Discover the Scenic Beauty of the Historic Columbia River Highway
Explore the Historic Columbia River Highway, a scenic gem in Oregon, showcasing stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and rich American history.
The Historic Columbia River Highway in Oregon offers breathtaking views, lush landscapes, and a glimpse into the region's storied past. Perfect for photography, hiking, and leisurely drives, it's a must-visit for any traveler.
A brief summary to Historic Columbia River Hwy
- Oregon, US
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic overlooks.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to hike; many trails are accessible directly from the highway.
- Check for seasonal closures or road work updates before your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in downtown Hood River, start at the waterfront park. Head east on Oak Street until you reach 1st Street. Turn left on 1st Street and walk for about 0.5 miles. You will cross the Hood River Bridge and continue on the pedestrian path. The Historic Columbia River Highway will be accessible just after the bridge. Follow the signs to the scenic viewpoints and trails along the highway.
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Biking
From downtown Hood River, rent a bike from one of the local rental shops. Start at the Hood River waterfront and head east along the Riverfront Trail. Continue biking towards the Hood River Bridge. Once you reach the bridge, take the pedestrian path to cross over. After crossing the bridge, follow the signs to access the Historic Columbia River Highway, where you can enjoy biking along the scenic routes.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer to use public transportation, you can take the local bus service from downtown Hood River. Look for the bus line that heads towards Cascade Locks. Get off at the stop closest to the Hood River Bridge. From there, you can walk the remaining distance to the Historic Columbia River Highway, which is just a short walk away and well-marked.
Discover more about Historic Columbia River Hwy
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Peter's Dome
1.1 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 - Beacon Rock
3.3 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
3.8 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.
Multnomah Falls Lodge
6.5 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.
Wahclella Falls Trail
7.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Wahclella Falls Trail in the Columbia River Gorge, where stunning waterfalls and lush forests await your discovery.
Fort Cascades Historic Site
7.6 km
Explore the historical significance and breathtaking scenery at Fort Cascades Historic Site, a captivating landmark in North Bonneville, Washington.
Ft. Cascades Historic Site
7.6 km
Explore the captivating history of Ft. Cascades Historic Site in North Bonneville, Washington, where the past meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Columbia River Highway Scenic Highway
8.6 km
Discover the stunning beauty of the Columbia River Highway Scenic Highway, a top destination for breathtaking views and outdoor adventures in Oregon.
Sherrard Point
8.6 km
Experience the breathtaking views and serene hiking trails at Sherrard Point in Cascade Locks, Oregon, a must-visit nature preserve in Columbia River Gorge.
Larch Mountain
8.9 km
Experience the breathtaking views and serene trails of Larch Mountain, a hidden gem in Oregon's stunning Cascade Range.
Larch Mountain Trail
9.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Larch Mountain Trail in Oregon, where lush forests meet stunning mountain vistas, perfect for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers.
Angel's Rest Lookout
9.6 km
Explore Angel's Rest Lookout in Oregon for breathtaking views and unforgettable hiking experiences in the stunning Columbia River Gorge.
Eagle Creek Trailhead
10.3 km
Explore the scenic trails and breathtaking waterfalls at Eagle Creek Trailhead in Cascade Locks, Oregon – a hiker's paradise amidst nature's beauty.
Angel's Rest Trailhead
11.2 km
Discover stunning views and invigorating trails at Angel's Rest Trailhead in Oregon's breathtaking Columbia River Gorge, a must-visit for nature lovers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ainsworth State Park
1.0 km
Discover Ainsworth State Park: A Scenic Retreat in the Columbia River Gorge, Perfect for Hiking, Picnicking, and Nature Photography.
Rock of Ages Arch
2.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Rock of Ages Arch in Cascade Locks, Oregon—a stunning natural landmark and hiking paradise in the Columbia River Gorge.
Horsetail Falls
2.5 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.
Ponytail Falls
2.6 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.
Beacon Rock Boat Launch
2.6 km
Discover the natural beauty and outdoor activities at Beacon Rock Boat Launch, a serene gateway to the Columbia River's adventures.
Oneonta Tunnel
2.9 km
Discover the historic Oneonta Tunnel in Cascade Locks, Oregon, a stunning blend of history and natural beauty in the Columbia River Gorge.
Elowah Falls Parking
3.1 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.
Beacon Rock Trailhead
3.2 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and breathtaking views at Beacon Rock Trailhead in the Columbia River Gorge, a hiker's paradise waiting to be discovered.
Upper Oneonta Falls
3.3 km
Explore the enchanting Upper Oneonta Falls in Cascade Locks, Oregon, where nature's beauty meets tranquility in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.
Oneonta Trailhead
3.3 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and trails at Oneonta Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Oregon's scenic Columbia River Gorge.
Oneonta Gorge
3.5 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Oneonta Gorge, a hidden gem in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Triple Falls
3.6 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Triple Falls in Oregon, where nature's splendor meets adventure in a captivating waterfall landscape.
Hamilton Mountain Trailhead
3.7 km
Discover stunning views, lush forests, and refreshing waterfalls at Hamilton Mountain Trailhead in the scenic Columbia River Gorge.
Beacon Rock Campground
3.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Beacon Rock Campground, a serene retreat surrounded by nature's wonders in the Columbia River Gorge.
