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CREATED from layers of massive lava flows, shaped by landslides and titanic flooding, the Columbia River Gorge is unique worldwide. Starting 20 miles east of Portland, Oregon, The Columbia River Gorge cuts through the Cascade Mountain Range and runs 75 miles up the Columbia River between Oregon and Washington. While the river is nearly sea level, basalt lava escarpments reach 4000' on either side. Drastic differences in rainfall create a nearly rain forest environment in the west Gorge with an arid high desert in the east Gorge. BECAUSE of its vast natural diversity, the Columbia River Gorge is a haven for seekers of wildflowers, waterfalls, wind and waves. Used as a major travel corridor for over 10,000 years by Native Americans, explorers and pioneers, the Gorge was instrumental in settling the Pacific Northwest. |
