Forum Discussion

mishac75's avatar
mishac75
Explorer
Mar 08, 2017

Planning Trip to Columbia River in OR/WA

I'm planning a trip to the Columbia River area this summer. I've read online that large vehicles are not recommended on the Columbia River Scenic Highway (rt. 30) so I was wondering how accessible are some of the more popular attractions off of I-84. We wanted to visit the Vista House overlook, Multnomah Falls and were thinking about staying at Ainsworth State Park. Are there any other attractions along the river on the Oregon or Washington side that are RV friendly? We are planning on staying about 3 or 4 days in the area.

My Thor Vegas is only 26.5 feet and I'm not towing a dinghy as I am carrying a hitch mounted mobility scooter for a disabled family member. I'd like to avoid the expense of having to rent a small SUV if at all possible.

Thanks in advance for any information.

Safe Travels,

M.
Roads and Routes
  • enblethen's avatar
    enblethen
    Nomad
    Mar 09, 2017
    Do not over the down stream from Vancouver. Great scenery all the way to the jetties at Warrenton.
  • Durb's avatar
    Durb
    Explorer
    Mar 09, 2017
    I would recommend crossing the Bridge of the Gods at Cascade Locks. The bridge itself is a sight. There is an interpretive center at Scamania and check out the fish viewing at Bonneville Dam. Don't miss Beacon Rock also on the Washington side. Caution, there are a number of arched tunnels on highway 14. You will be fine height wise if you hug the center line. Check out the marks on the tunnels of rigs that didn't clear.

    I've never been there but I hear there is a nice aviation museum in Hood River.
  • rbtglove's avatar
    rbtglove
    Explorer
    Mar 08, 2017
    Ainsworth is a good place to stay and has some large sites and full hookups. Like said the scenic highway is not for large vehicles in most areas but there are other things you can see. Multnomah falls has a parking lot, several dams tours and fish viewing, Wind Surfing in Hood River, on WA side Beacon Rock, Maryhill Museum and Stone Hinge to name a few,do not try Hood River Bridge very narrow use another one. Could also go to Mt Hood Lodge not that far.
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Mar 08, 2017
    Plan to camp at one end or the other of the gorge and drive the old highway. YOU DO NOT want to drive a MH on that road. Remember, it was built when cars were small and narrow.
  • enblethen's avatar
    enblethen
    Nomad
    Mar 08, 2017
    Old US 30 is very narrow and some sections are restricted. Portions from Troutdale and Multnomah Falls area should be accessible with your rig.
    Vista House is accessible.
    Mulnomah Falls has a large parking area.
    Washington side is WA 14. It is a good two lane for the most part.
    Area around Bonneville Dam has good access on both sides.
    Couple of the bridges look narrow, but not as bad as they look.

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