Columbia River Gorge & Mount Hood, Oregon
A few kilometers east of Portland, the mighty Columbia River winds its way through expansive gorges and dreamy mountain landscapes. The huge river valley of the Columbia River is called the Columbia River Gorge. The trip through the Columbia River Gorge can be wonderfully combined with a subsequent exploration of Mt. Hood, which is located about 70 kilometers east of Portland.
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Columbia Gorge
The Historic Columbia River Highway has run through this unique part of Oregon for more than 100 years. On the well-developed road you can enjoy the spectacular view of a work of art that nature has drawn into the landscape here: the Columbia River Gorge.
Suddenly, the hills pile up around them, which in some places have become true peaks. The green crowns of the conifers on the slopes swing comfortably in the rhythm of the wind and shape the face of the largely natural region. The Columbia River flows beneath you completely unimpressed by all the beauty. In many places, it has torn wide swathes into the mountain landscape. The numerous viewpoints on the edge of the route once again outstrip the view from the street. If you see nothing more than hills and forest on the horizon and the Big River is slowly disappearing into the distance, you will become aware of the enormous size of the Columbia River Gorge – it is the largest National Scenic Area in the USA.
Off the route, there are some spectacular waterfalls to discover, such as the gigantic 189-meter-high Multnomah Falls over which a pedestrian bridge leads. In Hood River you can find homemade ice cream, beer factories, windsurfing, kiteboarding and parasailing. Marvel at the views of Rowena Crest and Dog Mountain, or browse the shelves of Oregon’s oldest book store in The Dalles. Thanks to its unique location, there are numerous wineries in the Columbia Gorge area that offer excellent wines.
- Transporthint: Overview of Oregon, including population, history, geography and major industries.
Mt. Hood
All year round, the snow-capped Mt. Hood peaks high above the rooftops of Oregon. The 3,425m high volcano is the highest peak in the state. The Mt. Hood National Forest Wildernesses has truly succeeded in preserving the original character of the wilderness: the flanks of the mountain are lined with idyllic, crystal-clear mountain lakes, while in the forests and valleys around Mt. Hood there are countless wildflowers in spring spread out and provide a unique sight. In autumn the trees produce ripe, deep red apples and juicy pears, the shrubs are full of berries. It is not without reason that the path between the mountain and the Hood River Fruit Loop called. From Mount Hood you can enjoy an overwhelming view of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. So, what are you waiting for? The wilderness is calling.
Columbia Gorge & Mt Hood Highlights
- Hood Scenic Byway
The Mt. Hood Scenic Byway takes you from Portland across the Mt. Hood to Hood River. You should allow enough time for this, because on the 160-kilometer route you will find some sights where you should plan a stop - Hood River
Quasi at the foot of the majestic Hood and on the banks of the Columbia Gorge is the place Hood River. It is the starting point for exploring the wonderful nature, offers cultural and shopping opportunities and, of course, numerous accommodation options. - Hood Meadows
The Mt. Hood Meadows ski area is located on Mt. Hood. It not only has perfect slopes for a skiing adventure ready for you, but can also score in summer with great hiking trails, the open ski lift and many events and concerts. - Timberline Lodge
Most of the Timberline Lodge is still known from the film Shining by Stanley Kubrick and with Jack Nicholson in the leading role. It receives over 2 million visitors a year and is a National Historic Landmark. By the way, you can stay here if you want to ski the slopes of the nearby ski area.
Information about the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
Foundation: 1986
Length: approx. 130 km
Difference in altitude: up to 1,200 m
About Mount Hood
Height: 3,429 m
Number of glaciers: 12
Last eruption: 1866
Discovery: 1857
Ski area size:
19 km²
The Oregon Coast, Oregon
Oregon’s coast is rightly one of the “seven wonders” of the state: Endless, fine-sand beaches, on which the rugged rocks have opposed the infinite power of water for millennia. Gentle hills rise from the banks, on which dense forests present the colors of the seasons. Lighthouses remind of past times.
Wade through the Pacific while the pleasant sea air blows around your nose and the sound of the waves breaks the stillness of the coast. Close your eyes, take a deep breath – and leave everyday worries far behind. Then you will understand what makes Oregon’s coast so special – so special. No crowded beaches, no package tourists who bring their towel to the beach early in the morning to get one of the coveted spots. In Oregon, the word coast is given a new meaning: recreation.
Highway 101 takes you along the 580 km of the Oregon coastline from romantic fishing towns to larger cities and invites you to take short breaks. Florence, for example, inspires with a warm flair and is also a practical starting point for visiting many of the region’s natural attractions. Near Florence you will find the Oregon Dunes, an approximately 65 km long sand dune belt, the Sea Lion Caves, a system of sea caves, in which sea lions often frolic – or the historic Heceta Head Lighthouse, from which you may be lucky Can watch whales.
Stroll further north in Newport through the harbor with its many souvenir shops and restaurants. Enjoy the freshly caught fish and the excellently prepared seafood in the historic bay in front of Newport. A school of whales lives off the coast and boat tours are available. Further north, you should plan breaks in the many small towns along the way and explore the city in Astoria, at the mouth of the Columbia River in the Pacific Ocean.
Highlights on Oregon’s coast
- Florence
Relax on the banks of the historic city of Florence and enjoy friendly hosts and the quaint flair of the city. It is also the gateway to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, the Sea Lion Caves or the historic Heceta Head Lighthouse. - Heceta Head Lighthouse
This lighthouse fascinates you not only with its spectacular location. Directly on the rugged cliffs, between thick forest and wide ocean, you will take unforgettable souvenir photos. But you should also not miss a tour that brings you closer to history and buildings. - Sea Lion Caves
Visiting the Sea Lion Caves is an unforgettable experience. After an elevator ride that takes you around 60 meters below the cliffs, you can see the animals up close. You will be fascinated by the dimensions of America’s largest sea cave. - Astoria
People have lived in Astoria for over 200 years. Today, many historical buildings testify to this past. Also visit the Astoria column, from which you have a breathtaking view. There are also many outdoor activities around the mouth of the Columbia River. - Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
Fun, adventure and thrills await you in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. How about z. B. with a dune hike or a hot ride with a dune buggie or quad? - Three Capes Scenic Drive
One way to capture the beauty of the Oregon coast in one afternoon is the Three Capes Scenic Drive. Along wonderful coastline between Tillamook and Pacific City, it is a great alternative to Highway 101. Some highlights are the lighthouse and the hill at Cape Mears, the kilometer-long stretch of beach at Cape Lookout and Cape Kiwanda, where a small brewery is located directly on the beach.
Information about the Oregon coast
Length of the coast: approx. 580 km
Largest city: Coos Bay (approx.16,000 pe)
John Day River
John Day River, and approx. 450 km long tributary to the Columbia River in northern Oregon, USA. Along the river course is the nature park John Day Fossil Beds, which in three separate localities contains well-preserved remains from the Tertiary period of tribal forms to horses, deer and rhinos. At John Day Dam near the mouth of the Columbia River is the United States’ second largest hydroelectric power plant, which was commissioned in 1968.
Willamette River
Willamette River, river in western Oregon, USA, from Eugene in the south to Columbia River on Portland in the north. The densely populated river valley, which lies between the Cascade Range and Coast Range mountain ranges, constitutes a fertile agricultural area with a large wine production.
