The knowingly beautiful Scenic Columbia River Gorge is home to many sites to see however when planning your trip to our neck of the woods there are a few things and places that you just cannot afford to miss. We invite you to take our top ten things to do and review them for your next Gorge Getaway!
10. Bicycling
This multisport adventure explores the waterfalls, mountains, and forests of the Columbia River Gorge. Your options are unlimited ride the old scenic byway high on the cliffs overlooking the Columbia River east of town or you can pedal down through the wooded slopes of Mt. Hood National Forest and out into the wide open, rolling wheat country of central Oregon. Even better, ride to the renowned Multnomah Falls; at 620 feet, it is the tallest and most famous waterfall in the Columbia Gorge.
9. Day Spa
Considering you are relaxing in the Columbia River Gorge why not take it to the extreme. Bonneville Hot Springs Resort offers a 12,000 Square foot European-style Spa with more than 40 spa treatments to choose from. You can also relax at the 25 meter lap pool filled with natural mineral hot springs water or take a soak in the Jacuzzi.
8. Exploring
From the Ape Caves to the PCT trail, there is never a shortage of places and things to explore in the Gorge. Stevenson alone is home to fantastic public art, parks and more. You will spend hours just checking out all the nooks and crannies. 
7. Shopping
At the west end of the Columbia River Gorge you will find a plethora of cute boutique shops right on Oak Street in Hood River, OR. Silverado for Sterling, the Enchanted Alpaca for unique and organic clothing choices and numerous outdoor and active wear retailers are at your disposal. At the east end you can step into Duck Soup for a fun new outfit or Bloomsbury for that perfect item that will sit right above your mantel.
6. Museums
The history here in the Gorge is amazing and intriguing. From the time the Gorge was created to the early lumber years that built the towns you will find all the history you can take in. Two of our favorites would be The Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center, located in Stevenson WA and the Gorge Discovery Center in The Dalles, OR.
5. Windsurfing
Although we realize that this sport is not for everyone the spectating part can be just as intriguing as the actual endeavor itself. The Columbia Gorge is a big name in the world of windsurfing and kite boarding. In fact, some call Hood River, just 45 minutes east of Portland, the windsurfing capital of the world, thanks to the incredible gorge winds that blow along the Columbia River. On an average breezy day, it’s typical to see dozens (if not hundreds) of colorful sails dancing across the wide river. Both windsurfing and kite boarding lessons and equipment are available in and around Hood River if you should decide to give it a try. 
4. Wine Tours
Due to The Gorge’s unique geology and it’s variety of growing conditions, the diversity of wine grapes are unlikely to be matched anywhere else. So unusual is this growing area that was filed to establish a shared appellation for Oregon and Washington… the Columbia Gorge American Viticulture Area. The AVA straddles both sides of the Columbia River for a stretch of about 15 miles, and covers 280 square miles, thus why The Gorge is home to 30 + of the Northwest’s best wineries.
3. Hiking
I could right a book about the Northwest’s hiking trails and scenic parks. Whether you are looking for a light walk or a hike above it all we have it here for you. Beacon Rock, Falls Creek Falls, Strawberry Island, Angels Crest to name a few will send you to some of the most spectacular viewings in the world. We suggest when planning your hiking trip you either look up reviews online or ask around as some of these trail heads are seasonal.
2. White Water Rafting
This is a must, experience adventure that takes you through old lava beds and a massive history lesson. We would not recommend anyone other than Zoller’s Outdoor Odyssey’s for your adventure as their guides are knowledgeable, professional and fun! They also have the gear and the techniques to give you the ultimate experience available.
1. Eating
Yes, that’s right eating is at the top of our must do’s in the Gorge. The Gorge is home to some of the finest restaurants in the Northwest and whether you are looking for casual or Black Tie you will find it here. Bonneville Hot Springs Resort offers a fantastic menu catered for every meal of the day. You can also look forward to a 100% organic menu in the works thanks to an on site greenhouse. Stevenson is home to fantastic Restaurants such as Big River Grill and El Rio and further east about 28 miles you can find everything from Italian to Curry, Mexican to a Sweet Potato Burrito with Feta (Everybody’s Brewing, White Salmon WA).
