Columbia River Gorge
Columbia River Gorge is a spectacular canyon along the Columbia River straddling Oregon and Washington. Famous for powerful waterfalls, crisp trail crossings, and tightly layered cliffs, it’s a key route and recreation corridor. Expect a mix of paved routes, rugged hikes, and scenic overlooks—perfect for day trips and weekend adventures.
Learn More
Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Pacific Northwest |
| Subregion | Pacific Northwest |
| Country | United States |
| State | Oregon and Washington |
| County | Multnomah County and Klickitat County |
| Timezone | AmericaLos Angeles |
| Latitude | 45.7 |
| Longitude | -121.2 |
| Maps |
11:55 AM LOCAL TIMEColumbia River Gorge is a dramatic, 80-mile-wide valley carved by the Columbia River between Oregon and Washington. The region is famed for high-water waterfalls like Multnomah Falls, steep-walled basalt formations, and accessible roadside vistas near cities like Portland and Hood River. Outside the highway corridors, you'll find moderate hikes, mountain viewpoints, and isolated river spots—a magnet for trail runners, climbers, and paddlers. Land use is a mix of federal land, state parks, and private parcels, with trailhead access ranging from pavement to trail-only approaches. Attractions are concentrated around key crossings and designated parks, but the area rewards exploration beyond the main routes—look for local outfitters, off-the-beaten-path trailheads, and seasonal river activities.
All content was written by our AI and may contain a few mistakes. We may earn commissions on some links. Last updated: Sun Dec 14, 2025, 2:46 AM