Is there anything more awe-inspiring than standing at the base of a thundering Columbia River Gorge waterfalls, feeling the immense pounding of the cascades at your feet, with the cool mist in your face? It’s the perfect summer adventure and a daily occurrence when you travel the magnificent Highway of waterfalls in Oregon, including the popular Multnomah Falls. Impressive waterfalls abound in the area, but if you’re looking to get off the beaten path to discover some of the lesser-known Columbia River Gorge waterfalls, we’re here to help.
Chasing waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge is an experience that never gets old. The sheer number of cascades here is astounding, and they are incredibly majestic and powerful during the lush spring and early summer months when snowmelt brings them to life. While many visitors flock to Multnomah Falls—and it’s undeniably stunning—this famous site is just the beginning of what the region has to offer. Travel along the scenic Highway of Waterfalls in Oregon, where countless cascades await around every bend. Some are easy to spot right from your car along Historic Highway 30, while others reward you with breathtaking views after a short hike.
From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the Columbia River Gorge waterfalls offer something for every adventurer. To make the most of your adventure, stay in the heart of this natural wonderland. Our luxurious cabins in Washington provide the perfect base for exploring the best waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge – including those that are far less crowded than you might expect. Just a short drive from Hood River, you’ll have quick access to the area’s top attractions for our luxury cabins, including all the top hiking and biking trails and waterfalls that define the unforgettable landscape of the Columbia River Gorge.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or an adventurous weekend, staying at our cabins in Washington is the best way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Gorge. From the Highway of waterfalls in Oregon to the stunning Lower Lewis Falls in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, we’re an indescribable escape from the ordinary. Book your cabin getaway today!
8 Hidden Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls
There is no better way to start your exploration of the Columbia River Gorge waterfalls than with a visit to the iconic Multnomah Falls, not to mention the other majestic beauties you’ll find along the historic Highway of Waterfalls in Oregon. It’s one of the most iconic waterfall drives in the country these waterfalls are certainly a must-see for anyone venturing into this breathtaking region.
We’ll cover this part of the Gorge below, but if you’re looking for a truly breathtaking adventure in the Gorge without the busy crowds you’ll find at Multnomah Falls, there are plenty more hidden gem waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge to see. From easy off-the-road stops to longer hikes that take you deep into the wooded forests, there are plenty of hidden Columbia River Gorge waterfalls to explore.
- If you’re looking for a great hike that gives payoff views of the area, not to mention plenty of rewarding pitstops at four different Columbia River Gorge waterfalls, we recommend heading to Starvation Creek State Park. Here, you can access the (challenging) hike to Mount Defiance, which is the highest point in the Gorge. But you can also take the Lower Starvation Creek Loop Trail, which is a bit less challenging. It takes you to Starvation Creek Falls, hole-in-the-wall Falls, Lancaster Falls, and Cabin Creek Falls.
- If you’re looking for a short and easy hike with a gorgeous waterfall at the end, head to Panther Creek Falls. You don’t even have to walk a quarter of a mile to enjoy the views of this impressive 130-foot waterfall, which consists of two impressive drops.
- Falls Creek Falls is another excellent choice among Columbia River Gorge waterfalls. The waterfall stands at an impressive 335 feet tall, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Washington State.
- For a short but rewarding hike you won’t forget, head to Spirit Falls on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge. The water cascades in the Lower White Salmon River, making it one of the prettiest Columbia River Gorge waterfalls. It takes around 15 minutes to reach, making it an easy stop for the day!
- If you’re looking for a fabulous dog-friendly hike that also rewards with one of the prettiest Columbia River Gorge waterfalls, head to Wahclella Falls. The hike takes you through a gorgeous canyon, and though you’ll undoubtedly find people here, it’s one of the lesser-known waterfall hikes in the area.
Don’t Miss the Highway of Waterfalls
Though it’s fun to get off the beaten path and discover magnificent waterfalls, none in the area are more impressive or famed than those nestled along the historic Highway 30 in Oregon. This area, nicknamed the Highway of Waterfalls, is named so for a reason. There’s no doubt that this is one of the most captivating routes for exploring the Columbia River Gorge, offering visitors stunning scenery and an abundance of waterfalls waiting to be discovered. At the top of the list for many adventurers is the legendary Multnomah Falls, a true showstopper along this iconic drive.
Multnomah Falls holds its title as the most-visited natural wonder in the Pacific Northwest. Its year-round beauty is unmatched, but it’s at its peak in the spring and late fall when seasonal rains and snowmelt create an awe-inspiring display of power. Whether you’re stopping for a quick photo or planning to hike, Multnomah Falls delivers unforgettable views. The trail to Benson Bridge offers a close-up perspective of the falls.
If you’re exploring the Highway of Waterfalls in Oregon, Multnomah Falls is a must-see—but it’s only the beginning. With countless other waterfalls along this scenic route, you’ll find no shortage of breathtaking stops to add to your journey. The Waterfall Corridor of the Columbia River Gorge is defined as the area just east of Bridal Veil Falls, at Exit 28, through Ainsworth State Park at Exit 35. Below, we’ve listed the top stops along the Highway of Waterfalls in Oregon.
- Just before you enter the official Waterfall Corridor, you’ll find LaTourell Falls. This waterfall can be accessed by a relatively easy 2.4-mile loop.
- Just before you reach Multnomah Falls on the Highway of Waterfalls in Oregon, you’ll find Bridal Veil Falls. Take the one-mile hike to this breathtaking beauty.
- Another fabulous stop along the Highway of Waterfalls in Oregon is Wahkeena Falls. This is one of the most impressive Columbia River Gorge waterfalls, dropping an impressive 242 feet off a cliff.
- Hikers traversing the Pacific Crest Trail love to make a pit stop at Dry Creek Falls, but it’s also an excellent stop to make as you drive along the Highway of Waterfalls in Oregon.
- Finally, don’t miss Horsetail Falls. This waterfall plunges 176 feet and can be seen from the highway. There are also some short trails here that offer better views of the waterfall.
From these magnificent stops along the historic Highway 30 to other, more hidden Columbia River Gorge waterfalls, there’s no adventure more fitting for spring. Don’t miss your chance to see and feel the raw power of Mother Nature. Book your cabin getaway with us today!
