21 Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge You Can’t Miss

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This article is contributed by Leo Aguilar.

Looking for the best hikes in the Columbia River Gorge?

One of the best things about living in or visiting Portland, Oregon, or Vancouver, Washington, is how close they are to some pretty great outdoor places. You can start a beautiful drive up the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, which is full of beautiful walks, in just 30 minutes.

On either side of the border, Oregon or northern Washington, there are a lot of choices, even for people who are just starting out. In this post, I’ll tell you about the hikes in the Columbia River Gorge that are worth your time and have great views.

For more hiking tips, you can read the following guide about “What do you need for hiking.”

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Amazing Columbia River Gorge hikes to add to your list

Here are some hikes in the Columbia River Gorge that you will need to make sure you check out!

1. Sherrard Point

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 0.6 miles

Elevation gain: 100 feet

From Sherrard Point, you can see Mount Hood through the trees. Sherrard Point is a great place to visit, but it is a long way from most of the other hikes on this list.

From the parking lot, it’s an easy 0.6-mile walk to a gated lookout point with a view of the rolling hills in southern Washington. Plan this walk for a clear day if you want to see the views.

Mount St. Helens, Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, Mount Hood, and Mount Jefferson can all be seen from this spot. Because it’s one of the best short hikes in the Columbia River Gorge, the extra drive to the Sherrard Point start is well worth it!

Even though the Columbia River Gorge is officially “free,” you will need a pass to park and hike almost anywhere. Most trailheads in the area take a Northwest Forest Pass, but some also take a Discover Pass.

On the Oregon side, you also need a $2 ticket to get into the waterfall corridor, which helps keep traffic and crowds down.

2. Oneonta Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 5.6 miles

Elevation gain: 1,633 feet

The Oneonta Gorge is closed right now and you can keep track of when it will open here. One of the most famous hikes in the Columbia River Gorge is the Oneonta Trail, which sometimes closes. In 2017, the Eagle Creek Fire caused a lot of damage to this area, so it was closed for a long time.

Check the state of this hike before you go so you won’t be disappointed to find a “closed” sign when you get there. The whole trail goes through the woods and tracks Oneonta Creek.

About 1.7 miles into the hike, you’ll reach Triple Falls, a beautiful waterfall that splits into three parts and flows over a grassy cliff. About 2.8 miles down the trail, this route stops, but you can keep going if you want to.

The real Oneonta Gorge to Upper, Middle, and Oneonta Falls, which a lot of people like to visit, is closed and doesn’t look like it will open any time soon.

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Hiking essentials”]Recommended hiking boots: Salomon Quest 4 Gore-tex 🥾 

Recommended jacket: The North Face Antora Jacket 🧥

Recommended hiking poles: Black Diamond Trail Cork Trekking Poles 🌲

Recommended day pack: Osprey Daylite Pack 🎒

Hike like a pro: Get an AllTrails Pro membership! 🗺

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3. Ponytail Falls

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 0.9 miles

Elevation gain: 331 feet

The water from Ponytail Falls flows over the trail and into a pool. Horsetail Falls, which is right at the start of the trail, will blow your mind before you even start the walk.

The walk starts with a pretty big uphill, and you have to go into the woods to get to the falls. This hike goes uphill a little bit, but it’s very short, so that makes up for it.

When you see Ponytail Falls, you’ll understand why it is called that. The water runs over a rocky cliff and looks like a ponytail falling off your head. You can even walk behind Ponytail Falls, which is a pretty special thing to do in this area.

4. Bridal Veil Falls

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 0.5 miles

Elevation gain: 100 feet

This Columbia River Gorge hike starts right off the Historic Columbia River Highway and leads to an amazing waterfall. It’s also one of the easiest waterfall hikes in the area. It’s great for people who have never hiked before or don’t want to do a lot of long hikes.

After a short, steep, half-mile walk downhill, you’ll cross a bridge and see Bridal Veil Falls. From the platform, you can see a two-tiered waterfall that falls over a moss-covered rock wall. The water flow is always very strong, but in the spring it is at its best.

