Waterfalls

The Columbia Gorge is famous for its numerous waterfalls, some of which are among the tallest and most beautiful in the country. With more than 70 waterfalls, you can easily find a stunning cascade of water wherever you go. Whether you drive along the scenic highway or hike through the trails, you can see the many waterfalls that drop from the high basalt walls. Explore the amazing waterfalls of the Columbia Gorge on your own or with a guide.  Following are some of the most popular Columbia Gorge waterfall hikes:

  • Multnomah Falls: This is the tallest and most iconic waterfall in Oregon, with a total height of 620 feet. It consists of two drops and a bridge that offers a stunning view. It is also the most visited waterfall in the gorge, attracting millions of visitors each year. Multnomah Falls is by permit only between hours of 9am-6pm.
  • Wahclella Falls: This is a stunning 350-foot waterfall that plunges into a gorge. It is reached by a moderate hike along a creek that has some bridges, tunnels, and rocky sections. It is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the gorge1.
  • Latourell Falls: This is a 249-foot waterfall that drops over a cliff into a rocky amphitheater. It is surrounded by tall pillars of columnar basalt and bright green lichen. It is visible from the road and has a short trail to the base. [Partial Closed]
  • Horsetail Falls: This is a 176-foot waterfall that resembles a horsetail. It is located right next to the road and has a parking lot. It is also the trailhead for a hike to Ponytail Falls and Triple Falls1.
  • Ponytail Falls: This is a 75-foot waterfall that flows behind a large rock, creating a natural tunnel. It is also known as Upper Horsetail Falls. It is accessible by a short hike from Horsetail Falls1.
  • Triple Falls: This is a 100-foot waterfall that splits into three streams. It is located on Oneonta Creek and is part of the Oneonta Gorge. It is accessible by a moderate hike from Horsetail Falls or Oneonta Trailhead1.
  • Bridal Veil Falls: This is a 118-foot waterfall that cascades over two tiers. It is located on Bridal Veil Creek and has a viewing platform. It is accessible by a short hike from the parking lot2.
  • Shepperd’s Dell: This is a 220-foot waterfall that comprises two falls, upper and lower. They both tumble into Young’s Creek. It is visible from a short trail that leads to a bridge1.
  • Panther Creek Falls: This is a two-tiered waterfall that has a total height of 50-70 feet. It is located on the Washington side of the gorge and is visible from a short hike to a viewing platform13.
  • Falls Creek Falls: This is a 200-foot wide waterfall that drops 43 feet into a pool. It is also located on the Washington side of the gorge and is accessible by a 6-mile loop trail through the forest and along the creek13.