This Columbia River Gorge Itinerary has one mission: to help you discover the best of the 90-mile canyon separating Washington and Oregon state.
The area’s stunning landscape is dotted with hikes, jaw-dropping waterfalls, and scenic lookouts perfect for taking in breathtaking views. Plus the land is super fertile so there are a ton of farms, breweries, and wineries too.
Whether you’re looking to make a day trip from Portland or spend a few days exploring this gorgeous geological area, here is everything you must do plotted on an easy-to-follow Columbia River Gorge itinerary!
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The Columbia River Gorge is at the upper left corner of the United States in the lush Pacific Northwest. It starts about 30 minutes east of Portland and ends around a town called Biggs Junction about 1.5 hours east.
You can take this stunning scenic drive in about 2 hours with no stop, but trust me, you’ll want to stop. There is so much beautiful scenery it blows my mind that this area isn’t a national park!
Columbia River Gorge Itinerary
This itinerary assumes you’ll start in Portland, Oregon and have access to a car.
Day 1: Falls closest to Portland
Stops: Vista House, Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Horsetail Falls (driving directions)
Vista House
website | directions | viewpoint | gift shop and restrooms available when open | accessible
Vista House is the first landmark on the Historic Columbia River Highway. It’s a viewpoint sitting on a bluff with the most epic, uninterrupted view of the Columbia River Gorge. The best part is you can drive right up to it and get out without hiking. In fact, the building is fully accessible.
The Friends of Vista House is a nonprofit group that maintains the historic structure in partnership with Oregon State Parks. The building was constructing in 1917 to inspire travelers to visit the area and have a place to rest. It looks sort of like an observatory, with a dome you can climb for an even higher view of the Columbia River Gorge.
Pro tip: Vista House’s hours change throughout the season. If it’s not open you won’t have access to the restroom or their gift shop, but you can still take in the views from outside of the building.
Latourell falls
website | directions | hike (~2 miles roundtrip) | restrooms available
Less than 10 minutes from Vista House is Latourell Fall, the closest waterfall to Portland. If you choose to do the whole hike, you can expect to cover 600 feet on a loop that leave you moderately exerted. The whole trip should take about 1.5 to 2 hours.
However, you can choose to just walk about 1/4 of a mile up to the first viewpoint and skip the hike. The hike will take you to the base of the falls for a closer look at the canyon walls the water plummets from, but you can get great pictures of the waterfall cascading down the black stone covered in green lichen without the exertion.
Bridal veil falls
website | directions | hike (~0.6 mile roundtrip) | restrooms available
Six minutes from Latourell Falls is Bridal Veil Falls. There’s a paved trail that takes you from the parking lot toward the scenic lookouts. You can choose to do the 1/2 mile lookout only or do the full 2/3 mile hike closer to the falls.
If you do the full hike, you’ll eventually come to stairs and a steeper section before crossing a small bridge and taking steps back up toward the falls. While this is a short hike, there are moments you’ll be out of breath. However, it’s not too difficult.
Once at the falls, I remember thinking, “Well, hot damn it does kind of look like a bride’s veil cascading down the rocks.” The falls aren’t as big as some of the others on this Columbia River Gorge itinerary, but the two drops in short succession make for an interesting shape worth seeing.
horsetail & Ponytail falls
website | directions | hike (~0.8 miles roundtrip) | no restrooms
About 15 minutes from Bridal Veil Falls is my favorite falls in the Columbia River Gorge, Horsetail Falls. On the way you’ll pass the obscenely crowded and popular Multnomah Falls (don’t worry, you’re headed there tomorrow). I always wonder why those people don’t make their way over to this gem, but I’m pleased they don’t!
As soon as you arrive you’ll see Horsetail Falls raging across from the parking lot. A lot of people only get out to take a few pictures of these falls, but I recommend taking the short hike up to Ponytail Falls (also known as Upper Horsetail Falls).
You’ll gain about 320 feet in elevation on this hike. The trail starts to the left of Horsetail Falls. I think it confuses a lot of people because the trail seems overgrown and the way the switchbacks climb up makes it look like an unsurmountable side of the mountain, but it’s not that hard of a climb.
You’ll get some views of the Columbia River Gorge through the trees, but the real show of this hike is the fact that it actually takes you behind Ponytail Falls. If it’s raining on a weekday, guaranteed you’ll have the whole place to yourself. It’s a truly magical experience when that happens!
Day 2: More falls and beers
Stops: Multnomah Falls, Wahclella Falls, Cascade Locks, Catherine’s Creek (driving directions)
Multnomah falls
website | directions | viewpoint (with option to hike) | gift shop and restrooms available | accessible
Multnomah Falls is the place everyone goes when planning a Columbia River Gorge itinerary. As a result, it’s the most crowded of all the attractions, with about 2 million people visiting each year. In fact, it’s gotten so popular that timed reservations are required late May through September.
Given the touristy nature of this place, it goes without saying that you should get here as early as you’re able to. Even with the crowds though, it is a truly dreamy waterfall. It’s actually the biggest in the Columbia Gorge…so big, in fact, you can see it from the highway and parking lot!
