Wahclella Falls is my favorite easy hike near PDX. It's about 2 miles and is an out and back trail with a waterfall. It takes a little over half an hour to complete and has one of the most interesting waterfalls in the gorge. read more

Wahclella Falls Hike - Waterfall view - Hiking Near Me - Bonneville, Oregon

On the list of No spend summer activities Hiking has to be my favorite especially if its in the PNW . Not too far from Portland this hike is short and fun and it does award you with gorgeous views at certain points . We had a 5 year old with us who was easily able to do most parts of it . The waterfall is two tiered and the pool it falls into is perfect for a dip. The biggest challenge is the parking and we saw plenty of people get tickets . read more

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A hidden gem tucked away in the Columbia River Gorge. A peaceful, 1 mile short hike leads to this stunning two-tiered waterfall. Not a busy trail and worth every step. read more

Wahclella Falls Hike - Hiking Near Me - Bonneville, Oregon

Very nice day hike, not too far but still a light trek. Busy on weekend with weekend travelers. Super cool area in the valley with the burnt trees [unfortunate how they got burnt in 2018]. read more

Wahclella Falls Hike - View from bridge near falls - Hiking Near Me - Bonneville, Oregon

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This was such a fun hike! As a tourist in Oregon for the first time, I was looking for a nice easy hike with beautiful scenery and that I got. It's about a 20-30 minute walk to the falls. There's limited parking available right where the trail starts and there's also a parking lot about a 5 minute walk from the trail (be mindful though that the walk back to that parking is uphill). I would say this hike is pretty family friendly, I saw people bringing their dogs along as well. And it helps that the view of the falls is beautiful. People along the trail were super friendly as well, some even offering to take pictures for me, so I felt very safe! Pro tip: at one point of the hike it splits up into two trails. I believe I took the one on the right which goes more downhill than uphill. I think that one is easier based on what I heard from people who took the uphill trail. read more

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Great hike amazing waterfall definitely recommend I've done this hike multiple times and it's a great hike every time read more

Wahclella Falls Hike - Hiking Near Me - Bonneville, Oregon

Absolutely beautiful despite the snow and rain! So much water and snow made this place gorgeous . read more

Wahclella Falls Hike - Hiking Near Me - Bonneville, Oregon

Reviews will say it's a short hike, but it took longer for us because my gorlfriends and I took tons of photos! It's definitely scenic and gorgeous, the photos don't do justice at all. Helpful Tips: -- Wear hiking or trail shoes with good grip! There was a section where we had to climb over wet logs by a cave and it looked a little slippery -- Do NOT leave anything in your car! There were broken glass at the parking lot from smash-ins. -- Dogs may hike here too! We saw a few four-legged adventurers. So be mindful if you are highly allergic because there are times a path may be narrow and you have no choice but to actually brush through a pup on the side Came here while it was 38-42 degrees so it was cold and got colder as we got closer to water. But from all the moving, I felt fine with just my fleece-lined long sleeve and my light water resistant jacket. And that says a lot because I normally cannot handle that weather with just that (given I live in the Sunshine State all my life lol). A great hike to squeeze in your trip that isn't so daunting and time consuming if you have a tight itinerary! Or if you're a local and just want some fresh air and some aerobic exercise. I would even consider coming back just to take professional photos! So much beauty in every angle! read more

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Short, fun hike to a lovely waterfall! IF you can arrive early enough you can grab one of the handful of parking spots at the trailhead to take this highly popular trail. If not, there is a lot straight up the hill with much more room...just be prepared for a bit of an addition to your hike. We thought maybe the upper portion of the lollipop loop might still be closed...and indeed you can still see the closure tape hanging loose at both ends...but fortunately you can now hike the whole trail. The trail begins wide, until you pass the little "dam" and reach the first bridge. There's a nice bonus falls at that first bridge that's running pretty well right now. The trail gets narrower from here with ups and downs as the 2 mile path meanders along the water and through some of the burn zone. There are a few extra narrow segments that look like they could use a bit of reinforcement near steep drops. But overall the trail is in decent shape. When you reach the lollipop intersection I recommend you choose to take the lower path as you head towards the falls. The approach is prettier from that direction, and you'll get a couple cool distant views before you reach the pool. We spotted 2 eagles soaring that appeared to be guarding a nest near the beginning of the trail, midway up the ridge on the left side. Wahclella is gorgeous, with a really beautiful setting. Definitely a must see falls at the gorge and a fun trail for most any hiking ability. read more

