Looking for a quick escape from the city? Portland sits just minutes away from some of the Pacific Northwest’s most impressive waterfalls. The Columbia River Gorge alone holds over 90 waterfalls, many within an hour’s drive from downtown.
This guide covers the top Portland waterfalls you can visit, from easy roadside stops to longer hiking trails. You’ll learn which ones need permits, how to get there, and what to expect at each location.
Most of these spots work great for families, photographers, and anyone who wants to see rushing water surrounded by green forests.
Whether you have half a day or a full weekend, you’ll find options that fit your schedule and skill level. Some require short walks on paved paths, while others need moderate hikes through forest terrain. Each waterfall has its own character and breathtaking views.
Best Waterfalls Near Portland
The waterfalls around Portland range from short walks to all-day hikes. Here are the top options, starting with the most famous and moving to hidden gems worth the drive.
Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls stands 620 feet tall, making it Oregon’s tallest waterfall. Water drops in two major tiers, with the famous Benson Bridge crossing between them.
The falls sit just 30 minutes east of Portland along the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway.
A paved path takes you to the bridge viewpoint in about 5 minutes. If you want a workout, the 1.1-mile trail climbs to the top with great views along the way.
From May 26 through September 4, you need a timed entry permit to visit. The site has restrooms, a gift shop, and a restaurant, plus a large parking lot that fills up fast on weekends.
Latourell Falls
Latourell Falls drops 249 feet over striking columnar basalt cliffs. These hexagonal rock formations create a dramatic backdrop that makes this one of the most photogenic Portland waterfalls. The drive takes about 40 minutes from downtown.
An easy paved trail leads to the lower viewpoint in just a few minutes. For a better workout, take the 2-mile loop trail that climbs to the upper viewpoints.
No permit is needed here, which makes it a great backup option when Multnomah Falls is booked. Families and first-time visitors love this spot because it delivers big views with minimal effort.
Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls tumbles 120 feet in two graceful tiers through a forest setting. Located 35 minutes from Portland, this waterfall offers an easy introduction to gorge hiking. The round trip is only half a mile on a paved trail.
The trail crosses a scenic bridge and provides several viewing spots along the way. This accessibility makes it popular with families, older adults, and anyone who prefers shorter walks.
The surrounding forest stays cool even on warm days, and the sound of rushing water follows you the entire route.
Wahkeena Falls
Wahkeena Falls cascades 242 feet down a series of rocky steps. The name means “most beautiful” in the Yakama language, and the waterfall lives up to it. You’ll find it right next to Multnomah Falls, less than a mile away.
The main trail is 0.7 miles to Wahkeena Falls, but you can keep going to reach Fairy Falls higher up.
During peak season (May 26 to September 4), you need the same timed entry permit as Multnomah Falls. Parking is limited, so arrive early or use the shuttle service from nearby areas.
Horsetail and Ponytail Falls
This trail gives you two Portland waterfalls in one short hike. Horsetail Falls appears right from the parking area, visible from the highway.
The real treat comes when you hike 0.9 miles round trip to reach Ponytail Falls, where the trail actually goes behind the falling water.
The drive from Portland takes about 50 minutes. The trail gains 331 feet in elevation but stays manageable for most hikers.
Walking behind Ponytail Falls offers a rare perspective, with water crashing down in front of you while you stay dry in the rock alcove. During peak season, you’ll need a permit to park and access these falls.
Elowah Falls
Elowah Falls plunges 289 feet in a single dramatic drop against dark volcanic rock. Located 50 minutes from Portland, this waterfall sees fewer visitors than the roadside options. The relative solitude makes it worth the moderate effort.
The trail stretches 1.5 miles one way and climbs 600 feet. Most people rate it as moderate difficulty, doable for anyone in reasonable shape.
The payoff is standing close to a powerful waterfall without fighting crowds. No permit is required here, giving you more flexibility in your schedule.
Wahclella Falls
Wahclella Falls actually includes several smaller waterfalls along Tanner Creek. The 50-minute drive from Portland leads to a trail with charming wooden bridges and moss-covered rocks. The round trip measures 1.9 miles with moderate elevation gain.
The trail follows the creek through a narrow canyon, with water features around every corner. At the end, the main waterfall splits into two channels. You need either a Northwest Forest Pass or $5 cash to park. This spot works well when you want scenic variety beyond just one big waterfall.
Silver Falls State Park: Trail of Ten Falls
Silver Falls State Park sits about an hour from Portland and packs ten waterfalls into one location. The main loop trail covers 7.4 miles with 1,151 feet of elevation gain. This full-day hike ranks among the best waterfall experiences in Oregon.
