If you enjoy waterfalls and epic views, Columbia River Gorge should be on your USA bucket list! The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area extends 80-miles long and gets up to 4,000 feet deep. The gorge sits on the border between Washington and Oregon, right next to the city of Portland, OR.
The area is most famous for its waterfalls (and you’ll see several of them on this itinerary!). There are several epic waterfalls that are 100s of feet tall. Some are easily accessible, while others require hiking. The area is also known for its stunning views of the Columbia River, wildflowers and massive cliffs. Plus, you can visit fruit stands and snowy mountain peaks nearby.
This Columbia River Gorge itinerary is action-packed with hiking trails and scenic views. It’s based on my experience spending several weeks in the area in May of 2024. I hope it helps you plan an epic Oregon road trip!
If you’re new to hiking, check out my beginner hiking tips and day hike packing list.
When to Visit Columbia River Gorge
Columbia River Gorge is beautiful to visit year round. Summer is the most popular time to visit. You’ll have warm weather, but high crowds in the more popular areas.
Spring and fall tend to be the best time to visit Columbia River Gorge. April into May is an incredible time to see the wildflowers in peak bloom. Plus, the waterfalls will be flowing stronger and you’ll likely have nice, mild weather. Fall is a great time to enjoy brilliant fall foliage, which occurs in September and October.
The winter often brings cloudy and rainy days, and snow in some areas. However, if you don’t mind the potential of rain or snow, this is a quiet and peaceful time of year to explore.
How to Get To Columbia River Gorge
If you’re flying in to visit Columbia River Gorge, I recommend flying into Portland and renting a car. The famous Multnomah Falls is located just 30 minutes from downtown Portland.
Columbia River Gorge is also located 3 hours South of Seattle, making it a great destination on a big Pacific Northwest road trip!
Things to Know Before Visiting Columbia River Gorge
- Please make sure to leave no trace when you visit! That includes packing out all your trash, following rules for campfires, never feeding or approaching wildlife, and staying on marked trails. Learn more about being a good visitor at lnt.org.
- Most of the destinations on this itinerary are inside of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, and parts of the scenic area require a day use fee. A one day pass costs $5, but you can also display a Northwest Forest Pass ($30 per year) or an interagency pass such as the America the Beautiful National Park Pass.
- If you’re visiting during the spring and would like to see epic wildflowers, Dog Mountain is a popular choice. But keep in mind that a permit is typically required for this trail on weekends between the end of April and mid-June.
- Reservations are typically required to park at Multnomah Falls during the summer months.
How to Spend 4 Days in Columbia River Gorge
This 4 Day Columbia River Gorge itinerary is action-packed and includes a lot of hiking. If you prefer to take things slower, you may want to take a longer trip or pick your highest priorities.
Columbia River Gorge Itinerary - Day One
Chase some of the most popular waterfalls in Columbia River Gorge, such as Multnomah Falls and Wahkeena Falls.
Multnomah Falls
Visiting Multnomah Falls is one of the best things to do in Columbia River Gorge for good reason. It’s 620 feet tall, making it the tallest waterfall in the gorge.
There are a couple of different parking lots that you can use to visit. The free parking is accessed from the highway and you’ll want to be sure to navigate there instead of the waterfall itself.
There is also a private, paid lot right across the waterfall, but space is limited.
For the past few years, a reservation has been required to park in this lot between the end of the May and early September, between 9AM and 6PM. As of this writing, details have not yet been confirmed for 2025. Personally, I recommend arriving before 9AM anyway so that you can avoid the larger crowds and start your day earlier. After all, this is an action-packed itinerary.
The waterfall itself is stunning. It has 2 tiers and a small, picturesque bridge in front of it. You can take a short hike up to the bridge (about a quarter mile, paved) to get a closer look.
There are also longer trails that you can begin from Multnomah Falls. One great choice to hike the Wahkeena and Multnomah Falls loop, which is 5.1 miles and 1,640 feet of elevation gain. You can also hike 2.3 miles (round trip) to reach the top of the falls.
