Fly & Drive guide
Fly into PDX, drive to Columbia River Gorge
Your route
PDX
Portland International Airport
Columbia River Gorge
About 1 h 10 min · 49 mi by car, no stops. Estimate only.
Your arrival plan
01Flights to PDX
Compare fares into Portland International Airport.
Find flightsPartner link · Aviasales · Photo: formulanone · CC BY-SA 2.0
02Car at PDX
Pick up at the airport and drive straight to Columbia River Gorge. Compare rental companies in one search.
Compare rentalsPartner link · EconomyBookings · Photo: Benespit · CC BY-SA 4.0
03Store extra bags
Early arrival or late flight home? Drop luggage nearby and keep the car light for the park.
Find storagePartner link · Radical Storage · Photo: abdallahh from Montréal, Canada · CC BY 2.0
04 · First night near Columbia River Gorge
Sleep close after the drive so day one starts in the park.
04Hotels near Columbia River Gorge
Compare hotels and lodges on the way in, with free-cancellation filters.
Search ExpediaPartner link · Expedia · Photo: w_lemay · CC BY-SA 2.0
04Cabins & homes near Columbia River Gorge
Whole homes and cabins for families or groups who want a kitchen and space.
Search VrboPartner link · Vrbo · Photo: Starlightkanab · CC0
Before you land
Reservations
Review Oregon State Park and National Forest Access Rules
Access involves multiple jurisdictions; Multnomah Falls often requires a seasonal timed-use permit for the plaza or parking, while other areas require a Northwest Forest Pass or Oregon State Parks permit. Lodging in Hood River or Cascade Locks should be booked months ahead for summer, but does not guarantee parking at popular trailheads. Check the official Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area site for current permit systems.
Official reservation infoBest time to fly in
April – October
Quick answers
What is the closest airport to Columbia River Gorge?
Portland International Airport (PDX) is the nearest commercial airport we route from.
How long is the drive from PDX to Columbia River Gorge?
Roughly 1 h 10 min (about 49 miles) by car, without stops. Times are estimates.
Do I need a reservation to visit Columbia River Gorge?
Access involves multiple jurisdictions; Multnomah Falls often requires a seasonal timed-use permit for the plaza or parking, while other areas require a Northwest Forest Pass or Oregon State Parks permit. Lodging in Hood River or Cascade Locks should be booked months ahead for summer, but does not guarantee parking at popular trailheads. Check the official Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area site for current permit systems.
