Historic Columbia River Highway
United States
This classic Oregon drive follows the restored Historic Columbia River Highway through the Columbia River Gorge, linking waterfalls, stone bridges, and bluff-top viewpoints. Starting near Troutdale and finishing in the Hood River area, it blends early 20th-century engineering with constant river-and-cliff scenery, best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Troutdale
Gateway to the gorge with a small-town launch point. Leave the Portland edge and head straight into waterfall country.
- Vista House at Crown Point
A dramatic stone lookout perched above the Columbia River. Its wraparound views make an iconic first pause on the route.
- Latourell Falls
A tall, single-drop waterfall framed by bright basalt cliffs. The short trail gives an easy close-up of the spray and moss.
- Multnomah Falls
The route's signature waterfall, with a two-tier drop and the famous footbridge. It is the most photographed stop in the gorge.
- Horsetail Falls
A roadside cascade that pours right beside the highway. It is a quick, scenic stop with easy access and strong summer flow.
- Bridal Veil Falls State Scenic Viewpoint
A lush trail leads to a shaded waterfall overlook. The stop feels tucked into the forest and the gorge's damp cliffs.
- Shepperd's Dell State Natural Area
A quiet stone bridge spans a narrow green ravine. It is one of the highway's best examples of early scenic-road design.
- Cascade Locks
A river town near the end of the historic highway stretch. It is a good place to stretch, eat, and watch traffic on the Columbia.
- Hood River
A lively gorge town with river views and a relaxed finish. It wraps up the drive with food, breweries, and mountain scenery.
Where to Eat
- McMenamins EdgefieldNorthwest pub
A sprawling historic property with multiple dining spots and casual pub food. Good for a lingering meal near the start of the drive.
- Multnomah Falls LodgeAmerican lodge dining
Classic stop for snacks, lunch, or a sit-down meal right by the falls. It is the easiest place to pair food with the route's most famous landmark.
- Cascade Locks Ale HousePub and burgers
A casual stop in the river town with hearty plates and local beer. It works well as a mid-route lunch or early dinner.
- The Sunny Pine Bakery and CafeBakery and cafe
Known for coffee, pastries, and easy roadside breakfast or lunch. A practical stop in Hood River after the scenic drive.
- Bette's PlaceCafe and brunch
A popular Hood River breakfast and lunch spot with classic diner comfort food. It is a solid finish if you want a relaxed meal at the end.
Things to Do
- Hike to Multnomah Falls Bridgehike
Walk to the iconic Benson Bridge for a close look at the upper and lower falls. The short trail delivers the route's best waterfall view.
- Visit Vista House Interpretive Exhibitshistoric site
Step inside for gorge history, old photos, and a viewing terrace above the river. It adds context to the road's engineering story.
- Photograph Latourell Fallswaterfall viewing
Capture the basalt columns and bright green cliffside around the falls. The short approach makes it one of the easiest scenic stops.
- Explore Cascade Locks Marine Parkpark
Stroll the waterfront and watch boats on the Columbia River. It is a calm break before the final push to Hood River.
- Walk the Hood River Waterfront Trailscenic walk
End the day with river views and mountain backdrops along the waterfront. It is an easy way to unwind after the drive.