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Top 24 Hotels Near Columbia Gorge Community College
400 E Scenic Dr The Dalles, OR 97058
Budget Inn Motel
Guests at Budget Inn Motel can enjoy the easy drive to Columbia Gorge Community College as a defining perk of their well-located stay.
Budget Inn Motel often features direct parking, vending corners, and modest desk service that create reliable support for arriving visitors. Accommodations may provide mini-fridges, compact desks, and cable access, maintaining functional clarity across budget motel routines. Facilities often include compact breakfast corners, vending access, and guest laundries that sustain clear practicality for travelers.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, vending access, exterior parking, and pet-friendly policies, reinforcing consistency across budget motels.
Rayland Hotel
This uncomplicated drive to Columbia Gorge Community College helps Rayland Hotel guests get more connected to the The Dalles area.
At Rayland Hotel, arrivals may feature modest furnishings, self-serve beverages, and accessible parking arranged for easy arrivals. Each guest room typically provides climate control, compact seating, and in-room coffee, reinforcing comfort and daily travel routines. Shared spaces often feature vending machines, modest lobbies, and compact breakfast spaces that help guests maintain simple routines.
A stay may feature Wi-Fi, vending corners, modest breakfast, and laundry facilities, creating reliable support for daily guest routines.
The Dalles Inn
The guest's journey from The Dalles Inn in The Dalles to Columbia Gorge Community College is an simple drive, enhancing the feeling of a well-chosen location.
Guests at The Dalles Inn may encounter basic reception service, vending machines, and convenient parking options for daily guest use. Guest rooms may feature hardwood floors, tasteful décor, and blackout curtains that help ensure rest and privacy during overnight stays. Facilities may provide modest seating zones, vending areas, and guest laundries that support both comfort and practicality in travel.
Accommodations often highlight Wi-Fi, guest laundry, continental breakfast, and parking, maintaining consistency in budget hospitality.
Super 8 by Wyndham The Dalles OR
For guests in The Dalles, Super 8 by Wyndham The Dalles OR keeps Columbia Gorge Community College an easy drive, a location that supports a relaxed and easy schedule.
Markets and vending setups at Super 8 help travelers handle quick needs on arrival, reinforcing the brand’s focus on convenience. All guest rooms feature plush bedding, blackout curtains, and HVAC systems, creating reliable comfort and rest for all types of travelers. Fitness centers with treadmills, ellipticals, and weights provide travelers with clarity and balance in sustaining health habits.
Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking align with laundry and pools, balancing core routines with relaxation opportunities.
Fairfield Inn & Suites The Dalles
For travelers who appreciate a direct route, Fairfield Inn & Suites The Dalles is an easy drive from Columbia Gorge Community College, making for a low-stress trip.
With clustered lounge seating by windows, Fairfield Inn supplies a bright pause zone where guests can reset, check directions, or take a call. Each guest room offers ergonomic chairs, charging hubs, and bright lighting, letting travelers manage work tasks effectively during visits. Breakfast areas highlight scrambled eggs, fruit, and coffee stations, ensuring guests begin mornings with dependable variety and clarity daily.
Free Wi-Fi, business services, complimentary breakfast, and a 24/7 Market ensure that travelers experience dependable convenience during each stay.
Cousins Country Inn
This convenient commute to Columbia Gorge Community College permits Cousins Country Inn to offer a blend of convenience and calm before the stay unfolds.
Cousins Country Inn often welcomes arrivals with stylish furnishings, local artwork, and staff offering tailored check-in experiences. Guest rooms often showcase refined décor, premium linens, and boutique bathrooms that support a polished and stylish impression. Facilities may showcase eclectic lounges, curated interiors, and cocktail bars for a polished and boutique-forward impression.
A stay often provides complimentary Wi-Fi, boutique breakfast, laundry services, and family allowances, ensuring balanced guest routines.
Motel 6 The Dalles OR
For travelers who appreciate a direct route, Motel 6 The Dalles OR is a direct run from Columbia Gorge Community College, making for a low-stress trip.
At Motel 6, information points near reception outline basics in one stop, so guests leave the desk oriented and ready to head upstairs. Guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs with cable and Wi-Fi access, keeping everyday entertainment and connectivity dependable throughout stays. Guest laundries include multiple machines and folding areas, giving travelers tools to keep clothing care predictable during longer stays.
With outdoor pools, Wi-Fi, accessible features, and laundry, properties ensure stays align recreation with connectivity and practical upkeep.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites The Dalles by IHG
Reaching Columbia Gorge Community College from Holiday Inn Express & Suites The Dalles by IHG is an easy drive, a trait that weaves convenience into the start of any day.