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This place is absolutely gorgeous and worth the views and short hike (great for families with little kiddos btw). I'm giving it a 2-Star as a PSA: while we went hiking, our car got broken (window smashed) into and my LV purse and infants' diaper bag (with nothing of any value) was stolen. We have an idea of who it was we saw on the trails, so please beware of suspicious people that walk the trail and then turn around and head back shortly after. Some locals that passed by as we were making calls afterwards told us that this is a "hot spot" for this kind of stuff because it is right off the highway. We had none of our stuff laying out, but I am sure we were watched. Please be careful. read more

Definitely a better and more scenic hike compared to the touristy Multnomah Falls. About halfway into the hike the trail will kinda split into two different routes both taking you to the same location. This split is also where the path gets quite wet and slippery and I suggest taking the higher route to avoid breaking ankles. I would also suggest in getting sturdy/hiking shoes due to the uneven sections. read more

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It is a nice moderately easy two mile round trip to the falls and back through and above a narrow canyon. The trail is very flat and wide at the beginning but then changes with more moderate inclines and declines. In many places the trail is very rocky and gets quite narrow in a few places with a steep drop off on the side. There are also a few places with a steep decline for a short distance that is very rocky. About 2/3 of the way in the trail splits and either way you take ends up at the falls as it is a loop. It's nice to take which ever side and return on the opposite for a change in view. I can be quite crowded. read more

Wahclella Falls Hike - The trail gets narrow in some places. - Hiking Near Me - Bonneville, Oregon

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So beautiful! I went with my boyfriend and my little siblings, they had a blast! 10/10 read more

Wahclella Falls Hike - View - Hiking Near Me - Bonneville, Oregon

Unreal beauty. I see what everyone was talking about. Not too hard to hike and you'll get good photos any weather.

Beautiful hike that is so rewarding. Came here with a friend and definitely were not prepared for the hiking difficulty. As a moderate hiker i would give it a 7/10 for the amount of incline that you go up and back down to get to the falls. Get a parking permit before you go!! The system to get one online is extremely difficult especially with patchy service out in the Gorge. Going in mid July was beautiful and it was the perfect spot to take a dip or go down to the runoff for more tranquil swimming. Bring a lot of water as the inclines can be difficult and stop to take breaks on your way to this amazing waterfall! read more

4 1/2 stars. Wahclella Falls is a relatively easy, 2.4 mile round-trip hike with an incredible payoff. This scenic trail takes hikers along Tanner Creek, and is ample in fern and moss-covered trees. At the end of the trail, you'll be rewarded with a roaring, 80-foot waterfall plunging into a dark pool of water. Anyone can go on this hike- I saw people of all ages. GETTING THERE: The trailhead is about a 40-minute drive from Portland. WHAT TO KNOW: Bring cash as there's a $5 parking fee. read more

Wahclella Falls Hike - Hiking Near Me - Bonneville, Oregon

If Multnomah Falls is on your to do list, add this fall to it too! It's less than 10 miles further down the freeway from Multnomah, and it is soooo worth it. We went to Wahclella first then Multnomah. Directions: take the 84 E past Multnomah and gett off at Yeon State Park, make a right, and you will hit the Wahclella Falls parking lot. $5 parking fee, there are port-a-potties there. 2 mile round trip hike. You hit a pretty big waterfall early on in the hike, as you continue up the trail, it eventually splits. Doesn't matter which one you take, it loops around, so you won't miss anything. We took the upper trail first, and right when you see Wahclella Falls, it is an amazing sight! As you loop around, there's a really deep cave you can squat walk into, then another waterfall. Put this on your to do list, it is a very short easy hike, and it is beautiful! We loved it more than Multnomah! We ran into a few people but not many, Multnomah gets crowded. read more

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We were originally going to Multnomah falls but missed the exit and somehow was lead here. We decided to hike this trail since it seemed short and it was the best decision we made! It was relatively short, not too crowd and the end result was amazing! You will not regret this. read more