Upper McCord Creek Falls
3.9 km
Explore Upper McCord Creek Falls: A Natural Wonder in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge with Stunning Views and Scenic Trails.
Essential places to dine
Brigham Fish Market
13.2 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Brigham Fish Market in Cascade Locks - where local flavors meet stunning river views.
Cascade Dining Room
14.2 km
Experience American cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Cascade Dining Room in Skamania Lodge, Columbia River Gorge's culinary gem.
River Rock
14.2 km
Experience American cuisine with breathtaking views at River Rock in Stevenson, WA - perfect for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Big River Grill
16.0 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Big River Grill in Stevenson, WA – where local flavors meet hearty comfort food.
Ivy Bear Pizzeria
25.5 km
Experience the best pizza in Sandy, Oregon at Ivy Bear Pizzeria - where fresh ingredients meet local charm.
Riverview Restaurant
26.8 km
Experience exquisite Pacific Northwestern cuisine with Asian influences at Riverview Restaurant, where culinary artistry meets stunning river views.
Sugarpine Drive-In
27.1 km
Discover delightful American cuisine and irresistible ice cream at Sugarpine Drive-In, Troutdale's sweetest destination along the Columbia River Highway.
Rendezvous Grill
28.5 km
Discover the taste of Oregon at Rendezvous Grill – where delicious grilled dishes meet cozy ambiance in beautiful Welches.
Koya Kitchen
28.9 km
Discover Koya Kitchen in Welches, Oregon – where authentic Japanese flavors meet creative Asian fusion in an inviting atmosphere.
Mogul Mountain Pizza
29.2 km
Discover gourmet pizzas at Mogul Mountain Pizza in Welches, Oregon - your destination for delicious flavors amidst stunning natural beauty.
Barlow Trail Roadhouse
29.7 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Barlow Trail Roadhouse in Welches, OR - where hearty breakfasts meet rustic charm and local legends.
Zigzag Mountain Cafe
29.8 km
Discover the charm of Zigzag Mountain Cafe – where hearty breakfasts meet breathtaking mountain views in Rhododendron, Oregon.
ZigZag Inn
29.9 km
Discover family-friendly dining at ZigZag Inn in Welches, Oregon—your go-to spot for delicious pizza amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Altitude
30.1 km
Discover Altitude in Welches, Oregon – where American flavors meet breathtaking mountain views in a cozy restaurant setting.
Mallards Café & Pub
30.5 km
Experience delightful dining at Mallards Café & Pub in Oregon's Mt. Hood region with stunning views and a diverse menu perfect for every palate.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Spruce Gifts and Provisions
7.5 km
Discover the charm of Cascade Locks at Spruce Gifts and Provisions, your go-to spot for unique local gifts and artisan treats.
Bridgeside
13.0 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Bridgeside in Cascade Locks, where local flavors meet breathtaking scenic views.
Bike the Gorge
13.3 km
Explore the stunning Columbia River Gorge with Bike the Gorge - your gateway to cycling adventures in Oregon's breathtaking landscapes.
Columbia Market
13.4 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
13.5 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
15.9 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
19.7 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
22.2 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
24.5 km
Discover the enchanting Wind Mountain Ranch, a perfect wedding venue and retreat center nestled in the majestic Washington wilderness.
Columbia Gorge Outlets
27.7 km
Shop a variety of brands at Columbia Gorge Outlets while enjoying breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon.
Columbia Factory Store
27.7 km
Discover unbeatable deals on premium outdoor apparel at Columbia Factory Store in Troutdale, Oregon – the ultimate destination for adventure seekers.
Pendleton
27.8 km
Discover Pendleton, Oregon - a shopper's paradise for unique clothing and home goods inspired by Native American heritage.
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
27.8 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
27.9 km
Explore Artistree NW in Troutdale, OR – a charming gift shop filled with unique, handcrafted treasures celebrating local artistry and craftsmanship.
Next Adventure Sandy Outdoor Store
28.9 km
Your ultimate destination for outdoor gear and adventure in Sandy, Oregon – from camping to skiing, we have it all!
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cascade Locks Ale House
13.3 km
Discover the Cascade Locks Ale House, where local brews meet stunning views in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge.
Gorges Beer Co.
13.5 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
15.6 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
15.8 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
15.8 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
15.9 km
Discover the Ultimate Camping Experience in the Heart of the Columbia River Gorge at Cascade Locks / Portland East KOA Holiday.
Bungalow Bar & Grill
21.9 km
Discover the charm of Bungalow Bar & Grill, your go-to spot for local brews and hearty meals in Carson, Washington.
Backwoods Brewing Company
22.2 km
Experience the best of local craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Backwoods Brewing Company in scenic Carson, WA.
Whistle Stop
28.3 km
Discover the charm of Whistle Stop in Welches, Oregon - a grill and breakfast restaurant offering delicious meals in a cozy ambiance.
Pub 26
28.6 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
28.6 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
28.7 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
29.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of delicious grilled fare and lively sports ambiance at Scooter's Restaurant & Sports Bar in Sandy, Oregon.
Ram's Head Bar
39.8 km
Discover the rustic charm of Ram's Head Bar in Government Camp, a welcoming spot for food, drinks, and mountain tales after your adventures.
Y'Bar
39.9 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Y'Bar, a cozy bar in Government Camp offering local drinks and delightful bites for every taste.
