Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

The Columbia River Gorge has more than than 70 waterfalls that provide the best scenery, hiking trails, bicycle paths, small shops, resorts.  You can elect to visit just parts of the Gorge or take the entire day to check out everything it has to offer.  Located just off of I-84, Exit #31 and just 30-40 mins east of Portland, it is a great day trip for sightseeing and hiking. The Mt. Hood train starts in the heart of the Gorge - go further east to the city of Hood River and take the train to the base of Mt. Hood.  You can do the 2 or a 4 hr tour or lunch/dinner tours.  Reservations are recommended and their line is 1-800-872-4661 and website is mthoodrr.com Multnomah Falls.  A paved, one-mile trail leads to the top of the falls and an overlook. Gift shop at base. Columbia Gorge Discovery Center - hiking guide books, touristy type gifts and postcards etc. "Fruit Loop" is a 35 mile route through orchard country, where many farms tempt visitors to stop with fruit stands and gift stores. One of the best times to tour is during the annual blossom festival in mid-April, when flowering season is at its height for pears, cherries, apples and peaches. Many farms offer food, picnicking and special events during the festival. The loop includes vineyards with wine tasting rooms, plus berry, vegetable, lavender and alpaca farms. If you are in the Portland area, take off on a nice, rare dry and sunny day to bask in the glory of mother nature.  It's a cool escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.