Wahclella Falls Hike - Wahclella Falls - Hiking Near Me - Bonneville, Oregon

This is the wife's favorite. The talks are breathtaking. This is a good solid hike with a big payoff. Go early in the summer as many people know this one and it will be packed. Take the camera. There is alit if pictures spots. read more

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AMAZING! This is an awesome hike to do. My last visit to Portland, this past November, I came with my younger sister, my brother and his wife. The weather was just perfect. A cool day, light mist. This does have some sharp inclines, and near the major falls, the ground can be slippery. It was simply beautiful. Even during November, there were plenty of people hiking this trail, some had dogs, some with small children (the kids were all doing so great, it was amazing). There is a small day use fee. Yes, there are several steep inclines, but there are declines. Beautiful. Seriously. There are porta-johns at the parking lot. There are a couple of small falls, and one large one, a couple of caves. This is a perfect morning hike. I look forward to coming back when I visit again. I can imagine that it becomes busy during the spring. I really felt like I was in the middle of nowhere, and at no point in time did I really think I was such a short trip away from Portland, and at no point in time during this hike can you see the freeway, or any sign of life, with the exception of a bridge or regular maintenance on the trail. read more

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This is a great hiking place in the Columbia River Gorge. Even during this time of year you get the feel of nature and what a great place we live in! Perfect 2.5 mile hike if you have little ones who aren't trained for the longer hiking trails. We counted several small waterfalls on our journey back to the car. It's sad to see some of the damage from the fire but thankful this great hiking trail has reopened! read more

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Shortly past Multnomah falls is this one. I prefer it, it is a day hike and very picturesque, fresh air, birds chirping, and just heavenly. I recommend watching your step carefully as parts of the trail is narrow and next to a drop off. Afterwards we went to Bonneville dam to watch the salmon go up the fish ladder, there was other fish too besides the salmon, it is an army corps of engineer facility and very visitor friendly. read more

Wahclella Falls Hike - Hiking Near Me - Bonneville, Oregon

Short and sweet. Also VERY easy at 2mi roundtrip, but very rewarding. You really hike in enough to immerse yourself in nature. Wonderful sights are to be had plus there are mini waterfalls everywhere even a decently sized one alongside a bridge as you first embark on the hike. On a rainy day, there was still a lot of people on this hike. Parking lot is pretty small and parking is $5 at the trailhead; grab an envelope, enclose amount, seal, and drop it in the box. Portable restrooms available too. Trail splits off just before the falls, but they all end at this majestic behemoth. If you're in the Columbia River Gorge and want to see as many waterfalls as possible, this one is a must. read more

Want to go hiking with people that are 1) not super outdoorsy, 2) not in the best shape, or 3) have kids in tow? This short-but-sweet hike in the Columbia River Gorge is pretty much perfect. At a perfectly manageable 2 miles round-trip, your journey crosses a cute little stream, passes a really interesting waterfall and even features a tiny cave for brave explorers (I'm not, mostly due to the 'watch out for bears' warning). There's not a ton of altitude change, so it's easy enough for those less able hikers. And then, of course, there's the main event: Wahclella Falls! This two-tiered waterfall may be one of the most beautiful in the gorge. The water cascades into a pool that is perfect for swimming on a hot summer day. There are a number of places to sit and picnic, if that's your jam. I also liked being able to scramble around on the rocks and logs. It's just a really pleasant time. Usually I prefer longer, more challenging hikes. But for a quickie, you can't do better than this. read more

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I'm in love with this hike! A short, 2 mile round trip hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall. I came here when the trail was snowy and icy, so I can't exactly say that it was easy. The ice was slippery, and a couple of people turned back since they didn't feel equipped. If you're coming in the winter, wear hiking or snow shoes, or shoes with good traction. Bring a hiking pole or grab a stick to help. And if you're not used to cold weather like my Californian self, dress warm!! The waterfall is beautiful, but I couldn't stand in front of it for longer than 5 minutes without freezing. Still, hiking this trail was like walking through a winter wonderland. I'm sure it's beautiful all year around, but I absolutely loved trekking through the snow. A must-go hike if you ask me! Some details: -This waterfall is passed Multnomah falls -The trail splits but both lead to the waterfall -There's a small parking lot. I came around 10am on a Wednesday, and the lot was empty. When I came back closer to noon, it started to fill up. The earlier you come, the better! Parking is $5. Pick up an envelope, drop the money in the box, and display the other portion in your car. -Portable restrooms by the entrance -Dog friendly from what I can tell! A couple people brought their dogs read more

