Columbia River Gorge is a natural region known for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're eating the delicious cuisine, hiking in nature, or taking in the beauty, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Columbia River Gorge, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Columbia River Gorge?
You should plan to spend around $212 per day on your vacation in Columbia River Gorge. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $79 on meals
- $78 on local transportation
- $178 on hotels
A one week trip to Columbia River Gorge for two people costs, on average, $2,968. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
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One Week
Per person
$1,484
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2 Weeks
Per person
$2,968
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One Month
Per person
$6,360
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,968
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$5,936
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One Month
For a couple
$12,720
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Columbia River Gorge cost?
A one week trip to Columbia River Gorge usually costs around $1,484 for one person and $2,968 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Columbia River Gorge on average costs around $2,968 for one person and $5,936 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Columbia River Gorge will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Columbia River Gorge on average costs around $6,360 for one person and $12,720 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Columbia River Gorge expensive to visit?
Columbia River Gorge is a popular region that attracts plenty of visitors with a wide range of travel styles and spending habits. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
While Columbia River Gorge can be quite expensive if you let it be, there are ways to lower your spending, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails.
On average, budget travelers spend $93 per day, mid-range travelers spend $212 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $405 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Columbia River Gorge.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Columbia River Gorge is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Charleston or Pocono Mountains.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Columbia River Gorge Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Columbia River Gorge?
The average Columbia River Gorge trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Columbia River Gorge travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Columbia River Gorge cost?
Columbia River Gorge on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$39
|
$89
|
$170
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$34
|
$78
|
$148
|
|
Food 2
|
$35
|
$79
|
$152
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$8.88
|
$20
|
$39
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$3-8
|
$6-18
|
$11-34
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations for your budget when visiting Columbia River Gorge is important. While it's tempting to aim for a shoestring budget, most travelers don't find that style of travel to be enjoyable. Think about your priorities and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer staying in budget accommodations or enjoying more luxurious options? Do you like to explore attractions and dine out at local restaurants? These choices will influence your travel costs and itinerary.
The Truth on Budget Travel
Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $93 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.
For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.
While food is a highlight for many in Columbia River Gorge, budget travelers often resort to street food or self-catering in hostels, which can lead to missed opportunities for savoring the local cuisine.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
Couples and families traveling for leisure often prefer mid-range hotels, dine at popular eateries, and visit key museums and attractions that require an entry fee. Most visitors to Columbia River Gorge will want to visit the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. It's important to remember that most activities will cost you money. Consequently, you should anticipate your daily budget to be closer to $212 per person, per day.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
If you're looking for an all encompassing trip with every amenity and a higher level of service, then prepare yourself for a price tag closer to $405 per day. To stay in a nicer hotel, eat at award winning restaurants, splurge on extravagant excursions, and take taxis or private drivers to get around the region, you'll need to be prepared for a more "luxury" set of prices.
Accommodation Budget in Columbia River Gorge
The wide range of prices for hotels and accommodation in Columbia River Gorge can be very surprising. Some hotels have much higher price tags than others, and in turn offer higher levels of luxury and more amenities. Also, during peak season, prices are much higher. The average price for a hotel room in Columbia River Gorge in the off-season is $186, but in the peak summer travel season it will average around $347. In general, you can expect hotel prices in Columbia River Gorge to range from $144 to $425. Hostels are typically much cheaper, especially if you stay in a dorm. Also, note that the average hotel price is not always what travelers will pay (see below). You can save a good bit of money if you travel during the low season or shoulder seasons, as room prices adjust according to the overall demand. Booking in advance can often save you money, too, along with taking advantage of sale prices or special deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Columbia River Gorge for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $178. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $89 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Columbia River Gorge? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Columbia River Gorge include:
- Best Western Plus Columbia River Inn starting at $228
If you're traveling to Columbia River Gorge with kids, you'll want to choose an apartment or accommodation with more space to enjoy.
Traveling in the low or shoulder season (and not in summer) means you'll enjoy lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists around.
Transportation Budget in Columbia River Gorge
Columbia River Gorge does not has a good public transit system. There are some buses, but don't rely on them to efficiently explore.
Unfortunately, the region is not very walkable. You really need a car to explore the area, but some visitors rely on a bike.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (poor)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $78 per person, per day, on local transportation in Columbia River Gorge. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Columbia River Gorge is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$78
If you're driving, make sure your hotel has convenient parking.
