Cities of the Gorge

The West Columbia River Gorge region serves as an important transit point between the Portland metro area and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Within its boundaries travelers will find easy transportation via Portland International Airport, I-84, I-205, the Halsey Corridor, and the Historic Columbia River Highway. Residents, employers, and visitors value the easy access to the cities of Troutdale, Wood Village, Fairview, and Cascade Locks, and to the outstanding recreation, cultural, retail and culinary amenities available throughout the area.

City of Wood Village

Wood Village has experienced consistent growth both in residential and business development. The city is literally at the edge of the Columbia River Gorge, near the easterly edge of the Portland Metropolitan Area. The Byway, which is a large mixed-use development with 174 housing units and over 10,000 square feet of commercial space continues to thrive due to its convenient location and innovative residential and business space. In recent years, the city has completed a new City Hall and Civic Center which serves as the headquarters for the city as well as a meeting and gathering place as well. The facilities feature a large plaza, splash pad and private event space. Visitors to the town center will appreciate the new restaurants and pubs now operating there. The crown jewel of the city is the Donald L. Robertson Community Park which was named in 2001 for a past mayor who served 22 years on the City Council.

The city continues to help its people grow as well. Case in point: the City of Wood Village Opportunity Scholarship program. Established in 2020, it provides funds to assist students in Wood Village to achieve their career goals. This scholarship is available to Wood Village high school graduates or GED recipients who plan to start their education at an accredited university, college, or trade school. The minimum award amount is $1,250 plus a stipend to help cover books, materials, or supplies. The 2023 recipients are Isaias Damian Figueroa, DaVante Minnieweather, Brian Montes, and Jesus Angel Silva.

The city’s comprehensive resource guide in three languages continues to be popular among residents and business owners. The guide provides full-service translation either through staff or a contracted provider. It’s just another way community leaders are creating a Wood Village that’s unique, special, and that serves its community!

City of Fairview

Fairview is located along the curves of the Columbia River at the east edge of the Portland metro area. Its residents love its bird-filled wetlands, lakes, bike trails and pedestrian-friendly village.

Its name is derived from its literally ‘fair view’ of Mt. Hood. Incorporated in 1908, this city of 9000 offers a quaint downtown. Just south of Halsey Street’s commercial core, Fairview Community Park lies adjacent to Fairview Village, a mixed-use neighborhood where homes and parks are near shops, restaurants and pubs. The city’s largest park, Salish Ponds Wetlands Park features a riparian habitat, forest trails, and ponds. Blue Lake Park offers a swim area, pedal boats, and picnic areas.

City of Troutdale

Troutdale serves not only as the “Gateway to the Gorge” but also provides a unique melding of modern amenities with a rich history. Incorporated in 1907, the city’s population stands at just over 16,300. Its historic downtown offers art and antique galleries, restaurants, lodging, and shops. Throughout the city, visitors will enjoy an impressive display of public art including a mural at Mayors Square and a life-size bronze statue of Clara Latourell Larsson, Troutdale’s first woman mayor. The city’s major commercial development, Reynolds Industrial Park, is home to many companies who appreciate its proximity to Portland International Airport and Troutdale Airport. From a tourism perspective, the Columbia Gorge Outlet Mall continues to attract thousands of visitors each year. The Gateway to the Gorge Visitor Center provides information on the Mt. Hood and Columbia River Gorge Region.

City of Cascade Locks

Known for its location in the “Heart of the Gorge,” Cascade Locks is 40 miles east of Portland. Most visitors travel to this scenic city by following the Historic Columbia River Highway or by traveling I-84 but hikers will tell you their favorite route to the city is via the Pacific Crest Trail. The history of Cascade Locks is tied to the Columbia River and its name came from a set of locks completed in 1896 to improve navigation through the river’s cascading rapids. Cascade Locks is home to the Sternwheeler Columbia Gorge, which hosts daily and nightly cruises. Just upstream from Cascade Locks is the Bridge of the Gods, a toll bridge than spans the Columbia River. With its international sailing competitions, unique restaurants and breweries, parks and hiking trails, Cascade Locks is a great city to visit or call home.

There are many ways to enjoy this region, but we went to the source -- West Columbia Gorge Chamber members –and they created this list for a day long adventure:

Morning: Starbucks Coffee – Columbia Gorge Outlets

450 NW 257th Way Suite 100 – Troutdale, OR 97060

Treat yourself to a latte, plus a breakfast wrap or a baked apple croissant to start your morning. Afterward, you can check out some of the great shops at the Outlets. Need some outdoor attire? Check out Columbia Sportswear and Eddie Bauer. Be sure to stop by Pendleton for an iconic wool shirt!

Noon: Sugarpine Drive-In

1208 E. Historic Columbia River Hwy. Troutdale, OR 97060

After all that shopping, you’ll be ready for Oregon’s premier destination drive-in on the Sandy River. You’ll love this retro dining experience that includes a menu from indulgent to vegan friendly. Waffle grilled cheese, anyone? Whatever you do, be sure to finish with a dish or waffle cone filled with tons of toppings!

Early Afternoon: Multnomah Falls Lodge

53000 E Historic Columbia River Hwy Bridal Veil, OR 97010

This #1 Natural Tourist Attraction in the Pacific Northwest never disappoints! After viewing Multnomah Falls, be sure to stop by the Multnomah Falls Gift Shop for collectibles, books, jewelry, and Northwest specialty foods.

Mid Afternoon: Spruce Gifts and Provisions

70741 NE Sturgeon Cascade Locks, OR 97014

Located in the Bonneville Fish Hatchery's sprawling grounds, this gift store is owned and operated by the Oregon Wildlife Foundation, an organization dedicated to the conservation of fish, wildlife, and habitat in Oregon.

Mid Afternoon: Greene Bronze

505 Wanapa Street Cascade Locks, OR 97014

As one of the first women to own a bronze foundry in the United States, Heather Greene’s sculptures have earned her regional and worldwide attention. You’ll be inspired by the artistry of Heather’s statues in Marine Park.

Late Afternoon: Artistree NW

103 W. Columbia River Highway Troutdale, OR 97060

This shop, located in historic Troutdale, specializes in handcrafted gifts from the Pacific Northwest. Their offerings include caps, candles, all types of crafted wood art, soaps, and locally crafted foods.

Evening: McMenamins Edgefield

2126 SW Halsey St. Troutdale, OR 97060

Wrap up your day trip with a relaxing dinner at this 74-acre property which includes a restaurant, winery, distillery, brewery, and spa. Too tired to drive home? Treat yourself to a well-appointed room at the Edgefield Lodge.