Portland Multnomah Falls – Wahkeena Falls loop The waterfall area around Portland is super famous, and the biggest and most iconic one is Multnomah Falls. If you want to hit most of the major waterfalls in one go, this outer loop is a good choice — around 3.5 hours in total, with less than 500 m elevation gain (depending on route). This loop starts from Multnomah Falls, and passes Dutchman Falls, Wiesendanger Falls, Fairy Falls, and finally Wahkeena Falls at the base. The trail numbers are Trail 441, Wahkeena Trail 420, and Return Trail 442. Overall, it’s all about waterfalls, mountain streams, and temperate rainforest scenery — a really solid hiking spot. The full loop is roughly 5 miles (about 8 km) with around 1,600 ft elevation gain, usually taking 3–6 hours depending on pace. Getting there From downtown Portland, take the purple Gorge Columbia Express from Gateway Transit Center. It’s about 20 minutes one way, around $10. You can buy tickets on Token Transit, and the official website lets you track the bus in real time — pretty convenient. Also, it’s possible to get to Mt Hood without a car too — there are public transport options available.
Wahkeena Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Wahkeena Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Wahkeena Falls famous?
Wahkeena Falls is famous as part of the spectacular Historic Columbia River Highway waterfall corridor, featuring a distinctive multi-tiered cascade visible from the historic highway. The name 'Wahkeena' comes from a Yakama word meaning 'most beautiful,' and it serves as a gateway to one of the Gorge's premier waterfall loop hikes.
Can you swim at Wahkeena Falls?
No. Swimming is not permitted at Wahkeena Falls due to safety concerns and natural area protection. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Wahkeena Falls?
Dogs are allowed on-leash on trails in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Wahkeena Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is typically required for parking at Columbia River Gorge trailheads; enforcement and requirements can vary. Please check the official website. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Wahkeena Falls?
Parking is available at Wahkeena Falls Trailhead directly off Historic Columbia River Highway. The waterfall is visible from the parking area. Parking may require a Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass; availability can be limited on peak weekends. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Wahkeena Falls?
The lower viewpoint is roadside — visible from the parking area with minimal walking. The trail to the top of Wahkeena Falls is approximately 1.6 km / 1 mi one-way with 340 m / 1,100 ft elevation gain. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Wahkeena Falls hike difficulty
Roadside (no hike) for lower viewing area; Moderate to Hard if hiking to the top via switchbacks with significant elevation gain and stone steps. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Wahkeena Falls?
Spring (April–June) for highest water flow from snowmelt and spring rains, with lush greenery. Fall offers colorful foliage with moderate flows. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Wahkeena Falls
For the lower viewpoint: from the parking area, cross the road to the viewing area at the base of the falls. For the upper trail: begin at the signed trailhead near the restrooms, follow the paved path briefly, then ascend stone steps and switchbacks through forest. The trail continues to Fairy Falls and connects to Multnomah Falls via a loop trail system.
Wahkeena Falls official website
Attractions near Wahkeena Falls
- •Multnomah Falls (1.6 km east) — Oregon's tallest waterfall at 189 m with year-round access
- •Horsetail Falls (3 km east) — accessible roadside waterfall with trail connections
- •Bridal Veil Falls (5 km west) — short family-friendly hike to two-tiered waterfall
- •Vista House at Crown Point (11 km west) — historic observatory with panoramic Gorge views
- •Fairy Falls via Wahkeena Trail — hidden waterfall reached via loop trail connection
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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