Enjoy Gorgeous Views of Cliffs and Waterfalls in Portland’s Troutdale
It’s easy to see why the charming town of Troutdale is called the Gateway to the Columbia River Gorge. When you live in Troutdale, you are on the doorstep of 80 miles of Oregon’s beauty with meandering rivers, cliffs, and waterfalls dotting the landscape.
Unlike many of the Portland metropolitan areas, Troutdale takes on a more suburban vibe wrapped in quiet city life. Antique shops, a railway track and a shopping center can be found along the green landscape. Troutdale also attracts creatives, designers and media professionals looking for inspiration in the stunning backdrop of Troutdale.
Where is Troutdale?
Troutdale is 12 miles east of Portland and lies north of Gresham and east of Wood Village. As the gateway to the gorge, Troutdale sits at the confluence of the Columbia and Sandy rivers. It’s easy to get to Portland or Gresham while enjoying the best of the gorge’s outdoor recreation.
The story
The Chinookan Indians settled near the wetlands of the Columbia River for the many hunting and fishing opportunities. Lewis and Clark also explored the area between 1804 and 1806; however, it was Captain John Harlow who claimed Troutdale in 1872. Harlow quickly set to work building a large estate with trout ponds. Harlow was also instrumental in convincing the railroads to set up a depot near his home and bring more trade to the area.
Way of life
What has to be done
Troutdale is a nature lover’s dream. Locals can walk from the Sandy River to the Columbia River or get in the car and explore Mt. Hood National Forest. There are dozens of possibilities for hiking, sailing, windsurfing, snowboarding and anything else you can think of for outdoor fun. Insiders know winter winds can get brutal, but you get the benefit of living close to nature year round.
Longtime locals and tourists alike explore Multnomah Falls which sprawl over basalt cliffs and outcrops. The area is also home to Oregon’s tallest waterfall. A historic lodge attracts locals on overnight trips in search of views from the pedestrian bridge.
You can also find canyons and waterholes all over the gorge. In the nearby Dell State Natural Area of Shepperd, a small canyon has a cascading waterfall and stunning views.
For something more local in Troutdale, Glenn Otto Community Park spans six acres and is partially bordered by Beaver Creek. During the summer months, lifeguards on duty at the beach where families come for access to Riverton, the playground and picnics.
Beyond the opportunities for outdoor recreation, the Depot Rail Museum, Troutdale, Oregon, and Barn Exhibit Hall all offer historic stops to learn more about the area. There are also popular stores at Columbia Gorge Outlets, Troutdale General Store, antique shops, and gift shops for retail therapy.
Locals support the arts with the Troutdale At Walk every first Friday of the month, where local artists line the street. Galleries and boutiques open their doors to visitors looking for local and artisanal products.
Where to eat and drink
You’re not far from Portland’s food scene, even though Troutdale has its own contenders. Tad’s Chicken and Dumplings serves their eponymous dishes and stunning views. For Italian, try the Ristorante Di Pompelmo with Portobello ravioli and Portofino seafood. You’ll also find barbecue pork chops and pan-seared lamb on the menu.
Sugarpine offers drive-thru dining on the banks of the Sandy River with oversized kalua pulled pork and Reuben sandwiches, salads, and coleslaw. Customers take in the view while feasting on soft serve ice cream with generous toppings.
For upscale cocktails, try Troutini, Skyland Pub, or Bandit’s Bar and Grill. You can also stick around for the burgers, pulled pork nachos, and find somewhere to take in the view.
Moving to Troutdale
Real estate overview
Troutdale offers more of a residential setting than Portland, with a mix of modest and upper middle class homes. You will find accommodation for rent in converted houses and apartment complexes.
Apartments for rent in Troutdale cost on average $ 1,425, which is lower than the Portland average of $ 1,484. You’re also more likely to find more space to spread out in Troutdale than in much of the Portland metro area. Ask about an apartment with a view, but be prepared to pay a premium for this privilege.
Troutdale is one of the fastest growing cities in the state and businesses are bringing new development to the area. FedEx Ground has purchased property in Troutdale Reynolds Industrial Park and will provide more employment opportunities in the area.
Transport
Public transportation in Troutdale is not as rugged as downtown Portland. Most locals drive to Portland or Gresham. However, you can take the 20, 21, or 77 bus in Portland to avoid the commute and traffic. Lyft and Uber are also available in Troutdale.
Like the rest of the metro area, biking is a popular pastime and mode of operation around Troutdale. You are not far from bike trails such as Banks-Veronica State Trail, Columbia River Dike Trail, and Coweeman River Trail.
Schools and employment
Troutdale is a family community, and parents send their children to public schools and become part of the community. For higher education opportunities, Troutdale is located near Mt. Hood Community College and close enough to the University of Portland, Portland State University, and Oregon University of Health and Science.
Troutdale is also home to a diverse workforce comprised of white and blue collar jobs in administration, sales and management roles. The city has its own tourism industry and is conveniently located near the Columbia Gorge and Multnomah Falls. Troutdale draws visitors from Portland Gresham to its outdoor recreation centers and shopping malls.
The Troutdale Reynolds Industrial Park has recently been revitalized as a central employment center for the community. It stretches over 700 acres through a former industrial wasteland. FedEx and Amazon are major employers in Troutdale, with Amazon expected to create more than 1,500 full-time jobs in the city. Troutdale Airport also offers aviation training and business aviation opportunities.
Want to enjoy a year round outdoor lifestyle with a small town vibe? Find your next apartment on RENTCafé and get ready to enjoy the natural beauty, outlet shopping and creative vibe of Troutdale.
