ROCK CLIMBING Although technically not a mountain, Beacon Rock is a rock climber’s paradise with over 400 vertical feet of technical climbing on the southside. Beacon Rock has enchanted generations of climbers ever since the first ascent of the southeast face in April 1954. This is bold climbing and not for those unfamiliar with multipitch climbing and retreating. The presence of a falcon nest requires that the south face be closed to technical rock activity February 1 to July 15 annually. SAILING Sailors travel from all over the world for the consistent and dependable wind that blows throughout the Columbia River. Sailing is popular all summer. You'll find sailboats racing across the river or enjoying an evening sail. SPELUNKING : APE CAVE With more than 100,000 visitors a year, Ape Cave is one of the most popular spots in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. At the Apes Headquarters, visitors can rent lanterns and buy books and maps in
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2010 SKAMANIA COUNTY VISITORS’ GUIDE
the summer. Interpretive tours in the cave are held several times a day from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Forest interpreters lead lanternguided walks down into the Ape Cave; a lava tube that formed when the surface of an ancient lava flow cooled and hardened, while molten lava still freely moved underneath. 360-247-3900 WATER SKIING : WAKE BOARDING : TUBING When the wind stops blowing on the river, the calm waters offer a getaway for tubing, wake boarding and water skiing. WHITE WATER RAFTING : KAYAKING Treat yourself to a fun filled day of white water rafting or kayaking amongst the beautiful river canyons. Many local outfitters offer a variety of trips and packages for rafters of all experience levels. WINDSURFING The Gorge is the windsurfing capital of the world. Did you know you'll find the most famous windsurfing site, plus a few more user friendly launches, in Skamania County, Washington? The most famous site is at Spring Creek Fish Hatchery, known to "boardheads" as "The Hatchery." This site is on Hwy 14, only four miles west of the Hood River Bridge. Windsurfing lessons and rentals are available in Hood River, Oregon. WINE TOURS With over 30 tasting rooms and wineries, and more in the works, the Columbia River Gorge is a great place to explore the scenery while stopping to taste wine along the way. Martin’s Hike and Bike offers guided tours so you can sit back and enjoy the ride — and the wine. WINTER FUN Winter recreation in Skamania County is one of the Columbia Gorge’s best kept secrets. The Wind River Sports Area provides groomed snowmobile and cross country trails, covering beautiful terrain. Oldman Pass has one of the best sledding hills around for family friendly fun. If downhill skiing is your passion, Mount Hood is located in Oregon, with four ski areas to choose from. When road conditions are good, the drive from Stevenson is just over an hour.
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