Holiday Inn Express lobbies incorporate modern finishes and symmetry, delivering consistent first impressions at every location. All guest rooms contain flat-screen TVs, sofa seating, and charging hubs, creating versatile spaces for relaxation and utility. Meeting facilities featuring projection equipment, breakout tables, and seating flexibility make professional events run smoothly.
Business centers, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi pair with fitness rooms and parking, offering routines that are clear daily.
Comfort Inn Columbia Gorge
The value of having Columbia Gorge Community College within easy reach makes Comfort Inn Columbia Gorge a sensible base of operations before the experience.
With covered drop-off or canopy at many Comfort Inn locations, guests step inside protected from weather before check-in begins, keeping them dry. Each suite includes additional storage, a luggage bench, and a wider work surface so unpacking and planning happen without cluttering the sleeping area. Business and event spaces often include event parking, AV support, and on-site coordination to simplify setup and breakdown needs, conveniently.
Between laundry services, meeting rooms, parking options, Wi-Fi, and breakfast, multi-night stays and team travel stay organized and ready.
Columbia River Hotel and Conference Center an Ascend Collection Hotel
The uncomplicated drive from Columbia River Hotel and Conference Center an Ascend Collection Hotel to Columbia Gorge Community College in The Dalles guarantees guests a simple and reliable way to get to their destination.
Columbia River Hotel and Conference Center an Ascend Collection Hotel typically includes straightforward check-in, modest lobby décor, and on-site parking that reinforce simple practicality. Accommodations often include plush bedding, Wi-Fi, and compact layouts, delivering a balance of connectivity and comfort for guests. Shared spaces typically include breakfast rooms, vending access, and laundry spaces that reinforce consistent convenience each day.
A visit may present Wi-Fi, vending access, laundry support, and breakfast counters, reinforcing simple balance across overnight stays.
Celilo Inn
At Celilo Inn, Columbia Gorge Community College is an easy drive, a key feature that elevates the convenience of the stay.
Arrivals at Celilo Inn may present quick desk service, vending access, and complimentary parking to sustain budget-focused travel. Rooms may highlight curated décor, functional desks, and seating areas, supporting both productivity and relaxation throughout the stay. Facilities may highlight compact lobbies, vending machines, and breakfast corners that provide guests with clarity during their visits.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, parking, and guest laundries, reflecting the functional focus of budget accommodations.
Best Western Plus Hood River Inn
From Best Western Plus Hood River Inn, Columbia Gorge Community College is within driving reach, a choice that makes for an uncomplicated start to the day.
Best Western summarizes essentials—Wi-Fi, breakfast timing, and local pointers—so guests leave reception ready to navigate the first hour well. Standard guest rooms often place a multi-device charging shelf near seating, letting companions sync phones while confirming reservations. Business centers provide computers, printers, and desks, allowing itineraries and tickets to update without leaving the property between errands.
With housekeeping service, guest laundry, Wi-Fi, and in-room safes, routines maintain order while valuables and schedules stay easy to manage.
Horsefeathers Hotel
This useful function as a base is a central feature of Horsefeathers Hotel, since it promotes a relaxed and manageable itinerary.
Arrivals at Horsefeathers Hotel typically feature stylish lobby seating, doorman support, and polished reception service for a refined first impression. Guest rooms often include elegant furnishings, plush linens, and in-room espresso machines that may enhance guest convenience. Amenities typically showcase elegant lounges, stylish bars, and spa-style facilities that enhance a sophisticated guest impression.
A stay often presents wellness areas, fine dining, valet parking, and Wi-Fi, offering consistency and balance for sophisticated travel.
Inn of the White Salmon
The hotel's spot as a practical base gives Inn of the White Salmon guests a simple way to manage their regional schedule.
Inn of the White Salmon often provides efficient check-in, modest lobby seating, and nearby parking, helping guests start visits with ease. Each guest room typically offers climate control, hardwood accents, and in-room coffee stations, adding convenience to daily guest routines. Public areas often showcase vending access, modest seating, and laundry rooms that maintain functional routines for budget travelers.
A stay often provides Wi-Fi, vending areas, compact breakfast rooms, and laundry facilities, sustaining clarity in daily guest routines.
Hood River Hotel
Within the region, Hood River Hotel is a convenient base, a fact that offers a sense of connection to Columbia Gorge Community College.
