The Dalles, OR

The Dalles is a city located in Wasco County, Oregon, in the north-central part of the state. The city sits at the eastern end of the Columbia River Gorge and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including Mount Hood to the south.

The area where The Dalles is situated has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The first inhabitants were Native American tribes, primarily the Wasco, Wishram, and Paiute tribes. They settled along the Columbia River and relied on fishing and hunting for sustenance.

In 1805, the Lewis and Clark Expedition reached The Dalles area during their exploration of the western United States. The expedition encountered the Native American tribes and documented their interactions with them.

The Dalles became an important trading post and transportation hub in the mid-1800s. The Oregon Trail, a famous wagon route used by pioneers to migrate to the Pacific Northwest, passed through The Dalles. The city became an essential stopping point for pioneers as they headed westward.

During this time, the region saw increasing conflicts between settlers and native tribes. The Treaty of 1855 was signed, which established the Warm Springs Indian Reservation to the south of The Dalles. This reservation is home to the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs.

As the city grew, it saw the establishment of numerous businesses and industries. The railroad arrived in the late 19th century, further facilitating transportation and trade in the area. The Dalles also became known for its agricultural productivity, especially in the production of fruits such as cherries and apples.

One notable event in The Dalles' history is the construction of The Dalles Dam, a hydroelectric dam completed in 1957. The dam provides power to the region and created a reservoir called Lake Celilo. However, the dam led to the submergence of the culturally significant Celilo Falls, a traditional fishing site for Native American tribes.

Today, The Dalles continues to thrive as a vibrant city. It boasts a flourishing tourism industry, with visitors attracted to the natural beauty of the Columbia River Gorge and the historic charm of the downtown area. The Dalles also serves as a regional center for agriculture, trade, and commerce.

Overall, the history of The Dalles showcases the city's significant role in the exploration and settlement of the American West, as well as the ongoing challenges of balancing economic development with environmental and cultural conservation.

Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum

A museum showcasing the natural and cultural history of the Columbia River Gorge region.

Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail

A scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge.

The Dalles Dam

A hydroelectric dam on the Columbia River, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking.

Maryhill Museum of Art

Located 17 miles east of The Dalles, this museum houses a diverse collection of art, including American Indian artifacts and European paintings.

Fort Dalles Museum and Anderson Homestead

A history museum featuring exhibits on pioneer life and military history in The Dalles.

The Dalles Farmers' Market

A local market that offers fresh produce, crafts, and food from local vendors.

Sunshine Mill Winery

A historic flour mill turned winery, offering tastings and tours.

Sorosis Park

A beautiful park with picnic areas, walking trails, and playgrounds.

Tom McCall Preserve at Rowena

A nature preserve with stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge and wildflower blooms in the spring.

The Dalles Art Center

A gallery showcasing local and regional artists' works, as well as hosting various art events and workshops.

The Dalles, Oregon experiences a semi-arid climate. Summers in The Dalles are typically warm and dry, with high temperatures averaging in the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 30-35 degrees Celsius). Heatwaves can occur during the summer months, and temperatures occasionally exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). The area receives very little rainfall during this time.

Winters in The Dalles are mild and relatively dry, but temperatures can drop below freezing at night. Daytime temperatures average in the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit (around 5-10 degrees Celsius) during the winter months. Snowfall is infrequent, and when it does occur, it's usually light and quickly melts.

Spring and fall in The Dalles are characterized by mild temperatures, with spring being slightly cooler than fall. These transitional seasons have variable weather, with occasional rain showers.

The Dalles experiences a moderate amount of sunshine throughout the year. The region's climate is generally sunny, with over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it a suitable location for agriculture, particularly fruit production. Overall, The Dalles has a relatively dry climate with hot summers and mild winters.

The Dalles, OR is a city located in Wasco County, along the Columbia River in the north-central part of the state. While The Dalles is relatively small, it is divided into several neighborhoods that offer unique characteristics and amenities. Here is a brief overview of some of the different neighborhoods in The Dalles:

Historic Downtown

This neighborhood represents the heart of The Dalles and is known for its rich history and charming ambiance. It features many well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, offering a glimpse into the city's past. There are numerous local businesses, restaurants, and shops in this area, as well as parks and scenic views of the Columbia River.

Chenoweth

Located to the southeast of downtown, Chenoweth is a primarily residential neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes. The area offers a more suburban feel and is known for its quiet streets, larger lots, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. It is also home to Chenoweth Elementary School.

Columbia View Heights

Situated on a hill to the west of downtown, Columbia View Heights provides breathtaking views of the Columbia River. This neighborhood offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. It is known for being convenient to many amenities, including schools, parks, and shopping centers.

East The Dalles

This neighborhood is located on the eastern side of The Dalles and is characterized by its industrial and commercial areas, as well as a mix of residential properties. It is where you'll find some of the city's larger employers, such as the Mid-Columbia Medical Center and various manufacturing facilities. East The Dalles also offers easy access to Interstate 84.

Chenoweth Junction

Located south of downtown, Chenoweth Junction is a primarily rural area with a mix of agricultural land, vineyards, and residential properties. This neighborhood provides a peaceful countryside atmosphere and is known for its proximity to wineries, outdoor recreational opportunities, and the stunning views of Mount Hood.

West The Dalles

This neighborhood is situated on the western side of The Dalles and is predominantly residential. It offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and apartments. West The Dalles is known for its close-knit community feel and easy access to recreational areas like Sorosis Park.

These are just a few of the different neighborhoods in The Dalles, each with its own characteristics and appeal. Whether you prefer a historic downtown atmosphere, suburban living, or rural surroundings, there is a neighborhood in The Dalles to suit different preferences.