Columbia Gorge--OR, I-84

12/15/2020

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area begins at Troutdale OR in the west and runs 80 miles along I-84 to Biggs Junction, 20 mi east of The Dalles. I-84 and Hwy 30 are a little like the river itself, sometimes running the same course, sometimes separating, only to rejoin further down the road. Read about the interesting connection between I-84 & Hwy 30 and their history at

Here are places along I-84 through the Gorge going east:

Troutdale—exit 17
Lewis & Clark State Recreation Site and the Sandy River Delta—exit 18
Rooster Rock State Park—exit 25
Benson Lake State Park—exit 30, eastbound
Multnomah Falls—exit 31
Ainsworth State Park—exit 35
Bonneville Dam—exit 40
Eagle Creek Rec/Fish Hatchery--41
Cascade Locks—exit 44
Herman Creek Campground/Trailhead--abt 3 mi east of Cascade Locks on Hwy 30
Wyeth Campground—exit 51
Starvation Creek –exit 55
Viento State Park—exit 56
Mitchell Point Overlook—exit 58
Hood River—exits 62-64
Koberg Beach State Recreation Site—exit 66
Mosier—exit 69
Memaloose rest area/State Park—exit 73 (11 mi west of The Dalles)
Mayer State Park—exit 76 to the north, across the RR tracks
Rowena—exit 76 to the south
Columbia Gorge Discovery Center—exit 82
The Dalles—exits 83-85 (also 82 and 87)
US-197 (Dufur, Bend)—exit 87
The Dalles Dam—exit 88 (also 85)
Deschutes State Park, Celilo Park—exit 97
Biggs Junction, US-97 (Yakima/Bend)—exit 104

Car-free travel in the Columba Gorge

https://columbiagorgeexpress.com/ all buses lift equipped,
https://columbiagorgeexpress.com/transit-connections
https://www.columbiagorgecarfree.com/ “Explore the Gorge by foot, bike, bus, t rain”

Troutdale OR—exit 17
Traveling I-84 what you see of Troutdale is the Columbia Gorge Outlet Mall, but if you take exit 17 and explore a little, you’ll discover some delightful spots. From NW Frontage Rd, take Graham Rd up the hill to E Columbia River Hwy and turn east to quaint and historic downtown Troutdale. The Depot Rail Museum is at the east end of that, at 473 E Historic Columbia River Hwy. Next to that is Depot City Park. For more parks in Troutdale and nearby, see links below.

Or, you can take exit 18, go south past Lewis & Clark State Rec Site on Columbia River Hwy (day use)

Oxbow Regional Park reviewed at https://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/oxbow-regional-park-oregon

     Troutdale is on the west side of the Sandy River. On the east bank of the Sandy River is Lewis & Clark State Recreation Site . . .

Lewis & Clark State Recreation Site (day use)—exit 18, go south
     Summer splashers in the stream of the Sandy River meet your longing look as you drive south of I-84 on the Historic Columbia River Hwy (US-30). That’s on the right. On the left you’ll see vehicles parked along the road, and what appears to be a parking lot that was blocked when I was there. A sign shows species of fish that can be caught also swimming in the stream. Folk with fishing poles walk along the river looking for likely spots.
     A bit further south is the official sign for the Lewis & Clark State Recreation Site. It’s a welcome sight with green grass, shade trees, picnic places, paved parking, paved trails (some rather narrow and not exactly flat), and great interpretive signs about Lewis & Clark, Native Americans, and native species. There’s a flushing restroom and water faucets. There’s a large field for running and roaming.
     While I was there a pick-up truck came with a bed full of grocery bags of food. A man appeared to be handing them out to grateful people. A couple of those people took advantage of the faucet to wash hair. It’s a day use area, so later I asked a person I met on the trail along the river whether the people lived there or just came for meals. She wasn’t sure, but didn’t think they lived there. A roll of TP in the bushes along the river might be from picnickers or other persons.
     A paved path along the river is accessible if crossing the road with care. It’s a nice stroll/roll. It has some hills, not extraordinarily strenuous, but enough to give a workout. There are some steps down to the beach, but there is an area not so steep, though not necessarily a wheelchair way.
     A little south beyond Lewis & Clark Rec site a bridge crosses to the west into Troutdale and along that side of the river is the Glenn Otto Community Park with a swimming beach, forest trails, picnic shelters & a playground. At that intersection on the east bank of the river is an historical marker about the Sandy River from 1792 and on.

