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Columbia Gorge Discovery Center
Located just west of The Dalles, OR, the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center is the official interpretive center for the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. This 26,100 square foot exhibit wing holds interpretive displays which describe the tremendous volcanic upheavals and raging floods that created the Gorge, explanations of why ice ages occur, how the mighty Columbia River sculpted the ecology of the region for a unique and spectacular diversity of vegetation and wildlife. Native American cultures are represented along with more recent Euro-American activities.
The Discovery Center, parking, and interpretive trails are fully accessible. The interpretive programs are also designed for visitors of all abilites. The Discovery Center also serves as the trailhead for the fully accessible, 8 foot wide, paved, rolling Riverfront Trail.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | The Discovery Center is open daily 9am-5pm. Call for more information (541) 296-8600. |
|---|---|
| Operational Hours: | Daily, 9 am - 5 pm. |
| Fees: | Check www.gorgediscovery.org for admission fees. |
| Open Season: | Year-round |
| Usage: | Light |
| Closest Towns: | The Dalles, OR |
| Water: | Yes |
| Restroom: | Yes. Accessible restrooms. |
| Operated By: | Private-other |
| Information Center: | Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center, (541) 296-8600 |
General Information
Directions:From Hood River, OR: Travel east on Interstate 84 approximately 19 miles to Chenoweth exit #82. Turn right at the stop sign at the end of the off ramp and right again at the next stop sign onto Highway 30/ Mosier-The Dalles Highway. Travel west approximately 2 miles on this frontage road until the intersection with Discovery Drive. Take a right on Discovery Drive and follow it under the interstate until you reach the parking area for the center.
From The Dalles, OR: Travel west on West 6th Street/Old Highway 30. Continue to travel west 2 miles past the Interstate 84 exit #82 interchange until it intersects with Discovery Drive on the right. Take a right on Discovery Drive and follow it under the interstate until you reach the parking area for the center.
Accessibility:
See video
Activities
Viewing Wildlife
Birds of prey programs. Meet the raptors of the Gorge skies, up close, on the glove! Two programs daily at 11:00a.m and 2:00p.m at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center.
Visitor Centers
Self-guided tours of an exquisite natural and cultural history museum.