Bridge of the Gods and Cascade Locks

Bridge of the Gods is a Gorge landmark with a story to match its name. The current steel bridge was built in 1926 and connects Cascade Locks in Oregon with North Bonneville in Washington, and it is named after a natural land bridge that, according to legend and geology, once spanned the river around 1450 AD after a landslide. Today it carries a vehicle toll of a couple of dollars each way and is open to bicycles and pedestrians, and it is the point where the Pacific Crest Trail crosses the Columbia, marking the trail's lowest elevation. Hikers on the long-distance trail pass through town, which gives Cascade Locks a pleasant trail-town feel with cafes, a brewery and a waterfront park. Cascade Locks is about twenty miles west of Hood River and works as a small hub for several Gorge outings. The sternwheeler docks here, Dry Creek Falls is a family-friendly 4.4-mile out-and-back hike with about 725 feet of climbing starting from the Pacific Crest Trail near the bridge, and the Historic Columbia River Highway and its trails are close by. The town also has a history tied to the locks that once bypassed the rapids, an engineering story that explains the name. A walk by the water, a look at the bridge and a coffee make a satisfying hour even if you do not hike.

If you want to walk on the bridge, check the pedestrian rules and traffic conditions before you go, because the bridge is narrow and the deck is a steel grate in places. The views up and down the river are excellent, and the sense of crossing from Oregon to Washington on foot is memorable. Cyclists should ride carefully and be ready for wind. If you drive across, keep cash for the toll, which is collected at the Oregon end.

Dry Creek Falls is the easy hike to pair with the bridge. Starting from the Pacific Crest Trail access near the bridge, the trail climbs gently through forest to a tall waterfall in a mossy alcove. It is suitable for families and moderate walkers, and it is a good alternative to the more demanding hikes such as Dog Mountain. Wear sturdy shoes, carry water and expect the trail to be muddy in wet months. Dogs are often welcome on leashes, and the trail is popular on weekends.

The town is small but welcoming. Expect a handful of eateries, a brewery and gift shops, and a waterfront park where you can watch boats and fish. The sternwheeler dock, the Port of Cascade Locks offices and a small museum add to the local colour. Parking is generally easy, but busy summer weekends can fill the lots near the dock and trailhead.

Cascade Locks is also a practical overnight option. A hotel here puts you on the western edge of the Gorge, close to waterfalls, the Historic Highway and the Bonneville Dam area, and about twenty minutes from Hood River. For a themed day, combine the bridge, the hike, a lunch in town and a one-hour sternwheeler cruise. If you are travelling with children, the dam fish hatchery near Bonneville is another popular stop, and the sights here can be linked into a full Gorge loop returning to Hood River in the evening.