Oregon Hidden Gems: Columbia River Gorge Self-Drive Guide - Waterfalls + Scenic Highways

【Core Tips】Know These to Avoid Pitfalls ✨The border river gorge between Oregon and Washington states, USA 📍Location: Along the Historic Columbia River Highway (from Troutdale in the west to The Dalles) 🚗Only 30 minutes from Portland! Recommended 1-2 days for an in-depth trip 🌈Two major highlights: densely packed famous waterfalls + vintage scenic highway 🔥【Must-Visit TOP 4】Tested and Worth It! 1️⃣ Crown Point Vista House 🕙Opening hours: 9:00-18:00 (seasonal adjustments) 🌟Landmark building from 1917 👉 climb to the top for panoramic gorge views 📸Photo tip: The nearby Portland Women's Forum viewpoint offers even better shots! 2️⃣ Multnomah Falls 🌊635 feet, the tallest waterfall in the state‼️ 📍Trail length: 2.4 miles to the upper falls / only 0.4 miles to the lower falls ⏰Peak season crowd hack: visit before 9 AM or after 4 PM 3️⃣ Hidden Waterfall Trio 💦 ✓ Latourell Falls: horizontal cliff waterfall + 3 km Wizard of Oz trail ✓ Bridal Veil Falls: gentle bride’s veil waterfall + hidden post office ✓ Wahkeena Falls: native favorite, the most beautiful waterfall 4️⃣ Hood River Town 🏄‍ Windsurfing paradise + stunning wineries 🍷Recommended: Sunshine Mill Winery for wine tasting (don’t forget the cheese platter!) 🚗【Self-Drive Guide】Pitfall Prevention ✅Must drive the Historic Columbia River Highway ⚠️Note: runs parallel to Highway 84, don’t take the wrong road! ⛽Recommended routes: 1-day quick tour: Portland → Troutdale → waterfall hopping → Hood River 2-day deep tour: Day 1 waterfall route + Day 2 surfing/winery experience 🏨【Accommodation Recommendations】 ✓ Edgefield Hotel (Troutdale) ✨Converted from a monastery + has its own brewery 👻Rumored to be haunted but super atmospheric! ✓ Hood River hotel cluster 🌉River view from the window + walking distance to restaurants 💡【Essentials Checklist】 🧥Big temperature difference between morning and night! Thin jacket is a must 👟Non-slip shoes! Waterfall trails are very slippery 🗺️Offline maps! Mountain areas often have no signal 🌟Ultimate tip: The beauty here lies in unexpected encounters~ Stop anytime to get the best experience!