Just 24 miles outside of downtown Portland, along the Historic Columbia River Highway, features some of Oregon’s amazing waterfalls. My top waterfall hikes include Latourell Falls and the Vista House, Bridal Veil Falls, and Multnomah Falls.
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Latourell Falls and the Vista House
Latourell Falls and the Vista House are just a short 24 mile drive outside of downtown Portland. On the way to Latourell Falls is a rest stop and overlook called Vista House. It features a beautiful overlook of the Columbia River and the mountains. Just on the other side of the Columbia River is the state of Washington.
After taking in the beautiful view of the Vista House, drive 8 miles up the highway to the Latourell Falls Trailhead. The parking area is small but there is plenty of parking along the highway. The Latourell Falls Loop is an easy 2.4 mile round trip hike to the amazing Latourell Falls. Some parts of the hike are paved while others are on a dirt trail. This hike follows Latourell Creek with many adorable bridge crossings.
Bridal Veil Falls
Drive another 2 miles up the highway to get to the Bridal Veil Falls State Scenic Viewpoint parking lot. From there it’s a short 1.4 mile round trip hike to the Bridal Veil Falls. The hike consists of both a paved and unpaved path with some stairs. This trail also has gorgeous views of the Columbia River.
Multnomah Falls
Continue 4 miles up the Historic Columbia River highway and you will reach Multnomah Falls. During the summer months, Multnomah Falls is a large tourist attraction since there is no hiking involved to view this waterfall. Multnomah Falls can be seen from the Multnomah Falls Lodge and is only a 200 feet walk to the base of the falls. The waterfall is spectacular, and you can even hike uphill to the viewing bridge. The hike to the viewing bridge is a steep hill but is only about a 0.1 mile hike. The trail is entirely paved.
There are so many more waterfall hiking trails along the Historic Columbia River Highway including Wahkeena Falls, Fairy Falls, and Horsetail Falls.
Which are your favorites?
Until next time,
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