https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=116

Sandy River Delta (day use)—exit 18, go north
This is a US Forest Service fee area, a popular dog walking and hiking area. The parking area is packed, but a person I talked to said that there are enough trails they are not crowded. “Five miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails offer year-round recreation. East of the buck and rail fence, a closed Wildlife Habitat Zone supports migratory birds and wildlife.” “Confluence Trail - A 1.25 mile gravel ADA trail leading to an eliptical bird blind designed by Maya Lin, made possible by our partners at Confluence Project. Please leash dogs with 100 feet along this trail. The bird blind, comprised of black locust slats, list all the species encountered by Lewis and Clark during the 1904-1906 Corps of Discovery expedition. Listen to Confluence's audio tour” on the site:

https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/crgnsa/recarea/?recid=29976

Accessible vault toilets, no potable water.

Viewpoint/Historic Marker Broughton’s Expedition—milepost 23, Tunnel Point; westbound only
Also called Corbet Viewpoint, about 20 mi east of Portland

Rooster Rock State Park (day use)—exit 25
A great gathering place, or to take the family for a day to picnic & play in the river or playground, enjoy natural beauty, learn a little history about Lewis & Clark, or just take a potty break. It does cost to park. When I’ve been there was plenty of parking during 2020 COVID cares, but it may be different through a regular hot summer season. The park is a long stretch along the river with tables and grills almost close enough to touch the water. If you do want to touch it, there are stairs down to the beach. Drinking water and somewhat accessible flushing restrooms take care of necessaries. Additional amenities include trails, disc golf, windsurfing when the winds come sweeping down the gorge. The site says it has accessible fishing and boat launch. There are reservable group picnic shelters with extra tables in the open, and horseshoes.

https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=126

Benson State Recreation Area (day use)—exit 30, eastbound only
   Closed for much of 2020, we were finally able to check out this area March of 2021. There were still patches of snow, and staff were not finished tidying storm damage.
   Enjoy an attractive view of a waterfall, an adorable little stream with cute bridges, 2 lakes/ponds stocked with trout monthly Mar-Oct. A train goes by nearly within the recreational area—exciting for some, not so much for others. A dirt with a rough start from the parking (& still some mud in March) road leads past some of the picnic tables & grills on mossed over concrete pads, that could be accessed with a wheelchair.
   A mossy but wide, paved path leads to the accessible floating fishing pier. There’s another fishing pier we didn’t see whether it had an accessible path. Amenities indicated on websites are: picnic, reservable kitchen shelter, flush restrooms not accessible, swim, paddle, disc golf, exhibits, and accessible fishing. $5 day-use fee. Photos added at the end of this I-84 post. See also

https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=106

Multnomah Falls (day use, restaurant)—exit 31, watch for it on the left
     Multnomah Falls is tremendously popular and for good reason, both for beauty and ease of visiting. Because of that it was closed for much of 2020. When the Lodge was open again for dining in, I took opportunity to go. The decrease in crowds for COVID created a greater opportunity for photography. As a paraplegic, having forgot how steep the access, I thought I could just go on my own. I was very fortunate that people were so kind as to offer to push me up those hills even to the Lodge and to the lowest level of viewing area.
    Park Rangers had a small booth open at the Lodge during COVID restrictions, but with great maps and advice about the gorge and the most accessible waterfalls. The gift shop was full of beautiful and fun things. I really enjoyed the chili & jalapeno cornbread and wasn’t disappointed in trying the homemade clam chowder. You can also get food outdoors at the snack bar, and outdoor tables are nicely situated and pleasant. The Lodge has an accessible restroom on the west end. Access to the restaurant is an elevator in that end. The restrooms in the restaurant are not accessible.
     A grassy island in the parking area has a gazebo of tourist info for the state, including pamphlets you can take, with a plea not to litter. If you aren’t interested in keeping it, please return it to where you got it.
     An excellent video done by John Williams, “Accessible Adventures” below

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVp04izP2TU&list=ULeNHJxWfcjeU&index=156&ab_channel=ForestService
See also https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/crgnsa/recarea/?recid=30026
https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd575269.pdf favorite map, shows amenities
http://www.columbiarivergorge.info/maps.html map PDFs of the Gorge
https://columbiagorgetomthood.com/maps-columbia-river-gorge/ more maps, attractions, etc.
https://www.recreation.gov/camping/gateways/1102

