3 Scenic Viewpoints: Chanticleer Point, Vista House, Bridal Veil Falls Overlook
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They call Vista House the best view in the Columbia River Gorge. That makes Chanticleer Point the best view of the best view in the Columbia River Gorge (see photo).
Early spring is the savvy time to go. With leaves gone you can see more of each bird, overlook, and extra-frothy waterfall through the trees. Bonus: less tourists in your shot.
We'll meet at the Chanticleer Point Lookout of the Portland Women's Forum State Scenic Area Viewpoint. Look for my deep blue CRV. We'll take pics, then hike about 0.5 mi. total out and back down the adjacent, but little-known, Rooster Rock Wagon Road Trail to a few more hidden viewpoints. The trail is steep in spots and can be squishy but we'll go very slowly. Spring flowers are just beginning to bloom. No restrooms on site.
From there, we'll drive 1.2 mi. over to Crown Point's Vista House (stay left on the highway) and soak up some history along with a spectacular view up and down the Columbia River Gorge. Vista House has amazing bathrooms--white marble and brass!--a coffee/gift shop, a museum, and friendly volunteers at the info desk who have tons of information about the area along with free maps of the gorge waterfalls and trails. Restroom on site.
Then, we'll continue 4.5 mi. down the road to Bridal Veil Falls State Scenic Viewpoint and very slowly hike the relatively flat 0.5 mi. Overlook Loop Trail that winds in and out of cliff lookouts overhanging the Columbia River. You're directly above the railroad tracks, so when a train rumbles by, it's impressive. There's good birding here and some trilliums are usually out.
Afterwards, you're welcome to hike the moderately steep 0.6 mi. round trip gravel trail to the only gorge waterfall below the Historic Columbia River Highway and the closest one to the river, itself--only 20 feet above it! Bridal Veil Falls drops 118 feet in a pristine two-tiered horsetail that is only completely visible in the wintertime. There is a long, steep, slick set of stairs up to the viewing platform, so poles recommended. Restrooms on site.
Bring $10 cash, water, snacks, binoculars, camera/tripod, WEATHER appropriate clothing in layers (Vista House is exposed to wind, Bridal Veil Falls is billowing mist), and opt. trekking poles. Adults only, please, and no pets, thanks.