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Old Man Pass - Cross-Country Skiing
22 miles - 30 min driveGroomed Nordic ski trails and snowshoe routes in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. A local's secret for winter adventure without the Mt. Hood crowds.
Your complete guide to hot springs, waterfalls, hiking trails, wineries, and unforgettable adventures near Carson, WA
Winter is an underrated gem in the Columbia River Gorge. Fewer crowds, dramatic waterfalls at peak flow, and hot springs that feel extra magical when it's cold outside. Here's why winter might be the best time to visit.
Groomed Nordic ski trails and snowshoe routes in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. A local's secret for winter adventure without the Mt. Hood crowds.
Gorge waterfalls are at their most dramatic in winter! Peak water flow, misty atmosphere, and trails virtually to yourself. Multnomah Falls is stunning after a rain.
Nothing beats soaking in natural hot springs when it's cold outside! The contrast of warm mineral water and crisp winter air is pure magic.
11,000 sq ft museum exploring the Gorge's geology, Native American history, and ecosystems. Perfect rainy day activity with kids or without.
December through February, bald eagles gather in the Gorge to fish. The Dalles Dam area hosts an annual Eagle Watch event in January with live raptor programs.
River Time Retreat is perfect for winter getaways. Enjoy the fire pit under clear winter skies, cook in the full kitchen, and watch the stars without summer crowds.
Carson sits at the heart of the Gorge's hot springs country. Within 20 minutes, you can soak in natural mineral waters that have been drawing visitors for over a century.
Historic 1901 resort with natural mineral pools and a vintage 1930s bathhouse. The signature Bath & Wrap treatment is a must-try Gorge tradition.
Recently renovated full-service resort with indoor/outdoor mineral pools, European-style spa, and on-site restaurant. A more upscale hot springs experience.
Private hot spring cabins with personal 2-person infinity soaking tubs. A boutique experience blending Japanese onsen with Scandinavian hygge.
From easy waterfall walks to challenging summit climbs, the Columbia River Gorge offers some of the best hiking in the Pacific Northwest.
Famous for spectacular wildflower meadows (May-June). Challenging 6-mile hike with 2,800 ft elevation gain rewards you with 360-degree Gorge views.
Climb 52 switchbacks carved into an 848-ft volcanic plug. Short but rewarding 1.7-mile hike with panoramic Columbia River views from the summit.
7.5-mile loop passing Hardy Falls, Rodney Falls, and the magical Pool of the Winds grotto. Continue to summit for expansive Gorge views.
Easy 0.3-mile trail to a stunning 130-foot double waterfall. One of Skamania County's most photogenic waterfalls with minimal effort.
Paved 0.9-mile interpretive trail showcasing 90+ wildflower species. ADA accessible with natural rock arch and stunning Mt. Hood views.
3.4-mile hike through old-growth forest to a spectacular 335-foot three-tiered waterfall. One of southern Washington's tallest waterfalls.
The Columbia River Gorge is home to 90+ waterfalls within a 60-mile stretch. Here are the must-see falls near Carson.
Oregon's tallest waterfall at 620 feet. The iconic Benson Bridge offers the classic postcard view. Easy paved path to base; moderate hike to top.
Walk behind an 80-foot waterfall through a basalt overhang. A short 0.4-mile hike from Horsetail Falls trailhead creates a magical experience.
Dramatic 224-foot single plunge waterfall with distinctive yellow lichen on basalt cliffs. Easy 0.2-mile walk to base; 2.4-mile loop to upper falls.
Two stunning waterfalls on the Hamilton Mountain Trail. The Pool of the Winds spur takes you into a misty grotto - a truly magical experience.
The Columbia Gorge AVA produces award-winning wines, while craft breweries dot both sides of the river. Tasting rooms range from rustic to refined.
Intimate boutique winery run by mother-daughter winemaking team. European-influenced wines with creative blends in a bucolic Gorge setting.
World-class Belgian-style ales on the Hood River waterfront. Award-winning craft beers paired with excellent food and stunning Columbia River views.
The Gorge's first craft brewery (est. 2000) in downtown Stevenson. Award-winning beers, hand-tossed pizzas, and a sprawling outdoor beer garden.
One of Washington's most decorated wineries with 4,000+ awards. Tuscan-inspired terrace with panoramic Gorge views, bocce courts, and summer concerts.
Downtown Hood River staple serving unfiltered craft beers and award-winning hard ciders alongside New Haven-style brick-oven pizza.
Only cidery AND distillery under one roof in Hood River Valley. 100% NW apples/pears make gluten-free ciders and fruit-based spirits.
From fine dining to casual brewpubs, the Gorge offers excellent restaurants featuring Pacific Northwest cuisine and local ingredients.
#1 rated restaurant in Stevenson. American comfort food with standout wild salmon cakes, fried chicken, and an excellent local wine/beer list.