Four of the waterfalls have trails that go behind them, giving you that behind-the-falls perspective multiple times. The park charges a $5 day-use parking fee.
Note that dogs are not allowed on this trail. If you only want to see a few waterfalls, the park offers shorter trail options that connect to different sections of the loop.
Ramona Falls
Ramona Falls sits in Mount Hood National Forest, about 57 miles from Portland. Water spreads across a 120-foot wall of columnar basalt, creating a fan-shaped curtain effect. The unique formation makes this one of the most photographed falls in the area.
Getting there requires a 7.1-mile day hike rated as moderately difficult. The trail crosses rivers on log bridges and passes through old-growth forest.
From mid-May to mid-October, you need a wilderness permit to visit. The longer distance keeps crowds thinner than at the gorge waterfalls closer to the city.
Planning Your Waterfall Visit
Timing and preparation make a big difference when visiting Portland waterfalls. Spring brings the highest water flow, with late March through May offering the most impressive displays.
The downside is more crowds and wetter conditions. Fall provides a nice middle ground with fewer people and still-decent water levels.
Here are key planning tips:
- Arrive before 10 am to secure parking, especially on weekends
- Visit on weekdays when possible to avoid crowds
- Check the Waterfall Corridor timed entry system for Multnomah, Wahkeena, and Horsetail Falls between late May and early September.
- Reserve permits online through Recreation.gov if visiting during permit season.
- Bring a rain jacket regardless of the forecast, as mist from falls creates wet conditions.
- Wear waterproof boots with good tread for slippery trails
- Carry cash for day passes at some locations
- In winter, bring microspikes for icy trail sections
Before heading out, check AllTrails and the US Forest Service website for current trail conditions.
Some trails close due to rockfall, ice, or maintenance work. Winter hiking requires extra caution because of exposed cliff sections on several trails. Ice forms on paths and viewing areas, creating slip hazards.
Where to Stay?
Choosing your home base depends on whether you want a small-town feel or city amenities. Hood River makes a great option if you plan to focus on the Columbia River Gorge waterfalls entirely.
This charming small town puts you close to the action with good restaurants and breweries.
Consider these lodging options:
- Hood River: Closest to most gorge waterfalls, outdoor recreation vibe, wine tasting nearby
- Portland: Better for mixing city attractions with nature visits, more hotel choices, and price ranges
- Silver Falls State Park: Camping available if you want to stay right at the ten waterfalls location
Staying in Portland works well if this is your first visit to the area. You can see waterfalls during the day and enjoy city food and culture at night.
Book accommodations ahead of time during peak summer months, as popular spots fill up quickly.
Conclusion
The Portland waterfalls covered in this guide show the incredible natural diversity within an hour of the city. You don’t need to visit every single waterfall to have a great experience. Even seeing two or three gives you a solid taste of what the Columbia River Gorge offers.
For your first visit, start with Multnomah Falls for the iconic view, add Latourell Falls for easy access, and consider Bridal Veil Falls if you want a peaceful forest walk. These three give you variety without overwhelming your schedule.
More experienced hikers should check out Elowah Falls or make the trip to Silver Falls State Park. Each location brings something different to your waterfall collection. Pick based on your available time, fitness level, and whether you prefer crowds or solitude.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need a Car to Visit Waterfalls Near Portland?
A car gives you the most flexibility and access to all locations. However, the Columbia Gorge Express shuttle runs seasonally to Multnomah Falls and other popular spots from Portland. This option works if you only plan to visit the main attractions.
Are the Waterfall Trails Suitable for Young Children?
Several trails work great for kids. The lower Multnomah Falls viewpoint, Latourell Falls base, and Bridal Veil Falls all have paved or easy paths. Avoid steeper trails like Elowah Falls with very young children. Always supervise kids near cliff edges and wet rocks.
Can I Swim at Any of These Waterfalls?
Swimming is not recommended at these waterfalls due to cold water temperatures, strong currents, and dangerous underwater conditions. Most locations prohibit swimming for safety reasons. Enjoy the waterfalls by viewing them from designated trails and platforms instead of entering the water.
What’s the Difference Between a Day Pass and a Northwest Forest Pass?
A day pass costs around $5 and covers parking for one day at specific trailheads. The Northwest Forest Pass costs $30 annually and works at many Forest Service sites throughout Oregon and Washington. Buy the annual pass if you plan multiple trips to different forest locations.
How Long Should I Budget for a Waterfall Road Trip?
A half day lets you see two to three waterfalls comfortably with time for photos and short hikes. A full day works better for four to five waterfalls, or if you want to do longer trails. Factor in drive time between locations and potential parking delays at popular spots.
