Columbia River Gorge Views

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area begins at Washougal and ventures into the Gorge for about 90 miles. There are building restrictions in the region but several communities that predate to National designation offer properties with exciting views of one of the most spectacular natural features in the US. 

Washougal itself has built a number of developments up on the ridge outside of the designated area that offer lovely views of the gorge entrance but further east you'll find Skamania, Stevenson, and White Salmon along the Washington side. The Washington side enjoys more sunshine in the winter dues to the low hanging sun that keeps most daylight from reaching the floor on the Oregon side. Truly amazing views can be found in properties in any of these communities.

View from a homesite in White Salmon, WA

As you move east into the gorge you find a transition from temperate rainforest to mixed forest. Further east a transition to a Mediterranean semi dry then to a semi-arid and finally arid, This all happens over a mere 90 miles or so. White Salmon is about halfway between the temperate rainforest of Eastern Clark County and Western Skamania and the semi-arid to arid regions of Eastern Klickitat County. 

The gorge is a spectacular place. It should be noted that some properties lie within a juristiction of a commission that monitors development in the gorge. This commission has authority to approve or deny some property improvements and changes. Be advised that this can affect the homeowners ability to make significant changes such as adding a shop. Not all properties fall into this commission's grip several areas are excluded including the City of White Salmon and City of Stevenson.

It should also be noted that even at the lowest elevations in the gorge, winter weather can be much more severe than the nearby Portland-Vancouver Metro Area. The gorge has its own micro-climate and winters are a fair bit colder, icier, and snowier than the Willamette Valley and Lower Columbia Basin.

What ever your do, be sure to enjoy the view.