Welcome to Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
The Columbia River Gorge is so much more than just a natural wonder - it is a critical transportation corridor and vibrant community of more than 75,000 people living in fertile countryside and 13 urban areas spanning six counties within Oregon and Washington. The Columbia River itself is the Gorge's centerpiece, a lifeline of water and the only sea level route through the Cascade Mountain Range. The Cascades' geology creates a rain shadow effect, causing a dramatic precipitation difference that distinguishes the lush conifer forests in the west end of the Gorge from the grasslands of the Gorge's east end.
Photos from across the Scenic Area
The Columbia River Gorge is a spectacular river canyon, 80 miles long and up to 4,000 feet deep, that meanders past cliffs, spires, and ridges set against nearby peaks of the Cascade Mountain Range.
Get a Recreation Pass
Ready to enjoy an amazing year of outdoor adventures! You have several options to purchase annual or one day passes. Annual passes cover day-use or entrance fees all year, while single-day passes work for one day.
Northwest Forest Plan & Amendment
The Northwest Forest Plan covers 24.5 million acres of federally managed lands in California, Oregon, and Washington. It was established in 1994 to address threats to threatened and endangered species while also contributing to social and economic sustainability in the region. Over 30 years later, the Northwest Forest Plan needs to be updated to accommodate changed ecological and social conditions.
U.S. Forest Service- CRGNSA Office Move
Beginning April 28, 2026 the U.S. Forest Service office in Hood River, OR will be moving up one floor within the same building. During this time there will be a disruption to our in person office availability as well as our phone system. For questions, please use the folllowing contact information:
Phone - 541-645-0594
Website: Home | Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area | Forest Service
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We expect to be back up and running in our new space by the end of June 2026.