7 Scenic Spots in the Gorge That Aren’t Waterfalls
The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most well-known regions in all of the Pacific Northwest. Dividing Oregon and Washington, the Columbia River flows west towards the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by world-class recreation opportunities, scenic views, cute towns, and quite a bit of history. Farther East, the Gorge winds through a mostly arid, high-desert landscape. The closer you get to Portland and Vancouver, the more lush and green the scenery becomes. This lush area is home to some of Oregon’s most famous waterfalls, including the tallest waterfall in the state: Multnomah Falls. While the waterfalls along the Columbia River Gorge Waterfall Corridor draw in thousands of visitors each year (deservedly so), there are plenty of other scenic spots in the area just as deserving of a visit.
Here are 7 scenic spots in the gorge… that aren’t waterfalls!
These two spots are a short drive from each other on the Oregon side of the Gorge, so I’m lumping them together! The Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpoint and the Vista House offer incredible views of the Columbia River Gorge. While the Women’s Forum Viewpoint allows for a east-facing view (where you can see the Vista House as pictured here), the views from the Vista House are panoramic. On a clear day, you can see for miles. On a foggy, rainy day, visibility can shift from minute to minute! Both spots can be incredibly windy (even on a bright, warm day), so be prepared for that.
The Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpoint is free and there are no facilities (other than maybe a picnic table or two). The Vista House (about 3 minutes down the road) has an informational center, restrooms, a gift shop, and cafe. However, they can have seasonal and/or limited hours, as well as can close due to weather, so be sure to look here ahead of time. If the building is closed, there are no facilities available.
The Bridge of the Gods in Cascade Locks, OR
Featured in the well-known movies, Twilight and Wild, the Bridge of the Gods is an iconic spot connecting Cascade Locks, OR with Washington. This toll bridge has an interesting history and can be seen from a few different spots. In Cascade Locks, you can park underneath the bridge. You can also drive to Cascade Locks Marine Park and walk to Thunder Island (where this photo was taken), for a totally different perspective. If you pay the toll, you can cross the bridge (drive slowly, as this bridge is also for pedestrians and bikers), there is a small parking lot on the right where you can also get a view of the bridge (this view is more limited than on the Oregon side).
The two viewpoints on either side of the bridge are free and there are no facilities. There is a parking fee and available facilities at Marine Park.
Beacon Rock in Skamania, WA
Beacon Rock is both a scenic spot and a great option for those wanting a bit of a challenge. At around 850 ft tall, Beacon Rock is truly a beacon along the Washington side of the Gorge. It rises up alongside the river, seemingly out of nowhere. Visitors can hike to the top of the rock by following a trail built into the side of the rock. While it will take 50+ switchbacks to make it to the top, the views are worth it the whole way up.
There are fees to park at Beacon Rock State Park, or you can buy an annual pass. There are numerous other trails, state parks, informational sites, campgrounds, etc. nearby.
*Beacon Rock may close for repairs in 2026-2027, check their site for details!
Rowena Crest and Tom McCall Nature Preserve near Mosier, OR
These two spots are next door to each other! The Rowena Crest Overlook sits atop a bluff overlooking the Columbia River Gorge. From the viewpoint, you can also see the Rowena Loops (pictured here). The Tom McCall Nature Preserve trailhead is here as well. In the Spring, this is one of the best spots in the Gorge for wildflowers. Balsamroot, lupine, and more bloom across the wide open fields and it is a truly stunning view.
There are no parking fees here, nor are there any facilities. In the spring, this area can get very busy, so plan ahead!
Cape Horn Viewpoint
If you drive nine miles east of Washougal, WA, you will come across a spot with gorgeous views of the Gorge. The Cape Horn viewpoint (not to be confused with the Cape Horn trail) is just a narrow pullout on the two-lane road overlooking the gorge. The pull out is on the right side of the road if you are going East. Be very cautious when parking and getting in/out of your car. If you are heading West, you will want to drive past the overlook and turn around to then be able to park on the right side of the road. This is a quick stop, but worth it for the incredible views!
Cliffs near Ainsworth State Park
One of my favorite things to do in the Gorge is watch the fog drift between the cliffs, particularly if it’s snowed recently. This photo was taken from the side of the road near Ainsworth State Park, but there are dozens of other places to go where you can get a vantage point of the highest wall of the Gorge (Bonneville Dam and Rooster Rock are two of my other favorites!)
Schreiner Farms in Lyle, WA
Across from The Dalles, on the WA side of the river, sits a tiny, unique farm and ranch. Schreiner Farms is an unexpected short side quest for most visitors! They have zebras, giraffes, bison, and more. Visitors stay in their cars and drive the ¼ mile road to look at the exotic animals. Time it right like I did (meaning clear skies and the animals are in the exact right position), and you can get a photo of a zebra in front of Mt Hood from the comfort of your vehicle. More often than not, you’ll be looking at the animals through fences, but it’s still a very unique Gorge experience!
Schreiner Farms is open from 9 am to dusk daily. While there is no cost associated, if they have a donation option available, I highly recommend giving a few dollars. You must stay in your vehicle the entire time and the road is pretty narrow at a few spots. If you are in the area, definitely swing by! If you are not nearby, save this spot for when you are as it is quick!
A few final words!
The Columbia River Gorge is one of the PNW’s most beloved gems. Whether driving through an exotic animal farm, or hiking Beacon Rock, or pulled over gawking at the fog… please take care of this beautiful place. Leave no trace. Leave it better than you found it.
If there are other spots you think should be added to this list, let me know!
Happy exploring!
Rachel at Somewhere Northwest
