Driving the Historic Colombia River Highway in Oregon
Wednesday, August 31st, 2011I visited Portland, Oregon a few years ago. It’s a really nice city to visit, with a small city center that’s easy to walk around, and plenty to see and do. But all that walking can be tiring and I found it was pleasurable to get away from the city and take a drive. I was lucky enough to find out about the Historic Columbia River Highway which passes through the Columbia Gorge. This driving tour takes the better part of a day.
The highway actually begins easy of Portland – around sixteen miles from the city center. The starting point is Lewis and Clark State Park and the Sandy River an area popular with anglers and swimmers. From there head east to the Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpoint. This will give you your first view of the amazing Columbia Gorge. If you head to Crown Point you will be able to catch a view that will take your breath away as on a clear day you can see thirty miles down the gorge. Nearby is historic Vista House where you can check out the history of the area.
From Crown Point the highway will take you down into the gorge. You will pass many waterfalls on the journey including the Latourell Falls which drops down 249 feet. You can park your vehicle and take a hike up to the falls passing others on the way.
Further along the highway you will encounter the largest waterfall in Oregon, the Multnomah Falls. This is a very popular area for tourists. Again you can walk up a trail to view the falls. There is also a lodge situated at these falls and it includes snacks, gifts and a visitors center.
Heading eastwards the highway merges with I84. You will come across the Bonneville Lock and Dam which has a visitors center where you can study the history of the dam and its fish ladder. You may be able to view the fish including sturgeon, salmon and trout. Close by is Eagle Creek which has one of the best hiking spots in the whole Gorge. You can the access the Bridge of the Gods and the site of Cascade Locks. The locks were built as an alternative to the highway for visitors to travel via steamship. Cruises are still possible on the river during the summer months – another fantastic way to view the Columbia Gorge.
Article provided by Oregon DUI Attorney providing legal assistance throughout the state.