The viewpoint is accessed via a short walk up a paved trail. There are two viewpoints: one toward the base of the lower falls and one on the iconic Benson Bridge that you’ll see spanning the top of the lower falls.
Pro tip: There are also a few hiking options from Multnomah Falls if you’re interested in a leg burner, but they aren’t always open depending on the weather. Check these before you head out:
Wahclella falls
website | directions | hike (~1.9 miles roundtrip) | no flushable restrooms | day pass required
Wahclella Falls is a lesser-talked-about waterfall about 15 minutes east of Multnomah Falls. You access it via a relatively easy hike through the forest and a slot canyon.
The final destination is a 350-foot, two-tier waterfall. The lower falls are larger and plummet into a splash pool where you may see salmon spawning in late fall.
Visit a brewery
The town of Cascade Locks, Oregon about 10-minutes east of Wahclella Falls marks a lot of things. First, it marks the end of the Columbia Gorge section that has the highest concentration of waterfalls. While there are a few to the east, most people visit the ones to the west of Cascade Locks on their Columbia River Gorge itinerary.
Second, Cascade Locks is a junction for getting to the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge. You can cross the impressive Bridge of the Gods spanning the Columbia River for access to trails, viewpoints, wineries, and breweries on the other side of the Gorge.
Speaking of breweries, it’s time to get some beers after a long day of sightseeing. You can stay on the Oregon side of the Gorge and visit Thunder Island Brewing or make your way over to Washington to visit Walking Man Brewing in Stevenson or Backwoods Brewing Company in Carson. Both of the Washington breweries have pizza and other snacks, which would make the perfect late lunch or early dinner.
Catherine creek Recreation area
website | directions | park | no restrooms
After you get your fill of beer, make the 30-35 minute drive to Catherine Creek on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge. It has a network of paved trails that bikers, hikers, and equestrians share overlooking the Columbia River.
The 1.9-mile Catherine Creek Loop is a great option, but really any trail that looks interesting to you will do. Make sure to bring your camera because you won’t be able to stop taking photos!
Day 3: Hood River area
Stops: Dog Mountain, Hawkins Cellars, White Salmon, Hood River, Hiyu Farms (driving directions)
Go on a hike
Wake up early to stretch your legs on a proper hike. There are a few to choose from depending on where you’re staying.
Dog Mountain is a popular ~6.5-mile hike that should take you about 4.5 – 5 hours given the ~3,000 foot elevation gain. This challenging hike takes you to a lookout, on a cliff, and in a meadow filled will wildflowers in the spring.
The reward makes it well worth the effort. This is a good hike if you’re staying between Cascade Locks or Hood River since it’s only 20 minutes from each town. Note, springtime hikers need a permit to visit Dog Mountain.
Angel’s Rest is another hiking option best suited for those staying in Portland. It’s a ~4.5-mile out and back trail that gains about ~1,500 feet in elevation. It’s rated as moderate and should take you about 3-3.5 hours with a nice break at the top with 360-degree views of the gorge.
Visit a washington winery
Assuming you do Dog Mountain, you’ll be on the Washington side of the Gorge. This Columbia River Gorge itinerary wouldn’t be complete without some visits to Gorge wineries! That’s because it’s home to the Columbia Gorge AVA, a 40-mile stretch of wine region that’s home to more than 50 wineries.
Since you’ll be facing Oregon, many of the Gorge wineries have epic views of Mount Hood in the distance. You could spend a full day tasting the juicy red wines from this region, but there are a few worth seeking out when you only have time to visit a few wineries.
Hawkins Cellars is my top recommendation based on where you’ll be on your itinerary. It’s a boutique winery making yummy reds with great outdoor seating staring at Mt. Hood’s snowy peak.
Le Doubblé Troubblé Wine is another great choice. It’s a tasting room in downtown White Salmon owned by two ski bum friends who wanted to be closer to the best Mt. Hood ski areas. What it lacks in vineyard ambiance it makes up for with incredible pinot noirs made with grapes sources from area vineyards.
Since you’ll be getting lunch in White Salmon, you can also try to fit both of these wineries into your itinerary!
Get lunch in white salmon
White Salmon is a quaint town in Washington just across from Hood River. There are a few different dining establishments, but my go-to is White Salmon Bakery. It has excellent toasts, desserts, pizza, and more. There will likely be a line on weekends, but don’t worry, it moves quickly.
Feast is another option in White Salmon. I went here for dinner and loved everything we got. It’s a bit fancier than White Salmon Bakery, but open later in the day. It’s a good alternative if the bakery is closed when you get to the area.
Explore hood river
Make your way over the bridge back to the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge. Hood River is a quaint town with a few shops, tasting rooms, and breweries. Walk around at your leisure popping into places of interest.
Grassland Barbecue is a great food truck to stop at if you’re still feeling peckish. They make amazing brisket, pulled pork, and cheddar pepper sausage.
Ferment Brewing is right next to Grassland Barbecue. They’re my favorite brewery in Hood River thanks to their stunning architecture and beers. Come here for a great view of the Columbia River while throwing back a tasting flight.
Visit an oregon winery
Now that you’re on the other side of the Gorge, finish your Columbia River Gorge itinerary with a wine tasting at an Oregon winery.
