The One-Of-A-Kind Trail In Oregon With Scenic Viewpoints And Twin Tunnels Is Quite The Hike
By Sarah McCosham|Published October 08, 2021
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
It doesn’t get much more iconic Oregon than the Columbia River Gorge. While we share this natural wonder with Washington, the Oregon side of the Gorge is home to 90 waterfalls, numerous scenic overlooks, and countless bucket-list-worthy hikes. The Columbia River Gorge is one big playground for outdoor enthusiasts, and the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail is one of the most accessible and underrated hikes in the area. This one-of-a-kind trail in Oregon features a waterfall, two tunnels, and numerous overlooks, for a scenic day trek that everyone should do at least once.
There are many ways to experience Oregon's Columbia River Gorge, but the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail is easily the most accessible.
The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail is comprised of three disconnected paved paths, for a total of 12 miles. This adventure features jaw-dropping views in all directions.
If you're not up for a nine-mile (round trip) hike, feel free to make the trek as long or short as you'd like. You'll enjoy gorgeous views no matter what!
This stretch of trail winds along the Columbia River and Rock Creek, through some stunning forested landscapes. Keep your eyes peeled for waterfalls as you walk past the creek!
Of course, the most notable feature of this trail is its twin tunnels. When this section of the Columbia River Highway was built in 1921, road builders blasted through solid basalt to create the tunnels, which run consecutively for 390 feet.
In the 1950s, the tunnels were closed in favor of a new water route along the Columbia River Highway. The tunnels then sat abandoned for decades, until the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Act called for a massive restoration of the historic passages.
Today, explorers can journey through the Mosier Tunnels on the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail. Inside the tunnels, side passages lead to windows that frame the breathtaking views.
