Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler

The Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler is the Gorge's classic boat trip: a paddle-wheel riverboat that cruises from the docks at Cascade Locks, about twenty miles west of Hood River, with narration by the captain about the formation and history of the river. The boat is run by Portland Spirit, which operates the vessel in the Gorge during the warmer season and in Portland in the colder months. The one-hour sightseeing cruises run several times a day. Eastbound sailings highlight Wind Mountain and the area near Skamania Lodge, while westbound sailings pass the Bridge of the Gods and look toward Bonneville Dam. Longer options include a two-hour Sunday champagne brunch with a plated Northwest meal and a two-hour dinner cruise with a multi-course menu. What you see is the Gorge from the water, which changes your sense of scale. Basalt cliffs rise on both sides, waterfalls drop from the Oregon bluffs, and the wind that makes Hood River famous for kiteboarding becomes something you feel on the upper deck. You may also see ospreys, eagles and other wildlife, along with Native American salmon fishing platforms that line parts of the river. The sternwheeler's slow pace and open decks make it suitable for older travellers, families with children and anyone who wants a rest from hiking and driving.

Check the season and schedule before you plan. The Gorge cruises generally run from late spring through October, and departure times vary by day and cruise type. The dock is at Cascade Locks Docks on Southwest Portage Road, easy to reach from Interstate 84. Allow plenty of time to park and board, and arrive early for brunch or dinner seatings. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for brunch and dinner on weekends and holidays, and private charters are available for special occasions.

Dress for wind. The river breeze can be cool even on hot days, so bring a jacket and wear flat-soled shoes. The upper deck is open and the main cabin is enclosed with tables, so you can choose your comfort level. A bar is available onboard. Narration varies with the captain, but guests generally come away with a good sense of the Gorge's geology, Native history, railroads, highways and dams. Photographers should bring a lens that handles distance and a rain cover if the forecast is uncertain.

Cascade Locks is a pleasant stop in its own right. The town has a few cafes, a waterfront park and a brewery, and the Bridge of the Gods and the Pacific Crest Trail are close by, making the cruise a natural pair with a short walk or a brief hike to Dry Creek Falls.

Families can spend a relaxed afternoon here, with the boat as the centrepiece. If you are staying in Hood River, the drive is easy, and a Best Western at Cascade Locks is a convenient overnight option for those who want to make it a two-day outing.

Choose the cruise by mood. The sightseeing sail is best for first-timers and children, brunch suits a leisurely Sunday and the dinner cruise is for couples and celebrations. Ask about dietary needs when you reserve, and confirm the age policy for children on dinner sailings. Weather rarely cancels a cruise, but strong wind or low water can change operations, so check the operator's page before you drive.