Cascade Locks Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge, Cascade Locks is a hidden gem in the Oregon region that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. With its stunning waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and rich history, this charming city is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

One of the main attractions in Cascade Locks is the iconic Bridge of the Gods. Spanning the Columbia River, this majestic steel truss bridge provides not only a vital transportation link but also a stunning vantage point to admire the surrounding beauty. Visitors can stroll along the bridge, taking in panoramic views of the river and the awe-inspiring Cascade Mountains.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the area surrounding Cascade Locks offers an array of thrilling outdoor activities. Adventure seekers can embark on a whitewater rafting expedition down the mighty Columbia River, navigating through exhilarating rapids and immersing themselves in the breathtaking scenery. Alternatively, hiking enthusiasts can explore the scenic trails that wind through the lush forests, leading to picturesque waterfalls such as the iconic Multnomah Falls.

History buffs will find plenty to discover in Cascade Locks as well. The city played a significant role in the development of the Pacific Northwest during the 19th century, serving as an important transportation hub for pioneers and settlers. The Cascade Locks Historical Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's past, showcasing exhibits that highlight the region's Native American heritage, the construction of the locks, and the impact of the railroad.

After a day of outdoor adventures and exploration, visitors can unwind and indulge in the local culinary delights. Cascade Locks is known for its fresh seafood, with a variety of restaurants serving up mouthwatering dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. From succulent salmon to delectable Dungeness crab, food lovers will find their taste buds satisfied in this charming city.

Alternative names: Population: 1.2 thous.Area: 3.04 mi²Elevation: 190 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 45°39'46"N, 121°53'49"W

Location

OregonUnited States

Contact

Website

Social media

Add

Cascade Locks Top Attractions

Cascade Locks Attractions - What to See and Explore

Cascade Locks offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Oneonta Gorge, Horsetail Falls, Punch Bowl Falls, Bonneville Dam. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Natural attraction • Hiking trail • Geologic formation
Oneonta Gorge
Nestled in the verdant embrace of the Columbia River Gorge, Oneonta Gorge offers a breathtaking natural spectacle that captivates the hearts of adventurers and nature lovers alike. This hidden chasm, located near Cascade Locks in the United States, is renowned for its...
Nature • Natural attraction • Waterfall
Horsetail Falls
Horsetail Falls is a waterfall along the Columbia River Gorge in the U.S. state of Oregon. The waterfall is easily accessed, in contrast to its near neighbor Oneonta Falls, as it is right next to the Historic Columbia River Highway.
Nature • Natural attraction • Waterfall
Punch Bowl Falls
Punch Bowl Falls is a waterfall on Eagle Creek in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Oregon, United States. Eagle Creek drains into the Columbia River, with its outlet on the Columbia River Gorge in Multnomah County.

Dam
Bonneville Dam
Bonneville Lock and Dam consists of several run-of-the-river dam structures that together complete a span of the Columbia River between the U.S. states of Oregon and Washington at River Mile 146.1.
Nature • Natural attraction • Waterfall
Wahclella Falls
Wahclella Falls is a waterfall along Tanner Creek, a tributary of the Columbia River, Multnomah County, Oregon, United States. It enters the river within the Columbia River Gorge.
Nature • Natural attraction • Waterfall
Metlako Falls
Metlako Falls is a waterfall on Eagle Creek in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area in Hood River County, Oregon, United States. It is the furthest downstream of the major waterfalls on Eagle Creek. Like upstream Punch Bowl Falls, Metlako is also in the form of a punchbowl.
Canal
Cascade Locks and Canal
The Cascade Locks and Canal was a navigation project on the Columbia River between the U.S. states of Oregon and Washington, completed in 1896. It allowed the steamboats of the Columbia River to bypass the Cascades Rapids, and thereby opened a passage from the lower parts of the river as far as The Dalles.
Nature • Natural attraction • Waterfall
Eagle Creek waterfalls
Eagle Creek is a tributary of the Columbia River in Multnomah and Hood River counties in the U.S. state of Oregon. It cuts through a narrow canyon in its 3,200 feet descent to the Columbia River Gorge and is known for its concentration of 13 waterfalls in about 5 miles distance.
Nature • Natural attraction • Waterfall
Wahe Falls
Wahe Falls, also called Moffett Creek Falls, is an 80-foot waterfall on the Columbia River Gorge, Multnomah County, Oregon, United States. Wahe Falls is the last of several waterfalls along Moffett Creek. The mouth of the Creek is within the limits of the John B. Yeon State Scenic Corridor.
Nature • Natural attraction • Waterfall
Elowah Falls
Elowah Falls, also called McCord Creek Falls, is a 213-foot waterfall on the Columbia River Gorge, Multnomah County, Oregon, United States. Elowah Falls is one of several waterfalls along McCord Creek. The Creek and the waterfall are within the limits of the John B. Yeon State Scenic Corridor.

Day trips

Cascade Locks – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Cascade Locks, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Portland Art Museum (Portland), Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (Portland), Washington Park (Portland).

39 milesW
Asian, American and Native American art
Portland Art Museum, Portland
Nestled in the heart of Portland, Oregon, the Portland Art Museum is a cultural beacon that attracts art enthusiasts from around the world. Established in 1892, it is the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest and boasts an impressive collection that spans across...
39 milesW
Museum, Science museum
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Portland
Nestled in the heart of Portland, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, commonly known as OMSI, stands as a beacon of learning and discovery. This premier science center in the Pacific Northwest offers a rich tapestry of interactive exhibits, hands-on activities...
41 milesW
Park
Washington Park, Portland
Nestled in the verdant heart of Portland, Oregon, Washington Park stands as a tranquil refuge and a hub of outdoor activity for locals and tourists alike. Encompassing over 410 acres, this urban oasis offers a blend of nature, history, and recreation.
12 milesSW
Scenic natural area with steep falls
Multnomah Falls, Washougal
Nestled in the lush landscape of the Pacific Northwest, Multnomah Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder that draws visitors from around the globe. This majestic waterfall is located in the Columbia River Gorge, just a short drive east of Portland, Oregon, and within...
39 milesW
Museum, Art museum, History museum
Oregon Historical Society, Portland
Nestled in the heart of Portland, the Oregon Historical Society is a cultural gem that offers visitors a profound journey through the rich tapestry of Oregon's past. This esteemed museum, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the diverse history of the state, stands...