The Columbia River Gorge, an 80-mile geologic wonder that forms the border between northern Oregon and southern Washington, is proof of Nature's unbridled strength. Glacial floods thousands of years ago carved this 1,200-mile-long river, which is the only sea-level passage to cross the Cascade Mountains . With cliffs rising as high as 4,000 feet, the Gorge acts as a funnel for North America's fourth largest river, whose tributaries include the mighty Snake River.
For more than 10,000 years, the Gorge has been a resource for sustenance and survival for human generations. It has also been a source of phenomenal beauty and enjoyment, providing a playground for just about every kind of recreation. The river's canyon-like walls create ideal wind conditions for windsurfing and sailing and the majestic beauty of the area lends itself to numerous return trips. The 620-foot cascading Multnomah Falls , off of I-84, is just one of about a dozen waterfalls that are accessible from the Columbia River Highway (I-84). Other activities include river cruises, nature hikes, and kayaking.
Camping offers an ideal setting in which to appreciate the splendor of the Columbia River Gorge, but there are also numerous inns, heritage buildings and hotels that offer accommodations. Shopping is available in several of the small towns along the river, such as Hood River, White Salmon, The Dalles and Cascade Locks. Attractions include a number of museums, galleries and live performance theaters, as well as wineries, seasonal music festivals and performances.
Getting to the Gorge is easy: The Columbia River Highway/I-84 intersects with I-5 in Portland and follows the river's edge to Umatilla, at the east end of the Gorge. Highway 14, on the Washington side offers a scenic view but less access to appealing roadside attractions.
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Shopping, Services and Eating Looking to eat, shop or services the Columbia River Gorge? From wineries to pizza, take a look at the list of options available in the Columbia Gorge. Whether you are looking to have a pizza or a drop by a pub, the Columbia Gorge has many possibilities. If wine is more your style, take a tour of the local wineries' tasting rooms. Hit the shops to find that perfect gift or something for yourself. Here's a list of vendors for you to choose from:
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Travel
Gorge Games has reserved hundreds of accommodations in Hood River , The Dalles , Stevenson, Cascade Locks, Bingen and Troutdale. We’ve done this to insure that athletes and spectators can enjoy the Gorge Games – live, up close and personal.
To assist with your travel needs we’ve partnered with Cascade Travel --- a one stop shop for all of your travel needs. Cascade Travel has a complete inventory of rooms, bed and breakfast accommodations, motels, campgrounds and more. So, whether you’re an athlete, participant, spectator, volunteer, or partner of the Gorge Games -- Cascade Travel can assist your travel needs and no one has more accommodations available than Cascade Travel and that includes the national internet-based travel services.
Cascade Travel can assist with rental cars, campgrounds, wine tours, restaurant guides, recreational activities, or anything vacation-oriented.
Please contact:
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Cascade Travel 409 Oak Street, Hood River , OR 97031 Toll Free: 1-800-426-4981 Local: 541-386-6800 Fax: 541-386-4899 Email: cindy@cascadetvl.com |
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