Columbia River Plateau Travel Guide

Explore the natural and cultural wonders of Columbia River Plateau with our comprehensive travel guide. From outdoor adventures to historical attractions, find everything you need to plan your trip.


Columbia River Plateau Travel Guide

Located in Pacific Northwest region of the United States, in the state of Washington, Columbia River Plateau is a mesmerizing destination that offers a blend of natural beauty and unparalleled cultural experiences. The region is particularly known for its unique geological formations and diverse outdoor activities, attracting nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers from all over the world.

In this travel guide, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of places to visit, things to do, food and drink options, and transportation options to help you plan your trip to Columbia River Plateau.

List of Places to Visit in Columbia River Plateau

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Maryhill Museum of Art: Located in Goldendale, Washington, this museum features an extensive collection of art, including sculptures, paintings, and artifacts from around the world. The museum also showcases a wide range of Native American art and contemporary art.

  • Whitman Mission National Historic Site: This historic site is located in Walla Walla, commemorating the life and work of Marcus and Narcissa Whitman, who established a mission here in the 1800s. This site is also a great place to learn about the region’s Native American history and the Oregon Trail.

Natural Attractions of Columbia River Plateau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area: Spanning over 292,500 acres, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area features breathtaking views, cascading waterfalls, and hiking trails for all levels. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing.

  • Mount Rainier National Park: This park is known for its magnificent snow-capped peak, Mount Rainier, rising to over 14,000 feet. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, hiking, and camping in the park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Columbia River Plateau

Columbia River Plateau offers many hiking and biking trails for all levels of experience. Some of the popular trails include:

  • Cape Horn Trail: Located near Washougal, Washington, Cape Horn Trail is a 7.1-mile loop that offers scenic views of the Columbia River Gorge.

  • Ape Canyon Trail: Located in the Mount St. Helens area, Ape Canyon Trail is a 14.2-mile trail that features stunning views of the volcanic landscape and an abundance of wildflowers and wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Columbia River Plateau: Activities and Tours

  • Winery Tours: Columbia River Plateau is known for its thriving wine industry. Visitors can take winery tours and wine tastings to sample some of the region’s finest wines.

  • Hot Springs: There are several hot springs in the region, such as Carson Hot Springs Resort, that offer a relaxing retreat for travelers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Columbia River Plateau

Day 1: Explore Maryhill Museum of Art and enjoy the scenic drive along the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

Day 2: Take a hike on the Cape Horn Trail, followed by an afternoon of wine tasting at local wineries.

Day 3: Visit Whitman Mission National Historic Site in Walla Walla and learn about the region’s history.

Day 4: Take a day trip to Mount Rainier National Park for scenic drives and hiking.

Day 5: Go on a hot springs retreat and indulge in a relaxing soak.

Day 6: Explore Ape Canyon Trail and enjoy the views of Mount St. Helens.

Day 7: Take a leisurely day to explore the local shops and restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Columbia River Plateau

Must-Try Dishes

  • Salmon: Columbia River Plateau is known for its fresh salmon, which can be found in many local restaurants.

  • Huckleberries: These sweet berries are a regional specialty and can be found in pies, jams, and other desserts.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Columbia River Plateau is home to over 200 wineries and is known for producing some of the best wine in the country.

  • Beer: The region’s craft beer scene is booming, with many local breweries offering unique flavors and styles.

Where to Stay in Columbia River Plateau: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Columbia River Plateau offers a variety of lodging options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:

  • Skamania Lodge: This resort-style hotel is located in Stevenson and offers breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge.

  • Airbnb: There are many Airbnb options in the region, ranging from private rooms to entire cabins.

What to Buy in Columbia River Plateau: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Wine: Bring home a bottle of local wine as a tasty souvenir.

  • Huckleberry products: Huckleberry jams and pies make great gifts and can be found in many local shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Columbia River Plateau

The region’s Native American history and heritage are an important part of the local culture and customs. Visitors are encouraged to respect local traditions and learn about the region’s history and culture.

Best Time to Visit Columbia River Plateau

The best time to visit Columbia River Plateau is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Summer months can be crowded and hot, and the winter months can be snowy and cold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Columbia River Plateau

Do:

  • Respect local culture and customs.

  • Take appropriate safety precautions when participating in outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural or cultural attractions.

  • Ignore posted warning signs or safety guidelines.

Safety and Health

Safety in Columbia River Plateau

Visitors to Columbia River Plateau should take appropriate safety precautions when participating in outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. Visitors should also be aware of the risks associated with wildlife encounters and take necessary precautions to stay safe.

Health in Columbia River Plateau

Visitors should be aware of the risks associated with extreme weather conditions, such as heat stroke and hypothermia. It’s also important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun when participating in outdoor activities.

Getting to Columbia River Plateau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Columbia River Plateau

  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
  • Portland International Airport

Bus Stations Near Columbia River Plateau

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Amtrak Cascades

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or drive to Columbia River Plateau from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Columbia River Plateau

The best way to get around Columbia River Plateau is by car. Visitors can also rent bikes or participate in organized tours.

Where to Go Next from Columbia River Plateau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Seattle: Seattle is a bustling city with plenty of attractions, shopping, and dining options.

  • Portland: Just a short drive from Columbia River Plateau, Portland is known for its food scene, craft beer, and quirky atmosphere.

Conclusion

Columbia River Plateau is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in outdoor adventures and unique cultural experiences. Whether you’re looking to hike, relax in hot springs, or learn about local history and heritage, there’s something for everyone in this stunning region. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re well-equipped to plan a memorable trip to Columbia River Plateau.

Columbia River Columbia River Mount Adams as seen from the Yakima Valley Mount Adams as seen from the Yakima Valley


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