Saturday, May 7, 2011

Columbia Gorge in Oregon 05-06-2011

It was a cloudy day after a morning rain.  I decided to go Columbia Gorge before I head back to Washington State.  Two friends of mine agreed to be my guide.

There are two ways to get to Columbia Gorge: I-84 and US Route 30.  I-84 is the fastest road through the Columbia Gorge, but it is not the most scenic route. We decided to take the US Route 30, a scenic route.  We believe the Gorge is best appreciated at a more leisurely pace by driving on this scenic route.

The Columbia River Gorge spans two states, southern Washington and northern Oregon.  Up to 4,000 feet (1,200 m) deep, the canyon stretches for over 80 miles (130 km) and runs from the mouths of Sandy River to the Deschutes River.  The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area encompasses 292,500 acres.  It is unique in both its natural and cultural history.

There are more than 40 falls within Columbia River Gorge.  The most popular falls is the Multnomah Falls.  It is listed official height of 611 ft., the 2nd highest “year-round” falls in the United States after Yosemite Falls.  

The Gorge is simply a must-see place if you like waterfalls.