Ainsworth State Park (camping & day use)
—exit 35
Ainsworth is not a large park, for day use it has picnic tables along Hwy 30, a restroom, and drinking water. I was frustrated that it was closed for so long in the summer of 2020, but when I was able to access it, I could see why. The fire damage of the season was up close and personal. It’s not the first time the gorge has been closed for natural disaster, such as fire and landslides from sogged out soils. Camping is normally available.

https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=105

From exit 35 you can access the Historic Columbia River Highway, Hwy 30 east or west. I don’t recommend going west on it, because it is narrow and the downside is very close and in need of shoring up and repair.

https://www.oregon.gov/odot/regions/pages/historic-columbia-river-highway.aspx

Bonneville Dam (day use)—exit 40
I have been anxious to compare the dams on the Columbia River from the Oregon side, the Bonneville Dam in particular, to the Washington side for years, but the Oregon dams (I should say Visitor Centers) have been closed pretty much all of 2020. I’ll have to continue waiting for a chance. In the meantime, here’s some info to plan a visit https://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/bonneville/

Eagle Creek Rec/Fish Hatchery (day use & camping)—41
Eagle Creek Recreation and fish hatchery were fenced off. When they open again, it will be a great place to visit. Looks like it’s a popular place, so hopefully there’ll be a chance..

Cascade Locks (day use & camping, hotels & restaurants)—exit 44
Cascade Locks is a tidy little town of about 1200 population. It identifies itself as the Heart of the Gorge. From here you can cross the Bridge of the Gods north to Washington State, travel east or west on either I-84 or the Historic Columbia River Highway (US-30), ride the Sternwheeler riverboat on a tour up the river (with or without dinner), hike/bike various trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail, camp, boat, fish, or take a sweet little honeymoon/weekend away. Of course, there’s more than one way to get most anywhere, but exit 44 is the most direct route to Cascade Locks off I-84, even if it doesn’t seem so. http://www.cascadelocks.com/ has links to a couple short videos (Grant’s Getaways).
The Marine Park near the embarkation point of the Sternwheeler has a fun playground, picnic tables and shelters (it can be windy), a group pavilion, lots of room to run, statuary (including Sacajawea and Seaman of the Lewis & Clark team—Sacajawea is depicted for a bit modern penchant). While you await your trip upriver you can check out the Visitor Center gift shop and the Locks Waterfront Grill.

https://portofcascadelocks.org/sternwheeler-columbia-gorge/

If you live in a wheelchair, some of those activities are limited. The neat old Historical Museum is not wheelchair accessible. When we rode the Sternwheeler there was no way to get us on the upper deck, so it was not really a pleasant ride or easy view of anything from the bow of the boat. We were not on a dining cruise, so the dining room was unpeopled, but it looked like it would be far too crowded for a wheelchair to maneuver. Naturally during COVID that might be different, but the views would still be very disappointing, unless things have changed since we went several years ago.

Cascade Motel Cottages & Studios http://cascadelocksmotel.com/accommodation/
Bridge of the Gods Motel & RV Park https://www.yellowpages.com/cascade-locks-or/mip/bridge-of-the-gods-motel-rv-park-8117571
Best Western Plus Columbia River Inn https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotels-in-cascade-locks/best-western-plus-columbia-river-inn/propertyCode.38130.html

 Herman Creek Campground—about 3 miles east of Cascade Locks on Hwy 30
Less than 3 miles east of Cascade Locks, Herman Creek Campground is a small spot for camping/horse camping and a superb hiking trail. “A parade of waterfalls, innumerable moss-carpeted creeks, a sub-alpine lake and ridge top vistas offer a variety of scenery for the equestrian or hiker.” It was closed in 2020 when I went.

