Rowena Crest Viewpoint Columbia River Gorge
Iconic viewpoint in the Columbia River Gorge, famous for its horseshoe curve road and stunning panoramic vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers & softer light
Rowena Crest Viewpoint Columbia River Gorge
Best Time
Wildflowers & softer light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic viewpoint in the Columbia River Gorge, famous for its horseshoe curve road and stunning panoramic vistas.
"The view never disappoints and is truly a classic spot."
🚗 Park Smart
Free parking is available, but can fill up. Arrive early or on a weekday to secure a spot.
🌬️ Brace for Wind
It's often windy here! Bring layers and secure loose items.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Horseshoe Curve
Historic Columbia River Highway
Witness the engineering marvel of the winding road, a truly photogenic and historic section of the highway.
Spring Wildflower Blooms
Surrounding meadows
Vast fields burst with color in spring, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. A photographer's dream!
Panoramic Columbia River Gorge Views
Viewpoint overlook
Soak in sweeping vistas of the mighty Columbia River and the dramatic gorge landscape. Simply stunning!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Wildflowers
Windy Conditions & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Smart
Free parking is available, but can fill up. Arrive early or on a weekday to secure a spot.
🌬️ Brace for Wind
It's often windy here! Bring layers and secure loose items.
🌸 Wildflower Season
Spring (April-May) is prime time for vibrant wildflowers. Don't miss it!
📸 Capture the Curve
The horseshoe road is iconic. Get creative with angles for unique shots. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Smart
Free parking is available, but can fill up. Arrive early or on a weekday to secure a spot.
🌬️ Brace for Wind
It's often windy here! Bring layers and secure loose items.
🌸 Wildflower Season
Spring (April-May) is prime time for vibrant wildflowers. Don't miss it!
📸 Capture the Curve
The horseshoe road is iconic. Get creative with angles for unique shots.
🥾 Hike the Trails
Explore trails like Tom McCall Point for more views and wildflower spotting.
⚠️ Watch Your Step
Be cautious near cliff edges, especially with children.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Rowena Crest Viewpoint for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge and the iconic horseshoe curve road. The spring wildflower displays are a major highlight, making it a popular spot for photography and nature lovers. While some mention it can get windy and crowded, most agree the stunning scenery and free access make it a must-visit destination.
"The most beautiful place to visit just within an hour from Portland and 3-4 hours from Seattle. We've been here twice and would come again to see all the seasonal changes. Easy walk. Vast fields of either grass or wildflowers, depending on when you come. These pics were taken recently on May 10th, which was super windy, 70 degrees. Free parking. No restrooms."
Ivy
"Super cute spot, only downside is the large amount of Russians that you see there constantly. I do love the view and regardless of the large amount of people, it is definitely worth going and seeing. Especially if you’re not from this area. I do love this spot as an engagement spot and although it is a basic spot, the view never disappoints and is truly a classic spot."
Ava
"Love this place. Missed the main wildflowers this year, but several were still in bloom. Always stunning views and easy to access! Watch the kids, lots of cliffs. Very cliffy getting up there, but the road is safe."
Amy Walker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rowena Crest Viewpoint is about a 1.5-hour drive east of Portland via I-84 E. Take exit 176 for Mosier and follow signs for the Historic Columbia River Highway.
Public transport options are very limited for reaching Rowena Crest Viewpoint. It's best accessed by car.
Driving the Historic Columbia River Highway offers scenic views and access to the viewpoint. Be aware of winding roads.
Wildfires can sometimes impact access. Check local news and ODOT for any road closures, especially during dry seasons. +1
Absolutely! It's a perfect pit stop on a Columbia River Gorge road trip, offering stunning views and photo opportunities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Rowena Crest Viewpoint is free to visit. Parking is also free, though it can get busy.
The viewpoint is accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no official operating hours.
No advance booking is required as it's a public viewpoint with no entrance fee.