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Being a long PNW (Pacific NorthWest) for years I didn't even know this place was here. It's located right next door to Bonneville Dam. The parking lot is pretty small, but if you wait people don't usually stay here very long since the hike is relatively short at around 2 miles for the normal hike. There is a longer roundabout that is lengthier. I would call this a moderate hike. There are some steep inclines along the way but manageable. There are also a few small bridges and on that is over a small waterfall. Most of the hike is alone the stream which makes the temperature much cooler. The majority of the hike is covered so you won' get sunburned. Once you get near the falls it opens up and you are in somewhat of a valley, you can find the pix I posted about this. Most of the way is very rocky so I would NOT recommend sandals or flip flops, you will want to bring some sturdy hiking shoes or tennis shows. There are a lot of picture opportunities with the small dam, trees, big rocks and of course the water fall. At the end you can walk right up to the water and swim to the falls if you are really that hot. I am definitely going to do this hike again and take the longer route next time. I gave it 4 stars due to the small parking lot, but you can park at Bonneville Dam and walk over. read more

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This is probably the highest reward for effort hike I've ever been on. Definitely stop by if you're in the area. I sprained my ankle on my first day in Oregon hiking Mirror Lake (so fail.) so had to whittle my hiking list DOWN. Super glad I sucked it up and still went on this hike! So parking is a little weird--It's honor based/donation kinda deal. Just drop the payment in and put the other part on your car. We went around 8pm (summer, of course!) and made it all the way down and back before dark. It was breathtakingly gorgeous and serene, with so many little things to keep you interested on the way. Just off the top of my head there's a creek you follow for a while, a small waterfall off a rock surface not long after you start hiking, some steps right before it opens up to a canyon, an area where you could wade in, and of course the waterfall at the end. There's actually a waterfall...ON TOP OF THAT ONE! Mind. Blown. I was like holy crap and only noticed when we climbed up the rock to take pictures with the waterfall. I wish Yelp did videos--I have a super quick one that sums up the hike, but maybe it's better this way so you'd have to experience it in person to really get the whole picture :). read more

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Surprisingly I've been taking to this hiking thing. Portland, Silverton and Corbett, I'm making the rounds. I'm still not buying hiking gear. But when you go on a hike with a buddy and his six year old daughter you find hikes that will work for said six year old daughter. The Columbia River gorge has many, many places to hike and quite a few of them are shorter distances for those of you with the kiddos. Wahclella Falls is only two miles round trip. It has its highs and lows but none too steep and the views were spectacular especially after all the rain we've been having of lately. For a cool and thankfully non-rainy Saturday, there were quite a few people and dogs around. The paths can get muddy and a little slippery in places, so watch out. Also, with all that rain there was evidence of some rock slides and a newly uprooted tree in our path. So, yeah, be careful. It was a great hike for December and onto the next one... read more

Gorgeous short hike! Such a great waterfall with very little effort ;) Parking lot is small, so come early because it fills up quick! Don't forget $5 cash for your parking permit either. Anyone can do this hike! It's relatively flat and no crazy drop offs like Eagle Creek Trail. It also loops around, so once you see a fork in the road, both paths lead to the waterfall. read more

Wahclella Falls Hike - Hiking Near Me - Bonneville, Oregon

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This place is absolutely stunning in the snow! This was my first time here (I didn't see it in the summer or without snow) and I have to admit that this was a pretty difficult trail in the snow. Most hiking websites marked this as easy, but it's definitely a trek in snowy conditions. It's about a mile each way, but the waterfall at the end is totally worth it. Absolutely breathtaking! read more

