The Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area was created in 1986 by a "Scenic Act"that was signed by President Reagan. The purpose was to protect the scenic, cultural, recreational, and natural resources of the Gorge. Thirteen "Urban Areas" were created which include: Cascade Locks, Hood River, Mosier, and The Dalles in Oregon and North Bonneville, Stevenson, Carson, Home Valley, White Salmon, Bingen, Lyle, Dallesport, and Wishram in Washington. In these urban areas people do not need to notify the Gorge Commission when they want to build or develop property. For development in all other areas protected by the Scenic Area you must make application to the Gorge Commission following the guidelines for location, paint color, vegetative screening, etc. A home to be built must be approved by the Gorge Commission on how it will impact things such as "Key Viewing Areas". It is often a lengthy process and is typically the first step a person must take if they want to build in an area outside of the "Urban Areas". Some areas are strictly prohibited from ever being developed. You can learn more about the National Scenic Area at http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/columbia/forest/ and Gorge Commission at http://www.gorgecommission.org/
Here are some scenic gorge pictures of left to right: The view from Rowena Crest, Multnomah Falls, Looking toward Wind Mtn from Stevenson, Bottom-left to right: Skamania County Forest, Looking east on the Columbia, Rowena Crest Hiking Trail
The Columbia Gorge is a beautiful area in Oregon and Washington. There are many small towns on both sides of the Columbia River. Hood River is a popular destination close to many outdoor recreation activities. The popular historic downtown has galleries, restaurants, shops, wineries and breweries. The Dalles is a historic town located at the end of the Oregon Trail. White Salmon is a quaint town on the Washington side where many artists have opened shops. Stevenson, another small town in Washington has become known for it's restaurants, brewery, Skamania Lodge and close proximity to Portland.
Disclaimer: I assume no responsibilty for accuracy of information provided within this post and blog. Many entries on this blog are based on the opinions and ideas of the author and are provided without warranties of any kind, either expressed or implied.