Arrivals at Hood River Hotel may highlight relaxed lobby seating, artisanal coffee service, and design-forward décor details. Guest rooms may feature eclectic décor, curated minibars, and plush bedding that emphasize a personalized and boutique-oriented retreat. Amenities often present artisanal coffee shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and stylish lounges for a personalized boutique retreat.
Accommodations may showcase Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, yoga mats, and pet allowances, sustaining boutique convenience and flexibility.
Hampton Inn & Suites Hood River
The hotel's spot as a sensible base gives Hampton Inn & Suites Hood River guests a easy way to start their day of travel.
Modern design with bright décor inside Hampton Inn receptions creates polished impressions, reinforcing clarity from the very start. Guest rooms include ergonomic desks, task lighting, and Wi-Fi, providing setups that keep travelers focused and comfortable. Meeting rooms with audiovisual gear, flexible seating, and internet access provide practical spaces for group collaboration and focus.
Pet-friendly options, complimentary breakfast, Pavilion Pantry counters, fitness rooms, and Wi-Fi connectivity ensure comfort and ease.
Lightwell Hotel & Spa
The hotel's spot as a sensible base gives Lightwell Hotel & Spa guests a direct option for their regional commute.
Lightwell Hotel & Spa often begins the stay with elegant décor, attentive staff, and complimentary infused water that create a polished check-in experience. Accommodations may showcase polished décor, refined bedding, and spa-style bathrooms designed with upscale finishes for relaxation. Shared spaces may offer polished interiors, full-service dining, and wellness services that emphasize a refined and comfortable stay.
Accommodations may include spa lounges, cocktail bars, EV stations, and Wi-Fi, balancing refined leisure with modern travel convenience.
Thistledown on Oak
For those making an easy regional drive, Thistledown on Oak is a convenient base for accessing Columbia Gorge Community College and the surrounding area.
At Thistledown on Oak, arrivals may highlight a simple front desk, self-serve coffee, and accessible parking arranged for daily routines. Guest rooms often feature tasteful interiors, plush bedding, and Wi-Fi, creating a reliable foundation for comfortable overnight stays. Shared spaces may present vending machines, compact breakfast rooms, and modest lobbies that support clear and practical travel ease.
Accommodations may feature Wi-Fi, guest laundry, breakfast service, and parking, creating straightforward balance for visiting guests.
Riverview Lodge
The simple regional drive from Riverview Lodge to Columbia Gorge Community College in The Dalles ensures guests have a pleasant option for their daily travel.
Guests at Riverview Lodge may encounter quick reception, vending options, and complimentary parking for practical and budget arrivals. Accommodations may include rainfall showers, hardwood floors, and compact layouts, reinforcing both practicality and simple comfort. Facilities often feature breakfast counters, vending areas, and guest laundries that provide daily convenience for overnight visitors.
A visit often highlights Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, vending access, and laundry rooms, giving travelers consistent ease throughout stays.
Sunset Motel Hood River
Reaching Columbia Gorge Community College from Sunset Motel Hood River is an easy regional drive, a trait that weaves simplicity into the guest's daily routine.
At Sunset Motel Hood River, arrivals may include compact lobbies, vending access, and exterior parking that sustain functional routines each day. Guest rooms may include modest seating, Wi-Fi, and microwaves, reinforcing daily convenience for visitors in budget properties. Public areas may highlight vending machines, modest seating, and laundry facilities that create reliable consistency for budget guests.
A visit may highlight Wi-Fi, guest laundry, vending corners, and parking, maintaining practical support for travelers in budget settings.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hood River by IHG
In the The Dalles area, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hood River by IHG has a accessible location, acting as a convenient base for visiting Columbia Gorge Community College.
Markets beside reception at Holiday Inn Express supply drinks, snacks, and travel items, reducing stress for newly arrived guests. Suites add lounge areas, multiple televisions, and sofa beds, supporting extended-stay comfort and group flexibility consistently. Breakfast spaces with hot dishes, cereals, and coffee service provide clarity and balance to morning routines during each stay.
Connectivity with Wi-Fi, pet policies, and breakfast buffets join with laundry and pools, helping families manage travel smoothly.
Columbia Cliff Villas Hotel
The guest's regional journey from Columbia Cliff Villas Hotel in The Dalles to Columbia Gorge Community College is an easy drive, enhancing the feeling of a well-chosen base.