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This 1 mile hike is the perfect family friend track through the gorge! There is a beautiful waterfall waiting at the end the trail that will leave you breathless. No photo or video can really capture the beauty of this fall. I've come here quite a few times. It's by far my favorite trail. There are a few narrow parts but nothing to be super concerned with. My friends 5 year old daughter walked the entire way to and from by herself. The only thing that can be annoying is the amount of foot traffic. Especially today, we went on Memorial Day of all days (yeah, I know, our fault). There was a ton of people. No parking. We got lucky to have snagged a spot in the parking lot at the far end (overflow parking area). It's a good ways away from the trail entrance but we discovered a flat route (along the highway) to get there! I'd highly recommend this trail. You won't be sorry. A couple of waterfalls, beautiful river with salmon running up street, fresh air and even a cave! It's a must hike in the gorge!! read more

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Beautiful short waterfall hike with water all around you the whole way! We made this our second stop in the morning, although it would have been better to come here in the afternoon when it was a bit warmer so we could get in! This trail is easy and well kept. Parking can be a challenge as there are only about 12 spots in the small lot on the right side when you enter the area. This beautiful hike has many picturesque spots along the way to the falls. Note: there is not much room to stand around once you get to the falls so don't plan on picnicking with a view there. You can plan to hike in and out in about an hour at a moderate pace. read more

This is a good hike if you're short on time. It only takes an hour or so to go out and back, less if you walk at a decent pace. It's not very steep or particularly arduous, although one stretch is a little dicey. Still, considering it's in the gorge, it's pretty tame. I like this one if I decide to go on a quick hike after work. I can drive out here, and it's usually not too busy on a weekday evening. During the weekends (especially in summer!) it's not really a getaway. But if you're not looking for isolation, you should enjoy yourself. read more

Wahclella Falls Hike - Tanner Creek - Hiking Near Me - Bonneville, Oregon

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This is a short and beautiful hike that is just 45 minutes from Portland. A beautiful and simple walk along Tanner Creek takes you over a footbridge that crosses Munra falls before you ascend up the canyon. Keep an eye on your little ones as the trail narrows at the top of the canyon, there are no railings and it is a long ways down. Once you get to the fork in the trail, my advice is to take the lower trail (walk it counter clockwise) as you walk up to the falls. By doing this you will be able to get an incredible view as you come up to Wahclella compared to if you take the trail on the high side. Make sure that you bring $5 for parking. read more

Wahclella Falls Hike - Hiking Near Me - Bonneville, Oregon

Took my 4 year old and 6 year old to do this hike and it was the perfect hike that entertained them the whole way...and short enough that they didn't have time to complain. Ha! You can pay the parking fee by using a QR code. Finally! So easy. If you are learning to hike this will be one of the most rewarding hikes for not a ton of effort! read more

My second hike in the PNW and it was great!! A nice, scenic one-mile hike to the falls and back (about two-miles round trip). It was one of the first sunny days in a while since the weather started picking up from winter, so there were a lot of people on this hike. Parking wasn't that hard to find. The small parking lot was already filled, so you just need to park on the side of the road and walk down to the hike entrance. The hike itself was fairly easy. Great for families with kids and taking your dogs on walks. A few stairs, and the main pathway wasn't rocky at all. The actual falls were just gorgeous. A little slippery on the rocks. If you want to take a picture, just be aware that it's a little muddy from mist. A great hike for beginners, or just one you would like to take a nice stroll on! read more

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Such a lovely hike. I really liked the scenery and the hike wasnt too difficult or much.

Lovely destination. I've seen a few different falls in the area and this is by far the most impressive. It has a little cave as well that you can walk under. Be warned though: the majority of the hike TO the fall is uphill and rather difficult at points. I wouldn't call this an "easy" trail. It's also uneven, so wear shoes with a sturdy sole. It is 100% worth it...an absolute gem! read more

The falls is still closed as of August 2019 but there is a paved walk next to the highway that is open

It's that time of the year where you can take your time in the sun and meander off into the woods daydreaming away. We went in the middle of the week and the magic had already started because we found the last parking spot to begin our hike. Headed out on our walk and right beside you is a lovely creek which you follow most of the way. You will also see what looks to be an odd contraption and I believe it to be a fish ladder. A fun curiosity. Lots of water just pouring out all around you on either side whether it's a trickle or a nice waterfall. We were followed around by butterflies and dragonflies. There are bridges to cross over the water and too many pictures to take with all of the beauty around. Peaceful and serene. Just what was needed on this gorgeous and warm day. Glad and honored to make this place my 800th review. read more

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