Next to Multnomah, there’s a cafe and gift shop. This waterfall is a must for anyone’s first visit to Columbia River Gorge!
Ponytail and Horsetail Falls
After Multnomah Falls, spend your day exploring some of the other stunning waterfalls nearby. I recommend making your way from East to West.
The first short trail I recommend is Horsetail and Ponytail Falls. Horsetail Falls can be enjoyed right off the road, and Ponytail Falls requires a short hike.
There are a couple large switchbacks, but it’s a short trek to reach Ponytail Falls. It’s an extra neat waterfall because you can walk behind it under a cave overhang!
If you’re up for a longer adventure, you can also start at this trailhead to reach Oneonta Falls and Triple Falls.
Wahkeena Falls
If you didn’t visit Wahkeena Falls along with Multnomah Falls, stop on your way back west. You can see this beautiful waterfall after about a quarter mile up a hill. It’s a beautiful one surrounded by mossy, green walls.
However, there are more views if you keep going. A 2.9-mile hike will lead you to a stunning view of the Columbia River (Lemmons Viewpoint) and Fairy Falls. Fairy Falls is smaller than Wahkeena Falls, but it’s still beautiful and you can stand right next to it.
Bridal Veil Falls
Another short but beautiful waterfall trail along this stretch of road is Bridal Veil Falls. The trail is just over a half mile round trip, and slightly steep. You’ll be climbing down, meaning you’ll have to hike back out at the end.
Seeing the waterfall is a beautiful reveal, as you won’t notice it until you get close. The waterfall has two tiers and is about 118-feet tall.
Shepperd’s Dell Falls
Shepperd’s Dell Falls is located almost right off the road. There is not a designated parking lot, but there is space on the side of the road for a few cars. The walk to the waterfall is short and it’s a beautiful waterfall next to a bridge on the Historic Columbia River Highway.
Latourell Falls
Latourell Falls is another spot for a quick and worthwhile waterfall hike. There is an upper and a lower loop trail, and it’s just over 2 miles if you hike both. The upper trail was closed during my visit, but the lower trail offers an incredible up-close look at the waterfall.
What’s unique about this waterfall is that it falls down over basalt rocks. The lower waterfall is about 250-feet tall and it feels a bit unique compared to other waterfalls in the area.
Vista House
Finally, end your day of waterfall chasing with a viewpoint that does not have a waterfall. The Vista House at Crown Point was built in 1916 as a rest stop and observatory for travelers on the historic Columbia River Gorge Highway.
The Vista House is an example of German Art Nouveau architecture and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.
Not only does this spot offer fantastic views of the Columbia River, but there is a cafe, gift shop and visitor center that provides historical information.
Eat at the Sugarpine Drive-In
Sugarpine Drive-In is the perfect stop for food near the start of the Columbia River Gorge. They’re a drive-in restaurant serving soft serve ice cream, grilled cheese made on a waffle iron, warm soup and a variety of other sandwiches and menu items.
Not only is the food delicious, but their branding is beautiful and feels national park-inspired. I loved the grilled cheese and tomato soup, but it’s also worth indulging in the ice cream. They have tons of toppings, from funfetti cake bites to miso carmel.
Keep in mind that this spot is only open until 5PM (as of this writing). But it’s very much worth a stop if you can make it.
Columbia River Gorge Itinerary - Day Two
Spend this day on an epic and long day hike to Tunnel Falls! After a long day of hiking, relax and have dinner in Hood River.
Tunnel Falls
If you’re interested and able to hike a longer and more difficult trek, I highly recommend the hike to Tunnel Falls via the Eagle Creek Trail.
The hike is 12.2 miles with just over 2,000 feet of elevation gain. Also, the majority of the hike includes steep drop offs. You’ll be hiking on a cliff edge high above Eagle Creek. I did not think any part of it was overly scary or narrow, but it may bother you if you’re very afraid of heights.
