Immerse yourself in the majestic waterfalls of the Columbia River Gorge and capture timeless images that will forever encapsulate the spirit of this extraordinary destination.
The Columbia River Gorge, a breathtaking destination nestled along the Columbia River in Oregon, is a true paradise for landscape photographers. Steeped in history and significance, the Gorge has been a cultural and geographic landmark for centuries. Formed by cataclysmic volcanic events and shaped by the mighty Columbia River, this awe-inspiring Gorge is a testament to the power of nature. Its deep canyons, towering cliffs, and lush forests create a dramatic backdrop for any photographer seeking to capture the essence of the region.
As you embark on this workshop, prepare to be enchanted by the world-renowned and hidden waterfalls that adorn the Gorge. Among these natural wonders, Multnomah Falls enthralls with its powerful cascade of water plunging into a serene pool below. The majestic Punchbowl Falls, resembling a shimmering silver curtain, is a sight to behold. Spirit Falls, Ponytail Falls, Wahclella Falls, and countless others contribute their own unique charm to the tapestry of this mesmerizing landscape.
Embracing the grandeur of the Columbia River Gorge is the magnificent silhouette of Mt. Hood. Standing tall as an iconic symbol of the Pacific Northwest, this snow-capped volcanic peak completes the picture-perfect landscape. The juxtaposition of the rugged Gorge with the majestic mountain creates a captivating and awe-inspiring composition.
Beyond its picturesque beauty, the Columbia River Gorge is pivotal to hydroelectricity generation and fish hatcheries in the region. Home to numerous dams harnessing the power of the Columbia River, the Gorge generates clean and renewable energy, fueling the surrounding communities. Fish hatcheries nestled along the riverbanks ensure the preservation of diverse aquatic species, adding to the ecological significance of this remarkable area.
Join me as we explore the majestic waterfalls of the Columbia River Gorge, where history, natural wonders, and scenic landscapes converge.
Itinerary & General Information
- Arrival – Arrival at the hotel in Portland / 5 PM Meet-and-Greet and group dinner.
- Day 1 – We will start our first day with sunrise at Multnomah Falls, perhaps the most spectacular and famous waterfall along the Gorge. We will spend several hours shooting the nuances of the golden light as the sun comes up and explore a second smaller waterfall nearby. We will then spend the remainder of the morning at Ponytail Falls, one of the prettier waterfalls in the Gorge. We will use the remainder of the day for classroom lectures & instruction, working on our images, one-on-one guidance, or time to relax. Most importantly, we will carefully evaluate what worked and what didn’t work that day so that we can make adjustments out in the field the next day.
- Day 2 – Our second day will start with sunrise at Punchbowl Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Gorge. Our day will also include Mossy Grotto Falls and a stop at the Bradford Island Visitor Center. We will use the remainder of the day for classroom activities using this time to once again evaluate what worked and what didn’t work that day so that we can make adjustments out in the field the next day.
- Day 3 – We’ll start our third day at Spirit Falls, a thrilling and magical spot hidden in one of the many ravines in the Columbia River Gorge just north of the Washington border. This location is one of the most beautiful and powerful falls in the Columbia Gorge area. After a stop at the Columbia River Gorge View Point, we’ll head back across the Columbia River to photograph Mt. Hood – the iconic snow-capped volcanic peak and symbol of the Pacific Northwest. After a stop at Buzzard Point, we’ll conclude our day with sunset at Trillium Lake.
- Day 4 – We’ll start our last full day with a visit to the renown Japanese Garden in Portland. The Portland Japanese garden is one the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan with many great photo opportunities. We’ll also stop at the Jonsrud Viewpoint for one of the best daytime views of Mt. Hood.
- Day 5 – We’ll spend our final morning critiquing our images in the classroom before concluding our adventure.
John Bosma Fine Arts Photography is an Authorized Permittee of the National Park Service.