Columbia Cliff Villas Hotel may provide boutique arrivals with personalized greetings, unique design elements, and complimentary local refreshments. Accommodations often highlight artisanal interiors, premium linens, and boutique bathrooms that create a polished and stylish impression. Shared spaces may feature curated art, intimate bars, and eclectic seating areas that emphasize boutique individuality and style.
A visit often presents Wi-Fi, artisanal breakfast, laundry access, and bike storage, reflecting boutique balance across travel routines.
Columbia Gorge Hotel and Spa
For guests in the The Dalles region, Columbia Gorge Hotel and Spa is a sensible base, a location that makes for a graceful start to any day.
At Columbia Gorge Hotel and Spa, guests often find a warm reception, cozy seating areas, and curated décor reflecting the character of the property. Rooms typically present unique furnishings, curated décor, and spa-inspired bathrooms that reflect a refined boutique guest experience. Facilities often highlight artisanal cafés, small libraries, and stylish cocktail bars that reinforce boutique-style orientation.
Guests may enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry service, family-friendly meals, and yoga mats, supporting consistency in boutique stays.
Westcliff Lodge
From Westcliff Lodge, Columbia Gorge Community College is a simple commute, a choice that gives guests more command over their travel.
Westcliff Lodge typically features straightforward check-in, compact lobby areas, and nearby parking aligned with budget convenience. Rooms may provide premium bedding, modest seating, and streaming access, giving guests consistent comfort and entertainment options. Shared spaces typically provide modest lobbies, vending access, and laundry facilities that emphasize reliable travel routines daily.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending access, and guest laundry, maintaining clear routines across budget-conscious stays.
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Columbia Gorge Community College Local Area Guide
Columbia Gorge Community College (CGCC) serves as a vital educational hub and occasional event venue within The Dalles, Oregon. This guide is designed for prospective students, visiting families, and anyone attending an event or sports match at the college, offering practical insights into the surrounding area. You'll find information on navigating the campus, exploring nearby attractions, understanding dining options, and preparing for the local climate. This guide aims to enhance your visit by providing clear, actionable advice for a smooth and enjoyable experience in The Dalles.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Columbia Gorge Community College (The Dalles, OR)
Nestled on the south bank of the Columbia River, Columbia Gorge Community College is situated in The Dalles, a city known for its dramatic scenery and historical significance. The campus sits in a somewhat isolated, elevated position, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape, including the Columbia River Gorge. Access to the college is primarily via Interstate 84, with the East Scenic Drive exit providing direct access to the campus entrance. Major access routes include I-84 East and West, connecting The Dalles to Portland to the west and Hood River to the east. The nearest major airport is Portland International Airport (PDX), approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive depending on traffic and weather conditions. Public transportation within The Dalles is limited, with local bus services offering some connectivity, but a personal vehicle or rideshare is generally recommended for convenient travel to and from the campus and exploring the wider region. Careful planning of arrival times is essential, especially during peak commute hours or significant local events, to avoid delays on I-84.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Columbia Gorge Community College
Accommodation options are primarily concentrated in the city of The Dalles itself, located a short drive from the college campus. While there are no hotels immediately adjacent to CGCC, the downtown area and the waterfront offer a cluster of hotels and motels catering to visitors. These options range from standard motel chains to more independent lodgings. Many visitors choose to stay in The Dalles for convenient access to both the college and local amenities. For those seeking a wider selection or different types of accommodations, Hood River, a larger tourist town about 30-40 minutes east, presents more choices, though this increases travel time. The college itself is not typically a lodging hub, so guests attending events or visiting CGCC should plan to stay in town or nearby. Booking accommodations well in advance is advisable, particularly during the spring and summer months when tourism in the Gorge is at its peak, and around significant college events or local festivals.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Portland International Airport (PDX) is the closest major airport, about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive away.
- Plan arrival via I-84 East and exit onto East Scenic Drive to reach the campus entrance.
- Enjoy a coffee and pastry at a local cafe in downtown The Dalles for a relaxed start.
- Visit the Discovery Center in The Dalles for an indoor, educational experience during inclement weather.
- The downtown area of The Dalles serves as a convenient regroup zone after visiting the college.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Allow ample time for your journey to Columbia Gorge Community College, especially if arriving via I-84 which can experience congestion. Parking is typically available on campus, though specific lots may be designated for events, so follow any directional signage carefully. Familiarize yourself with the campus map prior to arrival to locate your specific destination within the college. Arriving about 30-45 minutes before your event allows for parking, finding your building, and settling in without feeling rushed. Consider grabbing a coffee or snack in town before heading up to campus to make your arrival more relaxed.
