From rustic ranches with sweeping views to intimate destinations tucked into the forest, the Columbia River Gorge has no shortage of breathtaking wedding venues. As someone who calls the Pacific Northwest home, I’m always excited to get to photograph weddings here. So, if you’re dreaming of tying the knot in a landscape that feels wild, cinematic, and deeply romantic, here are some of the best venues to consider.
Why the Columbia River Gorge for Your Wedding Location
The Columbia River Gorge might be one of the most beautiful (and accessible) places for wedding venues in the Pacific Northwest. Just an hour from Portland, it’s surprisingly accessible for guests traveling in and still feels a world apart. Towering cliffs, evergreen forests, wild rivers, and the dramatic backdrop of the Cascades are all what make this place so special. I’ve photographed many weddings here over the years, and I can honestly say there’s nowhere quite like it.
Best Columbia River Gorge Wedding Venues
Wind Mountain Ranch
With 22 acres of evergreen forests, open fields, and sprawling views of the Columbia River Gorge, Wind Mountain Ranch offers a rustic yet elegant setting. There is no shortage of breathtaking views, with both indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces that overlook the scenery. One of my favorite memories was when Ellie had a sweet first look with her dad while getting ready in one of the cozy cabins they have on-site!
Location: 192 Erickson Rd, Stevenson, WA
Capacity: 200 guests
Pet-Friendly: Contact venue for details
Columbia Gorge Hotel
The Columbia Gorge Hotel is a perfect blend of historic charm and natural beauty. From its manicured gardens to the private 208-foot waterfall, every inch of the property feels dreamy and romantic, making it one of the most iconic wedding venues in the Columbia River Gorge. Still, its cliffside location is only 10 minutes from downtown Hood River, offering convenience without compromising on atmosphere. You’ll find ceremony spaces indoors and out that can accommodate between 110 and 200 people, each with its own charm.
Location: 4000 Westcliff Drive, Hood River, OR
Capacity: 110 to 200
Pet-Friendly: Yes
The Griffin House
If you’re looking for stunning panoramas paired with timeless elegance, then you’ll want to visit The Griffin House. Perched on the southern cliffs overlooking the Columbia River Gorge, this 120-year-old house is full of vintage character, yet updated for modern comfort. Outside, you’ll find manicured lawns and terraces with sweeping views of the landscape below. I especially love their private furniture collection, which adds a classy feel to your wedding day.
Location: 4168 Westcliff Dr, Hood River, OR
Capacity: 175 guests
Pet-Friendly: yes
Gorge Crest Vineyards
If you’re dreaming of wide-open skies and postcard-worthy scenery, Gorge Crest Vineyards delivers. This venue gives you both lush orchards and dramatic views of Mt. Hood. It’s also one of just a few Columbia River Gorge wedding venues that features incredible views from both their indoor and outdoor spaces, so no matter where you’re celebrating you’re guaranteed a beautiful backdrop. Even when the fog rolled in for Alexis and Phil’s wedding day, the moody weather only made the landscape more magical.
Location: 341 Kollock Knapp Road, Underwood, WA
Capacity: 150 guests
Pet-Friendly: Yes
Skamania Lodge
Skamania Lodge is one of my favorite Columbia River Gorge wedding venues, in part because it’s where I got married! From outdoor locations with sweeping mountain views to indoor spaces, there’s a setting for every vision. Whether you’re planning a cozy winter wedding or a big summer celebration, this venue offers flexibility, beauty, and a feeling of being surrounded by nature.
Location: 1131 SW Skamania Lodge Way, Stevenson, WA
Capacity: up to 400 guests
Pet-Friendly: Yes
Thunder Island
Thunder Island might be one of the most unique Columbia River Gorge wedding venues. Located on an island in the Columbia River, it gives you a front-row seat to views of the Bridge of the Gods and the surrounding mountains. After the ceremony, celebrate at the rustic Gorge Pavilion, a spacious and charming space perfect for your reception.
Location: 427 Portage Road, Cascade Locks, OR
Capacity: 200 guests
Pet-Friendly: Contact venue for details
The Orchard Hood River
Couples hoping for unique views of the landscape will want to take a serious look at The Orchard Hood River. It’s one of the rare venues with views of both Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams, giving you double the mountain vistas. After the ceremony, guests can gather in an open-air barn to enjoy a locally sourced farm-to-table feast.
Pro tip: Wandering the orchards during sunset always makes for gorgeous photos!
Location: 2124 Highway 35, Hood River, OR 97031
Capacity: 175 guests
Pet-Friendly: Contact venue for details
Rocky Hill Events
Rocky Hill Events is tucked away on 13 private acres and feels like your own forest retreat. Its wedding deck is nestled among the trees for an intimate ceremony that’s close to nature. Also on the property are a rustic barn and beautiful stone patio, which give this venue a cozy feel that’s full of character.
Location: 24 BZ Glenwood Hwy, White Salmon, WA
Capacity: 150 guests
Pet-Friendly: Contact venue for details
How to Choose the Right Columbia River Gorge Venue
When narrowing down which of the many Columbia River Gorge wedding venues is perfect for you, you’ll want to first think about the weather and lighting for your day. Summer tends to be warm and dry, while fall and spring can bring cloudy days and moody light with a chance of rain. And in the winter, you might get to experience snowfall.
Accessibility is another key factor. While some venues are easy to reach and are close to town, others are tucked deep in nature and hard to access for those with limited mobility.
You’ll also want to pay attention to logistics, including venue capacity, distance from town, and options in case the weather shifts.
And finally, think about the views that matter most to you. Do you picture a lush orchard, a dense forest, rows of vines, or wide-open vistas with mountains in the background? Let that vision guide your decision.
For more help on how to choose a wedding venue, click below to read my advice.
The Columbia River Gorge has breathtaking wedding venues for every couple. Whether you want a big party or something a little more intimate and remote, you will find it here. It’s a jewel of the Pacific Northwest and will always be one of my favorite places to capture your special day.
Beyond the Columbia River Gorge, Oregon is full of so many gorgeous wedding venues. Here are my top picks.
For more wedding inspiration, check out these weddings at some of my favorite venues in the PNW!
Ready to book your own Columbia River Gorge wedding photographer? Click on the link below to inquire!