Columbia Gorge Waterfalls and Wineries Tour from Portland — Multnomah Falls & Hood River Wine Tasting
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to manage short walks, stairs, and standing during tastings.
Overview
Spend an afternoon trading Portland’s skyline for basalt cliffs, thunderous falls, and boutique Hood River wines. This six-hour small-group tour pairs short interpretive hikes to waterfalls like Multnomah with covered wine tastings and local insights.
Columbia Gorge Waterfalls and Wineries Tour from Portland — Multnomah Falls & Hood River Wine Tasting
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The van slides out of downtown Portland and, within an hour, the city’s grid gives way to a canyon where the Columbia River dares you to look away. Moss softens the cliff faces, and the highway threads narrow ledges carved from ancient lava flows. Guides point out bald eagles perched on cottonwoods, ospreys hawking the current, and the first hush of Waterfall Alley — a row of falls that tumble down basalt like white ribbons against black stone.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring ID for tastings
Wineries require a government-issued ID to taste; keep it accessible to avoid delays at multiple stops.
Layer for variable weather
Expect cool, misty microclimates near falls and sunnier, warmer conditions in the vineyards—pack a lightweight rain shell and a sun layer.
Comfortable shoes
Walks are short but include stairs and uneven surfaces—grippy, closed-toe shoes make the most sense.
Protect your camera
Spray near larger falls like Multnomah can mist lenses—use a rain cover or quick-dry cloth for gear.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagle
- Osprey
History
The Historic Columbia River Highway, built in the early 20th century, was one of America’s first scenic roads and opened public access to the gorge’s waterfalls and viewpoints.
Conservation
The Columbia River Gorge is a federally designated National Scenic Area; visitors should stick to trails to protect fragile moss mats and vineyard runoff is managed locally to reduce impacts on the watershed.
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Adventure Hotspots in Portland
Recommended Gear
Light rain jacket
Keeps you dry in the gorge’s mist and sudden showers.
spring specific
Sturdy walking shoes
Provide grip on wet trails and stairs at overlook points.
Reusable water bottle
Helps you stay hydrated between vineyard tastings and walks.
summer specific
ID (government-issued)
Required to sample wines at the wineries visited.