{"id":112716,"date":"2021-02-04T07:45:38","date_gmt":"2021-02-04T15:45:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rentcafe.com\/blog\/?p=112716"},"modified":"2026-02-11T23:48:08","modified_gmt":"2026-02-12T07:48:08","slug":"enjoy-gorgeous-views-of-cliffs-and-waterfalls-in-portlands-troutdale","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rentcafe.com\/blog\/local-resources\/enjoy-gorgeous-views-of-cliffs-and-waterfalls-in-portlands-troutdale\/","title":{"rendered":"Enjoy Gorgeous Views of Cliffs and Waterfalls in Portland\u2019s Troutdale"},"content":{"rendered":"

It’s easy to see why the charming city of Troutdale is called the Gateway to the Columbia River Gorge. When you live in Troutdale, you’re situated at the doorstep to 80-miles of Oregon beauty with winding rivers, cliffs and waterfalls dotting the landscape.<\/p>\n

Unlike many Portland metro areas, Troutdale adopts a more suburban vibe enveloped in quiet town living. Antique shops, a railway and an outlet mall sit along the leafy landscape. Troutdale also attracts creatives, designers and media workers looking for inspiration in Troutdale\u2019s stunning backdrop.<\/p>\n

Where is Troutdale?<\/h3>\n

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Troutdale lies 12-miles east of Portland and sits north of Gresham and east of Wood Village. As the Gateway to the Gorge, Troutdale sits at the Columbia River’s confluence and the Sandy River. It\u2019s easy to commute to Portland or Gresham while enjoying the best of the Gorge\u2019s outdoor recreation.<\/p>\n

History<\/h3>\n

The Chinookan Native Americans settled near the Columbia River wetlands for the ample hunting and fishing opportunities. Lewis and Clark also explored the area between 1804 to 1806; however, it was Sea Captain John Harlow who claimed Troutdale in 1872. Harlow quickly got to work building a large estate with trout ponds. Harlow was also instrumental in convincing the railroads to set-up a depot near his home and bring more commerce into the area.<\/p>\n

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Lifestyle<\/h3>\n

What to Do<\/strong><\/p>\n

Troutdale is a nature lover’s dream. Locals can walk from the Sandy River all the way to the Columbia River or hop in the car and explore Mt. Hood National Forest. There are dozens of opportunities for hiking, sailing, windsurfing, snowboarding and anything else you can think of for outdoor fun. Insiders know the winter winds can get brutal, but you get the payoff of living near nature year-round.<\/p>\n

Longtime locals and tourists alike explore Multnomah Falls spanning across basalt cliffs and outcroppings. The area is also home to Oregon’s tallest waterfall. A historic lodge attracts locals on overnight trips looking for views from the pedestrian bridge.<\/p>\n

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You can also find canyons and watering holes throughout the Gorge. Over at the nearby Shepperd’s Dell State Natural Area, a small canyon boasts a cascading waterfall and stunning views.<\/p>\n

For something more local to Troutdale, Glenn Otto Community Park spans six acres and is partially bordered by Beaver Creek. During the summer months, lifeguards on duty at the beach where families come for the Riverton access, playground and picnicking.<\/p>\n

Beyond outdoor recreation opportunities, The Depot Rail Museum, Troutdale, Oregon and Barn Exhibit Hall all offer historical stops to learn more about the area. There are also popular shopping options at the Columbia Gorge Outlets, Troutdale General Store, antique shops and gift shops for some retail therapy.<\/p>\n

Locals support the arts with the Troutdale At Walk every First Friday of the month, where local artists line the street. Galleries and shops open their doors to visitors looking for local and artisan wares.<\/p>\n

Where to Eat & Drink<\/strong><\/p>\n

You\u2019re not far from Portland\u2019s foodie scene, although Troutdale has its own contenders. Tad’s Chicken and Dumplings serve up its namesake dishes and stunning views. For Italian, try Ristorante Di Pompelmo with ravioli Portobello and seafood Portofino. You’ll also find barbecue pork ribs and pan-fried lamb on the menu.<\/p>\n

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Sugarpine offers drive-in dining on the Sandy River banks with oversized kalua pulled pork and Reuben sandwiches, salads and aloha side slaw. Customers take in the views while indulging in soft-serve ice cream with generous toppings.<\/p>\n

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A post shared by Sugarpine Drive-In (@sugarpinedrivein)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n