Hike the forests and steppes of the Columbia Gorge, discover the natural and cultural history of the area, and get intimate with the most climatically diverse wine region in the USA on this small-group tour. Together with the other members of your group, learn about the history, terroir, and character of Columbia Gorge wine from your wine industry-honed interpretive guide. This day trip is a customized tour of up to 15 km of hiking, depending on the physicality of the group, 2 tasting room visits, and a visit to the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum. In the morning, travel east of Portland as your guide takes you through the dramatic cliffs, terraces, and monoliths of the Columbia Gorge, a sea-level passage through the Cascades, containing the highest density of hanging waterfalls in the world. Stop at a fruit stand or fish stand for a bite to eat if you wish. After spending the morning hiking this sublime landscape, stop for lunch at a boutique winery, where you can taste wine in a historic building with a fascinating story. After lunch, visit the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum, where you can peruse the interpretive displays for more in-depth information on the natural and cultural history of the Columbia Gorge. Afterward, wander through the valleys, terraces, and synclines of the Columbia Gorge wine region, passing through charming little villages, while making another stop at a unique winery. Finally, head back to Portland and get dropped off at your hotel.