Never disappoints. Winter is less touristy but the water Colin is much better to make more and…read morebetter waterfalls. There are spots with warnings of slides, beware and respect them - don't risk your safety. I even found still maturing blackberries that are bright red in mid December! And a bunch of cute looking mushrooms. The air is amazing. The gorge view is breathtaking and never gets old. Love it.

One of many great places to pull off the 84 and see waterfalls...but here you can park and easily…read morewalk to 3 in no time. Do yourself a favor and make this stop when heading east...otherwise you'll be loons like us and have to go past, come back east, and then east again in order to head back west. Worth the out-of-the-way loop? Yes! 3 nice falls for literally anyone with any walking ability. There's a decent sized lot, as well as restrooms. Starvation Falls is right there, just steps away from the lot. Head up the trail westward and you'll hit both Cabin Creek and Hole in the Wall Falls before you know it. I didn't time it exactly, but if you've got 30 mins I'm sure you can take it all 3. Each falls has its own character and gorgeous setting, as well as picnic tables at Starvation. Yes, ANOTHER stop along the 84 to see waterfalls. There are a couple others nearby should you have a bit more time to hike, but a short stroll gets you a sweet pic times 3!

Best time for this hike is end of April and May when the wildflowers are in bloom and cover the…read morehillsides with purple widow's grass, yellow balsam root, blue lupine and lavendar bachelor buttons. It's my favorite time to be in this area! Best place to park is right before the Mosier Creek Bridge as you leave the tiny two block downtown area. As you begin the hike you come to the cemetery of the founding father's of this charming town. Continue for another 10 minutes to the falls and the swimming hole below. The falls are small, not like the 7 popular falls you see along the Old Historic Highway by Multnomah Falls, but still lovely. Continue on and up where views of the Columbia River from this vantage point are breathtaking. The river widens In this area and slight turns as it makes it's way through Mosier and onto Rowena making for a beautiful vista to take in and photo ops. Unlike at Rowena Plateau and Tom McCall Preserve, dogs are allowed on these trails.

Pretty fun trail with a variety of sites!…read more There's a small parking area right in town just on the other side of the bridge from where the trail begins. You can make a very short hike of it and just go to the falls. Or you can continue on from there and complete the approximately 3 mile out and back with a small loop at the top...I recommend the latter. There's nice signage at the start explaining some trail details. You'll pass by a cool, tiny cemetery and venture on to the falls. Mosier Falls was a bit more substantial than I'd expected, set in a pretty canyon with an overlook for your viewing pleasure. Should you wish to continue on the trail...and you really should...you'll start up the side of the hill on switchbacks and stairs to the top. Tiny flowers popping up were blanketing the entire hillside, and I'm guessing it'll be quite a show in couple of weeks. After zigging and zagging multiple times you'll reach the top and come to an overview with spectacular views of the gorge. There's a bench there should you need a little rest or just wish to sit and take in the view for a bit. From the viewpoint you'll see the dirt trail continue on. It meanders further down to the end of the line...a short loop that offers even more gorge views. The trail is quite narrow and fairly unshaded most of the way and there are regular signs warning hikers of private property lines. We enjoyed it on a Saturday morning, along with quite a few other hikers. It's a decent workout, a pretty waterfall, and some beautiful gorge views...not too shabby!

My wife and I set out for an adventure from East Vancouver, heading to Dog Creek Falls, which we…read morereached in about an hour. The falls are conveniently located right off the highway, with ample parking available. In fact, we had the place to ourselves for the first 25 minutes or so. From the parking lot, it's just a short, easy walk--about 100 yards--to the falls. The waterfall is absolutely stunning, with crystal-clear water cascading into a serene, picturesque setting that feels tucked away from the world.

A small waterfall...especially if compared to the endless supply of spectacular falls along the…read moreColumbia Gorge. There's a nice sign for Dog Creek easily seen when traveling along the 14. If you're heading west you might not see the turnoff to the parking area until you pass it. There's a decent amount of parking available, but no toilet or trash bins. Dog Creek is sweet and in a peaceful setting. The falls are easily seen from the highway, but a very short path leads from the lot to the water. A small and simple single drop falls comes down from the canyon, however we took the drone up and could see there's quite a bit more to the river and falls higher up...we did not attempt to venture up there though. There's a small pool at the base of the falls and great shade. I could see it be a nice place for families to picnic and kiddos to splash around in the summer. In an area full of fabulous hikes and sites Dog Creek Falls might not stand out, but it's a easy place to stop off the highway and quickly enjoy a falls with the fam.

