Explore the Gorge
Cascade Locks sits right in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, serving as the world's lowest-elevation crossing point of the Cascade Mountain Range. Its unique geography—where dramatic basalt cliffs plunge directly into the river—creates an unparalleled playground where world-class hiking trails, famous gorge wind conditions, and rich Pacific Northwest history converge in one scenic riverfront community.
Hiking & Waterfalls
Positioned at the epicenter of Gorge trail country, Cascade Locks is the only incorporated city located along the Pacific Crest Trail. Hikers can head right from town to reach local gems like Dry Creek Falls, explore nearby Eagle Creek, or take a quick 15-minute drive downriver to visit iconic Multnomah Falls.
Cycling & Trail Riding
Cascade Locks offers prime two-wheel adventures for every riding style. Cruisers and e-bikers can ride paved, vehicle-free stretches of the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail right from town, while mountain bikers can take on the family-friendly EasyCLIMB loop or explore singletrack on the expanded Cascade Locks International Mountain Biking (CLIMB) network.
Need gear, a shuttle, or trail repairs? Check out Bike the Gorge on our Things to Do page.
Paddling & Water Recreation
Cascade Locks offers seamless access to the Columbia River for all types of water enthusiasts. High-wind sailing, windsurfing, and outrigger canoeing draw adventure-seekers from around the globe, while the calm, sheltered waters of Herman Creek Cove and the Marine Park are ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. For a memorable day on the river without getting wet, hop aboard a scenic sightseeing cruise on the Sternwheeler Columbia Gorge.
Looking to rent a kayak or SUP? Visit Kayak the Gorge on our Things to Do page.
Sightseeing & Parks
From riverfront parks to iconic landmarks, Cascade Locks offers plenty to explore off the trail. Spend the day at Marine Park enjoying riverside picnics, the local historical museum, and views from Thunder Island. Don't miss driving across the historic Bridge of the Gods, or taking a short drive downriver to watch migrating salmon at Bonneville Dam.
Permits & Passes
Northwest Forest Pass (National | Federal)
Required for day-use parking at U.S. Forest Service trailheads across Oregon and Washington. Annual passes can be bought online or in nearby towns. A single-day Northwest Forest Day Pass can also be purchased, in-person, at the Columbia Market or at trailhead kiosks.
Covers vehicle parking at select Oregon State Parks. Visitors can buy daily passes directly at nearby state park pay stations or purchase annual digital permits online.
Required to park on all Washington State-managed recreation lands, including nearby Beacon Rock. As a Washington-specific pass, it is not sold in Cascade Locks, but can be purchased just across the river in Stevenson, directly at automated park kiosks, or online.
Multnomah Falls (I-84) Timed Use Permit
Timed Use Permits for Multnomah Falls are required from May 22nd through September 7th, 2026, with a daily limit of two (2) permits per visitor. They are released online at 7 a.m. PST in two rolling daily waves: a primary window 14 days in advance and a secondary window 2 days before arrival.
More information about permits needed or same-day reservations is available on recreation.gov.
A limited number of permits will be available for pickup without a fee at the Gateway to the Gorge Visitor Center in Troutdale and the Cascade Locks Historical Museum.
