The Columbia River Gorge has always held a special place in the hearts of Oregonians, going back to the time when humans first inhabited it. Even after the horrible forest fire in 2017, we’re reminded of its enduring toughness and everlasting beauty every time we visit. Take a look at these 11 photos from the past and you’ll see that, while some things have changed over the years, one thing remains the same: the Columbia River Gorge calls to people to visit, to photograph, and to cherish it.
- Multnomah Falls is one of the most photographed waterfalls in the country, and it looks like that’s long been the case! Luckily, we don’t have to wear long, uncomfortable dresses and corsets for our selfies in front of the falls nowadays!
Friends of the Columbia Gorge (PC: Oregon State Parks)/Facebook
- A frozen Multnomah Falls back in 1936. While the falls regularly freeze, this aerial photo is particularly scenic.
Friends of the Columbia Gorge (PC: City of Portland Archives)/Facebook
- Here’s another wintry photo taken below the falls. Charles Florin snapped this shot during the winter of 1973-74. Brrr!
Friends of the Columbia Gorge/Facebook
- Though Multnomah Falls is certainly a highlight, it’s not the only amazing place in the Columbia River Gorge. This photo shows President Franklin D. Roosevelt as he dedicated Bonneville Dam on September 28, 1937. That’s quite a car!
Friends of the Columbia Gorge/Facebook
- Oregonians love to hike the gorge’s beautiful trails. This photo, taken in 1930, depicts the well-known Columbia River Gorge photographer, Ray Atkeson, as he hiked the Nesmith Point Trail.
Friends of the Columbia Gorge/Facebook
- Road crews don’t have it nearly as good these days - just take a look at that view!
Friends of the Columbia Gorge/Facebook
- This photo, taken at Chanticleer Point, definitely has a story behind it. We may never know what it is, but it sure looks fun!
Friends of the Columbia Gorge (PC: Oregon Department of Transportation)/Facebook
- Vista House is a well-known landmark in the Columbia River Gorge today. This photo shows it during the early phases of construction in 1917.
Friends of the Columbia Gorge (PC: Oregon Department of Transportation)/Facebook
- Portions of the Historic Columbia River Highway are currently closed due to continued cleanup following the 2017 fire; however, the Oregon Department of Transportation promises it will be reinstated to its former glory as soon as possible.
Friends of the Columbia Gorge/Facebook
- Can you believe that cars once drove through Mitchell Point Tunnel? In 1915, cars were narrow enough to travel through, but it quickly became an alternating one-way tunnel to accommodate wider vehicles up until it closed completely in 1954. It was demolished when I-84 was built.
Friends of the Columbia Gorge/Facebook
- In 1935, Koberg Beach was the site of a ballroom and resort where families gathered on summer days to take in the sights.
Friends of the Columbia Gorge/Facebook
It’s amazing to see how much this iconic area of Oregon has grown and changed over the decades. Where is your favorite spot in Columbia River Gorge to visit? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to share photos from your outdoor adventures with us on our Oregon Nature Lovers Facebook group. You’ll find amazing photos captured by fellow Oregonians from all across the state!
Friends of the Columbia Gorge (PC: Oregon State Parks)/Facebook
Friends of the Columbia Gorge (PC: City of Portland Archives)/Facebook
Friends of the Columbia Gorge/Facebook
Friends of the Columbia Gorge (PC: Oregon Department of Transportation)/Facebook
If you’re interested in Oregon history, you might also want to visit this barn that was built in the 1880s.
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