Private Tour
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Millions of years ago, during the formation of the Cascade Mountain Range, lava and other pyroclastic matter flowed west from what would be the Cascades all the way to the Pacific Ocean, creating a thick shell of basalt rock that covered Western Oregon. Then, during the Pleistocene Ice Age, roughly 15,000 years ago, water from the Lake Missoula Flood carved out the Columbia River Gorge as hundreds of cubic miles of water, ice, rock and mud rushed from present-day Montana to the Pacific Ocean. Explore the beauty of the canyon walls and rock formations, breathtaking waterfalls and awe-inspiring visas that make the Columbia River National Scenic Area one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon. Our enthusiastic guides will introduce you to the most amazing places in the Gorge, while providing a comprehensive narrative of this spectacular landscape and its transformative history.
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
The Columbia Gorge is a place of history. Its geologic origins date to massive flows of lava millions of years ago, carved much more recently by tremendous icy floods at the end of the latest glaciation. Native Americans settled here at least 10,000 years before the first European explorers. Lewis & Clark came down the Columbia Gorge, and the Oregon Trail pioneers followed soon after, pausing briefly before continuing their journey westward. Sternwheelers and railroads, hydroelectric dams and aluminum plants became the engines of later industry.
Portland Women's Forum State Scenic Viewpoint
The view is absolutely breathtaking and it's one of the best spots to soak in a view of one of the most beautiful places on earth: the magnificent, awesome Columbia River Gorge. Any visit to the Gorge would be nearly perfect with Women's Forum as the starting place to a fun-filled day of adventure and discovery. With the scenic Vista House and the wide expanse of the Columbia Gorge in the background, more photographs of the Columbia Gorge are probably taken from this point than anywhere else.
Transport by Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van
Knowledgeable and Experienced Local Guide
Bottled water
Pick-up & Drop-off At Downtown Portland Hotels
Gratuities
Select a pickup point
Private Tour: This is a private tour for your group only.
Pickup included
Public Tour: You will enjoy this tour with up to 12 other people.
Pickup included
5 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Roxie C,,Oct 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
Our driver, Jim shared his knowledge of Portland and the state of Oregon. The scenery and falls were stunning-so much natural beauty. Jim’s great personality and kindness made this an exceptional day.
Tracy M,,Sep 25, 2025
- Review from Viator
Overall, great experience. The company website was easy to select the tour that best fit your needs and communication was timely and clear. Our tour guide, Jay, was very professional & super knowledgeable. He made our excursion enjoyable and gave us options at each stop. We choose the half-day AM tour with many stops and no long walks or hikes. We recommend!
Kathleen K,,Sep 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
John, our guide was funny as well as informative! He was also our driver & did his best to keep us on schedule! Overall, the tour covered pretty much what was expected.
Jodie G,,Mar 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
Really great experience. I learned a ton! The weather was cooler but did not affect the experience. John was super interesting and helpful.
Francis P,,Aug 30, 2024
- Review from Viator
We had an excellent day exploring the Gorge and several waterfalls. Phil picked up at our hotel on time. He was very professional and friendly, giving many tips about the Portland area. The four falls we visited were beautiful. I highly recommend this tour for first time visitors to the area.
Operated by Oregon Tour Experts