Thanks to an increasing desire to travel to the less-visited, more quiet landscapes here in the US, in-the-know travelers have been buzzing about the Pacific Northwest’s Columbia River Gorge—and it’s easy to see why. Splitting Washington and Oregon in two, this National Scenic Area stretches for over 80 miles while the river winds westward through the Cascade Range, creating a dreamy borderline area between these two states. It’s a rare collision of natural drama and small-town ease, where canyons are carved from Ice Age floods, fast-moving rivers are perfect for paddling and rafting, and rolling hills are lined with vineyards, lavender farms, and forested trails. Protected for its ecological and visual beauty, the Gorge has become a low-key luxury escape for insiders, where days are spent chasing waterfalls and sipping cool-climate Chardonnay, and nights end in treehouse cabins, riverside hot tubs, or under canvas gazing at stars.
With new design-forward stays opening on both sides of the river, plus better public transportation options becoming available from nearby Portland, it’s no wonder the region is expected to draw more visitors in the coming year. But beyond the jaw-dropping landscapes, there’s a real sense of place—one that thrives thanks to local businesses and grassroots organizations. From the independent shops in White Salmon, Washington, to the family-run adventure groups in Hood River, Oregon, this region relies on curious travelers doing their best to preserve the local charm. Continued exploring here means supporting the mom-and-pop operations that define the soul of the Gorge—so keep the small vibrancy of these communities in mind when you go (and hence, resist the creeping tide of chain stores and big brands that could change its heart).
That said, whether you’re here for wildflower hikes, wine weekends, or to slow down in a fertile, scenic corner of the Pacific Northwest—you’ll find yourself surrounded by what makes the Gorge unforgettable: big views, fresh air, and a sense that you’ve stumbled into something both grounded and extraordinary. Read on for all there is to know about traveling to this underrated pocket of this region—and why it’s calling visitors, now.
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FAQ:
When is the best time to visit the Columbia River Gorge?
The Gorge is stunning year-round, but late spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) are ideal for mild weather, lighter crowds, and vibrant blooms or fall foliage, respectively. Summer offers sunshine and full access to trails and vineyards, but can get hot and busy, especially on weekends. Winter brings dramatic frozen waterfalls and solitude—best for seasoned hikers or cozy cabin stays. Choose your timing based on whether you’re chasing wildflowers, wine tastings, waterfall hikes, or winter quiet.
How do I get to the Columbia River Gorge?
Most visitors start in Portland—just 45 to 90 minutes away by car, depending on your destination. Take I-84 for the Oregon side or scenic Highway 14 for the Washington side. Car-free options (while not recommended, given the spread-out nature of the region) include the Columbia Gorge Express bus and guided shuttles from Portland for hiking or wine tours. While you’ll experience much less than with a car, local buses and bike-friendly transit make quick exploring without a car doable, especially in peak seasons (and when staying at a hotel with convenient programming).
Where should I stay in the Columbia River Gorge?
If you’re focused on wine tasting and waterfalls, stay in Hood River at a central downtown Airbnb. For trail access and small-town vibes, White Salmon offers walkable inns, spacious group rentals, and peaceful cabins in nearby Husum Valley. Nature lovers should opt for elevated cabin or glamping experiences (like Under Canvas or Skamania Lodge)—both offer immersive stays near trails, ziplines, and the forest. For ultimate privacy, romantic retreats like Tenzen Springs or riverside cottages in Stevenson, Washington, give you hot tubs, soaking pools, and views worth lingering over.
What should my itinerary include?
Start with waterfalls—Multnomah, Wahclella, and Panther Creek are must-sees. Add in a bike ride with Bike the Gorge (e-bikes make it easy), then spend an afternoon wine tasting at Syncline or South Hill Vineyards. Reserve time for Hood River’s breweries or a sunset picnic on the Washington side with views of Mount Hood. Round it out with quirky shops and bakeries in White Salmon, or a white-water rafting trip with Wet Planet if you’re feeling adventurous.
Where to eat
In an area as wide and wild as the Columbia River Gorge, dining options can be spread out—so it’s worth plotting your meals with intention. For the most vibrant pockets of food culture, aim for White Salmon on the Washington side, or Hood River across the bridge in Oregon. These two small towns pack a punch when it comes to local flavor, with everything from high-end tasting menus to artisan pastries and nostalgic roadside bites.
In White Salmon, start your day at White Salmon Baking Co., a warm, well-loved, and wood-firing bakery known for its heirloom grain pastries, rich seasonal galettes, and rustic loaves. Locals queue up for the croissants and polenta cake, and the shaded patio offers views of Mount Hood. Just down the street, Feast Market and Delicatessen is your go-to for trail snacks and gourmet provisions—think cured meats, cheeses, and handmade sandwiches that travel well. Over in Hood River, Common House serves as a stylish hybrid: wine bar, bottle shop, and pop-up kitchen space with events like Detroit-style pizza nights and visiting chefs. For a more elevated evening, Votum brings a touch of fine dining to this otherwise laid-back town, with a hyperlocal tasting menu from a team with Michelin credentials.
And if you’re headed in or out via Portland, don’t miss a stop at Sugarpine Drive-In in Troutdale, perched beside the Sandy River. It’s a modern take on the classic roadside diner—soft serve, smashburgers, and seasonal specials served under string lights and towering evergreens.
Where to stay
In Hood River, the Columbia Gorge Hotel and Spa is a polished classic, complete with grand river views, curated packages, and a full-service spa set within historic grounds. A short walk away from the hotel, a standout downtown Airbnb—set in a converted railroad building with two bedrooms—offers soaring ceilings, vinyl records, and rooftop views of the river and passing trains. Across the river in Washington, The Inn at White Salmon places you right in the heart of a vibrant little town, with cafés, wine bars, and trailheads all minutes away. Larger groups can check into The NeuHaus, a midcentury-style home with panoramic views of Mount Hood and the Gorge, or a rustic Airbnb cabin tucked above a ranch in the Husum Valley (elk and turkey sightings are likely).
The newly opened Under Canvas Columbia River Gorge delivers a dreamy stay in luxe safari tents with West Elm furnishings and front-row views of Mount Hood—all wrapped in wilderness. Just down the road, Skamania Lodge in Stevenson is a full-scale resort with lodge rooms, villas, glamping, and treehouses, plus on-site ziplining, golf, and forest trails. Also in Stevenson, Wilder and Pine Riverside Cottages offer riverfront cabins with woodsy flair and on-site soaking pools, while Tenzen Springs is a dreamy six-cabin hideaway with Scandinavian-interiors and Japanese-exteriors, private geothermal tubs, and bluff-top views of Wind Mountain and the Silver Star Scenic Area. For something more bucket-list worthy and offbeat, book this A-frame Airbnb in Yacolt, Washington. Tucked in trees along the Lewis River with a private hot tub and swimming beach, it’s the ultimate treehouse escape.
Where to play
Adventure here runs on fresh air, rushing water, and sweeping scenic beauty. I discovered Bike the Gorge while I was staying at Under Canvas myself—they offer e-bike rentals (as well as cruisers, trikes, and kids’ gear) so you can follow car-free waterfall trails along the Historic Columbia River Highway. My partner and I trailed the lush and winding trails together with Bluetooth helmets, which let us talk as we rode—it was oddly romantic, and a low-effort way to stay connected.
