Do I need previous biking experience?

No prior experience is required, but basic bike handling skills and comfort on paved paths help you enjoy the tour.

Are eBikes provided or do I bring my own?

E-bikes, helmets, and a water bottle are provided as part of the tour package.

Is the tour suitable for beginners or younger riders?

The minimum age is 16, and the tour is designed for ease with pedal assist, welcoming riders of various skill levels.

What happens if it rains?

Tours run rain or shine; dress in weather-appropriate gear, though severe weather might cause rescheduling.

Are there restroom facilities along the route?

Restroom access is available at the starting point and select stops along the Historic Columbia River Highway.

Can I bring a camera or phone on the tour?

Yes, photography is encouraged—there are multiple scenic viewpoints perfect for capturing the Gorge’s geology.

Columbia Gorge E-Bike Geology Tour with Pedal & Paddle HR | Bike Tour | E-Bike

Carved by colossal Ice Age floods and ancient volcanic lava flows, the Columbia River Gorge stands as one of the Pacific Northwest's most striking geological theaters. This steep-walled canyon spans roughly 80 miles between Oregon and Washington, boasting waterfalls, basalt cliffs, and the Historic Columbia River Highway—a scenic corridor perfect for active discovery. Pedal & Paddle HR offers a distinct way to engage with this natural monument through their Columbia Gorge E-Bike Geology Tour.

This three-hour guided adventure delivers an intimate look at the Gorge’s turbulent geological past, propelled by an electric-assist bike that balances exhilaration with accessibility. Led by Clara, a trained geologist (B.S., WWU), the tour offers a steady rhythm of pedaling interspersed with immersive pauses. At designated viewpoints, Clara reveals layers of basalt created by mile-high lava flows from millions of years ago, alongside vivid accounts of cataclysmic Ice Age floods that sculpted the canyon’s dramatic contours.

Riders cycle past prominent landmarks like Crown Point and Latourell Falls, accompanied by Clara’s explanations of landslides, erosion, and how ongoing forces continue to reshape the landscape. This blend of physical activity and geology-focused storytelling makes the experience more than a ride—it’s a dynamic classroom set to open air and endless vistas.

Pedal & Paddle HR’s commitment goes beyond providing quality gear; they foster a thoughtful connection to the Gorge’s natural history. Operating from Hood River, Oregon, a hub for windsurfing and outdoor tourism, the company anchors guests in one of the region’s premiere adventure zones. The e-bike tour suits a wide range of riders, encouraging those curious about geology and outdoor exploration to move beyond the well-trodden path with hands-on, informed engagement.

A visit with Pedal & Paddle HR is ideal for those who seek active, educational excursions on the Columbia River Gorge’s iconic Historic Highway. It’s a chance to witness a breathtaking landscape through a unique lens—high-powered wheels and grounded geology—without missing the pulse of nature and history intertwined.