Viator Rating : 5 (585 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.0/10 (Verified Excellent)
Portland
Columbia River Gorge & Mt. Hood Day Trip
480
Overview
The Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls & Mt Hood Tour from Portland, OR, takes travelers on a captivating journey through Oregon's most stunning landscapes. This bus tour follows the path of a riverbed carved during the Ice Age, past the Bridge of the Gods, and to the Windsurfing Capital of the World. It also crosses Oregon’s fertile fruit valley to the alpine top of Mount Hood, the world’s 2nd most summited mountain.
Travelers can expect to see iconic landmarks like the Crown Point Vista House, offering panoramic views, and the majestic Multnomah Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the United States. The tour also includes stops at Latourell Falls, the scenic Fruit Loop, and the historic Timberline Lodge, nestled in Mount Hood National Forest. The adventure begins and ends at Director Park, conveniently located in downtown Portland.
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned, high-roofed passenger van, ensuring a comfortable ride with live commentary from a knowledgeable local guide. Bottled water is provided, but lunch is not included. Gratuity is also not included. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Mobility (6 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (7 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Highlights
See Oregon's Best Waterfalls: Visit iconic waterfalls like Multnomah Falls and Latourell Falls.
Explore Mount Hood: Experience the beauty of Mount Hood National Forest and Timberline Lodge.
Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a premium, air-conditioned passenger van with live commentary.
Knowledgeable Local Guide: Learn about the area from a friendly and experienced guide.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the beautiful views and scenery.
-
The guide was friendly, funny, and very knowledgeable.
-
Many thought it was a great way to see Oregon's highlights in one day.
-
The transportation was comfortable and well-maintained.
Some felt the tour was rushed.
-
A few found the vehicle to be a tight fit.
The Journey
Director Park
Begin your adventure at Director Park, a vibrant urban park nestled in the heart of Downtown Portland. This beautifully designed public space serves as the central meeting and pickup point for your tour, offering a refreshing green escape amidst the city's bustling atmosphere. With its European-style café seating and artistic fountains, Director Park provides the perfect starting point for exploring the natural wonders that await.
Historic Columbia River Highway
Departing from downtown Portland, the journey unfolds along the Historic Columbia River Highway, the first planned scenic roadway in the United States and a true engineering marvel. This road provides access to unforgettable panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge. As you travel east towards Troutdale, known as the 'Gateway to the Gorge,' prepare to be immersed in the breathtaking beauty of this iconic route.
Crown Point Vista House
Ascend to Crown Point Vista House, perched 733 feet above the Columbia River on the remains of ancient lava flows. This architectural gem, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers unparalleled 180-degree views of the Columbia River Gorge. Explore the Vista House, an intricately designed observatory and museum, and capture the stunning vistas that have captivated visitors for generations.
Latourell Falls
Venture deeper into the Columbia River National Scenic Area to witness the dramatic Latourell Falls. Plunging 249 feet over a sheer wall of columnar basalt, this waterfall is a breathtaking sight. Depending on the season, embark on a short ¼-mile hike to get an even closer view of the cascading water and appreciate the geological forces that have shaped this remarkable landscape.
Multnomah Falls
Experience the majesty of Multnomah Falls, Oregon's highest waterfall and the second highest in the nation, plummeting 620 feet in two major steps. Explore the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge, a Cascadian-style architectural masterpiece, and take in the iconic view of the falls from the easily accessible viewing platform, offering a perfect vantage point of the Benson Bridge and the cascading waters beyond.
Hood River
Journey to Hood River, the 'Windsurfing Capital of the World,' for an hour of free time to explore this vibrant town. Nestled along the Columbia River, Hood River is renowned for its stunning scenery, windsurfing opportunities, and thriving local culture. Discover unique shops, sample local cuisine, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this outdoor paradise.
Fruit Loop
Head south through the picturesque Fruit Loop, a scenic drive showcasing the region's abundant orchards and lavender farms. Depending on the season, indulge in a brief stop at one of the farm stands, where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies. This delightful detour offers a taste of the region's agricultural heritage and natural beauty before entering Mount Hood National Forest.
