The Essential Guide to the Columbia River Gorge

"This dramatic river canyon stretches over 80 miles and plunges to depths of up to 4,000 feet, carved by Ice Age floods and framed by basalt cliffs that mark the Oregon–Washington border. Designated a National Scenic Area in 1986, it contains North America’s greatest concentration of waterfalls and an extraordinary range of ecosystems—from rainforest canyons to semi‑arid grasslands—making it a mecca for hiking, cycling, kiteboarding, windsurfing, rafting, and fishing. The region is also an agricultural and wine-producing heartland, with orchard and farm-to-table dining, a recognized American Viticultural Area, and small towns that pair post‑hike beers and waterfront views with access to trails, viewpoints, and cultural sites." - Travel + Leisure Editors