The Columbia River Gorge may be famous for epic waterfalls, but there’s so much more to explore, like challenging summits and blankets of wildflowers. To help you maximize your time in the Gorge, we put together this list of our favorite Columbia River Gorge hikes.
Creating a natural border between Oregon and Washington, the Columbia River Gorge is one of the most iconic and diverse hiking destinations in the US.
This stunning area spans 85 miles, offering a ton of diversity in terms of geology, terrain, and challenge level. It’s not even a slight exaggeration to say that Columbia River Gorge hikes truly offer a little of everything.
From super easy waterfall walks and summer swimming holes to challenging climbs up volcanic rocks and trails with an average grade in the double digits, you can quite literally choose your own adventure in the Gorge!
As the proverbial cherry on top, many trails in this area are under an hour from Portland, so you can work your way through your Oregon waterfall bucket list even with limited time.
Good to know: Timed-use permits are required for many popular Columbia River Gorge hikes between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Get your permit on Recreation.gov up to two weeks in advance.
Columbia River Gorge Hiking Guide
We’ve included some extra info for planning your hiking trip to the Columbia River Gorge. Jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).
1. Multnomah Falls Trail
- Distance: 2.4 miles
- Elevation gain: 810 feet
- Difficulty rating: easy
- Alltrails trail notes
Oregon’s tallest and most famous waterfalls may not be very secluded, but its iconic 620-foot drop is still an extraordinary sight. Follow the easy, paved path to the observation deck, but keep going on the longer Multnomah Falls Trail for far-better views at the top — without the crowds.
2. Wahkeena and Multnomah Falls Loop
- Distance: 5.1-mile loop
- Elevation gain: 1,640 feet
- Difficulty rating: Moderate
- Alltrails trail notes
This loop trail might just be the BEST way to see Multnomah Falls! You’ll get all the iconic views, then continue on a trail that’s rarely crowded, jam-packed with waterfalls, and shows off spectacular parts of the Gorge.
In addition to Multnomah, this trail also takes you to Wahkeena Falls, Fairy Falls, Ecola Falls, and a handful of other smaller cascades. There are some switchbacks and a fairly steep Elevation gain, but your efforts will be highly rewarded.
Psst! Is chasing waterfalls kinda your thing? Are you also an avid hiker? Check out these incredible Oregon waterfall hikes and see which ones you need to add to your bucket list.
3. Angel’s Rest
- Distance: 4.5 miles, out and back
- Elevation gain: 1,476 ft
- Difficulty rating: moderate
- Alltrails trail notes
A fun climb only 30 minutes from downtown, Angel’s Rest is one of the best Columbia River Gorge hikes. It’s a steep but doable trail with rewarding views of the Gorge.
Follow switchbacks through a forest that later turns to smaller bush, granting magnificent views into Washington state.
The summit is a rock outcrop with sharp drop-offs, not ideal for small children. However, for those who love towering heights, Angel’s Rest makes for a picturesque sunrise and sunset spot not far from the parking lot.
4. Wahclella Falls
- Distance: 1.9 miles out and back
- Elevation gain: 300 feet
- Difficulty rating: easy
- Alltrails trail notes
An easy, fun interactive trail leads to Wahclella Falls, considered by many to be one of the most impressive Columbia River Gorge waterfalls.
You’ll go through a slot canyon, pass enormous boulders, cross bridges, and see a small dam and several smaller cascades on the trail.
The 2017 Eagle Creek Fire was especially devastating in this area, so there’s an increased risk of landslides and flash flooding. Avoid it during rain and for 1-2 days after big storms.
Note that you’ll need to either pay a $5 day use fee to park, or have a Northwest Forest Pass.
5. Latourell Falls Loop Trail
- Distance: 2-mile loop
- Elevation gain: 643 feet
- Difficulty rating: Moderate
- Alltrails trail notes
Being one of the tallest waterfalls in the Gorge and the closest to Portland, it’s no wonder this is one of the most popular Columbia River Gorge hikes!
You can actually see (Lower) Latourell Falls from the highway, but to see the spectacular, two-tiered upper falls, you have to hike.
We recommend doing the loop counter-clockwise so that the first waterfall will be in front of you as you hike. This direction also puts the bulk of the elevation gain in the beginning, getting it out of the way early.