It’s pretty easy to get to this amazing waterfall by climbing up and down a few switchbacks–much of which includes a paved path.

5. Beacon Rock

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 1.5 miles

Elevation gain: 575 feet

At the top of the easy walk to Beacon Rock, you can see the Columbia River Gorge.

In the Portland area, this famous hike in Beacon Rock State Park is one of the most popular. It’s less than an hour’s drive from Portland, so it’s a great place to walk after work.

You’ll start your climb up the 848-foot Beacon Rock at the entrance, which is right off Highway 14. It’s a unique hike because you’ll be going up boardwalks that have been built right into the rock.

This part of the country was important to Lewis and Clark’s trip across the country because it was near the end of their path. Clark even wrote about Beacon Rock in his diary and called it “The Beaten Rock.”

It is different from the other rocks and hills in the area because it sticks out of the ground and looks out over the Columbia River. When you get to the top, you’ll see a gorgeous view of the Columbia River Gorge and feel like you’re on top of the world.

6. Latourell Falls

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 2 miles

Elevation gain: 650 feet

Latourell Falls is another example of a walk with a waterfall that is only a few minutes from the parking lot. Latourell Falls is different from the other falls in the Columbia River Gorge, which is why I think it is one of the best.

It falls almost 135 feet over a huge basalt rock cliff that looks like it was taken right out of a geography book. It is stunningly beautiful, with bright green moss covering it and water splashing you as it falls into a pool below. This waterfall drops right onto the ground near the trail, so you can almost walk up and under it.

You can stop here or keep going on the path across the bridge and up to the top of Latourell Falls. The path goes in a circle, and when you get back to it, it will take you back down to the parking lot. This will be one of the easiest and fastest hikes in the Columbia River Gorge if all you want to do is see the waterfall.

7. Punchbowl Falls

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 2 miles

Elevation gain: 650 feet

You can get to the beautiful Punchbowl Falls, one of the best waterfall hikes in the Columbia River Gorge, by taking the famous Eagle Creek Trail through the Columbia River Gorge. This trail is pretty easy, with just a slight uphill slope the whole way. You’ll see some of the damage left by the Eagle Creek Fire, which burned a lot of land in this area.

Along this walk, you’ll see a number of waterfalls, such as Wauna Falls and Metlako Falls. About 2 miles down the path, you’ll find the turnoff for Lower Punchbowl Falls. You can take the branch trail at any time of the year, but you can’t get to the lower falls until late summer when the water level is low.

About 1/4 mile further up the road is the main view of Punchbowl Falls, where you can look down into the beautiful turquoise water. This waterfall is called “Punchbowl Falls” because it looks just like a punchbowl. If you keep going along the Eagle Creek Trail, you’ll find more waterfalls, like Tunnel Falls.

8. Dry Creek Falls

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 4.4 miles

Elevation gain: 900 feet

On the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge, this easy, winding walk to Dry Creek Falls will take you through a mossy, green forest. Aside from a pretty small slope and a few loose rocks, the trail is pretty flat and great for people who are just starting to walk.

It’s a bit on the long side, and there’s not much to see except the waterfall at the end, but that’s what makes it all worth it. A trip to Dry Creek Falls is nice because so many of the other falls are always full of people.

The 74-foot waterfall drops into Dry Creek, which flows through the forest around it. The interesting cliffs around the waterfall make you feel like you’re in a fairy story. It’s really lovely!

9. Angel’s Rest

Difficulty: Hard

Distance: 4.5 miles

Elevation gain: 1,500 feet

After an easy walk, you can see the Columbia River Gorge from Angel’s Rest. The walk up is pretty rocky and steady, so I’d say it’s better for an advanced beginner (I know, that doesn’t make sense).

But if you don’t mind a little extra work, this is a great way to see some of the best views of the Columbia River Gorge. When you get to the top, you’ll have a beautiful view of the whole area in every direction. When you look around, you’ll see the Gorge, far-off mountains, a lot of trees, and rocky rocks.