Wyeth Campground (day use & camping)—exit 51
At the Wyeth Trailhead there’s a picnic table, vault toilets marked accessible, information signs, and flat paved walkways easy for a wheelchair. It would be a pleasant little picnic and stroll/roll. The campground was closed for COVID when I was there in 2020. It’s small and popular, so you have to reserve early. Only 2 sites are first come first serve. Best suited for tent camping the site says, but claims flush toilets and 10 accessible camp spots.

https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/crgnsa/recarea/?recid=30008

Starvation Creek State Park (day use)–exit 55, east bound only
This was such a happy discovery—what a joy and a delight! It’s a small park with a small parking area, picnic table by the parking, informative signs about the area and the details of trails (map, vertical trends, etc), accessible flushing restrooms, and a pretty waterfall and stream that are closely accessible with a little help and includes 2 picnic tables in view. There are further paved trails, including the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, that I’d love to explore another day (it’s only a mile on an accessible paved trail to Viento State Park). For a manual wheelchair you should bring a helper; it can be kind of a stiff climb. Link below includes a link to a great brochure, and a great detailed map.

https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=122

Viento State Park (day use & camping)—exit 56
With a name like Viento (wind), this park reminds one of a characteristic of the Gorge that some love (windsurfers, for instance), and others not so much. For access to the river and RV camping, go toward the north campground and day use area. For tent camping and accessing the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail. “Viento State Park is also a trailhead for a universally accessible 5.6-mile section of the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail.” It’s only a mile to Starvation Creek State Park.
Park amenities include flush toilets and hot showers, 2 ADA campsites (though there are several flat ones in the RV campground), and some with nice river views. There’s a playground as well, generally firewood for sale, and interpretive signs. The website says you’ll have a better chance of finding a place to camp here than other area campgrounds are full.

https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=123

Mitchell Point Overlook (Wygant State Park, day use)—exit 58
Don’t overlook this overlook! It’s a terrific view of the Columbia River, and has informative interpretive signs. The road up the hill is rather narrow for 2-way traffic, but maybe not impossible if the vehicles aren’t too wide. Two trails begin here. The beginning of Wygant Trail is wide, flat, and paved, a part of the old Historic Columbia River Highway. You’ll see it to the right, blocked to cars, as you get close to the parking lot. After the initial accessibility, Wygant trail takes a turn at switchbacks for a steep ascent and views for those that are able. The Mitchell Point trail is considerably shorter, with “incredible” views of the river, but it’s quite steep right from the parking lot, not as wide or paved. There’s a vault toilet in the parking lot, marked accessible.

https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=125

Hood River (day & night venues, restaurants & hotels)—exits 62-64

Take exit 62 to get to the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum. It is worth checking Google maps before you go: it’s not an easy straight-forward way there, and not an excess of road signs to comfort your heart as you keep going and going and going. But once you get there, you will be ever so glad that you did! Exceptional views of both Mt Hood and Mt Adams are just the beginning of the rewards. There’s picnicking, room for kids to run, various events (when life is normalized), vehicles to look at before you even go inside. Right away you’re in the good-sized gift shop, with an area for eating off to the right. You pay for your ticket(s) and go on inside to be awe-struck by all the antiques—not “just” cars and airplanes, but all sorts of vehicles and items from bygone eras. Just when you think you have seen it all, there’s a whole other area to see. That other area is quaintly bordered like an antique town. The usual monthly events were cancelled due to COVID in 2020, so finally we just went to see what we could see. It just so happened that the National Guard flew in from Spokane that day, and we were able to get a look into their helicopters and ask questions of the pilots. Not a bad consolation prize.

https://www.waaamuseum.org/

Another day another “we” went out to get a better chance to check out the Waterfront Park. Previously we happened on a day when an event was occupying all the space, and it was impossible to find parking, though we were able to drive out The Hook and see the windsurfers get out on the water. Waterfowl also swim there. It’s a gravel road, but there are some picnic tables and a porta potty (not accessible). That’s the west end of the waterfront park. The east end is the marina, with its park and the Hood River County Museum.

The Waterfront Park is a family friendly place with a playground, picnicking (including reservable picnic shelter), wide paved trails, sheltered swimming beach, well-used accessible restrooms, amphitheater for events. Across the street are restaurants/breweries. I recommend reservations, as we were unable to get any reasonable wait time for dinner.
The next closest place to eat was Riverside, at the Best Western Hood River Inn. The only waterfront restaurant, it does occupy a privileged and popular position. It was dark when we got there so we couldn’t see the view of the river, though the decks were lighted, had outdoor heating, and were not uncomfortable. Without reservations, we did have a wait. Of course, they could not accommodate as many hungry humans as usual because of COVID restrictions in 2020. Lots of burgers were on the menu, as well as pastas and seafood. Our dinner was very good. The friendly waitress kept us supplied with delicious bread as we waited at the table they were finally able to give us. As an appetizer we had the garlic-rosemary fondue with pita wedges, grilled asparagus & broccoli. Our entrees were fish (cod) and chips in substantial portions, and a pasta dish with an Italian sausage. We were too full for dessert. Only one restroom was set aside for the disabled, and it was not at all wheelchair friendly. I was fortunate that a gas station convenience store with a useable restroom was within rolling distance.