6. Oneonta Trail
- Distance: 5.8 miles, out-and-back
- Elevation gain: 1,633 ft
- Difficulty rating: moderate
- Alltrails trail notes
Another one of the highlights of the Columbia River Gorge, the Oneonta Gorge trail. Be prepared to get a little wet on this Portland hike! This unique trail has you hiking through a gorge in waist to chest deep water to discover the prize at the end of this jaw-dropping trail, Lower Oneonta Falls.
This trail is best hiked in the summer months on a week day to avoid crowds and for favorable water temperature in the gorge. Check for an updated trail status here.
7. Rowena Plateau Trail
- Distance: 2.1-miles loop
- Elevation gain: 259 feet
- Difficulty rating: easy
- Alltrails trail notes
This picturesque trail offers stunning panoramic views of the Columbia River and the surrounding gorge. Located within the Tom McCall Nature Preserve, the hike features diverse wildflower meadows, sweeping grasslands, and unique geological formations.
Hikers can enjoy seasonal blooms, especially in spring, making it a popular destination for wildflower lovers. The trail’s relatively gentle terrain and breathtaking vistas make it accessible to hikers of all ability levels.
8. Dry Creek Falls
- Distance: 4.4 miles, out and back
- Elevation gain: 866 ft
- Difficulty rating: easy
- Alltrails trail notes
No list of hikes in Oregon near Portland would be complete without at least one (or several!) waterfall hikes. Dry Creek Falls is an ideal, easily accessible hike, not over-congested with crowds.
You follow a section of the PCT through dense woods and seasonal wildflowers to reach a 75-foot waterfall flowing from basalt rock formations. It’s a great city escape easily enjoyed with children or your pup.
Due to its shorter length, this hike combined with Beacon Rock makes for a relaxing day out on the Columbia River Gorge.
9. Beacon Rock Trail
- Distance: 1.5 miles, out and back
- Elevation gain: 574 ft
- Difficulty rating: moderate
- Alltrails trail notes
Just across the Washington border, this short but steep trail rewards hikers with expansive views of the Columbia River Gorge. Beacon Rock itself is fascinating: a remnant of a volcano, it is one of the biggest free-standing rocks in the US.
Named by Lewis & Clark, Beacon Rock elicits stories of the pioneers. The trail was chiseled by a conservationist in the early 20th century, making it just as much of a historical landmark as a hike.
Although steep, there are adequate railings along the trail, so bring the whole family along to savor both the view and the story.
10. Horsetail and Ponytail Falls
- Distance: 0.9 miles
- Elevation gain: 331 feet
- Difficulty rating: Easy
- Alltrails trail notes
Short and rocky, this trail climbs through a forest and gives hikers the unique opportunity to stand behind Ponytail Falls. You’ll also pass picturesque Horsetail Falls on the way, giving this short hike a major payoff.
11. Bridal Veil Overlook Loop Trail
- Distance: 0.4-mile loop
- Elevation gain: Minimal (under 10 feet)
- Difficulty rating: Easy
- Alltrails trail notes
Often credited with having the most bang for your buck among Columbia River Gorge hikes, the Bridal Veil Falls overlook loop is short, sweet, and both family- and dog-friendly.
The paved, wheelchair- and stroller-accessible loop shows off views of the river and, if your timing works out just right, maybe even a passing train!
If you want to get closer to the waterfall, add the short 0.3-mile Bridal Veil Falls trail (sometimes also called the ‘lower trail’). The path has a surprisingly steep descent and ascent, plus some stairs to navigate, but the view standing near the base of the falls can’t be beat.
12. Eagle Creek to Punch Bowl Falls
- Distance: 4.7 miles
- Elevation gain: 1,046 feet
- Difficulty rating: Moderate
- Alltrails trail notes
Stunning Eagle Creek Trail follows the raging river and has several rapids and small waterfalls dottings its cliffside path.
Punch Bowl Falls is the most common turnaround point on this hike and it makes a great swimming spot. However, the trail continues for 10 miles, so it’s also an excellent overnight backpacking option.
13. Mosier Plateau Trail
- Distance: 2.7 miles, out and back
- Elevation gain: 728 feet
- Difficulty rating: easy
- Alltrails trail notes
Get away from typical PNW wet, mossy forests and enjoy expansive Gorge vistas on the entire hike to Mosier Creek Falls. In the summer, relish in the colorful wildflowers along the trail.
This Columbia River Gorge hike is much less slippery and rocky than other popular Oregon hikes, making it ideal for pets and kiddos.
