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The Dalles

The Dalles, Oregon, United States

Welcome to The Dalles, a charming city nestled along the Columbia River in the beautiful state of Oregon, United States. Known for its rich history, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture, The Dalles offers a unique and m…

#Columbia River Gorge#Historic town#Outdoor recreation#Pacific Northwest#Scenic views

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into The Dalles.

Top Hotels in The Dalles

Top Flights to The Dalles

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in The Dalles.

Tours

Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum

A museum showcasing the natural and cultural history of the Columbia River Gorge.

The Dalles Art Center

A community art center displaying local artists' work and providing art classes.

Cascade Cliffs Vineyard & Winery

Indulge in wine tasting sessions and vineyard tours at this beautiful local winery.

Fort Dalles Museum

Visit one of the oldest history museums in Oregon, located in a former military fort.

The Gorge White House

Experience a historic home and farm where you can pick fruits, taste wines, and enjoy food from the farm stand.

Maryhill Museum of Art

Explore a unique museum overlooking the Columbia River, featuring a diverse collection of art.

Shopping

Shopping at The Dalles Main Street

Explore a variety of local shops and boutiques in the charming downtown area.

Outdoor

Hiking in Rowena Crest

Enjoy breathtaking views and beautiful wildflower hikes in the Rowena Crest area.

Kayaking on the Columbia River

Experience kayaking in the scenic waters of the Columbia River, suitable for all skill levels.

Sorosis Park

Enjoy the outdoors at this local park offering sports fields, picnic areas, and scenic views.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in The Dalles.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

As of the most recent estimates, the population of The Dalles, Oregon is approximately 16,000.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

The Dalles

Jan

7°0°

Feb

10°1°

Mar

14°3°

Apr

18°5°

May

23°9°

Jun

28°13°

Jul

33°16°

Aug

33°16°

Sep

28°12°

Oct

19°7°

Nov

11°3°

Dec

7°0°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on The Dalles.

What people love

Traveling to The Dalles, Oregon, located along the Columbia River, has several advantages:

Scenic Beauty: The Dalles is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Columbia River Gorge and the Cascade Mountain Range. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views, outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports, and explore the picturesque surroundings.
Historical Significance: The Dalles has a rich history, including its role as a major trading and cultural hub for Native American tribes. Visitors can learn about the area's history at museums, historic sites, and cultural attractions.
Outdoor Recreation: The Dalles offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from fishing and boating on the Columbia River to hiking in nearby national forests and parks. The area is also known for its excellent windsurfing and kiteboarding conditions.
Wine Tasting: The Dalles is located in the heart of the Columbia Gorge wine region, known for its award-winning wineries and vineyards. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting tours, sample local varietals, and experience the region's vibrant wine culture.
Local Cuisine: The Dalles is home to a variety of restaurants and eateries offering delicious local cuisine. Visitors can savor fresh seafood, farm-to-table dishes, and regional specialties while enjoying views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
Festivals and Events: The Dalles hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating local culture, arts, music, and food. Visitors can immerse themselves in the community's vibrant spirit and enjoy these fun and engaging gatherings.

Overall, traveling to The Dalles, Oregon, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, outdoor recreation, culinary delights, and cultural experiences for visitors to enjoy.

What to know

Traveling to The Dalles, Oregon, like any destination, may have its drawbacks. Here are some potential cons to consider:

Limited public transportation: The Dalles is a smaller city in Oregon, and as such, public transportation options may be limited. This could make it more challenging to get around the area without a car.
Weather fluctuations: The Dalles experiences a semi-arid climate, which means it can get very hot in the summer and cold in the winter. Travelers may need to be prepared for extreme temperatures depending on the time of year they visit.
Remote location: The Dalles is located in a more rural area of Oregon, which means that amenities and services may be more spread out compared to larger cities. This could be a consideration for those who prefer the convenience of urban areas.
Limited tourist attractions: While The Dalles does have some interesting historical sites and outdoor recreational opportunities, it may not have as many tourist attractions or activities as other more well-known destinations in Oregon.
Wildfire risk: Like much of the Pacific Northwest, The Dalles is susceptible to wildfires, especially during the dry season. Travelers should be aware of this risk and take precautions when visiting the area.

Overall, while The Dalles has its charms and attractions, travelers should consider these potential cons when planning a trip to the area.

The Dalles, located in Oregon, United States, is a city rich in history and cultural significance. Situated along the Columbia River, it has been a significant site for Native American trade and settlement for thousands of years.

Early History

Native American Significance: The area known as The Dalles has been inhabited for over 10,000 years. It served as a major trading center for Native American tribes, including the Wasco and Wishram, due to its strategic location along the Columbia River.
Lewis and Clark Expedition: In 1805-1806, the Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through the area, marking one of the first significant interactions with European Americans.

19th Century

Fort Dalles: Established in 1850 as a military post, Fort Dalles played a pivotal role during the Oregon Trail era. It helped protect settlers from potential conflicts and served as a supply depot.
Oregon Trail: The Dalles was an important stop for pioneers traveling the Oregon Trail. It was the end of the overland journey for many, who then had to navigate the Columbia River to reach the Willamette Valley.
The Gold Rush: The late 19th century saw a gold rush in the area, leading to economic growth and increased settlement.

20th Century

The Dalles Dam: Constructed between 1952 and 1957, the dam significantly altered the landscape and economy of the area. It provided hydroelectric power and flood control but also submerged traditional fishing sites important to Native American tribes.
Rajneeshee Commune: In the 1980s, a controversial event occurred near The Dalles when followers of the Indian guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh attempted to influence local politics, culminating in a bioterror attack in 1984 where salad bars in The Dalles were contaminated with salmonella.

Important Landmarks

Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum: This museum offers insights into the natural and cultural history of the Columbia River Gorge and The Dalles.
Fort Dalles Museum: Housed in one of the original buildings of the fort, it is one of the oldest history museums in Oregon.
The Dalles Lock and Dam: A critical infrastructure project that provides power and navigation benefits but also has a complex impact on the local environment and Native American heritage.

Notable Figures

Sam Hill: An influential early 20th-century entrepreneur and advocate for good roads in the Northwest, who contributed to the development of infrastructure in the region.

The Dalles continues to be an area of cultural and historical importance, with ongoing efforts to preserve its rich heritage while fostering community and economic development.