http://riversidehoodriver.com/

One of the most well known of the Hood River adventures is the Mount Hood Railroad, with its scenic rides and events. In ordinary years you can take an excursion in spring when all the orchards are in blossom, experience a pretend train robbery, ride a mystery train, or feel the magic of a Christmas train.

https://www.mthoodrr.com/

The other most famous of things to do in Hood River is to drive the Fruit Loop. Local orchards sell their fruit fresh and juicy (some U-pick), as well as various crafts, activities, and events—in the fall many have apple tasting, and cider, so you can find the varieties you can’t live without. Various varieties of peaches and pears are popular in their seasons. A friend told me not to miss the alpacas: Draper Girls Country Farm (has a petting zoo) and Wy’East Vineyards have them?

https://hoodriverfruitloop.com/

See also

https://www.crazyfamilyadventure.com/hood-river-fruit-loop/

Exit 64 can take you north across the Hood River [toll] Bridge to White Salmon WA, or south on Hwy 35—one of
3 ways to get to Bend OR

Hwy 35 at Hood River
Hwy 197 at The Dalles
Hwy 97 at Biggs Junction).

https://portofhoodriver.com/bridge/

Hood River is on the east of Mt Hood, and Portland on the west, and you can do the Mt. Hood Columbia Gorge Loop by driving to Hood River through the Gorge, go south at exit 64 to take Hwy 35 until it reaches Hwy 26, which you can follow west to Gresham/Troutdale/Portland. Alternatively, you can travel Hwy 26 to Hwy 35 and head north to Hood River, and from thence travel the Gorge back to where you came from. It’s a way to access skiing, camping, fishing, or just a beautiful way to spend your day(s).

https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5227071.pdf

Koberg Beach State Recreation Site (day use, camping)—exit 66, westbound
A rough triangle of 22 acres, including a rock outcrop, jutting into the Columbia River north of I-84, offering access to the river, swimming, fishing, restrooms. Looks like the rest stop part doesn’t allow camping, beyond that is an RV/tenting area and a place to tie up boats on the river. I can’t see a boat ramp from the satellite photo, but one site says there’s a launch—doesn’t say what kind of watercraft it’s for. None of the sites have much about this little spot and they don’t all agree about the amenities. There is a little interesting history about it at

https://traveloregon.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/fishing/koberg-beach-state-recreation-site/

Mosier (daytime venues, restaurant)—exit 69
A tiny town of less than 500 population, just 5 miles from Hood River, has at least 3 U-pick cherry orchards, condos on the hill above the highway (great view of the river, maybe some can be rented for vacation?), a swimming hole above a modest waterfall. Totem Pole Plaza is gravel with picnic tables on US 30 going through town. US-30 going east splits from I-84 at Mosier. The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail comes right into town from the west. There’s a waterfront park and windsurfing off Rock Creek Beach.

http://www.mosiercommunity.com/ click on “Explore” for things to do in Mosier
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mosier,_Oregon
http://www.mosiercreek.com/ the condos on the hill above I-84, on Mosier Creek Place
https://www.theswimguide.org/beach/7819 Rock Creek windsurfing
U-pick cherries: Root Orchards, Rosedale Fruit Farm, Evans Fruit Company
Mosier Company restaurant: burgers, dogs, mac & cheese, pizza https://www.mosiercompany.com/

Memaloose rest area & State Park (day use, camping)—exit 73 (11 mi west of The Dalles)
Here’s another place I was so very glad we went! The day area restrooms were closed for COVID, but there was an easy accessible picnic table by the parking lot, and tables on concrete pads on the grassy park along the river. Some of them have windbreaks. A nice open structure holds interpretive signs about the Oregon Trail, including a great map showing clearly the river route and the Barlow Road route, along with modern highways. The sidewalks are nice a wide. The one drawback is that the ramp from parking down to the park is steep enough for me to need a helper. The campground (RV & tenting) is pleasant with trees, picnic tables, fire pits. Some are suitably flat for the disabled. The site say there are accessible flush toilets, accessible hot showers, a playground, and a dump station. Check the website to for closure info