Mount Hood National Forest
Embark on a scenic drive through Mount Hood National Forest, where breathtaking views of Mount Hood await at every turn. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the forest's towering trees and pristine wilderness. Be captivated by the majestic views of Mount Hood rising above the lush landscape, a prelude to the final destination on the mountain itself.
Timberline Lodge
Ascend to Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landmark perched at approximately 6,000 feet on the slopes of Mount Hood. Explore this iconic lodge, marvel at its rustic architecture and stunning craftsmanship, and soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding Cascade Mountain Range from its outdoor patios. If time allows, embark on a short hike to the Pacific Crest Trail, just behind the lodge.
Director Park
Conclude your day back at Director Park in the heart of Downtown Portland. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking sights of your Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood adventure. This marks the end of the tour, leaving you with lasting memories of Oregon's natural wonders and iconic landmarks.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and a knowledgeable local guide. It excludes lunch and gratuity (20% recommended if you enjoyed the tour). Pickup and drop-off occur at Director Park in downtown Portland. The tour utilizes a premium, high-roofed passenger van, providing comfortable travel with live commentary throughout the journey.
Hot Tip
Bring layers of clothing, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains. Also, pack some snacks to enjoy between stops, since lunch is not included.
Review Summary
Customers generally say this tour is an excellent way to experience Oregon's most iconic natural attractions in a single day, with particular praise for knowledgeable and friendly local guides who bring the area's history and geology to life. Travelers consistently highlight the stunning beauty of Multnomah Falls, the panoramic views from Vista House, and the dramatic scenery of the Columbia River Gorge as major highlights. The small group size (maximum 12 people) is frequently mentioned as a positive factor that enhances the experience. Common positive feedback includes well-organized logistics, comfortable premium van transportation, and good pacing that allows sufficient time at each location. Some travelers note that lunch in Hood River requires additional out-of-pocket spending despite being included in the package, and a few mention that the tour involves some walking and standing, which may challenge those with mobility issues. Overall, the tour receives strong recommendations from visitors seeking a comprehensive, guided introduction to Mt. Hood and the Columbia River Gorge without the hassle of self-driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Portland
$73
Hike Oregon's Columbia River Gorge & Multnomah Falls!
4.9
(2103 reviews)
Duration: 240
minutes
The Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Half-Day Hiking Tour takes travelers to the stunning Columbia River Gorge, where they'll see amazing sights. With steep, rocky sides that stretch for 80 miles, the Gorge has waterfalls, eagles, old trees, and cool rocks. This trip is a chance to see wonders with short hikes and visits to viewpoints.
Visitors will see waterfalls like Latourell Falls, a big, beautiful waterfall that's famous in Oregon. The guides pick special spots, including hidden waterfalls. They will also share stories about the area, including the geology, plants, and old tales of gods and animal spirits.
This experience includes an air-conditioned vehicle, so visitors can travel comfortably between locations. Bottled water is also provided to stay refreshed. Please note that gratuities for the guides are not included.
Portland
$139
Oregon Coast Day Tour: Portland's Wild Side!
5.0
(812 reviews)
The Full-Day Guided Oregon Coast Tour from Portland lets people see amazing views. They can visit Ecola State Park. This park is known for its rugged coast and green rainforests. People can walk through Cannon Beach, a town with a long beach and Haystack Rock. The tour goes along Highway 101. People can see beaches and surfers.
What to Expect: People might see gray whales, sea lions, and bald eagles. The tour also includes snacks, drinks, and a guide. They travel in a comfortable van. The tour stops at places like Indian Beach, Hug Point, and Oswald West State Park. Other places include Neahkahnie Mountain. It’s a great way to see the Oregon coast.
This tour includes air-conditioned travel and snacks. It does not include other things not listed. This tour shows off the best of the Oregon coast. It’s a memorable trip for everyone.
