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Oregon
26

Oregon State Parks

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USA Parks
Oregon
Mt. Hood and the Gorge Region
Portland Womens Forum State Scenic Viewpoint
Western Meadow Lark © stateparks.com
Western Meadow Lark
Afternoon Hike © stateparks.com
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PORTLAND WOMENS FORUM STATE SCENIC VIEWPOINT
PORTLAND WOMENS FORUM STATE SCENIC VIEWPOINT
The view is absolutely breathtaking and it?s one of the best spots to soak in a view of one of the most beautiful places on earth: the magnificent, awesome Columbia River Gorge. Any visit to the Gorge would be nearly perfect with Women's Forum as the starting place to a fun-filled day of adventure and discovery. With the scenic Vista House and the wide expanse of the Columbia Gorge in the background, more photographs of the Columbia Gorge are probably taken from this point than anywhere else (but don?t let that stop you ... go ahead and take a few shots of your own).
History of the Area
The scenic viewpoint, located in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge region, has a rich history that dates back to the mid-20th century. It was originally owned by an influential woman named Gertrude Glutsch Jensen who dedicated her life to conserving natural landscapes and promoting environmental education.

Jensen purchased this land parcel during the 1950s with intentions of preserving its beauty from commercial development. She later donated it to the state under one condition: it must always remain open for public enjoyment as a park or recreational area.

In honor of Jensen's contributions towards conservation efforts within Oregon, officials decided on naming this location after Portland Women's Forum - an organization she founded which played significant roles in protecting several other local sites including Crown Point Vista House and Rooster Rock State Park among others.

Over time, due largely because of its breathtaking views over Columbia River Gorge - particularly at sunrise or sunset when light conditions are most dramatic - this site became popular amongst both locals and tourists alike; attracting thousands each year who come not only appreciate nature but also learn about importance preservation through interpretive panels installed throughout property.

Today managed by Oregon Parks & Recreation Department (OPRD), visitors can enjoy picnic facilities along with stunning panoramic vistas stretching all way down river up Cascade Mountain Range while reflecting upon legacy left behind women like Gertrude Glutsch Jensen whose tireless work ensured these lands would be enjoyed generations yet unborn.




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Area Campgrounds
Portland Fairview RV Park
21401 NE Sandy Boulevard
Fairview, OR
Nearby Hotels
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Directions
1. Start by heading east on Interstate 84 (I:84) from downtown Portland.
2. Continue driving for approximately 20 miles until you reach Exit 22 towards Corbett and Historic Columbia River Highway.
3. Take this exit and merge onto NE Frontage Road, following signs for Crown Point/Columbia Gorge/Historic Route/Scenic Byway.
4. After merging onto NE Frontage Road, continue straight ahead as it turns into Historic Columbia River Highway (also known as US:30).
5. Drive along the scenic highway for about 6 miles until you see a sign indicating "Portland Women's Forum State Scenic Viewpoint" on your right:hand side.
6. Turn right at this sign and proceed up the entrance road that leads to the viewpoint parking area.

state route ranger badge
Oregon
26

Oregon State Parks

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