Have you visited Oregon? This Pacific Northwest state is abundant in stunning natural landscapes from dense forests and snow-capped mountains, to rugged coastlines and dramatic waterfalls. There is no shortage of waterfalls in Oregon—in fact, the state has over 230 falls. Consequently, selecting which waterfalls to visit during your trip may be difficult. To help narrow down your choices, below are a few of my favorites:
Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s most visited waterfall and for good reason—it boasts a 620-foot, two-tiered waterfall (the tallest in the state). The main viewpoint located at the bottom of the falls only requires a short walk from the parking lot, making it accessible to everyone. You can also visit Benson Bridge (the bridge between the two cascades of the falls) through a few easy switchbacks, or hike to the top of the falls. To learn more about the latter, click here for details.
Tip: Spring and summer attracts the most visitors—if you're visiting during these times of year, arrive early in the morning or later in the day to avoid crowds.
Wahclella Falls
Wahclella Falls is an easy, 1.9 mile out-and-back hike with an incredible payoff. This scenic trail takes you along Tanner Creek to a roaring waterfall nestled in a moss-covered canyon.
Tip: A recreation pass is required, or scan the QR code at the trailhead to pay a $5 fee once you arrive.
Horsetail Falls
There is a plethora of waterfalls to visit along the Columbia River Gorge—one of my personal favorites in this area is Horsetail Falls. You can easily access the bottom of the falls with a short walk from the parking lot. The falls itself is long and narrow, and resembles a horse’s tail (hence its name).
Tip: Pack water shoes or sandals so you can get up close to the waterfall in the ankle-deep water.
Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls is an easy, 0.6 mile out-and-back trail that ends with a wooden deck lookout, where you can view the two-tiered, 120-foot waterfall up close.
Trail of Ten Falls
Silver Falls State Park offers the opportunity to visit ten waterfalls on a single, 7.4-mile loop trail—the Trail of Ten Falls. If you don't have enough time to complete the full hike, I recommend visiting Upper North Falls and South Falls (where you can walk behind a waterfall).
Wahkeena Falls
While it's not as popular as its neighbors along the Columbia River Gorge, Wahkeena Falls is still worth a visit as you can stand within inches of the cascading, 242-foot waterfall after a short, 0.2-mile walk.
For more places to check out in Oregon, check out this blog post.