The Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood area offer some of the most spectacular waterfall hikes in the Pacific Northwest. These short afternoon walks provide perfect escapes from city life without requiring a full day commitment. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly strolls or slightly more challenging adventures, these trails deliver stunning natural beauty within easy reach of Portland.
1. Latourell Falls Loop — Guy W. Talbot State Park (Gorge)
Picture-perfect columnar basalt formations create a dramatic backdrop for this accessible waterfall adventure. The 2.4-mile loop trail takes you to both Upper and Lower Latourell Falls, offering two completely different waterfall experiences in one manageable hike.
Lower Latourell Falls plunges 249 feet in a single drop, while the upper falls provides a more intimate setting. The trail winds through lush forest before opening to spectacular viewpoints.
Best of all, no trailhead pass is required at this state park, making it budget-friendly for families. The well-maintained paths and relatively gentle elevation gain make this hike suitable for most fitness levels and ages.
2. Wahclella Falls — near Bonneville (Gorge)
Following Tanner Creek through a narrow canyon leads to one of the Gorge’s most dramatic natural amphitheaters. This 2.4-mile out-and-back trail feels like walking through a hidden world as moss-covered walls rise on both sides.
The payoff comes when you reach the falls, where water cascades into a circular basin surrounded by towering rock walls. Multiple viewpoints let you appreciate different angles of this geological masterpiece.
Creek crossings add adventure without being dangerous, and the relatively easy terrain makes this hike popular with photographers. A recreation pass may be needed for parking, so check current requirements before heading out.
3. Starvation Creek Waterfalls cluster — Starvation Creek State Park (Gorge)
When time is limited but waterfall cravings are strong, this ultra-convenient option delivers instant gratification. The main Starvation Creek Falls sits just 50 feet from the parking area, making it accessible for everyone including those with mobility challenges.
Extend your adventure by walking the paved Historic Highway State Trail to discover Cabin Creek and Hole-in-the-Wall Falls. This gentle half-mile addition follows the original Columbia River Highway route.
The paved trail makes this perfect for families with strollers or anyone wanting an easy nature walk. Multiple waterfalls in such a short distance provide maximum scenic reward for minimal effort invested.
4. Dry Creek Falls — Cascade Locks (Gorge)
Escape the crowds of more famous Gorge waterfalls while still enjoying spectacular columnar basalt scenery. This 4.4-mile out-and-back hike starts from the Pacific Crest Trail trailhead in Cascade Locks, offering a taste of the famous long-distance trail.
The falls themselves drop gracefully against a backdrop of geometric rock formations that showcase the area’s volcanic history. Fewer visitors mean better photo opportunities and peaceful moments to appreciate nature’s artistry.
While slightly longer than other options, the trail maintains moderate difficulty throughout. The connection to the PCT adds extra appeal for hikers interested in experiencing part of this legendary trail system.
5. Little Zigzag Falls — near Government Camp (Mt. Hood corridor)
Moss-covered rocks and shaded forest paths create an enchanting atmosphere on this family-friendly adventure. The easy 0.6 to 0.75-mile round-trip hike follows a charming creek through old-growth forest to reach the fan-shaped waterfall.
Kids love the stream crossings and opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. The falls spread gracefully across rocky ledges, creating multiple cascades that change with seasonal water levels.
Located at the end of Kiwanis Camp Road, the trailhead provides easy access to Mount Hood’s natural beauty. This shorter option works perfectly when you want mountain scenery without the commitment of longer alpine hikes.
6. Tamanawas Falls — East side of Mt. Hood (OR-35)
Hidden along the Cold Spring Creek, this spectacular 100-foot cascade rewards hikers with one of Mount Hood’s most photogenic waterfalls. The moderately easy 3.8-mile round trip trail winds through old-growth forest filled with towering Douglas firs and western hemlocks.
During summer months, brave visitors can cool off in the refreshing pool at the waterfall’s base. The trail crosses several wooden bridges and follows the creek for most of the journey, making it especially enjoyable for families with older children.
Plan about 2-3 hours for this adventure, including time to relax and enjoy lunch near the falls.
7. Umbrella & Sahalie Falls Loop — Mt. Hood Meadows area (OR-35)
Two stunning waterfalls await discovery on this delightful 2.5-mile loop trail near the popular ski resort area. Umbrella Falls gets its name from the unique rock formation that creates a natural umbrella shape as water cascades over the ledge.
Sahalie Falls, meaning ‘high’ in Chinook, drops dramatically through a narrow rocky gorge. The connecting trail offers beautiful meadow views and wildflower displays during late spring and early summer months.
Both waterfalls provide excellent photography opportunities, and the loop format means you won’t retrace your steps. Allow 2 hours to complete this scenic adventure comfortably.
