The Columbia River Gorge, stretching for over 80 miles between Oregon and Washington, is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most iconic and diverse landscapes. With its dramatic cliffs, abundant waterfalls, winding trails, and charming towns, the Gorge offers an endless variety of attractions that shift with the seasons. For both residents and visitors alike, there is no shortage of memorable experiences in every month of the year. Whether you're considering a move to the region or simply planning your next adventure, exploring the many things to do in Columbia River Gorge reveals just how much this area has to offer.
From spring wildflower hikes to summer paddleboarding, autumn wine tasting to winter snowshoeing, the Gorge’s activities evolve with the weather, making it a destination worth returning to again and again. Here's a breakdown of what each season brings and why the Columbia River Gorge continues to be one of the Pacific Northwest's premier destinations for outdoor lovers and culture seekers.
Spring – Waterfalls, Wildflowers, and Wineries
As winter snow melts from the highlands and the Gorge awakens with fresh greenery, spring is one of the most vibrant times to explore the region. Waterfalls are at their most powerful during this season, fueled by rainfall and snowmelt. Iconic sites like Multnomah Falls, Wahclella Falls, and Elowah Falls provide dramatic backdrops for easy-to-moderate hikes.
Spring is also prime time for wildflower viewing, especially in eastern Gorge locations like Tom McCall Preserve near Rowena Crest and Dog Mountain on the Washington side. Hillsides come alive with blooms of balsamroot, lupine, and Indian paintbrush, making this one of the most scenic seasons for photographers and hikers alike.
For those more inclined toward food and wine, spring also marks the beginning of tasting season in the Columbia Gorge AVA. Local wineries from Hood River to Lyle open their doors for events and fresh releases. Touring vineyards with mountain and river views is one of the most relaxing things to do in Columbia River Gorge during the spring months.
Spring is also prime time for wildflower viewing, especially in eastern Gorge locations like Tom McCall Preserve near Rowena Crest and Dog Mountain on the Washington side. Hillsides come alive with blooms of balsamroot, lupine, and Indian paintbrush, making this one of the most scenic seasons for photographers and hikers alike.
For those more inclined toward food and wine, spring also marks the beginning of tasting season in the Columbia Gorge AVA. Local wineries from Hood River to Lyle open their doors for events and fresh releases. Touring vineyards with mountain and river views is one of the most relaxing things to do in Columbia River Gorge during the spring months.
Summer – Water Recreation, Festivals, and High-Altitude Trails
In summer, the Columbia River Gorge becomes a haven for water sports, mountain exploration, and community festivals. With long, sunny days and mild temperatures, locals and visitors head outdoors to make the most of the natural playground that surrounds them.
The Columbia River itself becomes a hub for recreation. Hood River is widely recognized as one of the best windsurfing, kiteboarding and wing foiling destinations in the world, thanks to the region’s consistent summer winds. For those seeking calmer activities, paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing are equally popular, especially in sheltered areas near Stevenson and Cascade Locks and on calm days in Hood River.
Hiking and biking trails are fully accessible by summer, including higher elevation routes like Larch Mountain, Mount Defiance, and Coyote Wall. These trails provide sweeping views of Mount Hood, Mount Adams, and the river valley below. Camping in state parks such as Ainsworth and Beacon Rock offers a close-to-nature experience with excellent trail access.
Community events also peak during this season. From the Gorge Blues & Brews Festival in Stevenson to First Friday art walks in Hood River and The Dalles, summer is a lively time to enjoy both the natural and cultural things to do in Columbia River Gorge.
The Columbia River itself becomes a hub for recreation. Hood River is widely recognized as one of the best windsurfing, kiteboarding and wing foiling destinations in the world, thanks to the region’s consistent summer winds. For those seeking calmer activities, paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing are equally popular, especially in sheltered areas near Stevenson and Cascade Locks and on calm days in Hood River.
Hiking and biking trails are fully accessible by summer, including higher elevation routes like Larch Mountain, Mount Defiance, and Coyote Wall. These trails provide sweeping views of Mount Hood, Mount Adams, and the river valley below. Camping in state parks such as Ainsworth and Beacon Rock offers a close-to-nature experience with excellent trail access.
Community events also peak during this season. From the Gorge Blues & Brews Festival in Stevenson to First Friday art walks in Hood River and The Dalles, summer is a lively time to enjoy both the natural and cultural things to do in Columbia River Gorge.
Fall – Foliage, Harvest, and Scenic Drives
As temperatures begin to cool and the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, fall becomes an ideal season to experience the Gorge at a slower pace. The area’s mixed forests, combined with riverfront scenery and volcanic cliffs, create some of the most striking autumn vistas in the Pacific Northwest.
Popular leaf- viewing locations include the Historic Columbia River Highway, especially near Crown Point and Latourell Falls. Hiking trails like Wahkeena Loop and Eagle Creek become even more magical when framed by colorful foliage. Photographers and nature lovers find this time of year especially captivating.
Fall is also harvest season, which means local orchards and farm stands are brimming with fresh apples, pears, and pumpkins. The Hood River Fruit Loop is a scenic 35-mile drive through orchards, vineyards, and craft beverage makers. It’s one of the top things to do in Columbia River Gorge during the autumn months and a family favorite thanks to the U-pick opportunities and seasonal treats.
