raveling westward through the Columbia River Gorge offers spectacular vistas of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. This bridge between the eastern hills and high deserts of Oregon and Washington and the lush foliage of the western portions of both states was intriguing to Lewis and Clark. Today, explorers can share the same appreciation for the Columbia River Gorge area while experiencing diverse outdoor activities and learning about salmon migration and the region’s heritage.

Click on points of interest on the map below to learn more.

Celilo Park

  Historic Tribal Site

See the place where local tribes taught the Corps new methods of catching and preserving salmon. Interpretive signage where Lewis and Clark portaged around the now submerged Celilo Falls. Interstate 84, The Dalles, Oregon.

City of The Dalles

  Historic Tribal Site

This vibrant city along the banks of the Columbia River offers great outdoor activities and a glimpse into history. From large murals located downtown depicting Lewis and Clark, to The Dalles Dam area, once the center of trade activities for tribes from the Plains to the Pacific, The Dalles offers visitors a rich experience. Interstate 84, Oregon.

Horsethief Lake State Park

  Historic Tribal Site

Lewis and Clark camped near an Indian village at the site of this state park. View petroglyphs, including the famous “She Who Watches.” Advance arrangements required to visit the petroglyphs. Hwy 14, nine miles west of Maryhill Museum, Washington.

Rock Fort Campsite

  Corps Campsite

A riverfront trail will lead visitors to Rock Fort where interpretive signage marks the Corps’ October 25-28, 1805 and April 15-17, 1806 campsites. Interstate 84, The Dalles, Oregon

Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Wasco County Historical Museum

  Historic Tribal Site

Lewis and Clark camped at this site October 28, 1805. View photographs and a film of Celilo Falls fishery, and displays on the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Interstate 84, The Dalles, Oregon.

Memaloose State Park

  Historic Tribal Site

Lewis and Clark called this offshore island “Sepulchar Island,” also known as Sepulchar Rock. Historically, this island was used by tribal nations as a burial ground. Interstate 84, Mosier, Oregon.

Hood River County Historical Museum

  Museum / Interpretive Center

See tribal artifacts, including Klickitat baskets, at this museum in historic Hood River. Interstate 84, Oregon.

Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center

  Museum / Interpretive Center

View Lewis and Clark-related exhibits and a multi-media presentation on the history of the Columbia Gorge. See the site where Lewis and Clark had to find a way around the rugged Cascade Rapids. These were the last rapids the Corps experienced before reaching the calmer tidal waters of the lower Columbia River. Highway 14, Stevenson, Washington.

Cascade Locks Marine Park

  Museum / Interpretive Center

Cascade Locks is rich with Native American history and culture, including the legend of the “Bridge of the Gods.” Access hiking (the Pacific Crest Trail passes through here), waterfalls and scenic vistas. Visit the Cascade Locks Historical Museum for an intriguing look at the past. Cascade Locks, Oregon.

Bonneville Dam/Hamilton Island

  Corps Campsite

Hamilton Island, referred to as Strawberry Island in Lewis and Clark’s journals, was the Corps’ campsite, April 10-11, 1806. At Bonneville Dam, watch salmon move up the fish ladder from outside and from inside viewing windows. The visitor center includes a “Lewis and Clark on the River” exhibit. off Interstate 84 in Oregon, SR 14 in Washington.

Beacon Rock and Beacon Rock State Park

  Corps Historic Site

Here the Corps first detected the tidal influences of the Pacific Ocean, and Clark referenced “Beaten” rock in his journal. Follow the trail to the summit of Beacon Rock - believed to be the core of an extinct volcano - for a panoramic view of the Columbia River Gorge. Highway 14, 35 miles east of Vancouver, Washington.

Rooster Rock State Park

  Corps Campsite

Interpretive signage marks where the Corps camped November 2, 1805 and April 7-8, 1806. Enjoy three miles of sandy beaches and a swimming area. Boat launch. Interstate 84, east of Portland, Oregon.

Lewis and Clark State Recreation Site

  Corps Historic Site

This area, along the Sandy River, was explored by the Corps’ hunters, who called it “Quicksand River.” Enjoy fishing, swimming and hiking. Interpretive signage and boat launch. Off Interstate 84, 16 miles east of Portland, Oregon.