The Pacific Northwest has always been a popular spot for travels in the US.  This area has a bit of everything from rugged coastlines to expansive mountains, amazing food and temperate weather.  There is no shortage of beautiful places to visit and things to do.  It is a traveler’s dream!  If you happen to be heading to the area, make sure to plan a day trip to take in some wonderful waterfalls.

Getting There

To see these waterfalls you will need to travel to Portland, Oregon or the immediate surrounding area.  Just outside of the city is the beautiful Columbia River Gorge.  Spanning more than 80 miles, the gorge borders Oregon and Washington state.  You can drive here on your own if you have a car, or you can sign up for one of many local tours.

A vacation to the area is not complete without visiting this beautiful place just 30 minutes from Portland.  Here you will see fantastic towering trees and stunning vistas along the Columbia River, as well as many other beautiful spots.  This is the place to take in the picturesque waterfalls!  There are opportunities to hike or just soak in the scenic views throughout the gorge.

Along the way, you will encounter many great waterfalls.  While there are plenty to choose from, here’s our list of those you should not miss!

Must see waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge

Horsetail Falls.  This waterfall is located directly off the highway and is the first one we saw on our tour.  I love how this stream cuts through the green and gently splashes into the pool below.

Multnomah Falls.  Cascading for more than 620 feet from top to bottom, this iconic two-tiered waterfall is one of the most well-known in the area.  Visitors can take a short walk up the trail to access the bridge in the middle.  This view gives a great vantage point of the waterfall above, as well as the continuation of the water rushing down below.

Wahkeena Falls – Hidden within the dense foliage, Wahkeena Falls works its way through the landscape and is less dramatic than its nearby neighbors.  Regardless this waterfall and the foliage are beautiful to take in.  There is a short hike you can take for optimal viewing.

Shepherd’s Dell Bridge.  While there is a waterfall here, the bridge is what you really want to see at this spot.  This area is perfect for photography!

Latourell Falls.  This straight waterfall plunges off the rocks, directly into the pool below.   With a little bit of hiking around the pool, you can end up right beside this waterfall!

The Vista House at Crown Point. Stop here for great views of the gorge and Columbia River!  You’ll have the opportunity to take in some history and grab snacks here too.

These waterfalls are all so big and beautiful!  The natural environment they are set in is so dense and lush.  You’ll be impressed out how diverse each waterfall is, and none of them disappoint!  There are plenty more in the area to see too!  Remember, you can easily access this great showcase of nature from Portland.  Plan at least half a day, or a full day if you have time in your schedule.

And, always remember the advice from a waterfall!

“Go with the flow, roar with excitement, let your cares fall away, make your own music, immerse yourself in nature, stay active, and make a splash!” – Ilan Shamir

Have you visited Columbia River Gorge?  What did you think?  Tell us about it in the comments below!

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