No trip to Vista House is complete without a stop at Portland Women’s Forum for a stunning view of the historic landmark framed by the Columbia River Gorge.
The same view that attracts visitors from around the globe inspired the visionaries of the Historic Columbia River Highway, built in 1918 as the first road linking Portland and The Dalles. This small park’s namesake organization, the Portland Women’s Forum, was active in preserving the natural beauty along the Gorge and donated the land to the state. Come see for yourself why this is one of the most popular viewpoints for photographing Vista House.
Please call 503-695-2261 for park specific rules
No metal detecting is allowed in West Gorge Oregon State Parks
This park requires a Special Use Permit for special events or activities. Please open the Special Use Permit application to see examples of events that need a permit. If you have questions about whether you need a special use permit for your activity and to receive instructions on how to submit the application, please call 503-695-2261.
In 1963, the property was turned over to the State Of Oregon “reserving to the Portland Women’s Forum the right to erect and maintain a memorial on the property”. Members of the Portland Women’s Forum have worked for preservation and beautification of the Columbia River Gorge since 1950. This had been the old Chanticleer Inn property with a magnificent view of the Columbia River Gorge. The additional tract was purchased after litigation in 1970. The Portland Women's Forum was made up of representatives of the principal women's organizations of Portland. For many years under the leadership of Mrs. Gertrude Jensen, the Forum was very active in the preservation of natural beauty along the Columbia River Gorge. The group was responsible for appointment of the first Columbia Gorge Commission in the 1950s.