Cascade Locks Trip Ideas
Take the Columbia Gorge Express from the Gateway station in Portland which is easily reached from the airport or anywhere in Portland. There are 9 shuttles daily – approximately every 90 minutes. The drive takes less than an hour (50 minutes) through some of the most beautiful land in the world.
The first bus leaves Portland at 6:50pm and the last bus leaves Cascade Locks at 5:35pm. Gorge folks can catch it from The Dalles or Hood River.
Where to play before or after your trip
Double click on each picture to learn more
Thunder Island Stroll
[30 mins / 1 mile]
This is a short walk from downtown along the Marina park with breathtaking views of the river.
From the Columbia Market, walk east.
Just past Eastwind Drive-In you’ll see a path going down the hill to the north.
This leads you under the train tracks and to the Port, where you can walk along the locks and cross the bridge over to Thunder Island.
Meander.
Then walk back the same way you came.
Historic Hwy Trail to the Gorge Trail Loop
[1 hour / 3 miles]
This is an easier walk and great for families.
From Columbia Market, follow the main street (Wa Pa Na) west for 0.3 miles to the Bridge of the Gods mural. (10 mins)
Then keep walking west along the Historic Columbia Gorge State Hwy Trail for 1 mile when you cross under the freeway. (20 mins)
Turn left onto the Gorge Trail #400 and follow it back east towards town for 1 mile until you reach Harvey Rd. (30 mins)
Follow the road north under the freeway for 2 blocks turning left on Venture Street. The main street of Cascade Locks (and the bus stop for the Columbia Gorge Express) is just one block down. (5 mins from Harvey Rd)
Add an extension to Mossy Grotto Falls for an additional 1 hour and 15 mins + 2.5 miles.
Note: No passes or permits are required if you arrive by bus!
PCT to Dry Creek Loop
[2 hours / 5 miles]
This hike leads to a gorgeous waterfall and through deep, large tree forests along the way. Some say sturdy boots are good for the parts that are muddy and rocky.
- Walk .5 miles from the bus stop at Columbia Market to the start of the PCT trail. (Head west on main street past Thirsty Coffee, turn left on Venture St and walk one block then turn right on Moody street and walk 3 blocks. Trailhead is on left just after crossing under the highway). (10 mins)
- Follow PCT trail 1.5 miles east until it reaches Dry Creek (45 mins)
- Turn right (south) and follow the trail .2 miles to the waterfalls and viewpoint.
- Take it in. Have a snack.
- Follow Dry Creek Falls Trail back north for 1 mile until it reaches Dry Creek Road. Follow Dry Creek Rd under the freeway and turn right on Benson Ave and walk 1 block to the main street of Cascade Locks (1 mile). The bus stop is another .5 miles west in front of Thunder Island Brewing. (50 mins from Dry Creek Falls)
Note: No passes or permits are required if you arrive by bus!