The Enchanting Pool of the Winds: Nature's Masterpiece
Discover the magical Pool of the Winds, a serene natural attraction in the Columbia River Gorge, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Nestled in the heart of Washington, the Pool of the Winds is a stunning natural attraction that captivates visitors with its breathtaking views and serene atmosphere. This picturesque site features cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and an inviting ambiance that makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Experience the beauty of the Columbia River Gorge as you explore the scenic trails and enjoy the sounds of nature in this remarkable setting.
A brief summary to Pool of the Winds
- Stevenson, Washington, 98648, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning waterfalls and surrounding landscapes.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the trails and exploring the area.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure the best experience.
- Consider visiting during the spring when the water flow is at its peak for the most impressive views.
Getting There
-
Car
From Portland, OR, take I-84 E towards The Dalles. Continue on I-84 E for about 40 miles until you reach exit 44 for WA-14 W towards Stevenson. Merge onto WA-14 W and drive for approximately 10 miles. Look for signs for Beacon Rock State Park, which is where the Pool of the Winds is located. Follow the signs to the park entrance, where you may need to pay a small entrance fee of $10 per vehicle.
-
Public Transportation
Take the Columbia Gorge Express bus from Portland to Hood River. The bus schedule varies, so check the current times at their website. Once in Hood River, transfer to the local transit service that connects to Stevenson, WA. You will need to check the local transit schedules for this connection. Upon arrival in Stevenson, follow the signs to Beacon Rock State Park, where Pool of the Winds is located. Be aware that you may incur costs for both the bus and park entrance fee of $10 per vehicle.
-
Walking
Once you arrive at Beacon Rock State Park, park your vehicle in the designated parking area. The Pool of the Winds is accessible via a short hiking trail from the parking lot. The trail is approximately 0.5 miles and is well-marked. Follow the signs for the Pool of the Winds, and enjoy the scenic views along the way. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the trail can be steep in some areas.
Discover more about Pool of the Winds
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
WA State Historical Marker - Beacon Rock
1.7 km
Explore Beacon Rock, a historic landmark in Washington, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region's natural and cultural history.
Historic Columbia River Highway state trail bridge at McCord Creek
3.5 km
Discover the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail Bridge, a perfect blend of history and breathtaking natural beauty in the Columbia River Gorge.
Elowah Falls
3.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Elowah Falls in Oregon, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush wilderness and scenic hiking trails, perfect for nature lovers.
Fort Cascades Historic Site
4.2 km
Explore the historical significance and breathtaking scenery at Fort Cascades Historic Site, a captivating landmark in North Bonneville, Washington.
Columbia River Highway Scenic Highway
5.7 km
Discover the stunning beauty of the Columbia River Highway Scenic Highway, a top destination for breathtaking views and outdoor adventures in Oregon.
St Peter's Dome
6.0 km
Discover St. Peter's Dome: A scenic paradise in Oregon offering breathtaking views, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
WA State Historical Marker #19 - Bridge of the Gods
8.9 km
Discover the Bridge of the Gods: A historical landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Columbia River Gorge.
The Oregon Pony
9.7 km
Discover The Oregon Pony, a historical landmark in Cascade Locks, Oregon, where rich heritage meets stunning scenery in the Pacific Northwest.
Punch Bowl Falls
9.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Punch Bowl Falls, a must-visit waterfall in Oregon's stunning Columbia River Gorge.
Cascade Locks Historical Museum
9.7 km
Explore the Cascade Locks Historical Museum, where history and culture converge in the heart of Oregon's breathtaking landscapes.
Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler
10.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Columbia River Gorge aboard the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler, an unforgettable cruise experience.
Columbia Gorge Museum
10.1 km
Discover the captivating history and stunning natural beauty at the Columbia Gorge Museum in Stevenson, WA, a gem for tourists and history enthusiasts alike.
Historical Marker
10.3 km
Discover the rich history of Cascade Locks at the Historical Marker, a key attraction for history enthusiasts and nature lovers in Oregon.
Wiesendanger Falls
10.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Wiesendanger Falls in the Columbia River Gorge, a top hiking destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Multnomah Falls Recreation Area
10.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Multnomah Falls Recreation Area, where cascading waterfalls and stunning hiking trails await every nature lover.
Unmissable attractions to see
Beacon Rock State Park
0.8 km
Explore Beacon Rock State Park, a natural wonder in Washington, where breathtaking hikes and stunning river views await every adventurer.
Beacon Rock Campground
1.2 km
Discover the tranquility of Beacon Rock Campground, a natural paradise offering camping, hiking, and stunning views in the Columbia River Gorge.