During the Event
Campus facilities are generally straightforward to navigate once you are inside the correct building. Restrooms are available in most academic and administrative buildings. If attending a sporting event, confirm any specific rules regarding concessions or spectator areas beforehand. For academic events or lectures, ensure you are aware of the session times and any scheduled breaks. If you are meeting someone on campus, choose a clear, easily identifiable meeting point, such as the main entrance of a specific building. Enjoy your time engaging with the college community and its offerings.
Post-Event & Departure
As your event concludes, be prepared for typical campus egress, which is usually manageable given the college's layout. Follow any directed traffic flow from campus parking areas back towards East Scenic Drive and I-84. If your event concludes during peak hours, exercise patience when rejoining highway traffic. Many attendees choose to extend their visit by exploring nearby The Dalles, perhaps stopping for dinner or visiting a local attraction. A brief stop in downtown The Dalles is a popular way to decompress after a campus visit before heading to your accommodation.
Things to Do Near Columbia Gorge Community College
Walkable
CGCC Campus Grounds
While not a traditional tourist attraction, the Columbia Gorge Community College campus itself offers a pleasant environment for a stroll, especially on a clear day. The grounds are well-maintained and provide scenic viewpoints overlooking the Columbia River. It’s a peaceful place to walk between events or to simply take in the expansive Oregon landscape. Consider exploring the open spaces and appreciating the architecture, which complements the natural surroundings. It's an ideal spot for quiet contemplation or a brief respite before or after your scheduled activities.
400 E Scenic Dr · On siteThe Dalles Dam
Located a short drive east of the college, The Dalles Dam is an impressive feat of engineering and a significant landmark on the Columbia River. Visitors can explore the dam area, learn about its history and function through interpretive displays, and enjoy panoramic views of the river and the gorge. It offers a glimpse into the power generation and water management that are vital to the region. The visitor center provides educational insights, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in the industrial and natural aspects of the Columbia River.
The Dalles · 1.5 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum
This engaging museum serves as the official interpretive center for the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. It offers a deep dive into the natural and cultural history of the region, featuring interactive exhibits on geology, wildlife, and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The center also boasts a live raptor program, showcasing native birds of prey. It’s an excellent destination for families and individuals looking to understand the unique environment of the Gorge, providing hours of educational entertainment.
5000 Discovery Dr · 3.0 miSorosis Park
Sorosis Park is a lovely public park situated along the Columbia River, offering beautiful views and recreational opportunities. It's a great spot for a picnic, a leisurely walk along the riverfront, or simply to relax and enjoy the scenery. The park often hosts local events and provides a peaceful escape from the college campus. Its proximity to the college and its scenic setting make it a convenient and enjoyable destination for unwinding and experiencing the natural beauty of The Dalles.
1020 E Scenic Dr · 1.2 miBeyond the Event: The greater Columbia River Gorge area extends much further and offers countless natural wonders, including waterfalls, hiking trails, and numerous viewpoints. While these require more travel time, they are the primary draw for many visitors to the region. Consider extending your trip to explore attractions like Multnomah Falls or the historic Columbia River Highway if time permits. The region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities ranging from windsurfing to wine tasting.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Columbia Gorge Community College
Inside & Adjacent
CGCC Campus Cafe
The Columbia Gorge Community College campus cafe provides convenient, casual dining options for students, staff, and visitors. It typically offers a selection of grab-and-go items, sandwiches, salads, and hot meals, catering to the daily needs of the campus community. It's a practical choice for a quick bite between classes or before an event, offering a familiar setting within the college. Check for operating hours, as they can vary, especially outside of the regular academic year.
400 E Scenic Dr · On siteThe Dalles Dam Visitor Center Cafe
While primarily a stop for dam visitors, the cafe at The Dalles Dam visitor center often offers light refreshments and snacks. It's a functional spot for a quick drink or a simple bite while taking in the impressive views of the dam and the river. The atmosphere is casual, and it serves as a convenient amenity for those exploring the dam site itself. Inquire about their current offerings upon arrival.
The Dalles Dam · 1.5 miNearby Gathering Spots
The Balch Hotel
A scenic drive southeast of The Dalles leads to the historic Balch Hotel in Dufur, offering a unique dining experience in a beautifully restored setting. The hotel's restaurant provides a taste of regional cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. It's a destination for those seeking a more refined meal and a step back in time, often featuring a cozy ambiance perfect for a relaxed dinner. This is a great option for a special meal away from the immediate bustle of The Dalles.
