Explore Columbia River Gorge Half Day Small Group Tour

The 85-mile (137-km) long Columbia Gorge NSA would be a national park if it weren't a critical transportation corridor. It features waterfalls, mountains, monoliths, terraces, resort towns, vineyards, orchards, and The River, harboring a plethora of fish and birds, and unique plants and invertebrates. In the early 1900s, Portlanders would drive their Model T cars along the Columbia River Highway to gaze at waterfalls. It was the first scenic highway built in America. There is said to be over 4000 waterfalls; many are hidden away, but many are just a short hike off the Historic Highway. On this tour you'll explore the western, rainforested, southern side of the Gorge, dubbed "waterfall alley" where we'll have you getting wet under a waterfall, peering over cliffs, and learning stories of the area only the locals know.

1. 1

   Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

   3 hours

   On the eastern edge of the Portland Metro Area is the western edge of the beautiful 85-mile long Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

2. 2

   Columbia River Highway

   2 hours

   Your guide will drive you along segments of this stunning 74-mile (119 -km) highway that was inspired by the Axenstrasse in the Swiss Alps.

3. 3

   Sandy River

   10 min

   We'll parallel the Sandy River while driving the western segment of the Columbia River Highway. The Sandy's headwaters is a glacier on Mt. Hood, and the river is known for its Steelhead and Chinook runs. As a result, the Sandy is one of three tributaries of the Columbia who's dams have been removed since 2007.

4. 4

   Portland Women's Forum State Scenic Viewpoint

   10 min

   Here's your chance to capture the quintessential Gorge shot.

5. 5

   Vista House

   15 min

   This 100-year-old 'fanciest rest stop in the world' sits atop a basalt point above the Columbia River, with a 360-degree balcony. The sandstone, limestone, and marble building includes historical interpretation and fancy restrooms.

6. 6

   Latourell Falls

   20 min

   A short walk from the vehicle reveals a 249-foot hanging waterfall adorned with fluorescent lichen and columnar basalt.

7. 7

   Shepperd's Dell State Natural Area

   10 min

   This delightful little cove provides for a hidden surprise and some remarkable pictures.

8. 8

   Bridal Veil Falls State Park

   Pass by

   An old logging ghost town dating to the 1880s, harboring a waterfall, an operating post office, and a circa-1920s B & B.

9. 9

   Wahkeena Falls

   Pass by

   A short switch-back trail through Hemlock and Doug-fir leads to a bridge at the base of the falls.

10. 10

    Multnomah Falls

    30 min

    The tallest waterfall in the state, with a combined height of 620 feet.

11. 11

    Oneonta Gorge

    Pass by

    A slot canyon created by a fault, with plants growing on the walls found nowhere else.

12. 12

    Horsetail Falls- Columbia River Gorge

    10 min

    Get some quirky photos at this quirky waterfall!

13. 13

    Beacon Rock

    Pass by

    View the fifth-largest free-standing monolith in the world, from a distance.

14. 14

    Rooster Rock State Park

    Pass by

    As we pass by, view the rock that inspired North America's oldest continuously running nudist beach!

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.