Arizona’s Grand Canyon is, by far, the most famous canyon in the country. It’s one of the top tourist attractions in the U.S., and it’s definitely quite a wonder. But we have some gorgeous gorges right here in Washington that are much easier to access… and there’s at least one that is even more breathtaking.
The Columbia River Gorge is the largest natural scenic area in the United States.
Joe Parks / Flickr The gorge marks the border between Washington and Oregon, spanning over 80 miles through the Cascade Range.
The mighty Columbia River is the largest river flowing into the Pacific Ocean from North America.
Matthew Warner / Flickr Not only is it one of our top sources of hydroelectric power, it’s also a habitat for 609 known fish and wildlife species.
The Columbia is about 1,243 miles long, making it the seventh longest river in North America.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr It flows from British Columbia through Washington and part of Oregon before emptying into the Pacific Ocean.
The Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area is full of natural wonders.
Johnathan Miske / Flickr Both the Washington side and the Oregon side have plenty of hiking trails, waterfalls, viewpoints, and camping areas. The small towns that line the river are full of charm (and often breweries).
This canyon took millions of years to turn into the wonder it is today.
daveynin / Flickr Needless to say, when the Lewis and Clark Expedition stumbled upon it in 1806, they were awe-struck.
Every Washingtonian should explore the Columbia River Gorge.
Bill Delvin / Flickr This is definitely the Grand Canyon of the Pacific Northwest, and it’s incredible.
We’re so lucky to have this nature lover’s paradise right here in our state. Have you ever spent time exploring the Columbia River Gorge? There are plenty of must-see spots—and these are some of the best places for breathtaking views.
Joe Parks / Flickr
The gorge marks the border between Washington and Oregon, spanning over 80 miles through the Cascade Range.
Matthew Warner / Flickr
Not only is it one of our top sources of hydroelectric power, it’s also a habitat for 609 known fish and wildlife species.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr
It flows from British Columbia through Washington and part of Oregon before emptying into the Pacific Ocean.
Johnathan Miske / Flickr
Both the Washington side and the Oregon side have plenty of hiking trails, waterfalls, viewpoints, and camping areas. The small towns that line the river are full of charm (and often breweries).
daveynin / Flickr
Needless to say, when the Lewis and Clark Expedition stumbled upon it in 1806, they were awe-struck.
Bill Delvin / Flickr
This is definitely the Grand Canyon of the Pacific Northwest, and it’s incredible.
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Address: Columbia River Gorge view point, Cook-Underwood Rd, Underwood, WA 98651, USA