Unfortunately, there are no restrooms available directly at the viewpoint. Plan accordingly.
Yes, sunset can offer beautiful light, but be aware of potential crowds and ensure you have a safe way to drive back in the dark. +1
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing golden hour hues. +1
The iconic horseshoe curve road and the panoramic gorge views are prime photo locations. Wildflower fields in spring are also stunning.
Drone usage may be restricted in state parks and near wildfire areas. Always check current regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive gorge views and the horseshoe curve. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant details.
Try capturing the contrast between the winding road and the vast natural landscape, or focus on the seasonal wildflower displays.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The main activities are enjoying the panoramic views, taking photos of the horseshoe curve, and exploring nearby hiking trails like Tom McCall Point.
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours, allowing time for photos, enjoying the view, and a short walk. Longer if hiking.
Yes, it's an excellent stop for a quick visit if you're short on time, as the main viewpoint is easily accessible.
Informational plaques may be present detailing the history of the river and the plateau.
Keep an eye out for deer, birds of prey, and various small mammals. Wildflowers attract many pollinators.
🎫 🌸 Nature & Seasons
The peak wildflower season is typically from April to May, with blooms varying each year.
Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, autumn displays vibrant colors, and winter can provide dramatic, stark beauty.
Yes, wildflower season, especially weekends, can attract significant crowds. Visiting on a weekday is recommended.
The area is known for its diverse flora, including various wildflowers, grasses, and shrubs adapted to the Gorge's climate.
Expect it to be windy year-round. Summers can be warm, while spring and fall offer milder temperatures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Safety is key when visiting with children. The area has steep cliffs, so always keep a close eye on kids and stay within designated safe zones. The windy conditions can also be a factor, so ensure they have appropriate clothing. If your family enjoys a bit more adventure, consider exploring some of the easier, family-friendly trails nearby that offer more opportunities for exploration.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) is particularly magical here, casting a warm glow over the landscape. Be prepared for wind, which can add a dynamic element to your shots, but also requires stable equipment. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the gorge and the intricate details of the historic highway.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
+1It's a fantastic day trip from Portland, taking only about 1.5 hours to reach. You can easily combine a visit here with other nearby attractions like Multnomah Falls or the Hood River area. The free parking and easy access make it a hassle-free addition to your itinerary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Rowena Loops
+1These curves are not just functional; they are incredibly photogenic. Many visitors are drawn to capture the intricate design of the road against the backdrop of the vast gorge. The engineering allows for a gradual ascent, providing ever-changing perspectives as you drive or walk towards the overlook. It’s a fascinating blend of human ingenuity and natural beauty.
When planning your visit, remember that while the road is a marvel, it can be a popular spot for photographers and sightseers. Be mindful of other visitors and drive cautiously, especially if you're stopping to take photos. The historical significance of the loops adds another layer of appreciation to the stunning scenery.
Seasonal Spectacles: Wildflowers and Views
Beyond the spring blooms, the viewpoint offers spectacular vistas year-round. The Columbia River Gorge provides a dramatic backdrop, with the mighty river carving its path through the landscape. Depending on the season, you might see lush green hillsides, golden autumn foliage, or even a dusting of snow in winter, each offering a unique perspective.
It's important to note that while the wildflowers are a major draw, they are a seasonal event. Even outside of peak bloom, the panoramic views of the gorge remain a significant attraction. Visitors often comment on the ever-changing beauty of the landscape, making it a destination worth revisiting throughout the year.
Navigating the Gorge: Driving and Access
+1Be prepared for winding roads and potential traffic, especially during peak seasons and weekends. The horseshoe curve road leading to the viewpoint requires careful navigation. While there is free parking available at the viewpoint, it can fill up quickly, so arriving early or on a weekday is advisable.
While public transportation is not a practical option for reaching Rowena Crest, the accessibility by car makes it a popular destination for day-trippers from Portland and Seattle. The relatively short drive from Portland makes it an easy addition to any itinerary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit