Seven Scenic Highway Drives

Multnomah Falls, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Oregon — Purestock/Getty Images

I-84, Portland to The Dalles, Oregon

It’s the waterfalls that give this length of interstate its appeal. As the Columbia River carved through the region, a high cliff formed on its southern wall, resulting in 28 scenic cascades, most just a short walk from the highway.

Things to Do Along the Way

Meet a dead end
Rising like a ship out of the river 11 miles west of The Dalles, Memaloose Island was called Sepulchar Island by explorers Lewis and Clark because of its Native American burial grounds.

Fall out
At 611 feet, Multnomah Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in the United States. It’s just a few feet off the highway, at a pullout about 31 miles east of Portland. Get there early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Stretch Your Legs at: Exit 25
If you dare: Rooster Rock State Park has a public clothing-optional beach.

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