The Dalles, OR

The Dalles is a Columbia River city in north-central Oregon and one of the major communities of the Columbia Gorge. Its name comes from a French term used for the river narrows, and the city's location has made it important for Native trade, exploration, transportation, and agriculture. Today The Dalles is known for orchards, river views, wind, and the Northwest Cherry Festival held each April. It feels like a working Gorge city: sunny, historic, scenic, and tied closely to both the river and surrounding dryland farms.