Often referred to as the King of Roads, the historic Columbia River Highway is honored as America’s first scenic byway. Always considered a modern marvel of engineering, Samuel C. Lancaster set out to retain the area's natural look while showcasing as many waterfalls and wonderful viewpoints as possible along this extraordinary 70 mile scenic byway.
   Following the Columbia River and Sandy Creek, the Oregon highway winds along the only sea level route through the Cascade Mountain Range. The overlooks at Crown Point and the Vista House offer some of the first Columbia River Gorge views for eastbound travelers. A photographer's haven and nature lover's dream, a lineup of beautiful waterfalls are found along the roadside or discovered over a series of short hikes from the byway. The granddaddy of them all, Multnomah Falls drops 620 feet to paint a dramatic backdrop for the Multnomah Lodge. A climb up to Benson Bridge allows visitors a marvelous close-up encounter with the dramatic Multnomah Falls.
   After passing Bonneville Dam, a camping area at Ainsworth State Park and the city of Hood River (the Wind Surfing Capitol of the World) on your eastward journey, a noticeable change takes place in the landscape. The lush greens of the Columbia River Gorge give way to the arid eastern Columbia River Plateau. Here, the towns of Mosier and Rowena are noted for their fruit orchards and springtime cherry blossoms. Finishing up at The Dalles, a visit to the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, the Old St. Peter's Landmark and Wasco County Historical Museum completes this byway experience.

     Area Map
     Byway Map (West)
     Byway Map (East)