Special Places

While we like to think the entire Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a special place, within its boundaries lie several specially designated areas. These include a Wilderness, two Wild & Scenic Rivers, and a National Scenic Trail. We can also recommend some special getaways for those looking for facilities that meet requirements for accessibility.

National Scenic Area

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area has a unique set of protections to preserve the scenic, natural, cultural, and recreational resources of the Gorge. Although we are managed by the Forest Service, we are slightly different from a National Forest. Learn more about what makes us special in the historic National Scenic Area Act. 

• Wild and Scenic Rivers

  

  The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area manages the Klickitat and White Salmon Wild & Scenic Rivers.

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• Accessible Recreation in the National Scenic Area

  

  There are easy-to-access Gorge adventures to suit everyone's style! Plan your trip with our interactive map or get new ideas by watching short videos of our best accessible adventures and facilities.

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• Wilderness

  

  Many trails in the Columbia River Gorge provide access to Mark O Hatfield Wilderness.

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• Pacific Crest Trail

  

  The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail #2000 crosses the Columbia River National Scenic Area and runs through Mark O Hatfield Wilderness. Find maps, conditions, information about the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail here.

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