Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge, WA-14, Washougal, WA 98671, US

The Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area encompasses almost 300,000 acres of Northern Oregon and Southern Washington. Filled with natural and cultural history, beautiful unique sites, hiking trails, fishing, camping, lodges, and adventures of all kinds, the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area is a favorite place for Portland locals to escape the city as well as for travelers to explore the same trails and routes taken by famed explorers Lewis & Clark.Must see and must do at Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area The Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area is home to Multnomah Falls, the second largest year round waterfall in the United States. Visible from the highway, Multnomah Falls is worth pulling over for and even hiking around the area before stopping for a snack at the local lodge. Speaking of lodges, Skamania Lodge on the Washington side of the area is a great place to stay and explore or rest your bones at the elegant Columbia Gorge Hotel on the Oregon side of the river.Best and worst times to go to Columbia Gorge National Scenic AreaThe attractions and wildlife that fill the vast Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area are popular for Portlanders seeking a quick weekend escape, so head to the area during the week to explore without crowds.Admission to Columbia Gorge National Scenic AreaMuch of the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area is free to explore. The small towns may have some parking fees and some campgrounds charge various fees for overnight stays. The historic train that you can pick up in Hood River for a scenic loop and oral history is worth a ride and the price of a ticket.Wildlife at Columbia Gorge National Scenic AreaThe Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area is filled with rare plants and animals, including mosses and lichens, pikas (relatives of rabbits) and salamanders and the threatened Northern Spotted Owl. The rivers were once filled with salmon species and are currently undergoing restoration. Depending on the time of day and year, you may find deer, raccoon, skunk, bobcat, beaver, yellow bellied marmot, black bear, California ground squirrel, Pacific tree frog, and garter snakes.Insider tip for Columbia Gorge National Scenic AreaThe highway going from the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area can get heavy traffic on Sundays when Portlanders return to the city, so try to plan a visit for during the week. Explore local coupon sites for deals on everything from hotels to local breweries and the train ride.Author's bio: Carly Zinderman is a freelance writer from Los Angeles that loves to travel. She has written for many websites on topics including travel, food and drink.