If you go there in the morning, you’ll be blown away by all the colors in the sky. It’s one of the shortest hikes with these kinds of views, so if you can do it, I highly suggest it.

10. Elowah Falls

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 2.4 miles

Elevation gain: 900 feet

Elowah Falls is a waterfall in the Gorge that isn’t as popular as some of the other waterfalls in the area and has more privacy. On this short, 2.4-mile round-trip walk, you’ll get to see both Elowah and Upper McCord Creek Falls.

On this path, you can walk through the forest and look for more signs of the Eagle Creek Fire, which tore through the Gorge in 2017 and caused a lot of damage. The walk to the 213-foot single-drop waterfall is pretty easy and good for families.

Note: Because of a landslide, the path to Elowah Falls is closed, but you can still get to Upper McCord Creek Falls.

11. Wahclella Falls

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 1.9 miles

Elevation Gain: 230 feet

This trail takes you through the forest and along some steep drops to the beautiful Wahclella Falls. The two-tiered waterfall drops through a canyon of green, moss-covered rocks. It is a very amazing sight.

Even though this hike is famous, it is a longer hike that some tourists who are looking for shorter hikes don’t do it. I also love going to Wahclella Falls on a wet day because there are enough trees to keep me dry and it’s not as busy.

The trail is nice if you stay close to Tanner Creek the whole time. You can also see Munra Falls from this path. It’s a short walk with very little elevation gain, so it’s great for families and people who have never been hiking before.

This is one of the best easy walks in the Columbia River Gorge, you’ll want to check it out.

12. Coyote Wall

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 6.8 miles

Elevation gain: 1,700 feet

This is one of the more moderate hikes on this list in the Columbia Gorge, and should absolutely be on your list of Columbia River Gorge hikes. In the spring, the area around Coyote Wall is filled with beautiful plants that make it look like a magical land. Purple lupine and yellow balsamroot add bright splashes of color to the green grass in the fields.

This long hike takes you through an open area high above Washington’s Columbia River Gorge. On a clear day, you can see Mount Hood, which is 11,249 feet tall and stands high above the Gorge, in the background.

Coyote Wall is great at other times of the year, too, but it’s especially beautiful in the spring, when the wildflowers are blooming, so I suggest saving it for then.

13. Multnomah Falls

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 2.4 miles

Elevation gain: 810 feet

Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon. It drops 620 feet into Multnomah Creek in two levels.

You’ll start at the very famous trailhead for this waterfall hike and walk up to the main viewpoint, which is just a few steps from the parking lot. This part of the road is paved and can be used by wheelchairs. Many people stop here and don’t go any further.

If you want to go further, you can walk up a few steps to Benson Bridge and look at Upper Multnomah Falls from there. Follow the road until it turns into a dirt trail, and then walk up to the upper falls.

This is a unique point of view that most people don’t see because they only go as far as the first viewpoint.

The parking lot here fills up very quickly, especially in the summer. If you want to get a spot, I suggest getting there before 8:00 am.

14. Dog Mountain

Difficulty: Hard

Distance: 6.5 miles

Elevation gain: 2,988 feet

Dog Mountain Trail, in the spectacular Columbia River Gorge, offers a challenging 6.9-mile hike. Its elevation gain of 2,800 feet culminates in breathtaking panoramic views of the Gorge. Springtime paints the trail with vibrant wildflowers, enhancing the rigorous climb.

Despite its difficulty, the trail’s unique beauty has made it a cherished destination for nature enthusiasts and avid hikers, promising a rewarding experience of diverse landscapes and wildlife. Don’t miss the summit’s viewpoint – on clear days, it offers an unforgettable vista stretching from Mt. Hood to Mt. Saint Helens.

15. Herman Creek Trail

Difficulty: Hard

Distance: 21.2 miles

Elevation gain: 5,318 feet

The Herman Creek Trail offers a vigorous 21-mile loop. This trail, provides hikers with a mesmerizing mix of old-growth forests, basalt cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. Renowned for its wilderness beauty, it is a haven for those seeking solitude in nature.

