Cutting across the Cascade Mountains of the Pacific Northwest, the Columbia River Gorge is the only major east-west divide of this volcanic range between California and British Columbia. This geological and botanical wonderland encompasses a wide range of habitats from dry steppe to wet, lush forests. These overlapping habitats host an array of native plants, many of which are unique to this region. It also is home to the most scenic collection of waterfalls in the United States.