The Dalles (2026-2027)
The City of The Dalles is located approximately 75 miles east of Portland at the eastern gateway to the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The Dalles is the largest city in Wasco County and a historic center of commerce and culture in the Mid-Columbia region. The Dalles offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreation, livability, economic opportunity, and rich heritage.
With nearly 300 days of sunshine annually, the community supports a vibrant outdoor lifestyle, including hiking, river recreation, and access to a growing regional wine industry. The Dalles is home to two historic districts with more than 100 properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places, reflecting its longstanding role as a key trading hub along the Columbia River.
“We’re excited to partner with the University of Oregon through the Sustainable City Year Program. This collaboration brings fresh perspectives and creative problem-solving to some of our community’s most important priorities.”
– Richard Mays, The Dalles Mayor
The Dalles continues to serve as a vital economic center, and agriculture remains a cornerstone of the local economy. Local specialties reflect the region’s identity, with cherry production, wheat farming, vineyards, and wineries anchoring the economy, alongside a growing food and beverage scene and access to outdoor recreation across the Gorge. Regional assets such as Columbia Gorge Community College, a national leader in renewable energy technology education, and private-sector data center investments underscore the City’s role in both traditional and emerging industries. The presence of The Dalles Lock and Dam further strengthens the region’s infrastructure, supporting navigation, irrigation, and hydropower generation.
The Dalles offers a vibrant community calendar and distinct local character. Signature events such as the Northwest Cherry Festival, Fort Dalles Fourth celebration, and seasonal events like the Starlight Parade and Festival of Trees highlight the city’s agricultural heritage and strong sense of community.
Through its partnership with the Sustainable City Year Program (SCYP), The Dalles is collaborating with University of Oregon students and faculty to advance priority projects that support economic development, housing, historic preservation, and transportation. This partnership helps build local capacity while positioning The Dalles for a resilient, innovative, and sustainable future.
“The SCYP partnership allows us to advance key projects with the support of University of Oregon students and faculty. It’s a valuable way to expand our capacity and explore new ideas that support long-term community goals.”
– Matthew Klebes, The Dalles City Manager
City Research Guide
City Information:
- The Dalles Homepage
- City Council
- The Dalles Vision 2040
- Event Calendar
- The Dalles Area Chamber of Commerce
- Explore The Dalles
- Columbia Gorge Regional Airport
- City Council Strategic Plan and Goals
Parks, Recreation, and Library:
Maps and Data:
Transportation and Engineering:
Community and Economic Development:
Education:
Housing:
City Codes and Land Use:
This SCYP and City of The Dalles partnership is possible in part due to support from U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, as well as former Congressman Peter DeFazio, who secured federal funding for SCYP through Congressionally Directed Spending. With additional funding from the city, the partnership will allow UO students and faculty to study and make recommendations on city-identified projects and issues.