Oregon - Washington Border Region Road Trip

Lewis and Clark Trail

While exploring the Pacific coastline in May of 1792, the American sea-captain Robert Gray entered the estuary of the Columbia River. From the fixing of the coordinates of this position, the width of the continent was known for the first time. When Meriwether Lewis reached the Continental Divide he reasoned that there would be many falls and rapids on the way down the Columbia River, given his altitude and the remaining distance westward. On October 23, 1805, the Corps of Discovery came to a particularly spectacular but dangerous stretch, near where the Deschutes River flows into the Columbia, beginning with the Celilo Falls. These falls no longer exist, as they were inundated when the Dalles Dam was constructed in 1957.

A Scenic Drive Along the Columbia River Gorge

Following the Lewis and Clark Trail through the Columbia River Gorge is the Historic Columbia River Highway; in its time considered to be quite an engineering marvel. Towards the western end of the Columbia River Highway is the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center. Its 26,100 square foot exhibit wing features interactive displays about the volcanic activity and flooding that created the Columbia River Gorge, as well as information about ice ages, the river’s wildlife diversity and habitat, and more. Presented here are the results of 16 years of original research, drawn on to provide key information about the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Replicas and period items are also on display.

Hiking to the Base of the Waterfalls

White River Falls State Park is a popular picnicking, hiking, and fishing location along your road trip through the Deschutes River area. The park is open from early spring until late fall, and features exceptional views of the White River falls. The White River dives an impressive 90 feet off of a basalt cliff to for the great White River Falls. A quarter-mile trail leads into the canyon to the historic hydroelectric power plant at the bottom of the falls. The great chasm speaks volumes about the geological history behind it and the old grist pond reminds us of how we’ve come to use its powers.

Rock Climbing and Mountain Biking

At Beacon Rock State Park, the 4,650 acre vacation and recreational area is rich with historic significance. There is 9,500 feet of shoreline along the freshwater Columbia River. Lewis and Clark originally named “Beacon Rock” along their way to the Pacific on October 31, 1805. This is near where they first were measured tidal influences from the ocean on the river. The rock is actually the center of an ancient volcano; floods during the ice age eroded the softer surrounding materials to leave this geological landmark standing as a beacon alone on the banks of the river. Boating, rock climbing, horse and bike trails (hikers welcome), and fishing are all to be enjoyed here!

Boating and Picturesque Waterfalls

Launch your boat at Strawberry Island, as it was referred to by Lewis and Clark, and enjoy all that the vicinity has to offer. The Hamilton Island Boat Ramp (its current name) is located on the Washington shore just downstream of Bonneville Lock and Dam near the former lower end of the Cascade Rapids on the Columbia River. If you need to regain your land-legs, just stop on over at the nearby Fort Cascades National Historic Site nearby for a walking trail marked with interpretive signs providing a tour of the area. No matter what, don't miss the magnificent Multnomah Falls and Wahclella Falls, both right across the river on the Oregon side.

Windsurfing the Gorge

Water sports enthusiasts will love the Port of Hood River Marina. Kayaks, small sail boats, yachts, and more take advantage this hot vacation spot and the Port’s Marina which supports moorage for more than 150 vessels. The Marina Beach is a beautiful stretch of sands and grasses for families to spread out and enjoy its beautiful waterfront. Windsurfing and kiteboarding are big activities to the east of the Hood River. The Hatchery (a.k.a. “The Hatch”) is a famous windsurfing site just four miles west of Hood River where photographers and windsurfers alike will have the time of their lives.