This review is for Lower Falls Creek Trail which was a ~3.2 miles round trip that took ~1.5 hours…read moreto complete. Just 50 mins away from Multnomah Falls; we decided to cross the Bridge Of The Gods into Washington! There was a $3 toll fee at the bridge (class 1 vehicle). Trail was narrow for the most part where you will need to stop to let others pass. Overall, not too difficult with a stunning waterfall at the end! Required to drive on dirt road to reach the trailhead. Short video of the hike for those interested! https://youtu.be/O3n5GA00KA4

Great out and back at approximately 3 miles RT. The falls are so spectacular, a much longer trek…read morewould be perfectly acceptable! The trail itself is pretty narrow at times, we had to pull off often to let others through from the opposite direction. The environment is lovely, beautiful trees and the wonderful sounds of rushing water. When you approach the falls it's pretty jaw-dropping. From a distance, peeking through the trees the anticipation of what's coming is energizing. Once you arrive there are large boulders and layers to climb around to get different views (warning, some spots slippery). Although you can't possibly see the top areas of the falls fully, what you get to see is simply gorgeous. A beautiful pool and forest surroundings, along with a waterfall of spectacular height with a plethora of refreshing spray...what more could you want?! I've taken in quite a few falls in the area and so far this one takes the cake. Definitely worth a trek to see in person, as pictures do not do it justice. Would LOVE to see this hike and falls snow-covered too!

I LOVED this trail. So much fun with so much to see along the way and gorgeous views of the gorge…read moreand Mt Hood. The Labyrinth links to a few trails including Coyote Wall. Although the Labyrinth alone is shown as a 3 1/2 mile out and back there is a link trail at Labyrinth Falls that shoots over the ridge and towards Little Maui Falls Trail and Coyote, as well as a signed junction pointing you towards each falls. These trails are clearly popular with bikers and hikers. Signage states that dogs have to be leashed December to July. Aside from the constant epic views, the landscape is unique with streams, falls, springtime flowers, and (I assume) ground squirrels popping up and down from their homes. We started at the trailhead at the junction of Old Hwy 8 and the 14 at Rowland Lake. There's a small parking area there with more parking along the 8. The trail actually starts by heading up the semi-creepy abandoned hwy 8 where you'll quickly encounter Lower Labyrinth Falls. Soon you'll encounter trail signage that'll lead you on your way. Just a stunning trail, other worldly. We only covered part of the trails available in the area and can't wait to return for more!

What a lovely idea! Paving and renewing the old Columbia River Highway and making it a walking…read moretrail. Wide enough for bikes and walkers to pass without disturbing each other. The paths are probably as wide as they once were many years ago with older cars, horse and carriage, which is plenty wide enough. Fairly flat, it does have some raises in elevation, but it is really not bad at all. Lovely views. It is an easy walk, and closed to motorized vehicles. Honestly, this was my favorite part of my recent trip to Portland and I hope to walk other parts of this trail.

My wife and I were looking for a nice easy hike right outside of Portland and we found one!…read more It is a paved road that is blocked off to cars and it has beautiful views of the Columbia River. I didn't realize how huge the Columbia was. It was a perfect day and everyone we passed by was super friendly. Great walking trail for someone who isn't a fan of off-road hiking like me. Give it a shot!

A simple yet beautiful trail that is fully paved and meanders down towards the river providing…read morevast, expansive views of the magnificent Columbia River. If you visit during wildflower season, it's even more beautiful with colorful wildflowers covering the fields. This trail is one of the few ADA accessible, which I really appreciate. While I do not use a wheelchair, I do have a disability and my legs can not handle the dirt and rock trails that are uneven. So having a paved path means that I can enjoy the gorgeous nature in this area. Wildflower season ranges from end of March to June, but every year is different based on the weather. This year (2022) was a very cold and rainy spring which delayed and prolonged the season. In April the hills were covered in yellow balsomroot and then blue lupine. End of May and heading into June, the next wave of flowers brings shades of blue from the delicate cornflowers with California poppies providing vibrant pops of orange Along the way. It's stunning! Wildflower season is my favorite season! Along the path there are many benches for those wanting to just relax and chill; some in the shade, some in the sun. There are also placards providing info on the area, the wildflowers, and the importance of pollination. The Catherine Creek paved trail is south of the parking area, which is a gravel section along Highway 8. Cross the street, the access is just past the porta potty. If you want the Catherine Creek Arch trail, it is on the same side as the parking, just head up the hill on the dirt trail. It's an easy 1.5 mile paved path that does have some declines and inclines as you make your way down, around, and then back up. If you head clockwise, you can see the creek to your left. If you decide to go off the paved path down to the creek, know there is a lot of poison oak and ticks. I stayed on the path, which is clear and well maintained. Note for wheelchair users - the path is wide and paved, but there are some areas where it slopes down and then makes it way back up. Another great thing about Catherine Creek Trail and Catherine Creek Arch Loop is that parking is free, no day pass required. The parking area is on the smaller side and on weekends, especially during wildflower time, it does get crowded. I went midweek and there was plenty of parking and I only came across two people on the path. Great for people of all ages and skills. For expert hikers, do the Catherine Arch first then finish with Catherine Creek.

