gem with sites tucked under big tress. You’ll have quick access to hike up Beacon Rock, plus other forest trails. It’s quieter and less crowded than some Oregon campgrounds.
• Viento State Park – Just west of Hood River, Viento is ideal for campers who also want to enjoy windsurfing, kiteboarding, or cycling in the Gorge. River access and proximity to Hood River make it a great all-around choice.

☕️ Read Next: The Best Place to Stay in the Columbia River Gorge

Other Things to do in the Columbia River Gorge

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in the Columbia River Gorge for an adventure of a lifetime. Here are some other things to do in the area.

• Disc Golf
• Bird Watching
• Golfing
• Motorcycle Touring
• Flat Water Kayaking
• Supping
• Fishing
• Whitewater Rafting
• Wake Boarding/Water Skiing/ Jet Skiing/ Tubing
• Sailing
• Railbiking
• Boat Cruises
• Hood River Lavender Farms

📌 Only here for a day? Here are some Columbia River Gorge Day Tours to check out:

Columbia River Gorge Tips

• 🅿️ Parking fills up quickly on the weekends.
• During summer, you must have a timed entry permit to access Multnomah Falls via the main parking lot. In effect daily 9am – 6pm from May 23 through September 1.
• Arrive early before 9 or after 6 to bypass the entry permit.
• Book in advance is highly recommended during peak season – permits often sell out.
• 🌿 Stay on marked trails to protect the delicate landscape.
• Use the Bridge of the Gods or Hood River Bridge if you want to explore both Oregon and Washington sides.
• Trails can be steep and exposed, so bring sturdy shoes, water, and layers.
• Weekends can be very busy – if possible, visit on weekdays or early mornings.
• 📵 Cell Service can be spotty in the Gorge – download maps offline.
• Pack out what you pack in.
• Some trails are still impacted by past wildfires.

🌦️Best Time to Visit the Columbia River Gorge:

• Spring (April – June): Best for wildflowers and waterfalls at their fullest flow.
• Summer (July – September): Warm and sunny, but expect bigger crowds at Multnomah Falls and popular hikes.
• Fall (October): Gorgeous foliage and fewer crowds, though rain begins to return.
• Winter (November – February): Some trails may be icy or closed, but it’s the quietest time to visit.

Things to do Near the Columbia River Gorge

• ⛰️ Mount Hood – ski or snowboard year-round at Timberline Lodge, hike alpine trails in the summer, or drive the Mount Hood Scenic Byway.
• 🔦 Ape Cave – One of the largest lava tubes in the continental United States, stretching over 2.5 miles located at Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument.
• 🍷 Willamette Valley Wine County – West of the Gorge, famous for pinot noir, this region is dotted with scenic vineyards, tasting rooms, and farm-to-table dining experiences.
• 🍻 Portland – Since the Gorge is only about 30 minutes from downtown Portland, it’s easy to tack on city adventures. Explore food carts, Powell’s City of Books, Japanese Garden, or grab craft beer in one of America’s best beer cities.
• 🍇 The Hood River Fruit Loop – A 35-mile scenic drive through orchards, farms, fruit stands, and wineries in the Hood River Valley. Best in late summer and fall when you can pick fresh apples, pears, and berries or sip local cider with views of Mount Hood.
• 🎣 Deschutes River – East of The Dalles → rafting, fishing, and rugged canyon hikes.
• 🛶 Trillium Lake – Near Mount Hood, the perfect spot for paddle boarding or camping with postcard views of the mountain.
• 🥾 Mt. Adams – Located in Washington, this is great for hiking and quieter than Mount Hood.

Oregon Travel Vlogs

Would you rather see what it’s like to explore the Columbia River Gorge? Joe and I have had a few epic trips to the Gorge, like the video linked above.

Check out the video or click below to watch our Oregon Travel Series. And please subscribe or give us a thumbs up. It doesn’t cost you anything and really helps us be able to continue creating free content for you to enjoy 🙂.

🎥 Watch our Oregon Travel Vlogs on YouTube

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to do in the Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge is one of those rare destinations that truly has it all – towering waterfalls, world-class hiking trails, adrenaline-fueled adventures, and charming towns filled with good food, wine, and vibes.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls along the Historic Columbia River Highway, windsurfing in Hood River, camping beneath the stars, or simply soaking in the views at Vista House, every experience here feels unforgettable.

The Gorge is more than just a day trip from Portland, it’s a place to slow down, explore deeply, and connect with the incredible beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

No matter how you spend you time, a visit to the Columbia River Gorge is guaranteed to leave you inspired and already planning your next return. If you found this article useful or have any questions, let me know in the comments below 👇.

More Oregon Travel Guides ↓

📍 Planning a trip to Oregon? Since moving to Oregon, I’ve been having a blast exploring this unreal part of the world and so much fun writing about it.

Check out the travel guides below for more inspiration and tips to help plan a trip of a lifetime to the PNW.

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32 Stops on the Oregon Coast

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