Stretching more than 80 miles through the Cascade Mountains, the Columbia River Gorge is a breathtaking landscape shaped by powerful natural forces over millions of years. Towering cliffs, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls line the banks of the Columbia River, creating a mythical setting that feels both wild and timeless. Today, it’s a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, river adventures, and striking mountain views. Several Columbia & Snake River cruises sail through this remarkable region, offering countless ways to explore. While there’s so much to see, our guide highlights some of the best experiences to help you get the most out of your journey.
Multnomah Falls
Oregon’s tallest waterfall, Multnomah Falls, plunges an awe-inspiring 620 feet over sheer basalt cliffs, fed year-round by underground springs and snowmelt. An easy paved trail leads visitors to the famous Benson Bridge, offering a view so close you can feel the cool mist on your face. Longer hikes wind through the surrounding forest to the upper falls for even more dramatic perspectives. Making it all the way to the top of the falls is a feat worth the view. Reservations are required to visit Multnomah Falls from late May through early September. A trip to the falls is included in itineraries like the Columbia River Gorge cruise, giving you a chance to experience this natural wonder up close.
Mount St. Helens
The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens was one of the most significant volcanic events in U.S. history, changing the shape of the mountain forever. Now, the landscape is a study in resilience, where wildflowers bloom amid the blast zone. A scenic drive offering panoramic views of the crater and surrounding wilderness is included on itineraries like our Columbia & Snake Rivers cruise. This guided excursion is the best way to witness firsthand the remarkable balance of destruction and rebirth.
Kayaking or Sailing the Gorge
Getting out on the Columbia River offers a whole new perspective on the Gorge’s dramatic scenery. Guided kayaking excursions are available when you cruise for an exclusive opportunity to glide past towering cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and forests alive with bald eagles, herons, and river otters. With a professional guide leading the way, guests experience the river’s calm waters and wildlife up close, creating an intimate connection to this storied waterway. For more about the natural wonders you can encounter, check out our blog on wildlife along the Columbia and Snake Rivers.
Mount Hood
Rising more than 11,000 feet into the sky, Mount Hood is Oregon’s tallest peak and a true icon of the Pacific Northwest. Its snowcapped summit looms in the distance, visible from miles away. It serves as a striking welcome when you sail to Hood River, OR. On the Maryhill Winery Exploration & Tasting excursion, guests can enjoy panoramic views of Mount Hood while sampling award-winning vintages from one of the region’s premier wineries—a relaxing, scenic highlight included on several Columbia River cruises. Mount Hood’s striking presence is a powerful reminder of the wild forces that have shaped this land.
Bonneville Dam
As we cruise along the Columbia River, we'll pass through several locks and dams, a unique experience that makes navigating the river even more exciting. Built during the Great Depression, Bonneville Dam stands as a testament to American ingenuity. The dam helped tame the Columbia River’s seasonal floods and opened up new possibilities for navigation and agriculture in the region. Tours of the dam’s fish ladders and lock system offer a fascinating glimpse into how vessels, including American Cruise Lines’ ships, pass from one side of the dam to the other. Visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the balance between technological progress and environmental stewardship along the river.
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area was established in 1986 to preserve the stunning natural and cultural resources of this incredible landscape. From the lush waterfalls along the Oregon side to the golden hills of Washington, the Gorge’s diversity is staggering. Guests on the Columbia River Gorge cruise sail through the heart of this protected area, tracing the historic route of Lewis and Clark while enjoying some of the most spectacular views in the Pacific Northwest.
Set Sail Through This Natural Wonder
With endless outdoor activities, fascinating history, and breathtaking scenery around every bend, the Columbia River Gorge is truly a place where awe comes naturally. Whether you're hiking to waterfalls, kayaking alongside towering cliffs, or sipping wine beneath the shadow of Mount Hood, every moment feels unforgettable. Join one of American Cruise Lines’ expertly crafted Columbia & Snake River cruises and experience this one-of-a-kind journey through the Pacific Northwest’s most scenic waterway.
