If you’ve ever been to a show at the Gorge Amphitheater, you know the feeling well… you walk through the grass and over a hill, and suddenly the most breathtaking sight of your life is before you. And it never gets old — every single time you get a glimpse of the Columbia River Gorge in all its glory, it feels like the first time. We’re so lucky to share this stunning natural wonder with Oregon, it’s unreal.

The Columbia River Gorge is a canyon of the Columbia River, cascading westward and separating Washington from Oregon.

Sabcfamily / TripAdvisor It’s one of our most famous landmarks and most impressive natural wonders.

The gorge stretches for over 80 miles, and every last one of them is scenic.

ay2015ay / TripAdvisor The Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area is federally protected land, managed by the Columbia River Gorge Commission and the US Forest Service.

The gorge began to form as early as 12 million years ago, although the most drastic changes took place at the end of the last Ice Age.

Terry M / TripAdvisor That’s when the Missoula Floods carved out the rugged, steep walls we have today.

These days, the Columbia River Gorge is one of the most popular recreation areas in the Pacific Northwest.

Alejandro Rdguez / Flickr From hidden waterfalls to wildflower hikes, fishing trips and windsurfing adventures, it’s clear we truly appreciate this natural wonder.

And while it’s always fun to go deep into the gorge and spend some time by the river…

Patrick Dirden / Flickr

… some of the best views come from right here.

buckeyepam / TripAdvisor The Gorge Amphitheatre is known nationwide for its sweeping views, which make the shows even more magical (especially at sunset).

If it’s been awhile since you’ve been to the Columbia River Gorge, it may be time for a little summer road trip.

adventurist_oregon / TripAdvisor Fuel up and cruise down Highway 14, stopping every chance to get to take it all in.

If it’s been awhile since you’ve gotten a glimpse of our most favorite gorge, plan a visit as soon as you can. It just might make you fall in love with Washington all over again.

Sabcfamily / TripAdvisor

It’s one of our most famous landmarks and most impressive natural wonders.

ay2015ay / TripAdvisor

The Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area is federally protected land, managed by the Columbia River Gorge Commission and the US Forest Service.

Terry M / TripAdvisor

That’s when the Missoula Floods carved out the rugged, steep walls we have today.

Alejandro Rdguez / Flickr

From hidden waterfalls to wildflower hikes, fishing trips and windsurfing adventures, it’s clear we truly appreciate this natural wonder.

Patrick Dirden / Flickr

buckeyepam / TripAdvisor

The Gorge Amphitheatre is known nationwide for its sweeping views, which make the shows even more magical (especially at sunset).

adventurist_oregon / TripAdvisor

Fuel up and cruise down Highway 14, stopping every chance to get to take it all in.

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