https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=118

Mayer State Park (day use area)—exit 76,
go north across the RR tracks
This park has 3 parts: east, mid, west. While we were there in March 2021 we saw blue jays, quail, and eagles, beside the pretty spring flowers. Photos added at the end of this I-84 post.
   After you cross the RR tracks, go right to the east end. This area has quite a lot of parking, but it’s a popular place for windy water sports in summer. One of the picnic tables was on the parking pavement, not sure if permanently placed or by whom. There’s a vault toilet with a paved path to it. Not much is accessible for a wheelchair at this end.
   If you turn left from crossing the RR tracks, you will eventually reach the middle part of the park, where there’s a boat ramp, parking, accessible vault toilet, and not too accessible picnic tables. A quiet, protected bay is probably the safest for swimming in the park. Before you come to the boat ramp is where the flushing (not accessible) toilets are, as I remember, and maybe there are some accessible picnic tables there. Contrary to indications on the park’s website, there is no accessible fishing.
   Up the steep, paved but severely potholed, road west from the boat ramp area, you will finally come to the dead-end west end of the park. There’s not really a parking lot there, and you must hike to get to the water. The roadway was blocked with boulders. This is the least accessible part of the park. We didn’t try the trails, but they might be at least partly or nominally accessible. The park website says it’s “perfect for picnicking, fishing, swimming and boating.” I would say “perfect” is an imperfect term.
   The website shows photos of some accessible features; fishing said to be accessible is in error.

Rowena—exit 76, go south
A tiny hamlet of about 200 population, 8 miles east of Mosier via i-84, 9 miles via US-30, which offers a spectacular view of the Columbia River at Rowena Crest (a short loop from Hwy 30), part of the Tom McCall Wilderness.

Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum—exit 82
     Google might have you take exit 76 to get to the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center via Hwy 30 from Rowena. It’s a narrow road with a steep northern declination, so traveling east is not as bad as traveling west.
     The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center (not to be confused with the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center in Stevenson WA) shares a beautiful rock and wood building with the Wasco County Historical Museum. One to the left, one to the right as you enter. Note the Columbia River embedded in stone (well, tiles) in the floor of the central corridor between the two. The wall of windows at the end of that corridor is magnificent.
     The Wasco County Historical Museum showcases local wildlife (including a few live raptors, for shows in normal times), children’s programs, Native Americans, history from Lewis & Clark through the Oregon Trail and the settlement and development of the county—agriculture, commerce & community, industries connected with fishing, river and rail transportation.
     The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center displays the natural history of the region from glacial times forward, complementary Native American displays, a huge carved sturgeon, more about Lewis & Clark, and other explorers, trappers & traders, traveling the river and other routes of the Oregon Trail, transportation by ship, rail, and road. It gives a wider view of the dam and the gorge, and renewable energy.
     The intriguing Basalt Rock Café was closed for COVID in 2020. The gift shop is full of wonderful things to catch your eye and pocketbook. The restroom was pleasant and accessible. Outdoors there’s an accessible paved trail along the river, picnic tables, an artistic water fountain or fall.
     They have an event calendar, which unfortunately had to be cleared more than once due to state COVID restrictions (and we had so wanted to go to a cultural fair that was to happen fall of 2020), and you can arrange for business or private events, or educational ones, in normal times.
    Their website has a cool aerial video, as well as more information

https://www.gorgediscovery.org/

Another great 5 min video by John Williams, “Accessible Adventures”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8GdwwrRRrQ&ab_channel=ForestService

The Dalles Riverfront Trail is paved asphalt/concrete 9 mi from the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center to The Dalles Dam.
https://www.traillink.com/trail/riverfront-trail-at-the-dalles/

The Dalles—exits 83-85 (you can drive into town from the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center,
or from exit 87)

http://www.ci.the-dalles.or.us/index.htm has a slide show at the top that gives interesting info
http://www.el.com/to/thedalles/
https://www.portofthedalles.com/ has a 3 min video about the region

