Outdoor Project

As the name implies, the rock formations in Seal Rock State Recreation Site are an excellent bet for spotting harbor seals. Whether they are basking in the sun or taking a dip in frothy waters, the harbor seals and sea lions are easy to spot from the beach. Don’t overlook what is right below your feet, however! Low tide reveals the abundant life in the the rocky tidal area. Giant green anemone and purple sea urchin sit happy in calm tidal pools while gooseneck barnacles and California mussels blanket low rocky patches.

Originally only a marshy area at the bottom of Rowland and Coyote Walls, this fantastic summer swimming hole was created by the construction of the Bonneville Dam in the 1930s. The lake stays unusually warm because it is separated from the Columbia River by both the railroad and by Highway 14.  In this area (only a few miles east of Bingen, Washington), the key attraction is the warm summer sun exposure in the eastern Gorge, but the 40-foot basalt pinnacle that rises from the middle of the lake's deep waters is a close second.  It is perfect for cliff jumping!

The Columbia River Gorge is home to countless view points, hikes and recreational opportunities that make it one of the most spectacular places in the Pacific Northwest. Even in this incredible environment, the Oneonta Gorge stands out as a unique and exceptional area.

The Eagle Creek Hike to Tunnel Falls is closed indefinitely as a result of the Eagle Creek Fire.

At only 2 miles long and with only 300 feet of elevation gain, Wahclella Falls is a wonderful hike that is accessible to all ages, and the scenery is spectacular.  Just west of popular Eagle Creek and below Mundra Point, the Wahclella Falls Trail follows Tanner Creek through some truly impressive old-growth Douglas fir before reaching the basalt boulder field that guards this horsetail falls.  The trail will split after three-quarters of a mile, creating a short loop; either direction will take you to the falls.

This incredible hike to the top of Multnomah Falls and along Multnomah Creek provides unforgettable perspectives of the Columbia River Gorge just a short drive from downtown Portland.

The often overlooked Elowah Falls rush just off of the Historic Columbia River Highway.  Tucked away in a giant amphitheater of basalt, Elowah Falls drops cascading water an impressive 280 feet from McCord Creek.  As you make your way through the forest, be sure to avoid the ubiquitous poison oak. Also note that trail intersection signs were missing the directional indications for Elowah Falls, so kind hikers have added the appropriate information.

Just past Multnomah Falls, this adventure has what most hikers are looking for: waterfalls, old-growth forest, big vistas and even a little scrambling at Oneonta Gorge.  In terms of waterfalls, you are really getting a four-for-one deal on this hike, as Horsetail Falls is just the beginning.

Bagby Hot Springs, secluded amongst towering old-growth fir and cedar trees, represents the ideal of a natural hot springs. However, this ideal is challenged by very heavy use and the resulting artifacts. Crowds can be avoided by going early in the morning, on weekdays or during the winter. Fortunately, the variety of pools and bathing rooms offers something for both those interested in privacy and those who prefer a social soak.

When you search for photos of Mount Hood, many of them will turn out to be shots taken from Trillium Lake.  These photos will all date to some time after 1960, however, as that was the year the reservoir we call Trillium Lake was created.  Mud Creek (a tributary of the Salmon River) was dammed for recreational purposes in 1960 by the United States Department of Fish and Wildlife.  As tranquil and natural as the many Mount Hood photos appear, nearly all of them are taken from the perspective provided by standing on the dam.