Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
817.00 ft (249.02 m)
Trail type
Shuttle
Distance
14.20 mi (22.85 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Eagle Creek is a popular alternate route for PCT thru hikers. While the official PCT section through the gorge is a lovely hike, it misses the wonders of Eagle Creek including the many spectacular waterfalls.

This alternate route begins where the Indian Springs Trail (#435) meets up with the PCT at the unmaintained Indian Springs Campground. Follow this trail as it descends steadily, and sometimes steeply, down to the Eagle Creek Trail (#440).

Turn left onto the gentler Eagle Creek Trail and continue descending slightly until Eagle Creek itself finally comes into view.

Twister Falls is the first of many waterfalls that you will come to. Immediately afterward is a section of trail with some exposure and a cable that you can hold onto. Now is a good time to mention that there are several sections of exposed trail like this, if you have a severe fear of heights you may not enjoy yourself!

Tunnel Falls is just around the corner, and is the highlight of the entire alternate route. You’ll walk through a tunnel behind this impressive waterfall.

Several more waterfalls await, including Punch Bowl Falls, as you continue down Eagle Creek. Finally you’ll come to the trailhead. Follow the road to the campground, then briefly hop on the Gorge Trail (#400) before joining the paved Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail.

Pass underneath Interstate 84 and continue following this trail all the way until you reach the Bridge of the Gods and Cascade Locks. This is where the alternate route ends and you’ll rejoin the official PCT.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer
Fall

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Scenic alternate route for PCT hikers. Stunning waterfalls. Fun trail.

Cons

Crowds of day hikers common. Burn areas.

Trailhead Elevation

4,232.00 ft (1,289.91 m)

Highest point

4,232.00 ft (1,289.91 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Backcountry camping
Waterfalls
Wildlife
Big vistas

Typically multi-day

Yes

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Adventures

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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