Latourell Falls: A Basalt Curtain in the Heart of the Columbia Gorge
A short, powerful waterfall framed by basalt columns—perfect for a half-day escape from Portland.
The first time you step onto the short paved path that leads to Latourell Falls, the world narrows to two things: the vertical roar of water and the basalt face it barrels past. Spray hangs like a silk veil; ferns and moss stitch the cliff seams. The waterfall doesn’t so much tumble as decide—deliberate, blunt and unyielding—how the river will go today. In the Pacific Northwest that bluntness is a statement born of fire and ice: columns of black rock stacked by ancient lava flows, shaped by catastrophic floods. Latourell is a geological showpiece with the intimacy of a neighborhood park—wild enough to feel remote, close enough to Portland for a morning trip.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive early or late
Parking is limited—arrive before 9 a.m. or late afternoon on weekends to avoid crowds and find a spot.
Wear grippy shoes
The upper loop includes roots, stairs and wet rock; trail-running shoes or light hikers are ideal.
Bring a waterproof layer
Spray from the falls and quick Gorge showers make a lightweight rain shell useful year-round.
Stick to designated trails
Columnar basalt is fragile; avoid climbing on formations or shortcutting to protect vegetation and prevent erosion.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Shepperd's Dell Falls—small, photogenic and often quieter
- •Guy W. Talbot State Park—old-growth trees and calmer creekside walking
Wildlife
Bald eagles and raptors along the river, Black-tailed deer in the forest edge
Conservation Note
Stay on trails, pack out trash and avoid climbing basalt formations; erosion from off-trail shortcuts threatens the fragile Gorge understory.
Latourell sits on the Historic Columbia River Highway, an early 20th-century engineering project that opened Gorge waterfalls to automobile tourism.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Peak flow at the falls, Wildflowers and mossy green forest
Challenges: Mud on trails, Cool, changeable weather
Spring brings high water and vibrant greenery—ideal for dramatic photos but expect muddy, slick sections.
summer
Best for: Warm, dry hiking, Combining waterfall stops with biking
Challenges: Crowds and limited parking, Lower flows late in season
Summer offers the driest conditions and best visibility but arrive early to beat the rush.
fall
Best for: Autumn color in the Gorge, Salmon runs downstream (seasonal)
Challenges: Shorter daylight, Variable weather
Fall balances color and cooler air—pack layers and expect early sunsets on crisp days.
winter
Best for: Lush, rain-soaked scenery, Stormy, atmospheric photos
Challenges: Heavy rain, muddy trails and occasional ice, Limited services
Winter is dramatic and wet—dress for rain and check trail safety after storms.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Light hiking shoes with good treadEssential
Grip is crucial on wet roots, stairs and basalt sections.
Waterproof shellEssential
Protects against spray and sudden Gorge showers.
Reusable water bottle (1L+)Essential
Hydration for the hike and for linking multiple Gorge stops.
Compact camera or smartphone with protective case
Capture the basalt columns and waterfall spray—keep it dry with a case.
Common Questions
How long is the Latourell Falls hike?
The paved path to the lower falls is a short 0.2-mile walk; the full Latourell Loop is about 2.4 miles round-trip and takes 1–2 hours depending on stops.
Is Latourell Falls safe to swim in?
Swimming at the base is not recommended due to cold water, currents and slippery rocks; there are no designated swimming areas.
When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Weekday mornings or late afternoons during shoulder seasons (spring and fall) minimize crowds and make parking easier.
Are dogs allowed on the trail?
Dogs are allowed but must be leashed; be mindful of other visitors and trail conditions.
Can Latourell be combined with other Columbia Gorge stops?
Yes—many half-day and full-day guided tours from Portland include Latourell alongside Multnomah Falls, Vista House and other cascades.
Is the trail accessible for strollers or wheelchairs?
The short paved path to the lower viewpoint is stroller-friendly; the upper loop is rougher and not suitable for wheelchairs or most strollers.
What to Pack
Sturdy trail shoes for wet roots, waterproof shell for spray and sudden rain, 1L water bottle to stay hydrated, camera with protective case for photos.
Did You Know
Latourell Falls plunges roughly 249 feet over columnar basalt and is one of the more photogenic plunge-style falls along the Historic Columbia River Highway.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Arrive before 9am to secure parking; 2) Combine with other Gorge stops for a full day; 3) Bring cash or cards for limited nearby services; 4) Check the Oregon State Parks site for any trail closures after storms.
Local Flavor
Pair a waterfall morning with a late lunch in Hood River for local cider and microbrews or explore the Columbia Gorge AVA vineyards—this is a region where outdoor culture meets farm-to-table flavors.
Logistics Snapshot
Parking: small lot (arrive early); Distance from Portland: ~30–40 minutes by car; Trail length: 0.2-mile paved to lower falls / ~2.4-mile loop; Facilities: seasonal restrooms; Safety: slippery rock and spray.
Sustainability Note
Protect the Gorge by staying on marked trails, packing out waste, and avoiding climbing on basalt columns; support local conservation groups that maintain trails and habitat.