Wahclella Falls Hike

This trail is currently closed in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. 
For Columbia River Gorge status check this site:
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/crgnsa/alerts-notices/?aid=57036

Short hike with breathtaking views and two waterfalls

Wahclella Falls hike is an easy 2.4 miles round trip walk in the Columbia River Gorge with gorgeous views and two waterfalls. The trail was reopened in August 2019 after Eagle Creek Fire.

I was so excited when I read that this trail was finally reopened after the Eagle Creek trail fire. We visited this beautiful place for the first time in September 2015, with my daughter and I couldn’t come back until last year. I love this area with all my heart and seeing Nature recovering from that fire makes me happy.

Returning to Wahclella Falls!

This time I decided to do a solo hike and going during a weekday (Novembre-2019). The trail was in great condition in general but you can still see signs of the fire. Some sections include steep dropoffs and muddy areas so please be extra careful there, especially with your little ones.

Before heading out to Columbia River Gorge is always a good idea to check the USDA Forest Service web page for alerts about the condition of roads and trails, plus to know if you need a special pass or fee for parking and daily use. Another great web page to check about updates is Friends of Columbia Gorge.

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Wahclella Falls Hike

The hike starts at the parking area of the trailhead. The first part of the trail is flat and you start seeing tall and amazing trees immediately while you are hiking alongside Tanner Creek.

Then after passing a small dam suddenly you will find your first waterfall! Munra Falls. It’s small but so magical (I read a lot of fairy tail books during my childhood so every visit to the woods is for me a kind of epic adventure full of magic and mysteries haha).

After Munra Falls the trail starts to climb up a little so it was a good exercise! But the beauty of this place makes each step worth it. I just saw only a few people that day and I was happy to have my camera handy to take photos.

Let me tell you the photos don’t make any justice to this trail, when you are walking there you would not believe your eyes. It is really stunning and for that reason one of the most popular hikes in Columbia Gorge. For me is one of the most beautiful trails I’ve ever visited.

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And at the end when you think you saw everything you finally find Wahclella Falls. It’s out of this world! Really breathtaking, trust me. I was there again! I just stopped and admired that place.

Thank you to all who have contributed and worked hard on reopening this trail for us.

If you liked this hike another beautiful one in the area is Bridal Veil Falls.

Main features/Amenities

• Two waterfalls and wonderful views.
• Parking on the trailhead (The lot is small so it’s better to go there during weekdays and preferably early in the morning).
• Picnic table and information kiosk.
• Portable toilet on-site year-round.
• Family Friendly (just be extra careful on steep dropoffs areas)
• Dog-Friendly (on leash)

Important information

• Location: Wahclella Falls Trail, Cascade Locks, OR 97014. From Portland, OR travel east on Interstate 84 to exit #40, Bonneville Fish Hatchery.  Turn right and right again (south) and follow the road to the trailhead.  From Cascade Locks OR travel west on Interstate 84 to exit #40, Bonneville Fish Hatchery.  Turn left (south) and follow the road to the trailhead on the right.
• Fees: Day use fee of $5/vehicle/day. Drop box available for a day pass (cash). I bought the Digital Recreation Day Pass. For other valid passes please visit recreation passes.
• Please read the alerts before going there, the area should be avoided after heavy rainy days.
• Sadly car break-ins happen sometimes there so please read these recommendations.