Remember to pace yourself, the trail’s length and elevation make it a challenging yet rewarding journey.En route, keep an eye out for the lush carpet of ferns and moss, bringing a touch of enchantment to this exhilarating hike.

16. Pacific Crest Trail

The Pacific Crest Trail carves a stunning path through the Columbia River Gorge, spanning both Washington and Oregon. In this captivating section, roughly 40 miles long, the trail reveals a varied tableau of soaring cliffs, verdant forests, wildflower meadows, and sparkling waterfalls.

Hikers navigate challenging elevation changes, but are rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of the Gorge and the surrounding Cascade volcanoes. Serving as a rite of passage for many hikers, this segment of the Pacific Crest Trail encapsulates the awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur of the Columbia River Gorge’s diverse landscapes.

17. Hamilton Mountain Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 6.4 miles

Elevation gain: 2,060 feet

The Hamilton Mountain Trail offers an exhilarating trek packed with diverse landscapes and is know for being one of the best hikes in the Pacific Northwest. The trail reveals a stunning tapestry of towering cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and a vast panorama of the Columbia River.

Hikers can marvel at the awe-inspiring Hardy and Rodney Falls, along with breathtaking vistas from the mountain’s peak. Despite its difficulty, Hamilton Mountain Trail is a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts due to its unmatchable beauty and the rewarding satisfaction of reaching the summit. Don’t forget to bring your camera, the views are unforgettable!

18. Table Mountain Trail

Difficulty: Hard

Distance: 16.4 miles

Elevation gain: 4,311 feet

Table Mountain Trail, found in the scenic Columbia River Gorge, presents an adventurous trek accessible via the iconic Pacific Crest Trail. If you don’t want to take on the entire trail, this strenuous hike rewards with sublime views from the flat-topped summit overlooking the Gorge.

The trail’s diverse landscape offers a mix of wildflower meadows, tranquil forests, and steep, challenging climbs. Hikers will be fascinated by the distinct geological formations resulting from a massive landslide centuries ago. Despite its toughness, the panoramic vista at the summit makes every step worthwhile, marking it a beloved trail among seasoned hikers.

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19. Lyle Cherry Orchard Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 5 miles

Elevation gain: 1,213 feet

The Lyle Cherry Orchard Trail is a captivating option for easy hikes. This moderately challenging trail passes through an old cherry orchard and offers sweeping views of the Gorge, the river, and surrounding hillsides.

This unique blend of human history and natural beauty provides a scenic backdrop for hikers. The trail’s path, embellished with springtime wildflowers, rocky outcrops, and Garry Oak stands, adds a sense of exploration and adventure. Despite its relative brevity, the Lyle Cherry Orchard Trail presents a fulfilling, diverse, and memorable hiking experience.

20. Wahkeena Falls

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 5.1 miles

Elevation gain: 1,640 feet

Wahkeena Falls Trail offers an enchanting loop trail, famous for its mesmerizing waterfalls. The trail treats hikers to the spectacle of the cascading 242-foot Wahkeena Falls, as well as Fairy Falls, Ecola Falls, and Weisendanger Falls. You can also continue on to the famous Multnomah Falls from this trail, as well.

This trail winds through lush, old-growth forest, blooming wildflowers, and opens up to stunning viewpoints of the Gorge. Despite its challenging inclines, Wahkeena Falls Trail is a rewarding adventure for nature lovers, waterfall enthusiasts, and hikers seeking the allure of the Columbia River Gorge’s breathtaking scenery.

21. Larch Mountain

Difficulty: Hard

Distance: 15 miles

Elevation gain: 3,989 feet

The Larch Mountain Trail is known for its varied terrain and how it immerses hikers in an enchanting journey through lush old-growth forest, past cascading waterfalls, including the renowned Multnomah Falls, and to the peak’s panoramic view.

From the summit, on clear days, hikers can see five volcanoes, including Mt. Hood and Mt. St. Helens. Although strenuous, Larch Mountain Trail offers an unforgettable hiking experience, combining breathtaking views, diverse ecosystems, and significant elevation gain for those seeking a challenging adventure.