How much does it cost to go to Columbia River Gorge? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Columbia River Gorge will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Columbia River Gorge
The culinary delights in Columbia River Gorge are remarkable, so be sure to set aside time to taste all the local specialties. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Columbia River Gorge can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Columbia River Gorge is $79 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$79
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Columbia River Gorge is around $79 ($79) per person, with previous travelers spending from $35 to $152. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Columbia River Gorge are as follows:
- Breakfast: $8 to $24
- Lunch: $12 to $32
- Dinner: $24 to $56
- Coffee: $6
- Fast Food or Street Food: $12
There are a number of good local restaurants in the Columbia River Gorge area, particularly in the nearby towns. It's also fun to pick up some fresh fruit and pack a picnic for your drive along the scenic highway.
When traveling with children, look for restaurants with a kids menu. This can save you plenty of money as these options tend to be much lower in price. Some restaurants don't list the kids' options on their menu, so ask the waiter before you order.
Some hotels include breakfast in the overall cost, while others add it as an extra charge. The quality and price of breakfast can vary greatly depending on the hotel. Being informed beforehand can help you determine if you need to set aside additional funds. The hotel's buffet may be worth it, or you might consider visiting a local bakery or cafe for a more budget-friendly option.
Why not save some bucks and enjoy the sights by having a picnic? Stop by a local grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and head to a nice park or beautiful spot to enjoy your meal.
Carry a reusable water bottle with you to avoid spending on drinks. It's also a win for the environment.
If you're going to take a tour, make sure you understand which meals are included. You could end up paying for some food yourself, which might affect your budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Columbia River Gorge
It's easy to see why people visit Columbia River Gorge, given its food, hiking, family-friendly activities, and romance.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Columbia River Gorge typically cost an average of $20 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$20
There are a number of attractions spread throughout the Columbia River Gorge. Many destinations are along the Historic Columbia River Highway, which is a 20 mile stretch of US Highway 30 that dates back to 1915 and weaves its way through the gorge passing by impressive waterfalls and beautiful forest. There are a number of trails and viewpoints along the way.
Multnomah Falls is the most visited in the area. It's an impressive sight with two major drops. The upper falls is 542 feet and the lower falls is 69 feet.
At one viewpoint you'll find the Vista House, which has a few exhibits and grounds that you can wander around.
Several towns in the area have museums that are worth exploring. The Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center is located in The Dalles. You can also visit the Bonneville Dam visitor center which has exhibits and an observation area. There are also tours, nature trails, and a picnic area.
And of course, spend some time in Hood River.
The Columbia River Gorge is all about natural beauty. There are a number of outdoor activities that visitors can enjoy including fishing, hiking, and even windsurfing because of the area's strong winds. Camping is also a popular activity in the area with a number of campgrounds around.
The Hood River Valley is known for its fruit orchards and wine vineyards. Spring is a great time to visit if you want to see them in full bloom. Visitors often enjoy wine tasting and visiting orchards in the area where they can sample a number of fruits.
Another fun activity is a visit to the historic fish hatchery at Bonneville Dam. While there you can learn about the process of how small fish grow into fully grown rainbow trout.
Hiking:
Exploring the hiking trails near Columbia River Gorge is a wonderful experience. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.
Nightlife Budget in Columbia River Gorge
For nightlife, Columbia River Gorge offers some activities, but it's not as active as in other more popular destinations. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $12 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Columbia River Gorge per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$12
Nights out are fun, but limiting your alcohol consumption can help keep your travel costs in check.
Drinking at night can be fun, but make sure you're aware of your surroundings. You could attract pickpockets, so it's best to stick with people you trust and stay in a group.
Traveling in Columbia River Gorge
Columbia River Gorge, near Portland, Oregon
Columbia River Gorge is a popular destination in the Cascade Mountains in the Pacific Northwest. The region's close proximity to Portland, which is just 30 minutes away, makes it a popular weekend destination.
The gorge is formed by the Columbia River, with an 80 mile stretch designated as a National Scenic Area. The area has many beautiful cliffs with a number of tall waterfalls and its protected status means that most new development must occur within one of the already established towns.
Neighborhoods & Around
The Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway has a number of places to stop, most notably Multnomah Falls, which is the most popular waterfall in the area. The area has impressive views and beautiful hikes of varying difficulty that you can enjoy.
Another popular stopping point is Crown Point Vista House, which offers impressive views and a unique octagonal building. It looks out over the gorge with spectacular panoramic views.
The Dalles is one of the oldest settlements on the west coast and it offers a fascinating history with museums, restaurants, and inns that you can stay at.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.