The main draw of this trail is Tunnel Falls, which features a man-made tunnel that goes directly behind a 172-foot tall waterfall. It falls into a round canyon and is a stunning and unique sight. While Tunnel Falls is epic, it’s not the only waterfall on this hike. In fact, there are at least 10 other named waterfalls along the way.
Don’t miss the Lower and Upper Punch Bowl Falls. Upper Punch Bowl Falls is especially beautiful and flows into a bowl-shaped area. In order to see Lower Punch Bowl Falls up close, you’ll need to take a spur trail that adds about a quarter mile (each way) to your hike.
And also be sure to continue another quarter mile past Tunnel Falls to see Twister Falls, which seems to criss-cross over itself.
If you’re up for the challenge, this is an incredible hike to include on your Columbia River Gorge itinerary.
Explore Hood River
After a day of hiking, enjoy dinner in the town of Hood River! This small town on the water is full of restaurants, breweries and waterfront views. You can even hang out at the beach or walk along the water at the Hood River Waterfront Park.
There are several places to eat, but I enjoyed pFriem Family Brewers. This taproom and restaurant serves one-of-a-kind craft beers and a menu full of elevated comfort foods, such as mac & cheese, burgers and a cheese plate. I enjoyed their veggie burger and a Bourbon Barrel Aged Barleywine.
Other places to eat in Hood River include Solstice Wood Fire Pizza & Bar, Double Mountain Brewery and Full Sail Brewing Company. Keep in mind that restaurants will probably have waits during peak times.
Columbia River Gorge Itinerary - Day Three
Explore the Washington side of Columbia River Gorge. You’ll likely cross the Bridge of the Gods to get to the Washington side of the river, which costs a toll of $3 for passenger vehicles.
Fall Creek Falls
Start your day on the Washington side of Columbia River Gorge with a hike Fall Creek Falls. This epic, two-tiered waterfall is over 300-feet tall and is surrounded by green moss.
The shortest way to reach the waterfall is to hike about 3.2-miles round trip. The trail is through the forest, so it’s mostly shaded, and there are views of Falls Creek on the way.
I hiked the lower loop, making it a 4.1-mile hike. This was a nice way to avoid the crowds while I hiked back, as this trail gets busy. You can also add on a higher viewpoint, making it a 6.1-mile hike.
The road to reach the trailhead is unpaved and had some large potholes during my visit. Any car should be okay, but exercise caution.
Panther Creek Falls
This waterfall is a quick stop, but well worth it. There is not a parking lot, but space for a good amount of cars on the side of the road across the street.
The trail to reach Panther Creek Falls is about a half mile and has two spurs. One will lead you to a view above the waterfall, and one below. I especially recommend hiking to the lower viewpoint, where you can stand across from the stunning waterfall.
This is one of my favorite waterfalls to date, as the water streaming over the moss reminds me of a fairytale. It’s a magical place.
However, please make sure to follow the marked signs and do not go past where you’re not supposed to. This damages the vegetation and can be dangerous in some areas. Let’s keep this place beautiful!
Backwoods Pizza and Brewing
If you’re ready for lunch, Backwoods Pizza and Brewing is a great place to stop on your way to your next hike.
They serve pizza, sandwiches and a variety of refreshing beers. I enjoyed Kayla’s Garden pizza, which was topped with pesto, artichokes, balsamic and more.
Beacon Rock
End your day with another short hike. This time, you’ll be enjoying something much different than a waterfall. You’ll be hiking up the core of an ancient cinder cone volcano. Beacon Rock stands 840 feet tall along the banks of the Columbia River. Henry Biddle purchased the rock in 1915 and built a trail to the top. Today, it’s a Washington state park.
The trail to the top is 1.5-miles round trip with 574 feet of elevation gain. There are many short switchbacks (built from wood with railings) as you climb to the top. While it’s a lot of uphill, it feels gradual.
The top offers amazing views of the river below, and it’s well worth the climb.
