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Columbia
Gorge has been recognized in the National
Scenic Act
for it's importance world-wide. Symbols representative of
the Columbia Gorge: nationally noted Multnomah Falls, Beacon Rock
a basalt formation that is the throat of an extinct volcano and is
second only
in size to the Rock of Gibraltar, the Vista House over looking the
Columbia
River Gorge from a lofty perch, the massive formations of several
extinct volcano,
the remains of the landslide that blocked the Columbia River at
Cascade Locks, and an area that has been ravaged over 80 times by
gigantic glacial Ice Age Floods from Ancient Lake Missoula.
On the Columbia River you will find all
types of boat: Stern Wheeler tour boats, sail boats, ski boats and
power boats,
tug boats with barges and log booms. Yes, log booms!
Fish the Columbia River for steel head,
salmon, and sturgeon. Don't
forget the world class winds
of the Columbia Gorge for an unparalleled Windsurfing and
Kite surfing experience.
Outdoor opportunities summer and winter
include cross
country and downhill skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiles, camping,
fishing, and hiking around Mt. Hood OR, and in the Gifford Pinochott
National Forest of Mt. Adams WA. The Pacific Crest Trail is accessible
to hikers and horseback riders.
Biking, hiking or
driving along rambling
roads you find a photographer's dream with an abundance of waterfalls,
wildlife, birds, flowers, native plants, scenic vistas, and breath
taking views of Mt.Hood and Mt.Adams. These rambling roads also
lead to more interesting places if you have 4 wheel drive where you
will find rocks,
old buildings, and wild mushrooms, and much more.
You
don't have to travel very far to find world class wineries. The Columbia
Gorge Wineries, both Washington and Oregon, have won
national awards for Gewurztraminer, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Rieslings,
Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet franc, and various
palate teasing blends. The Underwood Mountain vineyards on
the Washington side of the Columbia River produce grapes that go into
some
of the premier wines in the Northwest. Our favorite wineries
are Domaine Pouillon, Syncline, and Phelps Creek.
Fly
your own plane? Find the blue skys above three local airports, two in
Klickitat County WA and one in Hood
River OR. The Portland
International Airport
(PDX), 90 minutes away,
is served by national and international carriers. Amtrak has
station stops at Lyle, Bingen and Wishram. WA.
More details about tourism in Washington
State and the Columbia
River Gorge go to "experiencewa.com".
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