Columbia River Gorge in Autumn Photo Workshop & Photo Tour
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Columbia River Gorge in Autumn

Lodge-Based Photo Workshop
Book Trip
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Columbia River Gorge in Autumn

Lodge-Based Photo Workshop
Upcoming Departures
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Trip Leader(s)
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Starting From [Block//Current Price]

Single Supplement: +$550.00
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   Deposit: $2,000.00
Start/End

Portland, OR / Portland, OR

Length

6 Days/5 Nights

Fitness Level

Level 2 - What's This?

Group Size

Up To 7 Guests

Highlights
  • Iconic Waterfalls & Lush Forests – Capture the beauty of the Columbia River Gorge’s most stunning waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls, Panther Creek Falls, and hidden gems surrounded by mossy green landscapes.  

  • Golden Vistas & River Reflections – Photograph sweeping views from scenic overlooks like Crown Point and Rowena Crest, where the Columbia River winds through a vibrant autumn landscape.  

  • Mt. Hood & Alpine Lakes – Frame stunning reflections of Oregon’s tallest peak in the still waters of Trillium Lake and Lost Lake, creating picture-perfect compositions.  

  • Dynamic Light & Seasonal Colors – Take advantage of dramatic fall skies, misty mornings, and golden foliage to create unique and moody landscape shots in one of the most photogenic seasons of the year.  

If you have any questions about a trip, itinerary, or gear, our Photo Experience Coordinators are available for a personalized one-on-one consultation to provide all the details you need.
Trip Description:

Experience the magic of autumn in the Columbia River Gorge, one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Pacific Northwest! This six-day photography adventure will take us through a world of cascading waterfalls, misty forests, golden foliage, and dramatic river views. As the seasons change, the gorge transforms into a stunning palette of reds, oranges, and yellows, creating the perfect backdrop for capturing nature’s beauty. From the iconic Multnomah Falls to the winding curves of Rowena Crest, we’ll have endless opportunities to create compelling images that showcase the essence of fall in Oregon.

Over the course of four full days, we’ll chase light and explore a mix of well-known and hidden locations. Mornings will bring us to serene alpine lakes where Mt. Hood reflects like a mirror in the still water, as well as moss-covered waterfalls that take on an ethereal glow in the soft morning mist. The Columbia River Gorge is home to over 90 waterfalls, and we’ll visit some of the most photogenic, from the towering Multnomah Falls to the delicate streams of Panther Creek Falls tucked away in the forest. Midday will offer a chance to explore winding roads lined with golden oaks, historic bridges spanning the gorge, and charming small towns filled with character.

As the day transitions to golden hour, we’ll set up at sweeping overlooks where the Columbia River snakes through layers of glowing hills, creating mesmerizing compositions. Locations like Crown Point, Dog Mountain, and Mitchell Point provide breathtaking views where we can experiment with long exposures, silhouettes, and layered landscapes. If conditions align, we may even venture out for night photography, capturing stars twinkling over tranquil lakes. Throughout the trip, we’ll focus on composition, exposure, and creative techniques to help you elevate your photography skills, whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer.

What makes this trip truly special is the ever-changing scenery and dynamic conditions that make every shot unique. Morning fog rolling through the valley, golden light breaking through stormy clouds, or autumn leaves swirling in a rushing creek—all of these elements add depth and drama to our images. The gorge’s mix of dramatic cliffs, soft waterfalls, and vibrant fall colors offers a diverse range of subjects, making it an ideal location for landscape photographers. Whether you love capturing grand vistas, intimate nature details, or long-exposure water shots, this trip provides the perfect playground for creativity.

With crisp autumn air, stunning scenery, and a group of like-minded photographers, this journey will be both inspiring and unforgettable. Each day will bring new discoveries, fresh perspectives, and the chance to create a portfolio of images that truly capture the magic of the Columbia River Gorge in its most beautiful season. So grab your gear, pack your layers, and get ready for an incredible adventure filled with photography, exploration, and the timeless beauty of the Pacific Northwest!

What's Included
  • All listed meals and non-alcoholic beverages during the workshop

  • All transportation during the workshop

  • All lodging during the workshop

  • All permits and park fees

  • Professional photography guiding and instruction

  • Gratuity for service staff

What's Not Included
  • Transportation to and from Portland, Oregon

  • Meals not listed as included on the itinerary

  • Lodging outside workshop dates

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Souvenirs and personal items

  • Gratuity for photography guide(s). Please refer to our FAQ section for more details about gratuities

  • Trip Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance - see plans here.

Details
  • Final Balance Due 120 days prior to Trip Start​​​​​​​ 
  • Trip Insurance Optional - but highly recommended​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ 

 Trip Itinerary 

Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 1 (Arrival) (D)
We’ll arrive in Portland and transfer to our starting hotel. After checking into our hotel, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner and orientation at 5pm, where we’ll go over the itinerary, discuss photography techniques, and get to know each other before the adventure begins.

Days 2-5 (B,L,D)
Our home base for the next five nights will be in Hood River. We’ll chase the best light, photographing waterfalls, mossy forests, panoramic vistas, and reflections of Mt. Hood. Mornings will be spent capturing misty waterfalls and golden foliage as the sun rises over the Columbia River Gorge. Midday, we’ll explore scenic trails, winding roads, and hidden gems, stopping for lunch in charming small towns along the way. Afternoons will take us to dramatic overlooks, riverbanks lined with autumn colors, and serene alpine lakes. As the day winds down, we’ll set up for golden hour and sunset at some of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the region. We’ll also have opportunities for night photography, capturing starry skies and reflections over still waters. Evenings will be spent reviewing our images, sharing stories, and enjoying well-earned meals in Hood River.

Day 6 (B)
We’ll head out for one final sunrise shoot, making the most of the morning light before returning to the hotel for breakfast and check-out. Then, we’ll make our way back to Portland by noon, wrapping up an unforgettable week of photography, exploration, and fall beauty in the Columbia River Gorge!

Please note that the exact sequence of the itineraries on all photography trips will be based on weather and lighting conditions. The goal on these trips is to make sure we are at the right place at the right time for the perfect light on our subjects. Also, itineraries can change for a variety of other circumstances including floods, forest fires, national park closures, road closures, and more. Due to the nature of wildlife and landscape photography, we do not guarantee any specific sightings or specific compositions.

Physical Requirements 

Participants can expect a moderate level of physical activity, including walking on uneven terrain, short hikes to scenic locations, and occasional stairs or inclines. While the pace is relaxed with plenty of stops, some locations require short hikes of up to a mile round trip. Sturdy footwear is recommended, and a reasonable level of mobility will enhance your experience.

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We’re so confident that the Photography Trips we offer will not only meet but exceed the lofty expectations set forth on our website – if your trip experience does not 100% match the promises laid forth on our website we will gladly give you a credit toward a future trip.

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BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS

"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLC - Copyright 2025

CONTACT US

Monday-Friday
8am to 4pm Mountain Time
928-478-1521
adventure@backcountryjourneys.com

TRIP CATALOG

Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.

BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS

"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.

- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director

CONTACT US

Monday-Friday
8am to 4pm Mountain Time
928-478-1521
adventure@backcountryjourneys.com

TRIP CATALOG

Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.

All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLCs - Copyright 2025
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