15 Best Waterfalls Near Portland, Oregon: A Quick Guide
As the largest city in Oregon, Portland is surrounded by natural beauty, with numerous waterfalls just a short drive away. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip or an adventurous hike, the Columbia River Gorge and surrounding areas are home to many stunning waterfalls. Here’s a quick guide to the 15 best waterfalls near Portland, Oregon:
1. Multnomah Falls
Distance from Portland: 30 miles, 45-minute drive
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Height: 620 ft (189 m)
Type: Plunge waterfall
Visit the parking lot and take a short walk to the ridge for a stunning view of the second-largest falls in Oregon.
2. Wahkeena Falls
Distance from Portland: 60 miles, 1-hour drive
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Height: 242 ft (74 m)
Accessible via a 2-mile (3.2 km) hike or a short drive from the parking lot
3. Latourell Falls
Distance from Portland: 50 miles, 1-hour drive
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Height: 249 ft (76 m)
Accessible via a 2-mile (3.2 km) hike or a short drive from the parking lot
4. Bridal Veil Falls
Distance from Portland: 45 miles, 1-hour drive
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Height: 120 ft (37 m)
Accessible via a 2-mile (3.2 km) hike
5. Ponytail Falls
Distance from Portland: 45 miles, 1-hour drive
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Height: 80 ft (24 m)
Accessible via a 1-mile (1.6 km) hike
6. Horsetail Falls
Distance from Portland: 40 miles, 1-hour drive
Location: Forest Park
Height: 176 ft (54 m)
Accessible via a 2.5-mile (4 km) hike or a short drive from the parking lot
7. Elowah Falls
Distance from Portland: 35 miles, 45-minute drive
Location: John Yeon Scenic Highway
Height: 213 ft (65 m)
Accessible via a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) hike
8. Guy W. Talbot State Natural Site
Distance from Portland: 30 miles, 45-minute drive
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Height: 120 ft (37 m)
Accessible via a 3-mile (4.8 km) hike
9. Bridal Veil Lake Falls
Distance from Portland: 25 miles, 40-minute drive
Location: Bridal Veil
Height: 60 ft (18 m)
Accessible via a 0.5-mile (0.8 km) hike
10. Newton Creek Falls
Distance from Portland: 45 miles, 1-hour drive
Location: Mount Hood
Height: 120 ft (37 m)
Accessible via a 2.5-mile (4 km) hike
11. Falls Creek Falls
Distance from Portland: 45 miles, 1-hour drive
Location: Mount Hood
Height: 200 ft (61 m)
Accessible via a 2.5-mile (4 km) hike
12. Undine Falls
Distance from Portland: 35 miles, 45-minute drive
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Height: 30 ft (9 m)
Accessible via a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) hike
13. Lower Oneonta Falls
Distance from Portland: 35 miles, 45-minute drive
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Height: 100 ft (30 m)
Accessible via a 0.5-mile (0.8 km) hike
14. Upper Oneonta Falls
Distance from Portland: 35 miles, 45-minute drive
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Height: 80 ft (24 m)
Accessible via a 2-mile (3.2 km) hike
15. Silver Falls
Distance from Portland: 20 miles, 30-minute drive
Location: Silver Falls Trailhead
Height: 100 ft (30 m)
Accessible via a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) hike
Remember to check trail conditions, regulations, and any necessary permits before planning your trip. Bring essential gear, including hiking boots, water, and snacks. Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Oregon’s waterfalls and the great outdoors!