It doesn’t get much more iconic Oregon than the Columbia River Gorge. While we share this natural wonder with Washington, the Oregon side of the Gorge is home to 90 waterfalls, numerous scenic overlooks, and countless bucket-list-worthy hikes. The Columbia River Gorge is one big playground for outdoor enthusiasts, and the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail is one of the most accessible and underrated hikes in the area. This one-of-a-kind trail in Oregon features a waterfall, two tunnels, and numerous overlooks, for a scenic day trek that everyone should do at least once.
There are many ways to experience Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge, but the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail is easily the most accessible.
U.S. Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region/Flickr
The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail is comprised of three disconnected paved paths, for a total of 12 miles. This adventure features jaw-dropping views in all directions.
Ed Lee/Google Local
This stretch – between Mosier and Hood River – is a beautiful, 4.5-mile, out-and-back trek offering some of the most sweeping views of the Gorge.
Oregon Department of Transportation/Flickr You can view the entire excursion here.
If you’re not up for a nine-mile (round trip) hike, feel free to make the trek as long or short as you’d like. You’ll enjoy gorgeous views no matter what!
Oregon Department of Transportation/Flickr
This stretch of trail winds along the Columbia River and Rock Creek, through some stunning forested landscapes. Keep your eyes peeled for waterfalls as you walk past the creek!
Kurt Edblom/Flickr
Of course, the most notable feature of this trail is its twin tunnels. When this section of the Columbia River Highway was built in 1921, road builders blasted through solid basalt to create the tunnels, which run consecutively for 390 feet.
U.S. Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region/Flickr
In the 1950s, the tunnels were closed in favor of a new water route along the Columbia River Highway. The tunnels then sat abandoned for decades, until the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Act called for a massive restoration of the historic passages.
Robert Ashworth/Flickr
Today, explorers can journey through the Mosier Tunnels on the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail. Inside the tunnels, side passages lead to windows that frame the breathtaking views.
Stephen Viszlai/iStock via Getty Images Plus
There’s nothing quite like the Historic Columbia River Highway, and this 4.5-mile trek is a great way to experience this wondrous region!
Bonnie Moreland/Flickr
Have you hiked the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail before? This really is a one-of-a-kind trail, and an adventure you can only have here in Oregon.
U.S. Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region/Flickr
Ed Lee/Google Local
Oregon Department of Transportation/Flickr
You can view the entire excursion here.
Kurt Edblom/Flickr
Robert Ashworth/Flickr
Stephen Viszlai/iStock via Getty Images Plus
Bonnie Moreland/Flickr
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Address: Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, Historic Columbia River Hwy State Trail, Cascade Locks, OR 97014, USA
