Explore the Serenity of Beacon Rock Boat Launch
Discover the natural beauty and outdoor activities at Beacon Rock Boat Launch, a serene gateway to the Columbia River's adventures.
Nestled along the tranquil shores of the Columbia River, Beacon Rock Boat Launch offers an idyllic setting for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. With stunning views of the iconic Beacon Rock and easy access to the water, this boat launch is the perfect gateway for a day of adventure.
A brief summary to Beacon Rock Boat Launch
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good parking spot, especially on weekends.
- Bring your own kayak or canoe for a fun day on the water.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views of Beacon Rock.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a pleasant experience.
Getting There
-
Public Bus
From the center of Hood River, head to the nearest bus stop at 1st and State Street. Take the Columbia Gorge Express bus towards Stevenson, WA. The bus operates several times a day, so check the schedule. Stay on the bus for approximately 20 minutes until you reach the Stevenson stop. Once you get off, walk for about 10 minutes towards Doetsch Ranch Rd. Follow the signs for Beacon Rock Boat Launch, and you will arrive at your destination.
-
Bicycle
If you prefer biking, rent a bike from one of the local shops in Hood River. Start from downtown Hood River and head west on Oak St towards the waterfront. Take the scenic Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail. After approximately 9 miles, you will reach the intersection with Doetsch Ranch Rd. Turn left and follow the road for about 1 mile to reach the Beacon Rock Boat Launch.
-
Walking
For the adventurous walker, you can take a scenic route. Start at the Hood River waterfront and walk towards the Hood River Bridge. Cross the bridge into Washington State. After crossing, continue walking north on Highway 14 for about 1.5 miles until you reach Doetsch Ranch Rd. Turn right and walk for another mile to reach the Beacon Rock Boat Launch.
Discover more about Beacon Rock Boat Launch
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
WA State Historical Marker - Beacon Rock
0.9 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
2.0 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
2.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Elowah Falls in Oregon, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush wilderness and scenic hiking trails, perfect for nature lovers.
St Peter's Dome
3.5 km
Discover St. Peter's Dome: A scenic paradise in Oregon offering breathtaking views, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Fort Cascades Historic Site
5.1 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
6.3 km
Discover the stunning beauty of the Columbia River Highway Scenic Highway, a top destination for breathtaking views and outdoor adventures in Oregon.
Multnomah Falls Lodge
9.0 km
Experience the beauty of Multnomah Falls Lodge, a serene retreat nestled in the stunning Columbia River Gorge, perfect for nature lovers and culinary enthusiasts.
Wahkeena Falls
9.8 km
Discover the breathtaking Wahkeena Falls in the Columbia River Gorge, where nature's beauty and adventure await in Oregon's stunning outdoors.
Fairy Falls
9.9 km
Discover Fairy Falls, Oregon's serene waterfall oasis, perfect for hiking, photography, and a peaceful escape into nature's beauty.
WA State Historical Marker #19 - Bridge of the Gods
10.2 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.
Bridge of the Gods
10.3 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of the Bridge of the Gods, a stunning suspension bridge in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge.
Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail - Bridge of the Gods Trailhead
10.5 km
Experience the stunning views and rich history along the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Oregon.
Thunder Island Brewing Co
10.8 km
Discover the flavors of Oregon at Thunder Island Brewing Co, where craft beer meets stunning views in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge.
Cascade Locks Marine Park
10.9 km
Explore the stunning Cascade Locks Marine Park, a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and rich history in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge.
Cascade Locks Historical Museum
11.0 km
Explore the Cascade Locks Historical Museum, where history and culture converge in the heart of Oregon's breathtaking landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Beacon Rock Trailhead
0.8 km
Explore stunning views and diverse wildlife at Beacon Rock Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in the Columbia River Gorge.
Hamilton Mountain Trailhead
1.3 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and thrilling trails at Hamilton Mountain Trailhead, the ultimate hiking destination in the Columbia River Gorge.
Beacon Rock Campground
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Beacon Rock Campground, a serene retreat surrounded by nature's wonders in the Columbia River Gorge.
Elowah Falls Parking
1.6 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.
Upper McCord Creek Falls
2.4 km
Explore Upper McCord Creek Falls: A Natural Wonder in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge with Stunning Views and Scenic Trails.
Pool of the Winds
2.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Pool of the Winds in Stevenson, WA, a serene waterfall surrounded by lush nature and stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge.
Historic Columbia River Hwy
2.6 km
Explore the Historic Columbia River Highway, a scenic drive through Oregon's breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and rich history.
John B. Yeon State Scenic Corridor
2.9 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.
Beacon Rock State Park
3.3 km
Explore Beacon Rock State Park, a natural wonder in Washington, where breathtaking hikes and stunning river views await every adventurer.
Ainsworth State Park
3.6 km
Discover Ainsworth State Park: A Scenic Retreat in the Columbia River Gorge, Perfect for Hiking, Picnicking, and Nature Photography.
Rock of Ages Arch
5.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Rock of Ages Arch in Cascade Locks, Oregon—a stunning natural landmark and hiking paradise in the Columbia River Gorge.
