Discover fabulous views from amazing properties in Southwest Washington

Tuesday, May 19, 2015

Columbia River Gorge Views are Heavenly

The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most beautiful scenic areas in the world. We are quite fortunate to be nestled right up to the western entrance from our locale here in the Metro Portland-Vancouver area. Since the area is part of a National Scenic Recreation Area, there is a strict commission that oversees any development that can impact the area. There are a few grandfathered exceptions in places like Stevenson, WA, White Salmon, WA, and Hood River, OR.

Homes and lots within these exempt areas do come at a premium, but the views can often take the price pain away.

A friend and colleague of mine has a gorgeous 9 acre site with 8 engineered lots in White Salmon exempt from the Gorge Commission some of which offer breathtaking views of Mount Hood, OR, and the Columbia River Gorge.

White Salmon is in the transition point from the lush and wet Western Gorge to the drier, sunnier Eastern Gorge. I have written about White Salmon in the past you can check here. The warmer in the summer and drier conditions are often desired by retirees looking for a beautiful retreat. This area is close enough in and low enough in elevation to avoid a really cold and bitter winter but it will be notably chillier than the Western flank of the Cascades here in Vancouver.

Whether you want to look at real estate or just getaway form the city the Gorge is a place to enjoy the view!