When you live in Oregon, you can hop in the car and pretty much drive in any direction to find stunning beauty and incredible attractions. If you point your windshield toward Mosier and the Columba River Valley, you’ll find the Rowena Crest Viewpoint. So, what are you waiting for? Gas up the car and let’s go take a look!
Editor’s Note: The Tom McCall Preserve is currently closed due to COVID-19, so visitors will not be able to access the hiking trails. Hopefully it will reopen soon – check the preserve’s website for the latest details.
To find this unique viewpoint in the Columbia River Gorge, hop on the Historic Columbia River Highway in Mosier and make your way east.
You’ll take the twisting, turning road right up to the plateau.
David Gn Photography/Moment Collection via Getty Images
From the Rowena Crest Viewpoint, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge…
Tim Mattingly/Google
…and catch some sights of this unique, horseshoe bend in the road below. It’s an Insta-worthy shot that’s popular with photographers.
franckreporter/E+ Collection via Getty Images
The juxtaposition of the man-made road, surrounded by the natural, lava-rock cliffs is captured perfectly from this vantage point.
franckreporter/E+ Collection via Getty Images
For a unique shot, hang out here til dusk to capture the light trails of the cars coming up the road below.
Cavan Images via Getty Images
Catch even more views when you explore Tom McCall State Preserve via two different hiking trails. They’re short enough that you can complete both in an afternoon.
David L/Tripadvisor
The Rowena Plateau Trail is 2.5 miles roundtrip, and is rated as easy. It takes you through fields of lupine and sunflowers.
Don Smith/Digital Vision via Getty Images
The Tom McCall Point Trail is a little more difficult, and it’s slightly longer at three miles roundtrip.
MC Hiker/Alltrails
The views of the Columbia River Gorge make the 1,210-foot elevation change well worth it!
Tami Walker/Alltrails
We’d love to see your pics of Rowena Crest Viewpoint in the comments below! Tell our readers about other scenic viewpoints you enjoy in Oregon, and consider joining our Oregon Nature Lovers Group on Facebook. You’ll see tons of great nature photos taken all over the state, and can even show off your own.
David Gn Photography/Moment Collection via Getty Images
Tim Mattingly/Google
franckreporter/E+ Collection via Getty Images
Cavan Images via Getty Images
David L/Tripadvisor
Don Smith/Digital Vision via Getty Images
MC Hiker/Alltrails
Tami Walker/Alltrails
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Address: 6500 Historic Columbia River Hwy, Mosier, OR 97040, USA