Idiot’s Grace is a great choice for those who are interested in organic wines. They have a quaint tasting room with a dog that will greet you when you arrive. They also often have little nibbles laid out. The must-try here is the cab franc if they’re pouring it!
Hiyu Farms is my other favorite winery to visit. It’s one of the best wineries in the Pacific Northwest thanks to their focus on organic farming of not only grapes but other crops. If it works out timing wise, I highly recommend doing their farm lunch or tavern tasting. The food they produce is outstanding!
Tips for your Columbia Gorge Itinerary
Here are tips for making the most of your Columbia River Gorge itinerary.
Best time to visit columbia river gorge
Pretty much any season is a good season for visiting Columbia River Gorge, but each has its pros and cons.
Summer has the best weather and longer days for fitting more in. However, it’s often crowded with other visitors also looking to escape the city life. It can get especially crowded on the weekend. Pair that with hotter weather and some people might find this season less enjoyable.
Fall is a fantastic time to visit and my personal favorite. In late October the leaves turn vibrant autumn hues and you can do apple picking at one of the various orchards on the Hood River Fruit Loop. The Hood River U-Pick orchard is one of my favorites!
Note the fruit loop is also great in the summer with berry farms and farm stands, but remember, more people.
Winter is the least popular time to go because there will most likely be rain and the days are shorter. However, there will be way less people, so if you’re ok hiking in the rain you can have a really secluded trip.
Spring is one of the other most popular times to visit Columbia River Gorge because of the wildflowers. There may still be rain, and it gets crowded on some hikes known for their flower meadows, but this is another good time to go with less crowds.
What to bring
Here’s what you want to make sure you bring with you during your itinerary for Columbia River Gorge:
- Hiking boots and socks (plus a change of slip on shoes and socks)
- Lightweight backpack
- Plenty of water
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Hat
- Winter hat and gloves if it’s the cold season
- Sunglasses
- Hiking pants or shorts
- Layers of t-shirts, long sleeves, and jackets
- Raincoat with hood in case it rains
- Snacks like nuts and granola bars
- First aid kit with hiker essentials
- Flashlight or headlight in case you get stuck in the dark
- Toilet paper and plastic bags just in case
- Hand sanitizer
- Camera and cell phone
- Cable car charger for your phone
- Printed map and directions in case of spotty cell phone service
- A dope music playlist
- Cash or BreezeBy for tolls when you cross bridge between Washington and Oregon
Also, let’s talk about what to bring HOME with you: everything! You should follow the Leave No Trace principles and leave trails and viewpoints exactly how you found them. That means bringing trash and even picking up what others leave behind.
Where to stay
You can easily stay in Portland and head back every night to do this Columbia River Gorge itinerary. While not as convenient, I’ve done it and it wasn’t a big deal.
However, if you want to make the most of your trip and reduce driving time, staying in Hood River or White Salmon is a great choice. You could also get a place in Cascade Locks, but I suggest doing that for just one night before moving onto Hood River or White Salmon.
Check out my guide with 52 of the best winter cabins in Oregon to find cozy, Instagram-worthy places to stay in Columbia River Gorge.
What to prep Before you go
Before heading out on this Columbia Gorge itinerary, make sure to:
- Check the weather. This will help you know what to wear.
- Check for trail closures. Reading recent hiker comments is a great idea.
- Check road conditions. Roads may be closed if it’s winter or there’s been heavy rain.
- Check the hours of your stops. Places like Vista House and wineries change their hours regularly, so make sure everything is open. This may also help you plan restroom stops.
Avoiding Crowds
The best way to avoid crowds is to visit during off times. This means the fall or winter on a weekday in the early morning or late afternoon. The crowds will be even thinner if you brave it in the rain!
If you only have one day
This Columbia River Gorge itinerary assumes you have three days, but if you can only make a day trip from Portland to the area, here are my recommended stops (in order):
- Vista House
- Latourell Falls (viewpoint only)
- Multnomah Falls (viewpoint only)
- Horsetail Falls
- Grasslands Barbecue and Frement Brewing in Hood River for lunch or the farm lunch wine tasting at Hiyu Farms
- Wine tasting at Idiot’s Grace
- Hood River U-Pick if it’s in season
Columbia Gorge Map
Here’s my personal map of Columbia River Gorge. It has the stops on your itinerary, as well as other places I like or need to try.
Want to customize this itinerary?
Planning a trip takes a ton of work. Delegate the work to me and I’ll plan you a custom itinerary full of your favorite things to do!
More to explore in Oregon
Have more time in the Beaver State? Check out my other guides to Oregon to find other things to do after your Columbia River Gorge itinerary!
- Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Columbia Gorge
- The Ultimate Portland Itinerary
- Fun Places to Eat in Portland
- Where to Go Wine Tasting Near Portland
- The Best Restaurants in Oregon Wine Country
- Magical Glamping in Oregon Wine Country
- What to See on the Oregon Coast Besides Cannon Beach
- Where to Stay in Eugene, Oregon
- The Definitive Guide to 5th Street Public Market
- Breakdown of All the Mt. Hood Ski Areas
