Another camper in Idaho suggests that I stop in Lewiston, ID and visit Hell’s Gate State Park, which I do. The park is right on the Columbia River and very busy – speed boats and jet skis decorate the river…and make a lot of noise. Still, the landscape around the canyon is beautiful.
To get to Portland, I drive along Hwy 12 before I meet the I-84 Interstate. My handy Atlas suggests that the scenic route starts past The Dalles in Oregon, but I the entire journey is scenic. I make frequent stops to enjoy the views and wrap my mind around how much the landscape is constantly changing. I also enter a more populated and popular area and find myself having to share the road with other drivers – I haven’t encountered this since I left Minneapolis!
If you’re ever in The Dalles, I suggest you make your way to the Dalles Dam Visitor Centre – it is amazingly informative, plus you’ll learn a lot about the Columbia River, the people that used to inhabit its shores and how the dams along the route have changed the ecosystems around and in the river.
I camp along the Columbia River in Memaloose State Park and visit the towns of The Dalles and Hood River. This area of Oregon is known for orchards, wine and outdoor activities. The towns are nice enough, old fashioned and busy towns, but you have to get in your car and explore the surrounding area. I did not do this, but a drive to Mt. Hood would have been amazing, I suspect.
If you look at my Instagram , you may get the impression that I am eating very badly – donuts, pancakes, biscuits and grilled cheese sandwiches all accompanied by beer, but I am eating well. It is easy to create delicious meals without a kitchen when you’re camping. My lunch by the Columbia River was campground-made chunky guacamole. 