Waterfall Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge is famous for its impressive landscape and plethora of waterfalls. There are 77 waterfalls on the Oregon side alone! It may be drier due to its south-facing orientation, but the Washington side has some impressive waterfalls of its own. 

Take some time to explore one of Travel Oregon's 7 Wonders with this waterfall loop through the Columbia River Gorge. These falls are in order if you start from Portland, cross over the bridge at Hood River and return to Portland via Highway 14.

Latourell Falls (Latourell Creek is home to Latourell Falls and Upper Latourell Falls.)

Bridal Veil Falls (A 1.3-mile there-and-back climbs alongside the 120 foot falls.)

Coopey Falls (This falls is located about a mile up the trail to Angel's Rest.)

Wahkeena Falls (Though Wahkeena Falls is just off the road, the trail to Multnomah falls is home to Ecola Falls, Weisendanger Falls and Dutchman Falls. These falls can also be seen along the Larch Mountain Trail.)

Multnomah Falls (This falls needs no explanation.)

Oneonta Falls (A walk through the river will take you to the lower falls.)

Horsetail + Ponytail Falls (Continue on the trail and past Middle Oneonta Falls to reach Triple Falls.)

Elowah Falls (This waterfall is right of the road but often overlooked.)

Wahclella Falls (At only 2 miles and 300 feet of elevation gain, this is a good family-friendly option.)

Eagle Creek (This 6-mile trail offers views of Metlaka, Punchbowl, Loowit, Skoonichuk, Tunnel and Cross Over Falls, and a number of campsites for an easy overnight trip.)

Dry Creek Falls (This trail can be difficult to find, so be sure to follow our directions.)

Pacific Crest Falls (The trail starts at the Herman Creek Campground.)

Starvation Ridge Waterfall Loop (A 3.6-mile loop passes Cabin Creek Falls, Hole-in-the-Wall and Lancaster Falls.)

Cross over the bridge in Hood River and head west on Highway 14 for these next waterfalls on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge. 

Spirit Falls (If the flow is right you just might catch a kayaker taking the plunge down these falls.)

Panther Creek Falls (This is further from the highway, but not too far outside the city of Carson. Falls Creek Falls is not far from here.)

Rock Creek Falls (One of the gorge's least known waterfalls.)

Rodney + Hardy Falls (Hamilton Mountain is home to great views of the gorge and these two falls.)

Cape Horn Trail (The lower part of the trail where you'll find two falls is open July 15 - January 31.)

Leave No Trace

Remember, always leave a place better than you found it.