Hamilton Mountain Trailhead
1.3 km
Explore the scenic Hamilton Mountain Trailhead in Washington for breathtaking views, vibrant wildflowers, and stunning waterfalls.
Beacon Rock Trailhead
1.8 km
Explore stunning views and diverse wildlife at Beacon Rock Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in the Columbia River Gorge.
Beacon Rock Boat Launch
2.5 km
Discover the beauty of the Columbia River Gorge at Beacon Rock Boat Launch, the perfect destination for boating, fishing, and hiking adventures.
Elowah Falls Parking
3.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Elowah Falls, a stunning hiking area in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
John B. Yeon State Scenic Corridor
3.6 km
Experience the stunning views and rich natural beauty at John B. Yeon State Scenic Corridor, a must-visit state park in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge.
Upper McCord Creek Falls
3.9 km
Experience the natural beauty of Upper McCord Creek Falls in Cascade Locks, Oregon, where stunning scenery meets tranquil hiking trails.
Ft. Cascades Historic Site
4.2 km
Discover the historical significance and natural beauty of Ft. Cascades Historic Site in North Bonneville, Washington, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Bonneville Fish Hatchery
4.6 km
Explore the Bonneville Fish Hatchery in Cascade Locks, Oregon, where nature and education meet in a stunning riverside setting.
Wahclella Falls Trail
4.9 km
Experience the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Wahclella Falls Trail, a premier hiking destination in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge.
Historic Columbia River Hwy
5.0 km
Explore the Historic Columbia River Highway, a scenic drive through Oregon's breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and rich history.
Munra Falls
5.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Munra Falls in Oregon, a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Bradford Island Visitor Center
5.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge at Bradford Island Visitor Center, your gateway to the region's natural beauty and rich history.
East Fork Falls
5.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of East Fork Falls in Cascade Locks, Oregon – a serene retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Essential places to dine
Brigham Fish Market
9.4 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Brigham Fish Market in Cascade Locks - where local flavors meet stunning river views.
Cascade Dining Room
9.8 km
Experience American cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Cascade Dining Room in Skamania Lodge, Columbia River Gorge's culinary gem.
River Rock
9.8 km
Experience American cuisine with breathtaking views at River Rock in Stevenson, WA - perfect for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Big River Grill
11.6 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Big River Grill in Stevenson, WA – where local flavors meet hearty comfort food.
Ivy Bear Pizzeria
30.3 km
Experience the best pizza in Sandy, Oregon at Ivy Bear Pizzeria - where fresh ingredients meet local charm.
Riverview Restaurant
30.6 km
Experience exquisite Pacific Northwestern cuisine with Asian influences at Riverview Restaurant, where culinary artistry meets stunning river views.
Sugarpine Drive-In
30.6 km
Discover delightful American cuisine and irresistible ice cream at Sugarpine Drive-In, Troutdale's sweetest destination along the Columbia River Highway.
Rendezvous Grill
32.6 km
Discover the taste of Oregon at Rendezvous Grill – where delicious grilled dishes meet cozy ambiance in beautiful Welches.
Koya Kitchen
33.0 km
Discover Koya Kitchen in Welches, Oregon – where authentic Japanese flavors meet creative Asian fusion in an inviting atmosphere.
Mogul Mountain Pizza
33.3 km
Discover gourmet pizzas at Mogul Mountain Pizza in Welches, Oregon - your destination for delicious flavors amidst stunning natural beauty.
Barlow Trail Roadhouse
33.6 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Barlow Trail Roadhouse in Welches, OR - where hearty breakfasts meet rustic charm and local legends.
Zigzag Mountain Cafe
33.7 km
Discover the charm of Zigzag Mountain Cafe – where hearty breakfasts meet breathtaking mountain views in Rhododendron, Oregon.
ZigZag Inn
33.8 km
Discover family-friendly dining at ZigZag Inn in Welches, Oregon—your go-to spot for delicious pizza amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Altitude
34.2 km
Discover Altitude in Welches, Oregon – where American flavors meet breathtaking mountain views in a cozy restaurant setting.
Skyway Bar & Grill
34.4 km
Discover delicious grilled dishes and live music at Skyway Bar & Grill in Zigzag, Oregon – a perfect blend of flavor and entertainment.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Spruce Gifts and Provisions
4.6 km
Discover the charm of Cascade Locks at Spruce Gifts and Provisions, your go-to spot for unique local gifts and artisan treats.
Bridgeside
9.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Bridgeside in Cascade Locks, where local flavors meet breathtaking scenic views.
