Our core pillars
Before the creation of Columbia Gorge Getaways we set core pillars as our intention. We hold these ideals at the forefront during construction and in our vision of how guests experience the space. Those four pillars are conservation, education, relaxation and celebration.
CONSERVATION
CONSERVATION
It has always been our goal to build and create in conjunction with nature, not in spite of it. Our roads are narrow, structures are built from wood harvested on property, and power is supplemented with solar.
RELAXATION
RELAXATION
Free from light pollution, traffic, city noise, and other stressors that distract from one’s stillness, allow the resort grounds to serve as a sanctuary of deep relaxation.
EDUCATION
EDUCATION
This setting may be new to many, so we take pride in helping educate our guests in an effort to cultivate an appreciation for our planet and its resources.
CELEBRATION
CELEBRATION
We want this to be a celebratory space! Vacations should be fun and we hope it can be utilized to gather with friends, family, and loved ones to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Meet the owners
Bob Sourek grew up in the suburbs of Ohio. Some of his fondest childhood memories are family camping trips, when his parents would load up all six kids and take road trips around the Country. Bob graduated from the University of Montana with a Forestry degree and moved to Skamania County and was one of the first to settle on Bear Creek Road in 1981. He had a successful career with the US Forest Service and founded a business manufacturing wood products. He is now enjoying his “retirement” by building Columbia Gorge Getaways with his family.
Mitch Binger grew up in Rifle, Colorado and was active in 4H, hunting, and fishing. Mitch has always dreamed of working in the woods where he loves to play. He met Carolyn while they worked on a construction project in Olympic National Park. Their complementary backgrounds led them to envision a place that would unite family and forest experiences.
Carolyn Sourek was raised a mere stones’ throw away and fondly remembers navigating through the very same trails that can be enjoyed today. Carolyn and Mitch, proud parents to two young girls, have a vested interest in treasuring and protecting the Pacific Northwest forests for future generations. They believe sharing experiences and offering opportunities for education will benefit guests, their local community, the Pacific Northwest, and the World.
Rob Sourek was also raised on Columbia Gorge Getaways’ neighboring property. He has enjoyed an active lifestyle traversing all over the World to support his passion for outdoor sports and activities. He made his love for people and nature into a successful career and graduated with a degree in Ecotourism from Western Washington University. He spent over 12 years working within the Ultra Luxury Hospitality sector. Rob recently moved back to the Gorge to help make the vision of Columbia Gorge Getaways a reality. He is excited to promote the wellness benefits forest immersion can offer to our guests.