Portland
$89
Portland: Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Small Group Tour
4.9
(1274 reviews)
Duration: 240
minutes
The Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland, OR, showcases some of the most breathtaking scenery in the United States. This bus tour takes you through the Columbia River Gorge, a Natural Scenic Area filled with unique species and dramatic basalt lava flows. You'll travel along the Historic Columbia River Highway, the oldest scenic highway in the U.S. Prepare to be amazed by the sweeping viewpoints and majestic waterfalls.
During the tour, expect to visit iconic landmarks such as the Crown Point Vista House, offering panoramic views of the gorge. Travelers will also see Latourell Falls and Multnomah Falls, some of the most photographed waterfalls in the area. The tour also features a stop at an overlooked gem near the Historic Highway. This tour provides a memorable experience of the Columbia River Gorge's natural beauty. The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and a knowledgeable, local guide providing live commentary. This tour excludes gratuities.
This small-group tour ensures a personalized experience. With a focus on nature and wildlife, it's perfect for those wanting to explore the region's beauty. The tour includes stops at Director Park, the Historic Columbia River Highway, Crown Point Vista House, Latourell Falls, and Multnomah Falls.
Portland
$85
Portland: Multnomah Falls & Columbia River Gorge Tour
4.9
(912 reviews)
Duration: 210
minutes
The Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour Morning takes travelers on a half-day adventure to see Oregon's most beautiful waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. This tour is perfect for nature lovers and photographers who want to see amazing views.
Visitors will travel along the Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway. They'll see places like the Portland Women's Forum, Crown Point Vista House, and waterfalls like Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Multnomah Falls, Wahkeena Falls and Horsetail Falls. Each stop offers unique views and photo opportunities.
This tour includes transportation in a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van with a knowledgeable local guide. Bottled water is provided, and guests will be picked up and dropped off at downtown Portland, Oregon hotels. Gratuities are not included.
Portland
$149
Oregon Coast Day Trip: See Haystack Rock & Beaches
4.9
(372 reviews)
Duration: 480
minutes
Oregon Coast Tour from Portland explores the stunning Oregon coastline. This bus tour takes travelers along the scenic US HWY 101, where they can see amazing beaches and beautiful views. It's a great way to see some of the most beautiful places in Oregon, like Ecola State Park and Oswald West State Park.
The tour starts at Director Park in Portland. From there, it heads west to the coast, making stops at places like Cannon Beach, where you can see the famous Haystack Rock. Visitors will also enjoy the views from Neahkahnie Overlook and the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway (Highway 101). Along the way, the knowledgeable guide will share interesting facts and stories about the area.
This full-day tour includes transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned van, bottled water, and live commentary from a local guide. Lunch and gratuity are not included. It is part of a curated catalog and is rated as a top product with excellent quality.
Portland
$69
Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls: Half-Day Tour
4.9
(110 reviews)
The Half Day Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour shows guests the beauty of Oregon. This tour takes people on a scenic drive on the Historic Columbia River Highway. It's great for anyone who loves nature and wants to see amazing waterfalls without a long trip.
Guests will see 4 or 5 waterfalls, including the famous Multnomah Falls. They'll walk through forests and learn about the plants and animals that live there. One stop is the Historic Vista House, where they can take great pictures. The tour guide will share interesting stories about the history, geology, and culture of the area. The tour focuses on iconic landmarks like Latourell Falls, Sheppard's Dell, Wahkeena Falls, Oneonta Gorge and Horsetail Falls each offering unique photo opportunities and experiences.
This tour includes snacks, drinks, and a ride in a comfortable van. Guests get picked up and dropped off, so they don't have to worry about transportation. It's a small group tour, so everyone gets personal attention. This tour has expert guides that are highly rated, with many positive reviews from previous guests. This is a wonderful way to see the best waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge.
Nearby Events
Moda Center
Oct 17
7:30 PMDoja Cat Tour Ma Vie World Tour at Moda Center
Doja Cat brings her highly anticipated Tour Ma Vie World Tour to Moda Center in Portland, delivering a dynamic live experience fueled by her latest album, Vie. Known for her genre-blending style and electrifying stage presence, Doja Cat is set to captivate fans with a mix of new hits and fan favorites, making this one of the most talked-about concerts of the year.