Bike the Gorge
9.5 km
Explore the stunning Columbia River Gorge with Bike the Gorge - your gateway to cycling adventures in Oregon's breathtaking landscapes.
Columbia Market
9.6 km
Discover local flavors and fresh produce in the heart of Cascade Locks at Columbia Market, your go-to grocery store for all your needs.
Eastwind Drive-In
9.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of classic American fast food and irresistible ice cream at Eastwind Drive-In in scenic Cascade Locks.
Bloomsbury of Kanaka Creek Farm
11.6 km
Experience the beauty of Bloomsbury of Kanaka Creek Farm, a florist and women's clothing store in Stevenson, WA, where nature meets style.
Carson General Store
17.8 km
Explore Carson General Store: Your one-stop shop for local treasures, snacks, and essentials in the heart of Washington's breathtaking landscapes.
Wind Mountain Ranch
20.6 km
Discover the enchanting Wind Mountain Ranch, a perfect wedding venue and retreat center nestled in the majestic Washington wilderness.
Cedar Creek Alpacas
30.4 km
Discover the charm of Cedar Creek Alpacas in Cook, WA, where you can connect with friendly alpacas and shop unique, locally-made products.
Pendleton
31.2 km
Discover Pendleton, Oregon - a shopper's paradise for unique clothing and home goods inspired by Native American heritage.
Columbia Gorge Outlets
31.2 km
Shop a variety of brands at Columbia Gorge Outlets while enjoying breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon.
Columbia Factory Store
31.2 km
Discover unbeatable deals on premium outdoor apparel at Columbia Factory Store in Troutdale, Oregon – the ultimate destination for adventure seekers.
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
31.2 km
Discover a delightful world of handcrafted chocolates and sweets at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in Oregon. Perfect for gifts and personal indulgence.
Artistree NW
31.3 km
Explore Artistree NW in Troutdale, OR – a charming gift shop filled with unique, handcrafted treasures celebrating local artistry and craftsmanship.
McMenamins Edgefield Gift Shop & Espresso Bar
32.7 km
Discover unique local gifts and savor delicious coffee at McMenamins Edgefield Gift Shop & Espresso Bar in scenic Troutdale, Oregon.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cascade Locks Ale House
9.5 km
Discover the Cascade Locks Ale House, where local brews meet stunning views in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge.
Gorges Beer Co.
9.7 km
Discover the best of Cascade Locks at Gorges Beer Co., where exquisite craft beers meet delicious local cuisine in a stunning riverside setting.
Rock Creek Tavern
11.3 km
Discover Rock Creek Tavern, a welcoming bar in Stevenson, WA, offering a vibrant atmosphere, local drinks, and a chance to connect with the community.
Walking Man Brewing
11.5 km
Experience the art of craft brewing at Walking Man Brewing, a must-visit destination for beer and pizza lovers in Stevenson, WA.
Red Bluff Tap House
11.5 km
Discover the flavors of Stevenson at Red Bluff Tap House – a must-visit gastropub featuring local cuisine and a vibrant craft beer selection.
Cascade Locks / Portland East KOA Holiday
12.0 km
Discover the Ultimate Camping Experience in the Heart of the Columbia River Gorge at Cascade Locks / Portland East KOA Holiday.
Bungalow Bar & Grill
17.5 km
Discover the charm of Bungalow Bar & Grill, your go-to spot for local brews and hearty meals in Carson, Washington.
Backwoods Brewing Company
17.8 km
Experience the best of local craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Backwoods Brewing Company in scenic Carson, WA.
Whistle Stop
32.4 km
Discover the charm of Whistle Stop in Welches, Oregon - a grill and breakfast restaurant offering delicious meals in a cozy ambiance.
Pub 26
32.7 km
Discover the unique charm of Pub 26 in Welches, Oregon, where craft beers and hearty meals meet a cozy mountain ambiance for an unforgettable experience.
The Beer Den
33.5 km
Experience the best of local brews at The Beer Den, Sandy's cozy pub with an inviting atmosphere and a fantastic selection of craft beers.
No Place Saloon
33.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of No Place Saloon in Sandy, Oregon, where good drinks and great entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.
Scooter's Restaurant & Sports Bar
34.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of delicious grilled fare and lively sports ambiance at Scooter's Restaurant & Sports Bar in Sandy, Oregon.
Red Carpet Inn
36.9 km
Experience the local charm and vibrant atmosphere of Red Carpet Inn, a must-visit bar in Hood River, Oregon, with craft drinks and live music.
Thirteen 0 One
38.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Thirteen 0 One, a must-visit bar in Hood River, offering craft cocktails and local brews in a welcoming setting.
