The Columbia River is a remarkable place, certainly more remarkable than I could ever convey through a series of photographs … but that doesn’t mean I won’t continue to try to do so. Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of the river is the high cliffs that tower above it.
Here’s a shot from Cape Horn looking eastward.
At this point the river is still largely forested, but it’s not very far before grasslands, and rocks, dominate the banks.
Further along, Mt. Hood, hundreds of miles away, still stands above the land, providing a startling contrast to this hot, arid land.
Sixty miles up the road, the mountain is still the most obvious landmark, though scab rock has become the dominant land feature.
At times this land seems timeless, unchanging, unless you check the skyline and realize that Progress has made it’s impression even here.
That is a really gorgeous area!
i had no idea how beautiful the columbia is. this is my first time seeing it. the second shot of the river pushing past cliffs is stunning! i also like how the treed banks are thrown up almost as ramparts to protect the cultivated farmland behind. have a peaceful day. steven
I would love to know exactly where this river is Loren – I shall go and try to find it on the map.
that blue sky and mountain tied to the river put you in the travel brochure business–in the best of ways. great shots, loren. kjm
The crossing at Vantage is one of my most vivid memories of eastern Washington. The lower river is scenic, but there is something about the starkness surrounding the river at Vantage that still appeals to me.
Follow it upstream for a few hundred miles from where Loren is and you get to where I am – I can see it from my back yard.
Come up for a visit Loren and photograph it up here. Diane would love to play Scrabble with you in person
Beautiful photos as usual, Loren. I really must come out to the Northwest sometime.
Enjoyed the purple marten series,
and as for the gorge, it has some great side trips (White Salmon, etc.) For rugged beauty, our side of the Columbia is unbeatable. Oneonta Gorge on the Oregon side ia also worth a walk.