The Columbia River Gorge is a National Scenic Area in the Pacific Northwest, spanning 80 miles along the Oregon-Washington border. It contains over 90 waterfalls, dams, and is a popular recreational spot with activities such as fishing, white water rafting, and kitesailing. The area is culturally significant and features art galleries showcasing local artists.
The Columbia River Gorge is a canyon created by the Columbia River in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It is a unique geological feature and an important historic site. It is considered a National Scenic Area and contains features such as waterfalls and dams. As of 2011, the area is popular as a recreational spot with many businesses catering to tourists.
The gorge stretches from the Sandy River to the Deschutes River and covers approximately 80 miles (130 km). Running along the Oregon-Washington state border, it is 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) deep. Archaeological excavations have found evidence of human inhabitants living and fishing in the gorge as early as 10,000 years ago. It has since been important as a transportation route through the area and was first used in this way by American Indians. It then became a significant part of the historic Lewis and Clark Expedition and more recently became an integral part of Union Pacific Railroad and BNSF Railway routes.
The United States Forest Service maintains and protects the Columbia River Gorge as a National Scenic Area. It contains over 90 waterfalls, many of which are visible from the historic Columbia River Highway. These waterfalls are tourist attractions, some of which are visited by millions of people every year. The gorge is also home to several dams including The Dalles Dam and Bonneville Dam which are important assets to the entire region.
The Columbia River Gorge is also a popular area for recreational activities. Many businesses in the area serve tourists and encourage visitors to make it a vacation spot. Activities available in the Columbia River Gorge itself include fishing, white water rafting, and kitesailing. Around the gorge are wineries, museums and interpretive centers open to visitors.
Many parks in and around the Columbia River Gorge offer camping and hiking opportunities. For those who prefer to experience the gorge in a more luxurious setting, spas in the area cater for visitors to the gorge. The gorge is culturally significant to the people of the region and many art galleries display the work of local artists. Many of these artists create their works using some of the natural resources available in and around the gorge to capture some of its spirit.
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