Half-Day Gorge Waterfalls Tour
Half-Day Gorge Waterfalls Tour Details
TOUR DEPARTURE TIME: 10:30 a.m.
TOUR LENGTH: 4 to 4.5 hours
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
4 or 5 unique and breathtaking waterfalls, including world-famous Multnomah Falls
Several short walks through secondary and primary old growth forest
The Historic Vista House (amazing photo opportunities!)
Stunning drive along the Historic Scenic Columbia River Highway
Interesting historical, geological and cultural highlights
Snacks, beverages, luxury van transportation, naturalist guide
TOUR SUMMARY:
Your adventure begins with a departure from fascinating and eclectic downtown Portland. Your naturalist guide will be waiting for you at our central pickup location or will pick you up at the front door of your hotel (via prior arrangement) in our luxury van, replete with beverages and snacks. You will enjoy an interesting and relevant narration describing highlights of Portland and the surrounding area as we head towards the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway, passing through the charming community of Troutdale on our way towards world famous waterfall row! The Columbia River Gorge plays host to the highest density of year-round waterfalls anywhere in the United States and abounds with jaw-dropping natural splendor, stunning vistas, lush old growth forests, a plethora of hiking trails and riveting Native American and pioneer history. Our first stop will be the historic Vista House (Crown Point) which dates all the way back to 1918. Guests can use our “million dollar” restroom (which serves as a museum and way station for Gorge travelers) covered in marble and mahogany and enjoy the incredible views which complement the elegant architecture of the building. From our perch atop steep dramatic cliffs of lava, we descend a few minutes on a winding road into the magical forests of waterfall row filled with ferns, lichen, wildflowers, towering Douglas Fir trees, spectacular birds and native wildlife. Along our route we will explore four or five (depending on the flow of the group) magical waterfalls, each unique in shape, size, natural setting and “personality”. Some of the waterfalls are literally right along the historic highway while others are hidden treasures which reveal themselves via a short walk from 2 to 10 minutes. Most of the trails are paved and very easy to navigate. Some of the falls we may visit during our tour include: Latourell, Sheppard’s Dell, Wahkeena, Bridal Veil, Multnomah, and Horsetail Falls. Your guide will accompany you to explain various geological and ecological highlights at each waterfall and make sure everyone enjoys their day to the fullest!
620-foot-tall Multnomah Falls is always a highly anticipated attraction and earns the impressive title of being the second tallest year-round waterfall in the U.S. and certainly the tallest in Oregon! Enjoy the falls from the viewing platform below or walk the short switch-back trail through lush temperate rainforest vegetation up to the historic Benson Bridge to feel the mist cascading down from this iconic symbol of Oregon as she pours over 17 million years of dramatic lava flows. Guests may also choose to enjoy the educational visitors’ center, a historic lodge built in 1925, gift shop, bathrooms and refreshments. Stand back, look skyward and feel the power and majesty of one of the highlights of the “7 Wonders of Oregon”! Our tour concludes with a scenic drive along highway 84, paralleled by the impressive Columbia River, which frequently offers up colorful and dramatic sunsets as we cruise back into Portland. Your guide will drop you off back where we started the tour and you are free to explore the culinary and cultural treats our dynamic city has to offer.
Additional information:
Appropriate attire for this tour would include comfortable walking shoes, light jacket or parka to allow for changing weather conditions, a rain jacket (depending on forecast), a smile and hunger for adventure!
Tour itineraries are subject to change depending on conditions and group dynamics.
Please inform your guide of any special accommodations that may be required.
