Friends of the Columbia Gorge offers a variety of outdoor educational and recreational experiences for all ages. Through our outdoor programs, we work on engaging the public through place-based events in the Columbia Gorge, whether this be through our guided outings offered to members and the general public, or our outdoor youth education programs. Learn more about our outdoor programs below.

An outing at Upper McCord Falls Trail, the
A guided outing at Upper McCord Falls Trail.

Guided Outings

Join us for educational and inspirational outings that will deepen your appreciation of the Gorge and strengthen your commitment to preserving its unique landscapes.
Hiking during Gorge Latino Conservation Week at Catherine Creek. Photo by Paloma Ayala.
Hiking during Gorge Latino Conservation Week at Catherine Creek. Photo by Paloma Ayala.

Caminemos Juntos (Let’s Walk Together)

​Caminemos Juntos is a new initiative offering outdoor activities to connect the Latino community in the Gorge with nature and promote well-being.
Members-only mushroom hunting outing. Photo by Monique Trevett.
Members-only mushroom hunting outing. Photo by Monique Trevett.

Members-only Events

Select guided outings and events are only open to current Friends members. Check them out here.
The Great Gorge Wahoo!
Kenzie Hammond (center), Friends’ youth & community education specialist, demonstrates water quality testing techniques to students from Portland’s St. Andrew Nativity School at Bridal Veil Falls as part of our annual outdoor youth education program, the “Great Gorge Wahoo!” Photo by Paloma Ayala.

Youth Outdoor Education

Friends’ youth education programs connect thousands of local students to the Columbia Gorge’s rich natural, cultural, scenic, and recreational resources, helping to inspire the next generation of Gorge protectors.