14. Cabin Creek to Hole-in-the Wall
- Distance: 1.9 miles out and back
- Elevation gain: 216 feet
- Difficulty rating: Easy
- Alltrails trail notes
This easy, interactive trail is tucked into a (slightly) quieter section of the Columbia River Gorge, despite being a quick stop right off the highway. That’s reason enough to hike it, but it certainly helps that you’ll see four waterfalls on this short adventure!
Travel along the highway below Cabin Creek Falls, then onto Hole-in-the-Wall Falls, which is actually manmade. From there, detour slightly to make a somewhat steep ascent to the base of Lower Lancaster Falls. Look for the upper tier higher up!
From the main parking lot, Starvation Creek is just a super short, easy walk, also.
15. Dog Mountain Trail
- Distance: 4.8-mile loop
- Elevation gain: 2,900 feet
- Difficulty rating: Challenging
- Alltrails trail notes
On the Washington side of the river, Dog Mountain is one of the most popular springtime Columbia River Gorge hikes, specifically for wildflowers. Starting in mid- to late April, yellow balsamroot carpets the hillsides.
Don’t be fooled by this hike’s popularity—it’s one of the most difficult in the Gorge! Inclines average 10-25% grades throughout, including a particularly steep climb in the first half-mile.
Dog Mountain is so popular during wildflower season that hikers must get permits for weekends between April and June, plus Memorial Day.
Regardless of the time of year, and even with a permit, a Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area $5 day-use parking permit is required. Washington or Oregon locals who already have a Northwest Forest Pass can use that in lieu of the daily parking pass.
16. Cape Horn Loop Trail
- Distance: 6.8-mile loop
- Elevation gain: 1,400 feet
- Difficulty rating: Moderate
- Alltrails trail notes
Another Washington-side hike, the Cape Horn Loop is deservedly well-loved in every season. This fairly challenging trail delivers epic views, waterfalls, wild berries, fall foliage, summer wildflowers, and a mix of switchbacks and wide-open meadows.
The first mile is by far the steepest, climbing about 800 feet to the first overlook. From there, you’ll alternate going up and down, but plenty of viewpoints and changing scenery keep you engaged.
If you’re short on time (or energy!), Pioneer Point makes an excellent turnaround point, ending in a 2.5-mile round-trip hike.
Important: a large portion of this trail (and others at Cape Horn) close every year from February 1 to July 15 as a protection measure for nesting peregrine falcons.
17. Coyote Wall Loop Trail
- Distance: 6.3-mile loop
- Elevation gain: 1,765 feet
- Difficulty rating: Moderate
- Alltrails trail notes
Coyote Wall is on the challenging end of moderate, with some serious inclines and switchbacks. The rewards are worth the effort, though, because the views up and down the river and of Mount Hood are some of the best of any Columbia River Gorge hikes.
On top of that, this is a fantastic wildflower hike.
The trail is exposed almost the entire way, which leads to an increase in both wind and critters—watch out for gopher snakes and rattlesnakes.
Dogs are welcome in the Coyote Wall Recreation Area, but must be leashed between December 1 and June 30.
Good to know: The Forest Service started ‘realiging’ the Coyote Wall Loop in spring 2024 to rehabilitate the trail. It’s moving away from the cliffs and being redesigned for dual use by hikers and mountain bikers. Follow signed detours and be sure to stay on the designated path.
18. McCall Point Trail
- Distance: 3.4 miles out and back (*note that AllTrails has it listed as 4.8 miles)
- Elevation gain: 1,322 feet
- Difficulty rating: Moderate
- Alltrails trail notes
Famous for its wildflower-covered hillsides and views of Mount Hood and Mount Adams, McCall Point is one of the most popular springtime Columbia River Gorge hikes. Flowers bloom fairly early here, starting as early as February and typically peaking in April.
The hike starts from the famed Rowena Crest Viewpoint, just outside the Tom McCall nature preserve. Although it’s never technical or too intense, the trail steadily climbs uphill, ascending 1,000-plus feet in just over 1.5 miles.
If you’re up for extending your time here, consider also hiking the easy, family-friendly Rowena Plateau Trail. It also starts right near the Rowena Crest Viewpoint, and shouldn’t take more than an hour or so.
Note that McCall Point Trail closes annually from November 1 through April 30, but Rowena Plateau remains open all year.
