Divergent Explorers 
Climbing the Astoria Column
This week, we take you on a 125 foot climb to the top of the Astoria Column with commanding views of the Astoria, the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean.
In 1811 John Jacob Astor founded the American Fur Company and named the location after himself- Astoria. His trade in furs from the Pacific Northwest made him the first multimillionaire in the United States. 115 year later, Ralph Budd, a businessman interested in building 12 historical markers across the United States approached Astors’ great-grandson to help fund the monument in the town of Astoria; and the Astoria Column was built. The 125 foot tall Astoria Column was dedicated in on July 22, 1926. There are 164 steps to the top and the outside is painted with 14 murals showing the significant events in the early history of Oregon. 400,000 people visit the Column annually, making it one of the most visited parks in all of Oregon.
The fee to visit is $5 per car – which earns you an annual pass. There are restrooms, viewpoints and a gift shop surrounding the parking lot loop.
Our Video
Activities
- Climbing the Column
- Viewing Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Gift Shop
Our Tips for Visiting
- It can be cold and windy on the mountain, so bring a jacket.
- The inside of the Column is narrow and dimly lit – not advisable for people that get claustrophobic.
- Opening the door and looking 125 feet down is not for everyone. If you have a fear of heights, this may not be the view for you.
Weblinks
For more information about the Column, visit their website at http://astoriacolumn.org.
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Oh man, I could never do that–certainly not now–but it was really a great view! No wonder you needed snacks!! Thanks for making the column handicapped accessible! Love you, Moma
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