Tag Page ColumbiaRiver

Why Cathlamet is the PNW’s best-kept secret

Crossing the Columbia River west of Portland isn’t just another commute—it’s a mini adventure. Cathlamet, Washington, sits quietly near the river’s mouth, offering a rare interstate ferry ride (the only one on the West Coast!) and a vibe that’s all about slowing down. Locals rave about the Little Island Creamery’s award-winning brie, and the town’s marina buzzes with festivals, regattas, and a summer street market. Whether you’re in it for the cheese, the quirky ferry, or just a peaceful riverside stroll, Cathlamet feels like a hidden escape. Who else has made the trip—or is tempted now? #Travel #Cathlamet #ColumbiaRiver

Oregon, 1902: The Columbia River Timber Rafts That Built an Economy In this historic photograph, several men stand atop a massive raft constructed from enormous logs—each nearly the length of full-grown trees—lashed together with thick iron chains. Taken along the Columbia River in Oregon around 1902, the raft reportedly carried millions of feet of timber, equivalent to an entire year’s output for a logging camp. One float like this could generate thousands of dollars in profit, drifting downstream as raw industry in motion. 📷 Image credit: Public domain / Historic Oregon archives #OregonHistory #ColumbiaRiver #LoggingHistory #PacificNorthwest #AmericanIndustry