Private Columbia River Gorge Half-Day Tour

5.0
(1 reviews)

3 to 4 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

The 85-mile (137-km) long Columbia Gorge NSA would be a national park if it weren't a critical transportation corridor. It features waterfalls, mountains, monoliths, terraces, resort towns, vineyards, orchards, and The River, harboring a plethora of fish and birds, and unique plants and invertebrates. In the early 1900s, Portlanders would drive their Model T cars along the Columbia River Highway to gaze at waterfalls. It was the first scenic highway built in America. There is said to be over 4000 waterfalls; many are hidden away, but many are just a short hike off the Historic Highway. On this ALL-INCLUSIVE tour you'll explore the western, rainforested, southern side of the Gorge, dubbed "waterfall alley" where we'll have you getting wet under a waterfall, peering over cliffs, and learning stories of the area only the locals know.

What's Included

PA system so people in back can hear their guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Bottled water
Gratuities
Snacks

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Portland-based tour. Pickup locations are flexible. We'll contact you prior to your tour to verify pickup time and location.

OR
Meeting point

Look for a black Mercedes Sprinter

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 3 to 4 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Your guide will drive you along segments of this stunning 74-mile (119 -km) highway that was inspired by the Axenstrasse in the Swiss Alps.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    We'll parallel the Sandy River while driving the western segment of the Columbia River Highway. The Sandy's headwaters is a glacier on Mt. Hood, and the river is known for its Steelhead and Chinook runs. As a result, the Sandy is one of three tributaries of the Columbia who's dams have been removed since 2007.

    Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Here's your chance to capture the quintessential Gorge shot.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    This 100-year-old 'fanciest rest stop in the world' sits atop a basalt point above the Columbia River, with a 360-degree balcony. The sandstone, limestone, and marble building includes historical interpretation and fancy restrooms.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4

    A short walk from the vehicle reveals a 249-foot hanging waterfall adorned with fluorescent lichen and columnar basalt.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5

    This delightful little cove provides for a hidden surprise and some remarkable pictures.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    An old logging ghost town dating to the 1880s, harboring a waterfall, an operating post office, and a circa-1920s B & B.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    A short switch-back trail through Hemlock and Doug-fir leads to a bridge at the base of the falls.

    Admission ticket free
  • 6

    The tallest waterfall in the state, with a combined height of 620 feet.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    A slot canyon created by a fault, with plants growing on the walls found nowhere else.

    Admission ticket free
  • 7

    Get some quirky photos at this quirky waterfall!

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    View the fifth-largest free-standing monolith in the world, from a distance.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    As we pass by, view the rock that inspired North America's oldest continuously running nudist beach!

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Terran Travels

Tags

Nature and Wildlife Tours
Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Walking Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Nature Walks
Luxury Car Tours
Shore Excursions
Port Pickup
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 1 1 review
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