Officially called the Portland Women's Forum State Scenic Viewpoint, this stop along the Historic Columbia River Highway offers one of the most stunning gorge views. This bluff overlooking the river was named "Chanticleer Point" by an original owner, who built the "Chanticleer Inn" on the site in 1912. The inn later burned down. The Portland Women's Forum, a local civic organization, purchased Chanticleer Point during the 1950s for the specific purpose of preserving the viewpoint from commercial exploitation.
A stone monument devoted to Sam Hill is located near the entrance to the viewpoint. Drive past and you'll find ample parking as well as picnic sites. Sam Hill, along with Samuel Lancaster, was an important figure in the development of the Columbia River Highway as well as a significant contributor to the Pacific Northwest's infrastructure development.
Walk to the end of the drive for one of the most spectacular views in the world. Lovely stonework frames the plaza that is oriented to take in the view. Not far to the east you'll see the Vista House at Crown Point, a charming and distinctive stone structure. Behind that, the wide mouth of the Columbia River is embraced by massive rock formations and green forests. Interpretive signs share the story of the ice age floods that shaped the Columbia River Gorge and explain the highway builders' vision.
More Women's Forum Overlook information:
