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The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Wasco County Museum

Official Interpretive Center of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
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Exhibits

The Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area

This 26,100 square-foot exhibit wing holds interactive displays which bring to life the tremendous volcanic upheavals and raging floods that created the Gorge, theories of why the Ice Age occured, and a closer look at the mighty river which sculpted patterns for a unique and spectacular diversity of vegetation, wildlife, and ancient ways of life.

 
National Scenic Area

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area stretches 85 miles on both sides of one of the largest waterways on the continent. Protected by the National Scenic Act in 1986, the region is home to an incredible combination of spectacular landscapes, rare plants, wildlife, recreational opportunities, farmland, ancient Indian rock art, and other cultural and historic sites.

It is recognized internationally as a destination for exploring the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Pacific Northwest.

Ford from the era of the National Scenic Highway
 
Chris Carvalho Photography Exhibit of the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area

Located at the eastern gateway to the Scenic Area, the Discovery Center exhibits introduce visitors to the geology, flora, fauna, history, and economic development of the Gorge. Learn how balance among many competing interests is helping preserve the region for future generations.

 


> exhibits


Columbia River Gorge National
Scenic Area


Cargo—Lewis & Clark Expedition

Ice Age Exhibit

Collections at the Discovery
Center


Wasco County Past and Present

Nature Walk & Plant Restorations
 
Discovery Center - acredited by the American
The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Wasco County Museum
5000 Discovery Drive  •  The Dalles, Oregon  97058  541.296.8600  www.gorgediscovery.org
hours of operation:  open daily—9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
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