Skamania County, Washington, is known for its breathtaking views…but you might not know that you can experience many of these beautiful views from your car! Whether you’re a local or a visitor, hopping in the car for a scenic adventure is always rewarding.
Here are a few must-try routes:
1. Stevenson to Washougal
For a truly scenic and memorable drive along the Columbia River Gorge, head west from Stevenson, Washington to Washougal on State Route 14. Known as the Lewis and Clark Trail Scenic Byway, this route offers 47 miles of breathtaking views, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventure opportunities, making it one of the most scenic stretches of highway in Skamania County.
Starting the Drive in Stevenson
Begin your journey in Stevenson and head west on State Route 14. As you drive, the road hugs the Columbia River, offering dramatic views of the Gorge’s towering cliffs and the winding river below. The surrounding Cascade Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop, and the route remains open year-round, allowing you to enjoy all four seasons of outdoor beauty.
Highlights Along the Route
One of your first stops should be at the Bridge of the Gods, a historic bridge that connects Washington to Oregon and is a vital part of the Pacific Crest Trail. Continuing west, you’ll pass the impressive Bonneville Dam, a key feature in the region’s history and a popular spot for watching salmon during spawning season.
Beacon Rock State Park
A must-visit along the way is Beacon Rock State Park. Dominated by the massive Beacon Rock, this park is home to one of the largest monoliths in North America. If you’re feeling adventurous, park your car and hike the 848-foot rock. The trail zigzags up the side of the rock, offering incredible views of the Gorge and Columbia River along the way.
Cape Horn Lookout
As you continue west on SR-14, make sure to pull off at the Cape Horn Lookout. This spot provides one of the most majestic viewpoints along the Columbia River, with panoramic views of the Gorge stretching to the east. From here, you can see the river winding through the cliffs, framed by lush forests and distant peaks. It’s the perfect place to stop for photos (remember to be safe when getting out of your car and backing up to take a picture!) or simply take in the awe-inspiring beauty of the landscape.
End the Journey in Washougal
Your scenic drive concludes in the charming towns of Washougal and Camas, where you’ll find inviting local shops, restaurants, and parks. Once you’ve explored the area, backtrack east on SR-14 to Stevenson, giving you a second chance to soak in the views.
This route, with its sweeping river views, towering cliffs, and access to outdoor gems like Beacon Rock and Cape Horn, offers one of the best scenic drives in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this journey along the Lewis and Clark Scenic Byway promises to leave you in awe of the Columbia River Gorge’s natural beauty.
2. Stevenson to Panther Creek Falls
This shorter drive from Stevenson takes you deep into the lush forests of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest along Wind River Road. Panther Creek Falls is a hidden gem that rewards you with its multi-tiered beauty after a short hike. Perfect for a quick and serene escape.
On your way, be sure to stop by the Carson Fish Hatchery and Government Mineral Springs located just past Carson, Washington. The mineral springs are steeped in history and set in an old-growth forest near the Trapper Creek Wilderness. Developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1937, this unique campground and its natural beauty take visitors back in time while enjoying the serene forest surroundings.
One of the highlights is the Iron Mike Bubbling Spring, which provides mineral water once believed to hold medicinal properties. People used to visit the area specifically to drink from the spring, seeking its reputed health benefits. Today, it remains a charming feature of the campground.
3. Stevenson to Mt. St. Helens
If you’d like to go further than Panther Creek, you can continue on and head to Mt. St. Helens for an unforgettable journey! This 2.5-hour drive from Stevenson offers the quickest and most scenic drive to the mountain as it winds through dense forests, alongside rivers, and up mountain passes, eventually leading to breathtaking views of one of the Pacific Northwest’s most famous volcanoes.
The Route: Carson to Windy Ridge
Starting in Stevenson, follow Highway 14 west to the town of Carson. From there, head north on Highway 30 (Wind River Highway). Just past the Carson National Fish Hatchery, take a right toward the Wind River Recreation Area. This section of the drive immerses you in towering evergreen trees and winding roads, setting the stage for the adventure ahead.
Oldman Pass and McClellan Viewpoint
As you ascend to the top of Oldman Pass, the road offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. Turn left onto FS 51 Curly Creek Road, where you’ll want to stop at McClellan Viewpoint. This spot offers a distant, but awe-inspiring view of Mt. St. Helens, framed by lush forests below. It’s a great place to stretch your legs and snap a photo of the majestic peak from afar.
Windy Ridge and Spirit Lake
Continuing on FS 90 and then heading north on FS 25, the landscape becomes more dramatic as you near FS 99, which leads to Windy Ridge. This is where the journey really pays off. Windy Ridge provides up-close and jaw-dropping views of Mt. St. Helens, along with a sweeping look at the massive crater formed by the 1980 eruption. You’ll also see Spirit Lake, famous for its floating logs and clear blue waters.
The route is seasonal and typically closes in the winter due to snow, so be sure to plan accordingly. But during the open season, this drive offers a fantastic opportunity to see one of the Pacific Northwest’s natural wonders up close, all while enjoying a peaceful and scenic drive through the wilderness.
Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or simply looking for a memorable day trip, the Carson route to Windy Ridge and Spirit Lake is an experience you won’t soon forget.
4. Stevenson to Underwood
Starting in Stevenson, head west on Highway 14 and enjoy the sweeping views as you follow the winding road along the Columbia River. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush forests, towering cliffs, and panoramic vistas, with the mighty river running alongside you.
Just before reaching Cook, Washington, take a turn up the hill and stay on the Cook-Underwood Road for the Underwood Lookout. This spot offers an unbeatable vantage point where you can stop and take in sweeping views of the Columbia River, Oregon’s forested hillsides, and Mt. Hood in the distance. It’s a perfect place to pause, breathe in the fresh air, and capture a photo of the stunning landscape below.
Pro tip: Stop at the Cedar Creek Alpaca Farm located in Cook for a farm tour!
Wineries to Visit in Underwood
Once in Underwood, treat yourself to some of our area’s finest wines. Start your tasting adventure at Hawkins Cellars, a boutique winery known for its small-batch, handcrafted wines and laid-back atmosphere. Their tasting room boasts a relaxed vibe and incredible views of Mt. Hood and the Gorge.
Just a short drive away is AniChe Cellars, a family-run winery perched on the hillside. Not only is their wine award-winning, but their tasting room offers an intimate, cozy experience with an equally spectacular backdrop of the Hood River Bridge and Columbia River below.
Wineries like South Hill, Willow, Loop de Loop and Savage Grace are great options as well!
These wineries perfectly encapsulate the charm of the Columbia Gorge wine region, where you can sip excellent wine while taking in some of the best views the Pacific Northwest has to offer.
This drive from Stevenson to Underwood is more than just a trip—it’s an experience that combines the best of natural beauty and local wine culture, making it a must-do for anyone visiting the area. For a complete guide to the area’s wineries, check out: columbiagorgewine.com.
Each drive showcases the diversity and beauty of the Pacific Northwest, making Stevenson a perfect starting point for your next Skamania County road trip!
Ready to come out and explore? Stevenson, Washington is the perfect basecamp for all of your hiking and Gorge adventures! With world-class kiteboarding, award-winning breweries and exquisite local fare, there are endless things to do once you arrive in Stevenson! And that’s just in town 🙂 Staying in the Gorge HQ means you’re only minutes from hikes, wineries, waterfalls, scenic drives, fishing, golfing and SO MUCH MORE! Book your trip now!