The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center gave us a map of The Dalles, and when I got home I was anxious to go back and take the self-guided mural tour around town. The Dalles is not particularly inviting as you drive through on I-84, which bisects the town. But once I got off the freeway I was much more favorably inclined. A lot of history is to be seen and explored there. Beside the wonderful murals (some needing a little refreshing), is the historic architecture, some repurposed, such as Old St Peter’s church, which has become an event venue, and Clock Tower Ales resides in the old Courthouse.
Take exit 85 off I-84, north to the Marina and Riverfront Park (what I could see coming off the freeway looked great, but it was temporarily closed) or south on Brewery Overpass Road to E. 2nd St, also called Mosier-The Dalles Hwy, which is the main road through town. 1st St (one-way east), 2nd St (one-way west), and 3rd St (one-way east) are the ones you’ll need to find the murals.
 Please note: I could not take photos of the entire mural in some cases, due to the dimensions and parked cars blocking the view. There are more murals than I have shown in this post.
I suggest coming into town and traveling west on 2nd St. noting the historical murals, the historic Granada Theater on the corner of Washington St and the Columbia Gorge Veterans Museum (203 E. 2nd St) on the way to Pentland St, then turn south. First street on your right is The Dalles Area Chamber of Commerce (404 W. 2nd St). Next street off Pentland St. is where you’ll find the Original Courthouse Museum (410 W. 2nd Place). Pentland makes a T with W. 3rd St, which you can take east past Old St. Peter’s (Court St & E 3rd St), and continue east to see more murals and the Old Courthouse (Clocktower Ales) corner of Union St. Next street east is Court St. where you’ll see The Dalles City Hall kitty corner to the National Neon Sign Museum (200 E 3rd St). Check sites for closures.

https://thedalleschamber.com/ Chamber of Commerce
http://www.originalwascocountycourthouse.org/ Original Courthouse
https://oldstpeterslandmark.org/ Old St Peters (now called Landmark)
http://clocktowerales.com/ the old Courthouse
https://www.nationalneonsignmuseum.org/ National Neon Sign Museum

I found the modest Lewis & Clark Festival Park off Union St., which has picnic tables on pavement, restrooms, building, parking, and commemorative Lewis & Clark fountain/statuary. You can reserve it for your event. From the park entrance you can go under a commemorative overpass to equally modest Dalles Columbia River Commercial Dock, which has a little interest but no parking allowed (except tour bus), and access to the wide, paved Riverfront Trail, much of it ADA.

http://www.nwprd.org/rivertrail
http://www.nwprd.org/parks more parks

From Union Street you can travel east on 1st Street to see more murals. Pull into the parking lot off 1st St and Federal St to see the cute little building that is now the Veterans Services building and Bus Stop (201 Federal St)—see

Fort Dalles Museum and Anderson Homestead (500 W 15th, Garrison St) and Columbia Gorge Community College (400 E Scenic Dr, close to Sorosis Park and reservoir) are a little more out of the way. July 24, 2018 The Dalles Chronicle published an article about a shuttle service that was going to be piloted to connect the Chamber of Commerce with 10 stops in The Dalles, including the Fort Dalles Museum, downtown, The Dalles Dam Visitor Center, and the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center.

https://fortdallesmuseum.org/ Fort Dalles, homestead & antique vehicles
https://www.cgcc.edu/ campuses in The Dalles and Hood River

I had intended to eat at Petite Provence Boulangerie & Patisserie in The Dalles, because I had enjoyed one of their Portland metro locations, I knew they had a salmon dish I hoped to try, and I always prefer to eat where there’s a local connection. But it was 3:15pm and they had closed at 3. They are right on 2nd St, but with only street parking and I didn’t have a helper this trip, I didn’t feel up to getting out anyway. I looked at some other restaurants, but with COVID closures I was getting low on options and high on hunger, so I decided to just try Montira’s Thai Cuisine. What a fortunate accident! I was impressed with their COVID precautions. The guy cheerfully came out to take my order when I called requesting it so I wouldn’t have to get out of my car. It turned out they not only had a salmon dish (Salmon on the Beach), they had a specialty The Dalles Ring of Fire. The salmon was tender and fresh on a "beach" of curried vegetables done just right. All of the food was good or great, except I’ve had better peanut sauce and what seemed to be a honey sweet & sour sauce.

https://www.provencepdx.com/ Petite Provence
http://places.singleplatform.com/montiras-thai-cuisine/menu?ref=google Montira’s Thai Cuisine

US-197 (The Dalles Bridge to WA going north; Dufur & Bend OR going south)—exit 87
Great views of the west side of the dam, essentially in The Dalles, this exit offers access to

The Dalles Bridge (north to Dallesport WA), small 50th anniversary Bridge memorial on 197 near the Shilo Inn parking
The Dalles Dam Visitor Center via Bret Clodfelter Way (road bordering the south side of the Chevron)
Shilo Inn/Columbia Portage Grill and Comfort Inn Columbia Gorge
McDonalds and Chevron

