The Columbia River Gorge’s geography and climate vary significantly from Troutdale to The Dalles, ranging from lush green temperate rain forests to tan-colored savannas. This map provides context for the images displayed in this exhibit. It also shows major parks and other features as well as recreational opportunities along the Historic Columbia River Highway. 

Current Map (click on map to enlarge)

This two-page spread map in the Jan. 1, 1915 issue of the Portland Morning Oregonian newspaper displays a bird’s-eye perspective of attractions on the Columbia River Highway from Astoria to Hood River. Because it was published in the midst of construction in 1915, the map offers a unique historical view of the highway. Newspapers and magazines in Oregon and nationally covered the construction of the highway, hailing it as an engineering feat and celebrating it as a glimpse of future possibilities elsewhere.

Vintage Map courtesy David Rumsey Map Collection at Stanford University Libraries​.

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