Vista House at Crown Point
A 1918 rotunda with huge views up the gorge.
Historic Columbia River Highway
America's first scenic highway, built in 1913, through a waterfall-lined gorge just east of Portland.
Winding through the Columbia River Gorge, this road passes more than 70 waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls, and the domed Vista House at Crown Point.
Its stone arches and mossy cliffs are at their best in spring, when the falls run strongest.
- Best Time
- March to June and October
- Time Needed
- 1 day
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Year-round
- Getting There
- Exit 17 or 22 off I-84, about 30 minutes east of Portland.
What to See
4 of 4 are freeMultnomah Falls
Oregon's tallest waterfall, 620 feet.
Latourell Falls
A slender waterfall against yellow lichen.
Hood River
A windsurfing and fruit-growing town farther east.
Know Before You Go
- Timed permits have been used in summer: check the status before you go.
- Parking at the falls fills quickly.
- Sections were damaged by wildfire; check the conditions.
Where to Stay
Base yourself in Portland or Hood River.
Where to Eat
Our picks are on the way.
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Go Next
If You're NearbyPortland
Oregon
Food carts, Powell's City of Books and rose gardens, with the Columbia River Gorge an hour away.
Full Guide
Must-See
Worth a DetourMount Rainier National Park
Washington
A glacier-covered volcano with wildflower meadows in late summer, a day trip from Seattle.
Full Guide
Last checked 2026-11-01. Part of the Pacific Northwest list.