The Area

Stevenson

While staying with us, explore the bustling town of Stevenson, just a few miles west on State Highway 14. This is the county seat of Skamania County and the county’s main commerce center. You will find shops, art galleries and eateries that cater to a wide range of tastes. The Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center museum is a fun and informative diversion, just west of town. If you happen to come in August, you can take in the Skamania County Fair and Timber Carnival. Closer to Christmas, don’t miss the Christmas in the Gorge celebration and the Starlight Firetruck Parade. Other events, listed by date.

Activities and attractions in and around Stevenson

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

We are surrounded by the beauty and majesty of the Columbia River Gorge. In 1986 Congress designated this area a National Scenic Area, recognizing the unique recreational and scenic qualities. From water sports on the river to hiking among the gorge waterfalls, people come from all over the world to enjoy this area. The U.S Forest Service administers the Scenic Area and operates Visitor’s Centers at the Skamania Lodge, west of Stevenson, and at Multnomah Falls and the Gorge Discovery Center in The Dalles on the Oregon side of the river. If you want to pull off of State Highway 14 for a day hike or stop along the Old Highway on the Oregon side of the river to explore a waterfall, you will need a recreational pass. From day passes to year-long passes, you may access all national forests in Washington and Oregon as well as sites throughout the Scenic Area. Passes are available online, at the Visitor’s Centers and at many stores in Stevenson.

The Washington state parks and Oregon state parks in the Columbia River Gorge are perfect for exploring the gorge. They offer scenic overlooks, waterfalls, day hikes, launch sites for water sports and more. Most state parks require a recreational pass. Information about day passes can be found on the websites provided above.

Gifford Pinchot National Forest

The vast majority of land within Skamania County is administered by the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The forest offers many recreational opportunities within a short drive from Rivermist Lodge. The Wind River Highway, just east off of Highway 14 is the main access to world-class steelhead and salmon fishing. Most trails outside of Wilderness areas are open to mountain biking. A day hike to Falls Creek waterfall, along the Pacific Crest Trail or into the Trapper Creek Wilderness is a great family activity. Or, drive to Outlaw Ridge to enjoy spectacular views of Mount St. Helens.