Where to stay for hiking trails in the Columbia River Gorge

Because the Columbia River Gorge is so expansive, you have plenty of places to stay. However, the most common city to explore the area from is from some of the small towns within the gorge itself.

Here are some of my recommended options for accommodations that offer easy access to the hiking trails in the Columbia River Gorge.

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⭐BEST FOR BUDGET TRAVELERS: RODEWAY INN & SUITES⭐

⭐BEST FOR COUPLES: CARSON HOT SPRINGS RESORT AND SPA⭐

⭐BEST FOR FAMILIES: FAIRFIELD BY MARRIOTT THE DALLES⭐

⭐BEST FOR INSTAGRAM: INN AT THE GORGE⭐

⭐BEST FOR ADVENTURERS: SKAMANIA LODGE⭐

⭐BEST AIRBNB: CARSON RIDGE LUXURY CABINS⭐

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Tips for hiking in the Columbia River Gorge

Here are some recommended tips for the best hikes in the Columbia River Gorge.

• Optimal visiting times: To make the most of your hiking experience at Columbia River Gorge, it is advisable to schedule your visits during the weekdays or early in the morning. Due to the area’s popularity, parking lots around the Gorge have a tendency to reach capacity quickly, particularly during weekends and holidays. An early start not only guarantees you a parking spot but also allows you to enjoy the peace and serenity of the trails before the crowds arrive.
• Security precautions: Break-ins at trailheads are unfortunately not uncommon at Columbia River Gorge. To avoid becoming a victim, it’s best to bring only essentials and leave your valuable goods either securely at home or with you on the trail. This precaution includes items such as electronics, expensive gear, and personal documents. When parking your vehicle, ensure it’s locked and visibly empty of any enticing items.
• Pass requirements: Be prepared with the correct pass for each site. Depending on where you plan to hike, you might need an America the Beautiful, Discover, or Northwest Forest pass. These passes are essential for trail access and contribute to the maintenance and preservation of the park. Before your visit, check the specific requirements for your planned destination and ensure you have the appropriate pass.
• Packing essentials: The weather in Columbia River Gorge can be unpredictable, and sudden showers are not uncommon. Always pack a high-quality, waterproof rain jacket. This layer will keep you dry during unexpected rainfalls and can also serve as a windbreaker during breezy conditions. Lightweight and easy to pack, a rain jacket is an essential item that could significantly enhance your comfort during your hike. Also remember a waterproof pair of hiking boots for the rain, as well.
• Weather forecast: The weather in the Gorge can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. It’s crucial to check the weather forecast before setting out on your hike. Be prepared for different weather scenarios by packing layers and bringing along sufficient food and water. If the forecast predicts severe weather, consider postponing your hike to ensure your safety.
• Available trails: The Columbia River Gorge boasts a vast selection of trails that cater to all levels of hiking proficiency. There are plenty of easy hikes that beginners or families can enjoy, with well-marked trails and stunning views. Research ahead to find the trail that matches your experience and fitness level for a safe and enjoyable hike.
• Accessibility: One of the many advantages of hiking in the Columbia River Gorge is its proximity to major cities like Portland, Hood River, and Vancouver. This accessibility makes it an excellent choice for both locals looking for a quick escape into nature and tourists seeking to explore the region’s beauty. Despite being close to urban areas and the historic Columbia River Highway, the Gorge offers a genuine wilderness experience with its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Conclusion: hikes in the Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge offers an unparalleled variety of hiking experiences, each trail promising awe-inspiring vistas, enchanting waterfalls, and the chance to immerse yourself in the Pacific Northwest’s spectacular biodiversity. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual nature lover, this pristine treasure trove invites exploration, offering a rejuvenating escape from the everyday.

Have any questions about hikes in the Columbia River Gorge? Let me know in the comments!

My name is Leandro (Leo for short). I am a digital marketer who one day discovered that I love blogging, SEO, and ways to make money online. Traveling and exploring cultures is another of my passions.

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