Adventure Brief
Sip local craft brews and cocktails while enjoying stunning Columbia Gorge views at the private Dockside Bar. Perfect for a relaxing, scenic outing for those 21+.
1–2 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Sip local craft brews and cocktails while enjoying stunning Columbia Gorge views at the private Dockside Bar. Perfect for a relaxing, scenic outing for those 21+.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required; suitable for most adults looking to relax outdoors.
Wildlife
History
Cascade Locks was historically a crucial port and lock system on the Columbia River, facilitating navigation around nearby waterfalls.
Conservation
Efforts in the Columbia Gorge focus on protecting native habitats and minimizing visitor impact through sustainable tourism practices.
Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler
Sip local craft brews and cocktails while enjoying stunning Columbia Gorge views at the private Dockside Bar. Perfect for a relaxing, scenic outing for those 21+.
Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler operates out of Cascade Locks, Oregon, offering scenic river cruises and related experiences on the Columbia River. The company runs a range of scheduled trips including expedition cruises that loop the gorge, sunset cruises, dinner cruises, brunch cruises, lockage tours through the Bonneville Dam locks, and special event sailings such as Independence Day fireworks cruises. Onboard narration is provided by seasoned captains who share local history, river facts, and natural highlights like Multnomah Falls and Beacon Rock. The Sternwheeler features spacious outdoor decks, a full-service dockside bar for guests 21 and over, and accessible boarding where available. In Cascade Locks Marine Park, the business also provides reliable, fully charged golf cart rentals for exploring the park on one-hour, half-day, or full-day reservations with pickup and drop-off service. Reservations and online booking are recommended because popular cruises and rentals often fill in advance. Safety is maintained through experienced crew, standard vessel inspections, and adherence to local regulations for passenger vessels. The variety of offerings suits families, couples, and groups seeking scenic sightseeing, dining cruises, narrated history tours, or private events. As a locally based operator in the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area, the Sternwheeler connects visitors with the river’s natural beauty and engineering landmarks while providing hospitality, narration, and convenient booking options.
Certain lockage tours feature Captain Tom sharing locks and dam insights; onboard offerings include snacks, local craft beer and wine, signature cocktails at the Dockside Bar, buffet options for special events, and private charters by request.
Tours Offered
9 experiences
Cruises, lockage tours, rentals, and events
Location
Cascade Locks, OR
On the Columbia River in the Gorge
Group Friendly
Families & Groups
Ideal for celebrations and private charters
Rental Options
1hr–Full Day
Golf cart rentals with pickup/drop-off
Book sunset cruises, lockage tours, dinner sailings, or golf cart rentals now — popular trips fill quickly.
Dress in Layers
The weather near the Columbia River can shift quickly; wearing layers helps you stay comfortable throughout your adventure.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking near the Cascade Locks waterfront can fill up quickly, so plan to arrive a bit earlier to secure a spot.
Stay Hydrated
Though cocktails and beer are served, it’s important to drink water to stay refreshed throughout your experience.
Bring a Camera
The scenic river and Gorge views provide excellent photo opportunities, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone.
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Keeps you comfortable during cool spring breezes along the river.
spring
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from bright sunlight reflecting off the water.
summer
Umbrella or Rain Jacket
Useful for sudden showers common during the fall season.
fall
Warm Hat and Gloves
Helps keep you warm during chilly winter afternoons outdoors.
winter