The Columbia River Gorge – on the border of Washington and Oregon – is a picturesque 80-mile river corridor of basalt cliffs, cascading waterfalls, charming towns, and award-winning wineries. It’s beautiful year-round, but in the fall it transforms into pure magic. Cottonwoods shimmer along the riverbanks, maple leaves line scenic highways, and vineyards glow in warm autumn light. Add crisp mornings and misty mountain peaks, and you have one of the Pacific Northwest’s most breathtaking escapes. Here’s how to experience the Gorge in full fall color.
Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Drive
This historic route (the first planned scenic highway in the U.S.) is autumn’s red carpet. Winding past cliffs, forests, and some of the Gorge’s famous waterfalls, it’s a highlight of any trip. Come fall, bigleaf maples turn brilliant yellow and vine maples pop in fiery reds and oranges, creating a kaleidoscope of color around every curve. Must-see stops along the way include:
Crown Point Vista House
For panoramic views of the Columbia River framed by fall foliage.
Latourell Falls
A single-drop waterfall surrounded by mossy rock walls and autumn trees.
Bridal Veil Falls
Short hike to a double waterfall tucked into the forest.
Multnomah Falls
Oregon’s tallest waterfall, at 620 feet, is complete with an iconic stone bridge – one of the most photographed spots in the Pacific Northwest.
Pro Tip: Start your driving journey early in the day to avoid traffic and enjoy the soft morning light.
Hood River
Hood River is the unofficial capital of the Gorge. This charming riverside town has tree-lined streets bursting with color, along with orchards and vineyards that make for perfect seasonal day trips. In October, the Hood River Valley Harvest Fest fills the waterfront with fresh apples, pears, pumpkins, and local ciders, bringing together the bounty of the season.
For even more fall magic, take the Hood River Fruit Loop – a 35-mile scenic drive past orchards, farm stands, and wineries, all set against a backdrop of Mount Hood.
Multnomah Falls
No trip to the Gorge is complete without seeing Multnomah Falls, Oregon’s tallest (and most photographed) waterfall. In fall, the surrounding maples frame the iconic stone bridge in brilliant yellows and reds, adding a warm contrast to the scene.
Pro tip: Visit on a weekday morning if you can to skip the crowds, and pack a light rain jacket to stay dry near the falls.
Horsetail Falls
Just a short drive east of Multnomah along the Historic Columbia River Highway, Horsetail Falls is another easy-access waterfall with a big autumn payoff. Named for its distinctive ‘horsetail’ shape, the falls drop into a pool surrounded by ferns, moss, and hardwood trees that blaze with color in October.
If you’re up for a short, moderate hike, continue up the trail to Ponytail Falls, where you can walk behind the curtain of water for magical fall photos.
Fall Color Adventures in the Columbia River Gorge
Hiking
The Gorge is home to more than 90 waterfalls and hundreds of miles of trails to explore. Take a self-guided hike or join a guided hike with a local expert who knows when and where to find peak fall colors. You can also check out these trails on your own:
Eagle Creek Trail
Famous for its cliffside path and multiple waterfalls.
Mosier Plateau Trail
Short but rewarding, with sweeping views over the Columbia River and bright fall foliage.
Dog Mountain (on the Washington side)
Steep but stunning, with views that stretch for miles. Also known for its fantastic wildflowers in the spring.
Scenic Drives
Beyond the Historic Highway and Hood River Fruit Loop, take Highway 14 along the Washington side for a different perspective of the Gorge. The cliffs, vineyards, and mountain views are especially striking in the golden light of late afternoon.
Biking
The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail offers car-free stretches perfect for cycling under a canopy of color. Rent bikes and join a guided bike tour, and make a day of it.
Photography Spots in the Columbia River Gorge
If your camera roll needs a little autumn magic, these spots are for you:
Crown Point Vista House
Expansive view of the Columbia River flowing into the distance, especially nice at sunrise when mist clings to the water.
Multnomah Falls Bridge
The ultimate fall postcard shot, with the waterfall framed by colorful foliage.
Rowena Crest Viewpoint
Famous for its horseshoe bend in the road and sweeping golden hillsides in October.
Panorama Point in Hood River
A wide-angle view of orchards, vineyards, and Mount Hood.
Horsetail & Ponytail Falls
Capture the water framed by golden leaves and mossy rocks.
The Dalles
Wide-open vistas with the Columbia River cutting through golden hills, perfect for sunset shots.
Pro tip: Bring a polarizing filter to make the colors pop and reduce glare from the waterfalls or river.
When to See Fall Colors in the Columbia River Gorge
Peak color is typically from late September through the third week of October, but timing varies each year depending on the weather. During this time, you can expect a mix of colors and pleasant hiking weather. By early November, some higher-elevation trails may see the first dusting of snow.
Where to Stay in the Columbia River Gorge
Set on 120 acres in Washington’s White Salmon River Valley, Under Canvas Columbia River Gorge pairs upscale glamping with unbeatable autumn scenery. Surrounded by forested hillsides and Cascade Mountain peaks, including views of nearby Mount Hood, it’s the perfect base for waterfall hikes, winery visits, and crisp fall adventures. Spend your days exploring, then return for al fresco dining, nightly s’mores by the fire, and starlit skies. Just 45 minutes from Mount Hood and an hour from Portland, it’s the ultimate fall getaway in the Pacific Northwest.
Get ready for your trip with our seasonal Columbia River Gorge packing guide.