You can’t miss these two Pacific Northwest gems – pair ‘Waterfall Alley‘ in the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area & Oregon’s delicious wines! Decompress on foot in nature and then relax with a glass – what could be better?
Explore sweeping vistas and serene waterfalls in the famed Columbia River Gorge National Scenic area with a TripAdvisor ‘Hall of Fame’ guide on an experience tailored to your group. After unwinding in nature, head to the charming hamlet of Hood River to visit two of Oregon’s best boutique wineries to taste great wines!
We begin the day heading east from Portland toward the spectacular Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area. As we travel along the mighty Columbia River, watch for Bald Eagles and Osprey. The towering basalt cliffs and haunting rock formations were created as the river sliced through the Cascade Mountains. On a clear day, white-cloaked volcanic peaks loom in the distance like sentinels.
Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway as breathtaking views greet you at nearly every bend of the road. Take in several of the 70 waterfalls found in the Columbia Gorge Scenic Area, including the highest waterfall in the Pacific Northwest, the 620′ high Multnomah Falls. Opportunities for hiking, splashing, and photography abound, as the trails around these natural beauties provide ample access for every adventurer.
Continuing east, the damp forests of the coastal Pacific Northwest give way to Garry Oak, Ponderosa Pines, and arid climes – prime growing conditions for wine grapes. Near the town of Hood River, explore a beloved local winery or tasting room, sampling boutique wines found only in Oregon. Each sip reveals how the same forces that shaped the landscapes impact the wines in your glass. The weather, views, and wines here make for a lovely vineyard experience! After excellent wines, we’ll wrap up and head back to Portland in time to enjoy an evening in the city!
SAMPLE ITINERARY
1:00P: Downtown Pickups
When booking, be sure to provide the phone number where we can reach you during your travels. Let our team know where you’re staying and we’ll do everything we can to make your pick-up as easy as possible. We’ll connect the day prior to your tour to confirm details.
1:45P: Enter Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
This region is home to breath taking vistas and countless waterfalls and our explorations will bring us to both. Start the adventure with one of the best viewpoints in the lower Columbia Gorge for a photo opportunity and to learn some of the history of the region from your guide.
Continue traveling along the Historic Highway, you’ll stop at Latourell Falls for a short walk to the waterfall, before continuing down to 1-2 more falls along the drive.
4:00P: Arrive in the Hood River Valley
Upon arriving in Hood River, OR, you will visit one local winery or tasting room for a sampling of Oregon grown and produced wines. Your tasting experience is included with the tour, though you should feel welcome to purchase additional glasses or even a bottle or two to take home. You can’t find these wines outside of Oregon, and a bottle makes the perfect souvenir to enjoy and look back on your travel memories later on!
6:00P: Visit the Iconic Multnomah Falls
End the day on a high note with a visit to the region’s tallest and most recognizable waterfall – Multnomah Falls. You’ll have about 30 minutes to enjoy the view, take photos and pick up a souvenir if you choose before we continue back to Portland.
7:00P: Arrive in Portland
Enjoy an convenient drop off back at your downtown area hotel, or ask your guide about hopping out at Powell’s Books or a food truck city to continue the adventure in the city on your own.
