On Land

Big Country

Eighty miles long and 4,000 feet deep in some places, the Columbia River Gorge is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most spectacularly scenic outdoor playgrounds. Straddling the Oregon-Washington state line, its 300,000 acres beg to be explored. There are rivers to be rafted, lush forests to be explored from a saddle or a bike, mountains to be hiked, and black basalt cliffs to be scaled. Best of all, the Columbia River Gorge is easily accessible, just an hour’s drive from Portland and Vancouver.

Incredible Views

Mount Adams stands tall as the 2nd highest mountain in the state of Washington. It is visible from many parts of Klickitat County, with some great viewing areas in several locations. On good viewing days, you can see four mountains (Hood, Adams, St. Helens, and Rainier) from a location near Eddieville Raceway, just south of Goldendale on Hwy 97.

Flora and Fauna

Many hiking trails and waterfalls are scattered throughout the area, from deep forest to dry oak savannahs. Wildflowers are a delight, with a large variety from west to east, and throughout at least three seasons. Long country drives are available on paved, gravel, or dirt roads, with easy access to the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and the Columbia River National Scenic Area. Fish hatcheries throughout the county are fun to visit. Conboy Lake Wildlife Refuge outside of Glenwood is a serene and special place — home to massive herds of bugling elk and the rare Oregon spotted frogs, as well as a nesting place for the migrating Sandhill Cranes. The good news? You may be the only human for miles.  

Amazing Variety

You can watch the paragliders hovering over Bingen and landing out at Bingen Point on a big grassy area that is also popular with dog owners and picnickers. Rock climbers have several basalt cliffs to enjoy not far out of town, and there is more than one sailboard park where you can join in or simply watch in amazement. White Salmon is home to the 19-acre Spokes Bike Park and there are numerous off-road cycling trails nearby. There is even a popular skateboard park in Bingen. Goldendale has become a motorsports destination and has several annual events to highlight this.

Caves, Rafts, Bridges — and Bluebirds

Go north towards Mt. Adams Country and spend the morning hours on an exploration of the Guler Ice Cave or an adventurous trail hike. Then go whitewater rafting on the White Salmon River in the afternoon to make a refreshing day of it. Our many waterways around the country have great bridges to catch great photo opps. Far to the east, Bickleton boasts a large bluebird population which can be viewed along their hiking trails and open prairie. Spring is the prime time to visit the bluebirds to hear their songs. 

Camping

Who doesn't love to camp as a way to connect with the natural world? There's a long tradition of camping in the Gorge — from backpacking to RVs. Everyone finds a different balance between their rugged, inner wild and the joy of a few luxuries. Stop by to see us — we can suggest options for whatever level of comfort you desire. But regardless of your go-to camping style, please tread lightly on our natural and cultural resources, keep other people's experience in mind, and generally remember to recreate with respect!

Pack it in ~ Pack it out. This is super important in order to keep nature intact. Please help. 

Dark Sky Activity

Goldendale Observatory State Park is an educational facility on the northern side of Goldendale, Washington, notable for its unusually large public telescope. The state park occupies five acres atop a 2,100-foot hill. Access is via a winding paved road through an oak forest. Visit Goldendale Observatory State Park for amazing afternoon solar viewing and evening shows. https://www.goldendaleobservatory.com/