Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Hikers and equestrians can scramble through rugged multiuse trails in ponderosa stands, desert wildflowers, and sylvan canyons. And water-sports
lovers will be in heaven—temperatures soar on the dry eastern side of the Cascades, making the prospect of a good drenching more than appeal-
ing. Experience the wind-whipped excitement of kiteboarding or windsurfing the Columbia River. Or enjoy a lazy afternoon tubing or fly-fishing
its tributaries.
So slip on your driving gloves and prepare to hit the road. Even the most remote outposts along the Gorge and the rest of central Washington's
country roads are well worth the trip.
In 1986, President Ronald Reagan signed into law a measure that established the
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area,
encompassing
292,000 acres on both sides of the river from Washougal to Maryhill. The national scenic area is managed jointly by the U.S. Forest Service, the
states of Washington and Oregon, and six local counties across both states. Headquarters for the scenic area are in Hood River, Oregon; call 541/
386-2333 for details.
COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE AND WINE COUNTRY
A $5 National Forest Recreation Day Pass is required for parking at all Forest Service trailheads in the scenic area. Or pick up an annual North-
west Forest Pass ($30) that is valid for most national forest trailheads in Washington and Oregon. Get one from most local sporting-goods stores,
any Forest Service office (800/270-7504), or at
www.fs.fed.us/passespermits
.