Columbia River Gorge Itinerary - Day Four
On your final day in the area, visit another waterfall or any you haven’t had time for. Then, enjoy some wildflower views and enjoy cider on the Hood River Fruit Loop.
Wahclella Falls
While there are plenty more waterfalls in Columbia River Gorge and nearby, I have one more that I think is a “must-see” if you have the time. That’s Wahclella Falls, which is two tiers and 350-feet tall. The higher tier is tucked back into a rocky canyon and the water falls down to a beautiful, blue pool of water.
The trail to reach the falls starts flat and then has a gradual incline. When you get close to the waterfall, there is a small loop you can hike. Going right is more flat, while going left has more of an incline.
This waterfall is super popular and parking fills up during peak times, so I recommend going early to beat the crowds.
Rowena Crest Viewpoint
After a few days of exploring the best waterfalls in Columbia River Gorge, you might be ready for a change of scenery. After all, there is more to experience behind just the waterfalls.
The gorge also has scenery featuring rocky bluffs and fields that bloom with wildflowers in the spring.
I really enjoyed the Rowena Crest Viewpoint, which has a view of a hairpin turn in a road and the Columbia River. It’s also a great place to admire flowers during May!
You can stop quickly to admire the views, or go on a hike here. One easy trail is the Rowena Plateau Trail, which is 2.1 miles. And if the flowers are blooming, Memaloose Hills is another great trail nearby.
Gorge White House
End your time around the Columbia River Gorge with a stop or two on the Hood River Fruit Loop. This is a loop drive that highlights 30 fruit stands, wineries, breweries, flower fields and more. Typically, flowers and fruit trees bloom in March or April, and continue through May.
One of the most popular stops on the Fruit Loop is The Gorge White House. They have been family owned for over 100 years and serve hard ciders, wines and food. Plus, they offer U-Pick fruit and flowers.
I enjoyed a flight with all of their ciders, and devoured a flatbread with caramelized onions, pears and cheese. It was a long wait for food during my visit, but it’s an easy place to hang out and relax. They also have fruit pies!
More Things To Do in Columbia River Gorge and Nearby
- Hike the Elowah and Upper McCord Falls Trail (2.6 miles).
- Hike to Dry Creek Falls (4.4 miles).
- Hike to the top of Dog Mountain (6.5 miles).
- Visit the Bonneville Dam and Fish Ladder
- Drive up to Mount Hood and visit the historic Timberline Lodge.
- Take a day trip to Silver Falls State Park, where you can hike the Trail of 10 Falls.
Where to Stay in Columbia River Gorge
I recommend either staying in Portland or the town of Hood River for your trip to Columbia River Gorge. Stay in Portland if you’re interested in exploring this city (Portland has an amazing food scene) and are considering additional day trips to Silver Falls State Park or the Oregon coast. Or, stay in Hood River if you’d prefer a smaller town and would like to also spend time in Mount Hood.
Hotel Ideas for Hood River:
- Budget: Sunset Motel
- Mid-Range: Hampton Inn & Suites Hood River
- Luxury: Columbia Gorge Hotel & Spa
Hotels Ideas for Portland (close to the start of Columbia River Gorge):
- Budget: Travelodge by Wyndham East Portland/Gresham
- Mid-Range: Comfort Inn Troutdale-Portland East
Unique Stays in Columbia River Gorge:
Final Thoughts
I hope this Columbia River Gorge itinerary and guide gives you lots of ideas for planning an epic trip to part of the country. From massive waterfalls to fields of flowers, this area is truly incredible.
For more guides on the West Coast, check out these guides:
- The Best Things To Do in Cave Junction, OR
- The Best Things To Do in Medford, OR
- The Best Things To Do in North Cascades National Park
- The Perfect Channel Islands Itinerary
- How to Spend 2 Days in Death Valley
- How to Spend 2 Days in Joshua Tree
- The Best Things To Do on Orcas Islands, WA
Thanks for Reading!
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