The Dalles Dam—exit 88 (Visitor Center exit 85)
Although closed/fenced/gated due to COVID restrictions in 2020, I pulled off here to get a photo of Mt Hood before losing sight of it down in the valley just west. There were even better views east of the dam, but no where to pull off and picture them.

https://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/The-Dalles/ great info about recreation in the area, great map

Deschutes River State Recreation Area, and
Celilo Park—exit 97
Camping, flush restrooms and hot showers are all labeled accessible on the Deschutes River site. Not labeled as accessible are hiking trails, picnicking, viewpoint, horse trails, bike path, boat ramp, exhibit info, and fishing. A heat warning says, “Heat starts to build by June, with summer temperatures regularly reaching the 90s and 100s [even up to 110 degrees].” No campfires during the summer months is a common restriction. By way of persuasion, the site invites “rafting and world-class steelhead and trout fishing” as well as jetboating. Water is turned off in the winter.

“Celilo Park is owned and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and is a small, well established park on the banks of the Columbia River. Celilo Park offers free camping for RV camping and tent camping with a 14 day stay limit. The park offers flush toilets but no showers. The mature trees offer plenty of shade on summer days and picnickers are often found at the park. On windy days Celilo Park is typically crowded with wind surfers. A paved public boat ramp is available at the west end of Celilo Park and the park is close to convenience store shopping, fast food and gas in Biggs. Open year round but reservations are not possible.”

http://www.columbiarivergorge.info/celilo-park.html
https://www.nps.gov/places/000/celilo-park.htm adds some Native American history, map OR Trail

Biggs Junction, US-97 (Yakima WA to the north; Bend OR to the south)—exit 104
Sitting at the literal crossroads (US-97 and I-84), traveler trade is offered in the form of gas, food, and towing/repair/tire service. Maryhill Museum of Art, Maryhill State Park, & Goldendale WA are just across the river to the north.

https://www.shermancountyoregon.com/sherman-county/sherman-county-towns/biggs/ history, map
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biggs_Junction,_Oregon interesting info—brief
https://www.maryhillmuseum.org/ an eclectic museum of art and history; site includes online exhibits
https://parks.state.wa.us/543/Maryhill Columbia River access & recreation, camping (ADA), fishing
https://www.goldendalechamber.org/?gclid=Cj0KCQiA2uH-BRCCARIsAEeef3mjpF8VSA7i-wosQ9PUv4uxOvscdlHnZ6zXfPiFPM7X9QwxMr1akE0aArBREALw_wcB Goldendale WA

Photo Updates, 3-12-21:
Benson State Recreation Area, and
Mayer State Park

5 Comments

Susan Ternyey

12/23/2020 01:39:45 am

Just came across this interesting 1 min video about the Columbia River; ranger speaking in front of Bonneville Dam
https://www.facebook.com/crgnsa/videos/341963360450391

12/23/2020 02:20:50 am

Just came across these videos

Grant's Getaways: Mosier Meanderings
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oONIqkwIXv4&ab_channel=oregon

Columbia River Gorge, Oregon: Meet the Neighbors in Mosier
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ck9-Ys-Xv2g&ab_channel=HoodGorge

12/23/2020 03:11:57 am

Here's a 12.5 min video about the Columbia River
(more inclusive than the title suggests)
"Forged Through Time: The Creation of the Columbia River Gorge"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMLCHTw_C04&ab_channel=ExecutiveProductions-Seattle

2/11/2021 06:24:58 pm

3 videos about Vanport & the flood of the Columbia River, 1948

KGW Vault: Vanport Flood--2 min video, 2020
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGcjOUV3emU&ab_channel=KGWNews

Where We Live: 70 years since the Vanport Flood--2.5 min video, 2018
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mvwc--FhpcE&ab_channel=KOIN6
African American experience

Vanport and the Columbia River Floods of 1948--36.5 min video, 2015
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6XQTXYDxFU&ab_channel=NWSPortland

3/2/2021 01:29:47 pm

MAYER STATE PARK || THE DALLES OREGON ||
1.5 min video Beautiful Hike At Mayer State Park
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pa1H0zudgrk&ab_channel=GalaUrsul

Wheelchair Wanderings
in search of accessible vacations