The trailhead was pretty busy Saturday afternoon, but there's a decent amount of parking along Old…read moreHwy 8 at the head. There are trails on both sides of the Hwy...according to the trail map only two above 8 and one below within Catherine Creek, but another trail leads towards Coyote Wall. We only took one uphill loop this day. The trails are quite narrow and the footing mostly uneven and rocky. The views are stunning throughout, and the flowers are emerging. As the trails wind mostly through the open ridge there is almost no shade...sunblock sunblock! It's an enjoyable spot for a hike for sure, although for me not quite AS pretty as the nearby Labyrinth Trail. We will definitely return to complete the other trails...good times.

Sometimes you just have to reset life…read more It's a nice drive to get here but and even better view when you get out and take in all the beauty. First thing: wear comfortable shoes. And I'm not talking basketball sneakers or flip flops or raised heel shoes. I'm talking nice hiking shoes or shoes with spikes. I personally used my work steel toes because of the thick grove soles. I saw some people with walking poles. Second: wear appropriate clothing. Bring a light jacket with hoodie. I watched a couple of older ladies wear a dress. And some young teens wearing skirts. I thought the EMO phase was done with. Third: bring something to drink. There is a cafe at the bottom of the trail but nothing after that. Fourth: stay on the trail. I didn't see anyone deviate but there are patches of mud and slippery wood steps and slick bridge sections. There are portions along the trials that don't have guard rails or safety lines. Fifth: don't be an idiot. Running past people or yelling out loud between your friends and family. Help people capture memories by offering to take pictures (with their camera not yours). Lastly: Take in all the scenery. Appreciate the beauty of nature and your fellow human. There were dogs on the trail also. Overall five stars. Enjoy a stress free life, even if it's for a couple of hours. M

If you don't have a reservation, parking is a nightmare, especially in summer…read more We had to drive further down and made an illegal u-turn to the Wahkeena Falls parking lot, waited 15 minutes for a spot, and then hike 0.6 miles on a rocky, unpaved road just to get to the entrance. The area is heavily crowded and can be overwhelming if you are trying to enjoy a quiet nature. The paved trail up to the bridge is an easy walk that gets you right next to the upper falls and surrounding by the mist. It's a beautiful spot, and we look forward to coming back in the winter when it's hopefully quieter.

Located just off the Columbia River Gorge lies this beautiful, unique waterfall that flows…read morebeautifully down the rocky moss. Getting here on the side road can be a little risky, so please drive safe, drive slow, and share the road. Parking is right after the crossing signal in an open dirt lot across from the falls. There's two paths, the upper view point which will no give you the view you see in Al the pictures, but it's easy for a quick teaser. Stay to the left and up to go down to the falls and there you'll see this beautiful fall. The path can get muddy from the cliffs and water running on the sides. The multiple fall streams on the moss is what makes this fall so eye pleasing. The rocks are slippery so mind to the paths and enjoy beautiful fall!

Well what can I say besides this is one of the most beautiful hikes I have ever been on. The hike…read moreto get to the waterfall is short enough and once you get there, you could literally watch the water fall for hours. It looks like something out of a movie, a fantasy movie with fairies and goddesses. The path to get there can be a little bit narrow, so I recommend wearing shoes with good grip and don't take too much with you, it's best to pack light for this one. You could truly sit there for hours with nothing but the water entertaining you. It's so pure and cleansing and definitely something you will think about the rest of your day, if not week. I highly recommend this beautiful aspect of nature.

What a beautiful hike! I'd say it's pretty family-friendly overall. There is some uphill hiking and…read moretwo short sections that are a little questionable to get up and over, but we were able to do it with a 9-month-old strapped to one parent, a 3-year-old strapped to the other, a 12-year-old, a 14-year-old, and two grandparents. We loved that most of the trail is shaded by trees, though enough sun still comes through that sunscreen is recommended. Definitely bring water. One of the coolest parts is that you can go up behind the waterfall, but be prepared to climb rocks to get there--it's not an easy walk-up-and-around situation. The hike is about 3.5-3.6 miles. There were a decent number of people there, but it never felt overwhelmingly crowded. Amenities include restrooms, picnic tables, an information kiosk, and dogs are allowed on leash. A $5 day pass, Northwest Forest Pass, or Interagency Pass is required from May 15 to October 1.

Tamanawas Falls is one of my favorite waterfalls I've seen in Oregon…read more I've hiked it twice now-- once this past summer with my cousin, and more recently, last week. The hike is about three and a half miles round trip, with about 600 feet in elevation gain. Some light scrambling is necessary to get up close to the waterfall. There is a decent sized parking area at the trail head. Parking is $5 or free with a valid recreation pass. The waterfall itself is a hundred foot tall curtain. While it's only about one third the size, the shape reminds me of Vernal Fall in Yosemite. The basalt underneath the waterfall is very pretty and interesting to examine. There were lots of yellow trees (in October) including maple and Tamarack. I've read that you can go behind this waterfall, but I did not, since I'm a chicken, and like to play it safe around water. The hike was a little harder than it sounds, but still definitely doable within a couple of hours. There are a few campgrounds nearby, including Sherwood, Pollalie, and Nottingham.