Columbia Gorge Discovery Center
Located just west of The Dalles, OR, the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center is the official interpretive center for the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. This 26,100 square foot exhibit wing holds interpretive displays which describe the tremendous volcanic upheavals and raging floods that created the Gorge, explanations of why ice ages occur, how the mighty Columbia River sculpted the ecology of the region for a unique and spectacular diversity of vegetation and wildlife. Native American cultures are represented along with more recent Euro-American activities.
The Discovery Center, parking, and interpretive trails are fully accessible. The interpretive programs are also designed for visitors of all abilities.
Trail Access:
The Discovery Center also serves as the trailhead for the fully accessible, 8 foot wide, paved, rolling River Front Trail (#4406). This beautiful paved and accessible Riverfront Trail is part of Wasco County Parks & Recreation. The Riverfront Trail at The Dalles winds along the southern bank of the Columbia River for ten miles between The Discovery Center to the northwest and The Dalles Dam Visitor Center at the eastern terminus.
The asphalt-paved trail is 8- to 12-feet wide, making it perfect for bicyclists, walkers with dogs or strollers, joggers, and many others. The majority of the Riverfront Trail is accessible.The Forest Service manages 0.7 miles of this wonderful 10 mile trail. Fishing access is also available along the trail.
Discovery Center Area
General Information
Year-round
Daily, 9 am - 5 pm.
Check www.gorgediscovery.org; for admission fees.
Check www.gorgediscovery.org for admission fees.
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 45.6535
Longitude: -121.2102
Directions
From Hood River, OR: Travel east on Interstate 84 approximately 19 miles to Chenoweth exit #82. Turn right at the stop sign at the end of the off ramp and right again at the next stop sign onto Highway 30/ Mosier-The Dalles Highway. Travel west approximately 2 miles on this frontage road until the intersection with Discovery Drive. Take a right on Discovery Drive and follow it under the interstate until you reach the parking area for the center.
From The Dalles, OR: Travel west on West 6th Street/Old Highway 30. Continue to travel west 2 miles past the Interstate 84 exit #82 interchange until it intersects with Discovery Drive on the right. Take a right on Discovery Drive and follow it under the interstate until you reach the parking area for the center.
Facility and Amenity Information
Accessibility
Restrooms
Restrooms are available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Recreation Opportunities
Outdoor Science and Learning
Visitor Centers
Viewing Wildlife