For wine enthusiasts, this is one of the best times to visit the region’s wineries. Many offer harvest festivals, grape stomping events, and seasonal tasting menus paired with local produce. It’s also a great time to explore the region’s cideries and breweries, many of which use locally grown ingredients.
Popular leaf- viewing locations include the Historic Columbia River Highway, especially near Crown Point and Latourell Falls. Hiking trails like Wahkeena Loop and Eagle Creek become even more magical when framed by colorful foliage. Photographers and nature lovers find this time of year especially captivating.
Fall is also harvest season, which means local orchards and farm stands are brimming with fresh apples, pears, and pumpkins. The Hood River Fruit Loop is a scenic 35-mile drive through orchards, vineyards, and craft beverage makers. It’s one of the top things to do in Columbia River Gorge during the autumn months and a family favorite thanks to the U-pick opportunities and seasonal treats.
For wine enthusiasts, this is one of the best times to visit the region’s wineries. Many offer harvest festivals, grape stomping events, and seasonal tasting menus paired with local produce. It’s also a great time to explore the region’s cideries and breweries, many of which use locally grown ingredients.
Winter – Snow Adventures and Indoor Escapes
Though winter brings colder temperatures and occasional snowfall, it also unlocks a new dimension of Gorge activities. In higher elevations, the surrounding mountains offer downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding opportunities. Trails near Mount Hood and Mount Adams remain popular among winter sports enthusiasts.
For those who prefer to stay dry, winter is a perfect time to explore the cultural and historical offerings of the region. The Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center in Stevenson and the Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum in Hood River provide family-friendly attractions year-round. Cozy cafes, bookstores, and local art galleries invite relaxed exploration in towns like White Salmon, The Dalles, and Cascade Locks.
Even in winter, many of the Gorge’s waterfalls remain accessible. Multnomah Falls, for instance, takes on a spectacular appearance when icicles form around the stone ledges, creating a scene that feels straight out of a fairy tale.
If you’re looking for quieter things to do in Columbia River Gorge, winter is the best time to enjoy the area without the crowds, making it ideal for romantic getaways or peaceful retreats.
For those who prefer to stay dry, winter is a perfect time to explore the cultural and historical offerings of the region. The Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center in Stevenson and the Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum in Hood River provide family-friendly attractions year-round. Cozy cafes, bookstores, and local art galleries invite relaxed exploration in towns like White Salmon, The Dalles, and Cascade Locks.
Even in winter, many of the Gorge’s waterfalls remain accessible. Multnomah Falls, for instance, takes on a spectacular appearance when icicles form around the stone ledges, creating a scene that feels straight out of a fairy tale.
If you’re looking for quieter things to do in Columbia River Gorge, winter is the best time to enjoy the area without the crowds, making it ideal for romantic getaways or peaceful retreats.
Year-Round Experiences That Define the Gorge Lifestyle
No matter the season, there are constants in the Columbia River Gorge that define its lifestyle and make it one of the most desirable areas to live in the Pacific Northwest. Scenic drives along the Historic Columbia River Highway, tasting local farm-to-table cuisine, exploring artisan shops, and enjoying the steady rhythm of river life create a sense of community and place.
Outdoor enthusiasts will always find new trails to explore, from hidden canyon paths to summit climbs that offer rewarding views. Those drawn to the arts can enjoy a rotating schedule of exhibitions, markets, and performances that showcase the creative spirit of the region. From sunrise over the cliffs to sunset wine tastings, the richness of the area is evident in every direction.
For homeowners and future residents, the variety of things to do in Columbia River Gorge translates into year-round engagement and lifestyle fulfillment. Whether it’s weekend hikes, seasonal markets, or simply enjoying the view from a back porch, the Gorge makes it easy to live fully connected to nature and community.
Outdoor enthusiasts will always find new trails to explore, from hidden canyon paths to summit climbs that offer rewarding views. Those drawn to the arts can enjoy a rotating schedule of exhibitions, markets, and performances that showcase the creative spirit of the region. From sunrise over the cliffs to sunset wine tastings, the richness of the area is evident in every direction.
For homeowners and future residents, the variety of things to do in Columbia River Gorge translates into year-round engagement and lifestyle fulfillment. Whether it’s weekend hikes, seasonal markets, or simply enjoying the view from a back porch, the Gorge makes it easy to live fully connected to nature and community.
Julie Gilbert | Live Where Every Season Offers More
Living in the Columbia River Gorge means having four seasons of adventure, relaxation, and cultural richness at your doorstep. From springtime wildflowers to winter snowshoeing, the breadth of things to do in Columbia River Gorge is part of what makes the region so exceptional.
If you're ready to explore real estate opportunities that align with your lifestyle goals, connect with Julie Gilbert for expert guidance. Whether you're searching for a weekend retreat or a full-time residence, discover how living in the Gorge gives you access to natural beauty and adventure all year long.
If you're ready to explore real estate opportunities that align with your lifestyle goals, connect with Julie Gilbert for expert guidance. Whether you're searching for a weekend retreat or a full-time residence, discover how living in the Gorge gives you access to natural beauty and adventure all year long.
