About Historic Columbia River Highway - Rowena Crest Overlook
Rowena Crest Overlook, located along the Historic Columbia River Highway, offers a dramatic view down onto Mayer State Park and the Columbia River Gorge, featuring the iconic Rowena Loops—engineering curves that wind up to the viewpoint. The overlook also serves as a trailhead for the Tom McCall Nature Preserve, where spring brings vibrant blooms of native lupine and balsamroot.
Hikers can explore the 2.6-mile Plateau Trail for panoramic views of geologic formations shaped by Ice Age floods, or tackle the more strenuous 4-mile out-and-back route to McCall Point. Access is via Highway 30, either from exit 69 off I-84 near Mosier or from exit 76, following the famous Rowena Curves. There are no restrooms at the overlook; facilities are available at Lower Mayer. Dogs are not permitted in the nature preserve.