Publisher Forum Columbia Gorge: Offsite Activities

Get ready to have some fun on Tuesday afternoon! Select the activity that best tickles your fancy and sign up early before it sells out. 

Tuesday, August 19

RAFTING THE WHITE SALMON RIVER                                                   1:00 PM – 5:30 PM

White Salmon River rafting has attracted whitewater enthusiasts for generations. Perfect for beginners and advanced rafters, the river’s class III-IV whitewater rapids challenge even our most experienced rafting guests. Fed from the glaciers of the majestic Mt. Adams, the river’s water runs crystal clear all year long. Once a lava tube, the White Salmon runs through narrow, volcanic basalt canyons before heading out into the warm sunshine of a forested valley. Whitewater rafting on the White Salmon epitomizes the lush and wild character of the Pacific Northwest in one exciting raft trip!

BRING: Clothes that can wet, soft soled or water shoes, a towel

Guided Hike to False Creek Falls                                     1:00 PM – 4:30 PM

Despite the bland name, Falls Creek Falls is an absolute juggernaut. Descending over the western edge of the Red Mountain plateau, itself a product of the volcanic eruptions which created nearby Big Lava Field, Falls Creek thunders 60 feet over a fanning ledge, then spreads out and doubles in width as it falls 90 feet over the next bulbous cliff and finally gathers and hurtles a final 60 feet into a bowl.  This moderate hike is a gentle sloping gradient with occasional level spots until you reach the falls. On a hot day there is nothing more rewarding than a stunning waterfall view and basking in its refreshing mist. This is by far one of the Pacific North West’s best waterfall hikes!

BRING: Hiking Gear such as shoes, hat and a backpack

Cascade Locks Bike and Disc Golf                                       1:15 PM – 5:15 PM

Head off on your mountain bike along a trail in the stunning Columbia Gorge that changes from Oak and grass savannahs to open forests.  While less than 200 feet of vertical climbing is necessary along the trail the challenge will be stopping and pitting your wits and your wrists against your competitors in a Frisbee golf game. The object of the game is to traverse a course from beginning to end in the fewest number of throws of the disc.  Incredibly easy to pick up, you’ll learn the intricacies in the different throw techniques and how different discs work while enjoying the stunning back drop of the cascade hills and the Columbia River! Your mountain bike guides will be there to provide support  along the way! Beginning/Intermediate Bike Skills required.

*Please note we will need your height

BRING: Closed toed sneakers/shoes are required, comfortable riding clothes. 

Hood River Guided Brewery Tour                                     1:15 PM -5:15 PM

In 2008, Brewers Association president Charlie Papazian coined the Hood River area as “Beertown USA” for having the most breweries per capita!  Hood River is more than just the obvious recreationalist’s dream destination, it is a beer lover’s haven. And it’s not just the quantity of breweries for its size (today numbering with four), but it’s the quality of each that makes craft beer a newer, highly relevant aspect of Hood River’s tourist draw.  Starting at the top of town (also the top of the hill!) at Horse Feathers Brew Pub your guide will take you on a tour of the hops all the way through town, visiting the world renowned Full Sail Brewery, the exceptional Double Mountain Brewery and finishing up at the waterfront at the new kid on the block and heavy hitter Pfreim Family Brewers. You will experience a flight at each and have an experienced brewer guide you through the intricacies of each of their beers.

EXPERIENCED – Gorge Kite Experience – With a Pro                 1:30 PM -5:30 PM

Kite the birthplace of kite surfing, the Columbia Gorge. High wind, rolling swells, and spectacular twin mountain views are in your future as you demo the latest Cabrinha and Slingshot gear in this world renowned kite location. Pick up techniques from one of the best pros in the world.  You’ll have a chance to pick up some new riding techniques from one of the kite pros that will be your guide for the afternoon as well!  Experienced Kite Surfers only.

BRING: Clothes that can wet, soft soled or water shoes, a towel