49 NW Second St, Dufur · 12.0 miClockwise Brewpub
Located in downtown The Dalles, Clockwise Brewpub is a popular spot for craft beer and casual pub fare. It offers a lively atmosphere and a menu that typically includes burgers, sandwiches, and other hearty favorites. It’s a good place to gather with friends or teammates after an event, relax with a local brew, and enjoy a straightforward, satisfying meal. The pub is a common destination for both locals and visitors looking for a relaxed social environment.
409 Court St, The Dalles · 2.0 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Rainshadow Coffee Roasting Co.
Rainshadow Coffee is a highly-regarded local coffee shop in downtown The Dalles, known for its excellent coffee, espresso drinks, and delicious baked goods. Beyond coffee, they often serve light breakfast and lunch items, making it a versatile spot for a morning start, a midday break, or a casual meeting. The atmosphere is typically welcoming and laid-back, appealing to those seeking quality beverages and a comfortable environment to relax or work. It’s a quintessential local favorite.
315 E Second St, The Dalles · 2.1 miThe Granada Theater
More than just a historic theater, The Granada in downtown The Dalles often features a restaurant or cafe component that serves food and drinks, sometimes with a focus on artisanal pizzas or creative American cuisine. It combines dining with a potential for entertainment or a unique ambiance derived from its historic setting. This spot offers a distinctive experience, blending culinary enjoyment with a touch of local character and architectural interest, ideal for a memorable meal.
216 E Second St, The Dalles · 2.0 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on I-84 can be unpredictable; always check local conditions before heading to or from the college.
- The Dalles has a small-town feel, so expect a slower pace of life and friendly interactions.
- Many local businesses close earlier than in larger cities, so plan evening dining and shopping accordingly.
- Winds can pick up significantly in the Gorge, especially in the afternoons; carry a jacket.
- Outdoor activities are highly popular, so check event schedules for local festivals and outdoor gatherings that may affect crowds and traffic.
Weather & Seasons at Columbia Gorge Community College
- Winter: Winter in The Dalles is typically cool to cold, with average daytime temperatures ranging from the high 30s to the low 40s Fahrenheit. Expect overcast skies and frequent rain, with occasional sleet or snow. Layers are essential, including a waterproof outer shell, warm sweaters, and pants. Footwear should be comfortable and ideally water-resistant for navigating damp conditions on campus or in town. Outdoor activities are limited, making indoor venues and scenic drives more appealing.
- Spring & early summer: Spring weather can be variable, with temperatures gradually warming into the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit. Expect a mix of sunny days and showers, with winds often picking up in the afternoons. Layering remains key, with lighter jackets or sweaters recommended. Early summer brings warmer conditions, with temperatures often reaching the 70s and 80s. This is an excellent time for outdoor activities, but carrying a light jacket for cooler evenings or windy conditions is still advisable.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer is generally hot and dry, with daytime temperatures frequently in the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit, sometimes exceeding 100 degrees. Light, breathable clothing is ideal, such as shorts, t-shirts, and sun hats. Hydration is critical. While the college campus itself is usually well-maintained, exploring outdoor attractions requires preparedness for the heat. Evenings offer a slight reprieve, but can remain warm.
- Fall season: Fall brings crisp air and beautiful foliage, with temperatures cooling into the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit in early fall, dropping into the 40s and 50s by late fall. Mornings can be chilly, requiring warmer layers like fleeces or light down jackets. Rain becomes more frequent as the season progresses. This is a pleasant time for enjoying the scenery, but visitors should pack accordingly for fluctuating temperatures and potential dampness.
- Rain & snow: Rain is common throughout the fall, winter, and spring months. Snowfall can occur during winter, though it often melts quickly in the immediate valley. Be prepared for slick surfaces and reduced visibility. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are highly recommended year-round due to the region's climate. Pack comfortable, closed-toe shoes that can handle varied conditions. Always check weather forecasts immediately before and during your trip for the most up-to-date information.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: CGCC Sasquatch (various sports)
- Neighborhood: The Dalles (elevated campus area)
- Nearest airport: Portland International Airport (PDX)
- Parking: On-campus lots
- Walkable district: Limited; campus grounds and nearby Sorosis Park
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Safeway, Albertsons in The Dalles
- Pharmacy: CVS, Rite Aid in The Dalles
- Urgent care: Mid-Columbia Medical Center Urgent Care
- Downtime: Local cafes, riverfront parks, museum
- Pro tip: Check event schedules for CGCC and local The Dalles events to coordinate visit times.

