Roadschooling Trip with Kids Along the Columbia River Gorge
There’s a reason the Columbia River Gorge was designated a National Scenic Area … and a reason why it makes for a memorable roadschooling trip for your family. As you traverse the highway that runs that along the the mighty Columbia River, you get to witness stunning views of basalt cliffs and even waterfalls.
We’ve lived in the Pacific Northwest for 12 years and have actually traveled along this route many times on our way to other destinations. Yet in all that time, we had missed out on some beautiful gems of places because we never stopped to enjoy them along the way!
This summer, we were able to finally experience the landscape more intimately. We actually owe this roadschooling trip to our our daughter, Gracie, because she was working in a film in this part of Oregon (she’s got a very tiny role but it is her biggest project to date!).
Of course, our family loves to “cook” up adventures, so we made sure to turn it into one by hitting up certain stops along the way.
If you are ever on a roadschooling trip through the Columbia River Gorge, here are some great places to stretch your legs with kids!
Multnomah Falls
Only about 45 minutes from Portland, this is truly a gem. I can’t believe it we hadn’t visited this place sooner!
Kids are going to love making up their way to Benson Bridge to enjoy the 611-foot tall waterfall. It’s a very easy walk and perfect for getting some blood moving if you’ve been in the car for awhile. You can continue on another mile all the way to the top of the falls for a gorgeous view of the Gorge, but just be careful because it is steep and can be slippery.
Down at the base of the falls there is a lodge where you can get more information, fuel up at the restaurant, or pick our souvenirs from the shop.
Hood River
About another half-hour or so east from Multnomah Falls is Hood River, where you can find the HUGEST cinnamon rolls at Bette’s Place! Snag some fuel for your roadschooling trip here!
The big kids liked strolling through the downtown streets, checking out the unique shops and galleries.
Gracie and another young actress in the film. Sibs tagging along!
Make sure to spend time at the family-friendly Hood River Waterfront Park. The playground equipment is integrated with natural elements and dispersed in a way that encourages burning off energy by running, jumping, and hiding. My kids especially loved the rock climbing feature!
There is also a sandy beach and swimming area along the shore of the Columbia River where you can sun bathe and watch kitesurfers/windsurfers in action. A beach-lover myself, I could have probably stayed here all day!
Maryhill Stonehenge
If you head another 50 minutes farther east while on your roadschooling trip, north across the river, and into Washington state, you will find a replica of England’s Stonehenge!
This seemingly random landmark is actually the very first monument set up to honor those who died in World War I.
It was a fun and interesting place to stop as we made our way back home, and offered us one last beautiful look at the mighty Columbia River!