Moda Center, a premier entertainment venue in Portland, is celebrated for its state-of-the-art sound and vibrant atmosphere, providing the perfect backdrop for Doja Cat’s bold performance. The Tour Ma Vie World Tour marks Doja Cat’s biggest headline run yet, showcasing her evolution as a global superstar and cementing her status as a leading voice in hip-hop and pop music.
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Mar 20
8:00 PMDarcy & Jer: Average At Best | Portland Comedy
Darcy & Jer: Average At Best Tour brings comedy to the historic Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall in Portland, Oregon on March 20, 2026. This dynamic comedy performance showcases the duo's signature humor and storytelling, offering audiences an evening of laughter and entertainment at one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic venues.
Known for their sharp wit and relatable comedy, Darcy & Jer have built a dedicated following through their distinctive comedic style. The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, a beautifully restored 1928 Italian Rococo Revival theater, provides an intimate yet grand setting for live performances, featuring 2,776 seats and state-of-the-art acoustics that enhance every word of the show.
Newmark Theatre
Mar 20
7:30 PMBassem Youssef Live Comedy Show Portland Tickets
Bassem Youssef: The Belly of the Beast Tour brings the acclaimed satirist to Newmark Theatre in Portland for an unforgettable comedy event. Known globally as the “Egyptian Jon Stewart,” Youssef blends sharp political humor with keen social insights that resonate across cultures.
Bassem Youssef transitioned from a cardiac surgeon to a pioneering satirical voice in the Middle East with his groundbreaking show “Al-Bernameg,” viewed weekly by millions. Portland's Newmark Theatre, a historic venue renowned for intimate arts and theater performances, provides the perfect setting for Youssef's bold storytelling and thought-provoking comedy.
Moda Center
Feb 25
8:00 PMRicardo Arjona Tickets Portland Moda Center 2026
Ricardo Arjona brings his LO QUE EL SECO NO DIJO TOUR to the Moda Center in Portland, delivering a captivating live Latin music experience. Known as one of Latin America's most iconic singer-songwriters, Arjona blends poetic storytelling with emotional ballads, engaging fans old and new with every performance.
His influential career spans decades, featuring timeless hits alongside fresh tracks from his recent works. The Moda Center, a premier Portland venue known for hosting top-tier concerts, provides the perfect setting to experience this unforgettable show.
Ilani Cowlitz Ballroom
Aug 27
8:00 PMGabriel Iglesias Live at Ilani Ballroom Tickets
Gabriel Iglesias brings his signature Fluffy comedy to Ilani Cowlitz Ballroom in Ridgefield, WA, delivering a night of storytelling, parodies, characters, and sound effects that appeal to audiences of all ages.
Gabriel 'Fluffy' Iglesias, one of America's most successful stand-up comedians, has sold millions of DVDs with specials like I'm Not Fat... I'm Fluffy and Hot & Fluffy, starred in Netflix's Mr. Iglesias, and made history selling out Dodger Stadium. His clean, animated style has earned him spots alongside comedy giants and billions of YouTube views. Ilani Cowlitz Ballroom offers an intimate setting for his sold-out shows.[1][3][5][7][8]
Moda Center
Feb 17
8:00 PMGHOST Skeletour 2026: Portland Concert Tickets
GHOST brings the Skeletour World Tour 2026 to Moda Center in Portland, OR, delivering a theatrical metal spectacle that blends haunting atmosphere with infectious melodies. The Swedish occult-themed band, known for their elaborate stage productions and charismatic frontman Tobias Forge, transforms arenas into immersive experiences that captivate audiences worldwide.
GHOST has evolved from underground metal sensation to mainstream phenomenon, earning Grammy nominations and selling out venues globally with their unique fusion of heavy metal and pop sensibility. Moda Center, Portland's premier indoor sports and entertainment venue with a seating capacity exceeding 19,000, provides the perfect setting for GHOST's darkly glamorous production, complete with state-of-the-art acoustics designed to amplify every note of their infectious, anthemic sound.
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Portland
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Portland From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Bus Tours & Rock in Portland. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Portland Activities