Skamania Lodge's signature restaurant serving Pacific Northwest cuisine with stunning river and forest views. Prime rib on Friday/Saturday.
Farm-to-table fine dining in downtown Hood River. Seasonal menu highlighting local produce, Pacific seafood, and regional wines.
Award-winning wood-fired pizzas with creative Gorge-inspired toppings. The Cherry & Chorizo is legendary. Heated year-round patio.
Artisan bakery famous for breakfast sandwiches and pastries. South-facing patio with Mt. Hood views. Monday pizza nights are a local secret.
Authentic L.A.-style Mexican food made from scratch. Family-owned since 2004, considered one of the best restaurants in the Gorge.
Hood River is the "Windsurfing Capital of the World." From kiteboarding to whitewater rafting, the Gorge offers world-class water sports.
The Gorge's thermal winds create perfect conditions May-September. Multiple launch sites and lesson providers for all skill levels.
Glacial-fed National Wild & Scenic River with Class III-IV rapids. Half-day trips from $70. Optional 12-foot Husum Falls drop!
Protected coves and calm basins offer perfect SUP conditions. Rentals from $20/hour. Best in morning before afternoon winds.
World-class salmon and steelhead fishing in the Columbia and tributaries. Drano Lake (12 mi) is a local hotspot for spring Chinook.
The Columbia River Gorge is one of America's most scenic regions. These drives and viewpoints showcase its dramatic beauty.
360-degree panoramic views from a 1916 Art Nouveau observatory perched 733 feet above the Columbia River. The iconic Gorge viewpoint.
Famous horseshoe curves with sweeping Gorge views. The Tom McCall Nature Preserve offers spring wildflower walks. Less crowded than Crown Point.
Washington's premier Gorge viewpoint looking east. Requires 2-mile hike to the Nancy Russell Overlook with dramatic cliffside amphitheater views.
"King of Roads" - America's first planned scenic roadway (1913). 70-mile route passing waterfalls, viewpoints, and architectural gems.
The Gorge offers plenty of kid-friendly adventures, from fish hatcheries to fruit picking and educational museums.
Meet Herman the Sturgeon (500 lbs, 80+ years old!). Kids can feed trout with quarter-operated feeders. Watch salmon climb fish ladders in season.
Excellent playground with climbing structures, slides, and rock wall. Sandy beach with roped swimming area. Watch kiteboarders and windsurfers.
U-pick fruit, corn maze, pumpkin patch, and petting zoo. 100+ acre family farm with play structures made from repurposed farm equipment.
11,000 sq ft of interactive exhibits on Gorge geology, Native American history, and natural history. Great rainy day option.
7 zip lines and 3 sky bridges through the forest canopy. 2.5-hour guided adventure for ages 60+ lbs. Great for adventurous families.
30+ acre family farm with u-pick berries, flowers, and fruit. Wine/cider tasting for parents. Historic 1910 home with double mountain views.
Scenic 18-hole championship course carved through old-growth forest with stunning Gorge views. Pro shop, lessons, and on-site dining available.
Hidden gem in the foothills with stunning mountain views. Well-maintained 18-hole course offering a challenging yet enjoyable round in a peaceful setting.
River Time Retreat welcomes dogs! Here are the best places to explore with your four-legged family members.
40-acre sandbar at the confluence of Hood and Columbia Rivers. OFF-LEASH permitted - the premier dog beach in the Gorge!
Dogs welcome on leash for this iconic summit hike. 52 switchbacks with railings. Bring water for your pup - it's a climb!
Dogs welcome on patio with water bowls and biscuits provided. Craft beer, pizza, and mountain views.
Sprawling beer garden welcomes well-behaved, leashed dogs. The Gorge's first craft brewery with great pizza and local beers.
Holistic pet nutrition and natural remedies. Forgot dog food or need supplements? They have everything for your pup.
Stevenson Vet Clinic: 14 mi, (509) 427-8763, Mon-Fri
24/7 Emergency: Columbia River Vet Specialists, Vancouver, (360) 694-3007
The Gorge comes alive with festivals, farmers markets, and community events throughout the year.
Month-long May celebration with guided hikes, art shows, and the famous Wine Walk. The Gorge has 800+ wildflower species!
4 days of live bluegrass music at Skamania Fairgrounds. Workshops, jamming, camping, food vendors. Thursday & Sunday FREE!
The original "Free-gate" NW Fair! Timber Carnival competitions, livestock shows, carnival rides, fireworks. Family fun for all ages.
One of the Gorge's biggest celebrations featuring the valley's harvest - local produce, wine, cider, and family activities.
Winter bald eagles gather to fish near The Dalles Dam. Annual Eagle Watch event in January with live raptor programs.
Hood River: Sat 9am-1pm (May-Nov)
White Salmon: Tue 4-7pm (Jun-Sep)
Local produce, baked goods, artisan products.