19. The Labyrinth to Coyote Wall Loop
- Distance: 6.3-mile loop
- Elevation gain: 1,450 feet
- Difficulty rating: Moderate
- Alltrails trail notes
This hike is similar to the previously-mentioned Coyote Wall Loop in multiple ways. They’re the exact same distance and even follow along much of the same path, but the Labyrinth is lesser-known (i.e.; less crowded!).
In fact, it’s actually not a maintained or even official trail! It is well-beaten and easy to follow, though.
You’ll see colorful summer wildflowers and enjoy views of the river in both directions. En route to the distinctive flat ‘summit,’ you’ll pass through numerous meadow-like plateaus. Several trails intersect here (hence the nickname!), so it’s easy to shorten or extend your hike.
20. Angels Rest to Devil’s Rest Loop Trail
- Distance: 10.1-mile loop
- Elevation gain: 3,150 feet
- Difficulty rating: Challenging
- Alltrails trail notes
Looking for a challenging trail that will get you away from the crowds at popular Columbia River Gorge hikes? Hike the epic loop from Angels to Devil’s Rest.
Living up to their respective names, Angels Rest offers sweeping views while Devil’s Rest is in a dense forest with, well, no views. On the hike between them, though, you’ll see waterfalls and wildflowers aplenty as you navigate over a dozen switchbacks.
Some people start and end near Wahkeena Falls, slightly shortening the hike and swapping Wahkeena and Fairy Falls for Coopey Falls.
Best time to go hiking in the Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is a year-round hiking destination, but in our humble opinion (as Oregonians!), the BEST time to hike here is late winter into spring.
During this time, from February or March into May or early June, water levels are at their highest and waterfalls are at peak flow. There are also far fewer people on the trails, with the exception of spring break and weekends once the wildflowers start to bloom.
Summer tends to be the most popular season for Columbia River Gorge hikes, but this means crowded trails and overflowing parking lots in addition to low water levels. Some waterfalls even dry up completely in the summer!
Also, many popular Gorge hikes require timed-entry permits in the summer months.
Where to camp nearby
One of the most popular campgrounds in the Columbia River Gorge is Ainsworth State Park. It’s open from March through October and has 40 full-hookup sites, six walk-in tent sites, and a walk-up area for thru hikers and bikers.
Sitting right at the end of the Waterfall Corridor close to Multnomah Falls, this campground is POPULAR. While you can’t expect any solitude, the convenient location may be worth the trade-off.
Just 15 minutes up the road at Cascade Locks, you’ll also find the resort-style Marine Park Campground, which is open year-round.
If you’re more of a dispersed camping person, unfortunately, it’s slim pickin’s in the Gorge. If you’re willing to stay further afield, the options increase significantly. We personally use (and highly recommend!) The Dyrt for finding off-the-beaten-path campsites.
What to pack for hiking in the Columbia River Gorge
- Navigation*: we recommend using Alltrails+ to download the offline trail map
- Get your first week of using Alltrails+ for FREE when you sign up using our link!
- Hiking daypack
- Water bottles and/or bladder for your Camelbak
- Dry bag (we always carry one with us for our valuables in case of rain)
- Bug repellant
- Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, sun glasses
- Headlamp
- Camera/tripod (this one’s our favorite for hiking)
- Hiking layers (here is a great resource if you’re wondering what to wear hiking)
- Rain jacket
- Comfortable hiking boots or shoes
- Plenty of snacks: check out our favorite hiking snacks here!
Be sure to download our FREE hiking packing list before your next trip and never leave another essential behind again!
Roundup of the best Columbia River Gorge hikes
Here’s a roundup of all the best Columbia River Gorge hikes so you can see everything in one place.
- Angels Rest to Devil’s Rest Loop Trail
- Multnomah Falls Trail
- Wahkeena and Multnomah Falls Loop
- Angel’s Rest
- Wahclella Falls
- Latourell Falls Loop Trail
- Oneonta Trail
- Rowena Plateau Trail
- Dry Creek Falls
- Beacon Rock Trail
- Horsetail and Ponytail Falls
- Bridal Veil Overlook Loop Trail
- Mosier Plateau Trail
- Eagle Creek to Punch Bowl Falls
- Cabin Creek to Hole-in-the Wall
- Dog Mountain Trail
- Cape Horn Loop Trail
- Coyote Wall Loop Trail
- McCall Point Trail
- The Labyrinth to Coyote Wall Loop
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We want to hear from you!
Have you done any of the Columbia River Gorge hikes on this list? What was your experience like? Which is the waterfall hike you’re most excited to add to your bucket list? Comment below and let us know!