Ft. Cascades Historic Site
5.1 km
Discover the historical significance and natural beauty of Ft. Cascades Historic Site in North Bonneville, Washington, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Horsetail Falls
5.2 km
Experience the breathtaking cascades of Horsetail Falls, a stunning waterfall in the heart of Oregon's Columbia River Gorge, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Bonneville Fish Hatchery
5.2 km
Explore the Bonneville Fish Hatchery in Cascade Locks, Oregon, where nature and education meet in a stunning riverside setting.
Ponytail Falls
5.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ponytail Falls in Oregon, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts along the historic Columbia River Highway.
Essential places to dine
Brigham Fish Market
10.7 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Brigham Fish Market in Cascade Locks - where local flavors meet stunning river views.
Cascade Dining Room
11.6 km
Experience American cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Cascade Dining Room in Skamania Lodge, Columbia River Gorge's culinary gem.
River Rock
11.6 km
Experience American cuisine with breathtaking views at River Rock in Stevenson, WA - perfect for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Big River Grill
13.4 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Big River Grill in Stevenson, WA – where local flavors meet hearty comfort food.
Ivy Bear Pizzeria
27.8 km
Experience the best pizza in Sandy, Oregon at Ivy Bear Pizzeria - where fresh ingredients meet local charm.
Riverview Restaurant
29.1 km
Experience exquisite Pacific Northwestern cuisine with Asian influences at Riverview Restaurant, where culinary artistry meets stunning river views.
Sugarpine Drive-In
29.3 km
Discover delightful American cuisine and irresistible ice cream at Sugarpine Drive-In, Troutdale's sweetest destination along the Columbia River Highway.
Rendezvous Grill
30.2 km
Discover the taste of Oregon at Rendezvous Grill – where delicious grilled dishes meet cozy ambiance in beautiful Welches.
Koya Kitchen
30.6 km
Discover Koya Kitchen in Welches, Oregon – where authentic Japanese flavors meet creative Asian fusion in an inviting atmosphere.
Mogul Mountain Pizza
30.9 km
Discover gourmet pizzas at Mogul Mountain Pizza in Welches, Oregon - your destination for delicious flavors amidst stunning natural beauty.
Barlow Trail Roadhouse
31.3 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Barlow Trail Roadhouse in Welches, OR - where hearty breakfasts meet rustic charm and local legends.
Zigzag Mountain Cafe
31.4 km
Discover the charm of Zigzag Mountain Cafe – where hearty breakfasts meet breathtaking mountain views in Rhododendron, Oregon.
ZigZag Inn
31.5 km
Discover family-friendly dining at ZigZag Inn in Welches, Oregon—your go-to spot for delicious pizza amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Altitude
31.8 km
Discover Altitude in Welches, Oregon – where American flavors meet breathtaking mountain views in a cozy restaurant setting.
Skyway Bar & Grill
32.1 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
5.2 km
Discover the charm of Cascade Locks at Spruce Gifts and Provisions, your go-to spot for unique local gifts and artisan treats.
Bridgeside
10.6 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Bridgeside in Cascade Locks, where local flavors meet breathtaking scenic views.
Bike the Gorge
10.9 km
Explore the stunning Columbia River Gorge with Bike the Gorge - your gateway to cycling adventures in Oregon's breathtaking landscapes.
Columbia Market
10.9 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
11.0 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
13.3 km
Experience the beauty of Bloomsbury of Kanaka Creek Farm, a florist and women's clothing store in Stevenson, WA, where nature meets style.
Columbia River Gorge
17.2 km
Experience breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at the stunning Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, a must-visit for every nature lover.
Carson General Store
19.6 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
22.1 km
Discover the enchanting Wind Mountain Ranch, a perfect wedding venue and retreat center nestled in the majestic Washington wilderness.
Columbia Gorge Outlets
29.9 km
Shop a variety of brands at Columbia Gorge Outlets while enjoying breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon.
Pendleton
29.9 km
Discover Pendleton, Oregon - a shopper's paradise for unique clothing and home goods inspired by Native American heritage.
Columbia Factory Store
29.9 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
30.0 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
30.1 km
Explore Artistree NW in Troutdale, OR – a charming gift shop filled with unique, handcrafted treasures celebrating local artistry and craftsmanship.
Hoodland Thriftway
30.8 km
Discover local flavors at Hoodland Thriftway, your go-to grocery store in Welches, Oregon, offering fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cascade Locks Ale House
10.9 km
Discover the Cascade Locks Ale House, where local brews meet stunning views in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge.
Gorges Beer Co.
11.0 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
13.0 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
13.2 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
13.3 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
13.4 km
Discover the Ultimate Camping Experience in the Heart of the Columbia River Gorge at Cascade Locks / Portland East KOA Holiday.
Bungalow Bar & Grill
19.3 km
Discover the charm of Bungalow Bar & Grill, your go-to spot for local brews and hearty meals in Carson, Washington.
Backwoods Brewing Company
19.6 km
Experience the best of local craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Backwoods Brewing Company in scenic Carson, WA.
Whistle Stop
30.0 km
Discover the charm of Whistle Stop in Welches, Oregon - a grill and breakfast restaurant offering delicious meals in a cozy ambiance.
Pub 26
30.3 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
31.3 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
31.3 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
31.9 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
38.0 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
39.5 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.
