The only list you will ever need of must-see waterfalls in Oregon and Washington. I chose these not only because they are stunning, but they are relatively close to the Portland area making them a convenient day trip stop. Included with each hike is mileage, location, & tips you must know before you hit the trail. BONUS – most hikes are dog-friendly!
For all hikes, you will need a Northwest Forest Pass or pay 5 dollars at the trailhead. I recommend the pass as it is good for a year and only 30 dollars. You can purchase these at REI or online through Discover NW.
10 – Dry Creek Falls
Length: 4.4 miles out and back with 800 feet of elevation gain
Location: Columbia River Gorge in Oregon
Tips: This hike is beautiful any season but can sometimes be even prettier with the moody, rainy weather in winter and spring. After your hike, head to Cascade Locks for some post-hike grub at Thunder Island Brewing Company. I highly recommend their burgers and sweet potato waffle fries!
Dry Creek Falls AllTrails Link
9 – Wahclella Falls
Length: 2 miles out and back with 200 feet of elevation gain
Location: Columbia River Gorge in Oregon
Tips: This is the perfect hike to take if you are a beginner or want a quick stop to stretch your legs while traveling along the 84. In my opinion, this is best to hike in spring time from March-May as the snow melt creates small waterfalls off the cliffs surrounding the trail – making for a magical hiking experience!
Wahclella Falls AllTrails Link
8 – Wahkeena Falls
Length: 6 mile loop with 1,700 feet of elevation gain
Location: Columbia River Gorge in Oregon
Tips: You can begin at the Multnomah Falls viewing area and continue up to the top of the falls. From there, you will pass Weisendanger Falls, Ecola Falls, and Fairy Falls before reaching Wahkeena Falls. If you do not want to do the entire loop, you can simply park at Multnomah and perform the loop counter-clockwise to reach Wahkeena Falls first.
Wahkeena Falls AllTrails Link
7 – Trail of Ten Falls
Length: 9 mile loop with 1,400 feet of elevation gain
Location: Silver Falls State Park in Oregon
Tips: The title of this hike says it all – one hike, ten falls – what more could you need? This hike does require an additional 5 dollar fee but it is easy to purchase at the trailhead. This specific loop is NOT dog friendly however there are a few trails in the park like the Rim Trail and Perimeter Trail that are dog friendly if you want to bring your pooch.
Trail of Ten Falls AllTrails Link
6 – Multnomah Falls
Length: None!
Location: Columbia River Gorge in Oregon
Tips: Some people think this waterfall is overrated. As a local, I can understand why as it is very touristy. That being said, this is the most accessible waterfall in the Pacific Northwest. It is wheelchair friendly and all paved and for good reason – everyone wants to see Oregon’s tallest waterfall! I find this waterfall is best to see in every season, not just in summer, as you can see above. The ice on the cliffs in winter is unique to the leaves that come in fall and the bright, green foliage that comes in spring and summer. Recently in 2021, there was a ticket system put in place during the busy summer months to help with crowds. I recommend checking here prior to going to see if a ticket is necessary: https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/10073376
5 – Drift Creek Falls
Length: 3.2 miles out and back with 500 feet of elevation gain
Location: Near Lincoln City in Oregon
Tips: If you want to walk on a 240-foot suspension bridge over a canyon while overlooking a waterfall, this hike is for you! I highly recommend working this trail into an Oregon Coast day trip as it is close to Lincoln City. Drive out from the Portland Metro area to do this hike in the morning. Afterwards, make your way to Lincoln City to eat fresh seafood and visit famous coastal stops like Devil’s Punch Bowl or Yaquina Head Lighthouse.
Drift Creek Falls Alltrails Link
4 – Falls Creek Falls
Length: 5 mile loop with 1,000 feet of elevation gain
Location: Gifford Pinchot National Forest in Washington
Tips: Out of all the waterfall hikes I have done, this one actually took my breath away. Pack a picnic or bring a book – you want time to take it all in! This area does not have cell service so I would recommend downloading maps prior to the hike to ensure you are able to find your way back to the main highway.
Falls Creek Loop AllTrails Link
2 & 3 – Upper and Lower Lewis Falls
Length: 8.6 miles out and back with 1,000 feet of elevation gain
Location: Lewis River Falls Trail in Cougar, Washington
Tips: I combined my numer 2 and 3 for a few reasons. Number one, I could not put one ahead of the other, this trail is truly spectacular and actually includes an upper, middle, and lower falls. Number two, during the less busy months you can actually drive between falls to park at each lot, making the hike as easy as you want it to be. During the summer months, you must reserve a parking permit at a specific lot prior to your visit so the driving tactic only works during the off-season. This is worth a visit, even if not to hike, to swim in one of the three falls! Many people spend full days here in the water (although it is freezing) so please pack out what you bring and leave no trace.
Lewis River Falls AllTrails Link
1 – Abiqua Falls
Length: 0.7 miles out and back with 300 feet of elevation
Location: Scott Mills, Oregon
Tips: This hike is deceving – I will start by saying that. Only 4WD vehicles can make it down to the trailhead so most hikers must park at the top of the road and walk down which adds a couple extra miles each way. Once at the trailhead – you will notice there is not really a trailhead at all. You will see a gate across the road and to your left, you should spot a few signs on trees. Near these signs you will find faint trails leading down to ropes. These ropes must be used to manuver down a somewhat steep and rocky cliff to get to the waters edge. Once at the bottom, you will follow the creek upstream until you reach the falls. This hike can be very sketchy and is only recommended for experienced hikers. That being said, it is the most beautiful waterfall I have ever seen and it makes a magical adventure to those brave enough to make the treck.
Abiqua Falls AllTrails Link
There is so much to see and do in the Pacific Northwest and I hope this guide helps you get out and explore the beautiful waterfalls of Oregon and Washington. Comment below with questions or suggestions on what you want to see me blog about next!