Columbia Wilderness, created by the 1984 Oregon Wilderness Act, is located south of the Columbia River Gorge about 30 miles west of Portland. It is managed by the Mt. Hood National Forest. The southern boundary of the Columbia Wilderness is the Bull Run Watershed, which provides drinking water to the Portland Metro area. This wilderness contains 39,000 acre.

At lower elevations and in the bottom of steep canyons groves of old growth Douglas-fir, hemlock and cedar shade cool streams. The north part of the wilderness has features characteristic of the Columbia River Gorge, including towering basaltic cliffs and many waterfalls. As you climb in elevation from the "Gorge," cliffs and waterfalls give way to forested plateaus and ridges with panoramic views of the Cascade range and the Columbia River Gorge. Hanging meadows and subalpine lakes add to the scenic beauty.

Trails throughout the Wilderness begin near sea level and climb steeply through the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area before reaching the Wilderness. Portions of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail cross the eastern part of the Wilderness.

• Climb through groves of old growth Douglas-fir, hemlock and cedar to high elevation hanging meadows and subalpine lakes.
• Hike the wilderness' portion of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail.