Wahkeena Falls: The Gorge’s Staircase of Water
A tiered cascade, old-growth shade, and a trail that climbs beside the roar—why Wahkeena is a must on any Columbia River Gorge itinerary.
By the time you round the last bend of the Historic Columbia River Highway, the forest exhales. Fir and cedar close in, moss dresses every boulder, and the air leans cool and mineral-rich. Then, like a curtain pulled aside, Wahkeena Falls appears—water spilling in a braided sheet over a tiered basalt wall, breaking into many small cataracts as it drops. Up close, the fall is less a thunderclap than a conversation: a steady murmur that threads through the understory, tugging at your attention and nudging you higher on the narrow, stone-stair trail that climbs beside it.
Trail Wisdom
Start early
Parking fills by mid-morning—arrive at first light to beat crowds and get softer light for photos.
Wear grippy shoes
Wet stone steps and roots make traction-critical footwear important even for short visits.
Bring a light rain shell
Mist from the falls and quick Gorge showers can soak you; a packable shell keeps you comfortable.
Consider an e‑bike or shuttle tour
If you want to see multiple falls without worrying about parking, choose an e-bike rental or guided waterfall shuttle.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Shepperd's Dell—small, mossy cascades on a short trail with a historic bridge
- •Latourell Falls—less crowded, dramatic basalt columns and easy access
Wildlife
American dipper (a waterfall-loving bird), black‑tailed deer
Conservation Note
High visitor numbers strain fragile mosses and root systems—stay on trails, pack out waste, and avoid creating new viewpoints.
Wahkeena sits along the Historic Columbia River Highway, an early 20th-century scenic road built to showcase the Gorge’s waterfalls and vistas.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: full waterfall flows, wildflowers, cool hikes
Challenges: muddy trails, higher river levels
Spring brings the most dramatic flows and lush greenery—expect wet trails and the best waterfall show of the year.
summer
Best for: e‑biking, longer daylight, paired wine or orchard stops
Challenges: lower flows later in season, more crowds
Late spring into summer is great for combining hiking with e‑bike rides and Gorge-side wineries—visit early to avoid peak crowds.
fall
Best for: color changes in understory, cool, clear air, off-peak visits
Challenges: shorter days, potential for early rains
Fall offers crisp air, quieter trails, and beautiful understory colors—come midweek for the best solitude.
winter
Best for: dramatic seasonal light, snow-dusted vistas nearby, powerful runoff after storms
Challenges: icy sections, limited parking and accessibility
Winter shows the Gorge in a raw mood—icy steps require traction devices; storms can make the falls especially powerful.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof trail shoesEssential
Provide grip on wet stone steps and muddy switchbacks.
Light rain shellEssential
Protects against waterfall spray and sudden Gorge showers.
Hydration reservoir or 1L bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated on climbs and during longer loop hikes.
Compact camera or phone with polarizer
Helps reduce glare on wet rock and capture long exposure shots of cascades.
Common Questions
How long is the Wahkeena Falls hike?
A short walk to the base is under a mile round-trip; the Wahkeena–Multnomah loop is roughly 2–3 miles and typically takes 1–2 hours depending on stops.
Is there parking at Wahkeena Falls?
Yes, there is parking along the Historic Columbia River Highway at the Wahkeena lot, but spaces fill quickly on weekends—arrive early or take a shuttle/tour.
Can I swim at Wahkeena Falls?
No—swimming is not safe at Wahkeena due to cold water, currents, and hidden hazards; stay on designated viewing platforms and trails.
Are dogs allowed on the trail?
Dogs are generally allowed but must be leashed; expect stairs and narrow sections that may be challenging for some pets.
What’s the best time of day to visit?
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, fewer crowds, and better opportunities for photography; midday can be crowded.
Can I visit Wahkeena as part of a tour?
Yes—many Columbia River Gorge tours and e‑bike routes include Wahkeena as a stop; tours reduce parking stress and add local interpretation.
What to Pack
sturdy trail shoes, rain shell, 1L water, camera with polarizer — for traction, protection from spray, hydration, and better photos
Did You Know
The Historic Columbia River Highway—built between 1913 and 1922—was the nation’s first scenic highway, designed specifically to showcase waterfalls like Wahkeena; the Gorge hosts the highest density of year-round waterfalls in the U.S.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Arrive before 8am on weekends to secure parking; 2) Carry cashless payment for nearby shops and tastings; 3) Pack a light breathable layer for fluctuating temperatures; 4) Respect posted signs—do not climb on wet basalt.
Local Flavor
Combine your hike with Hood River Valley bites—farmstands, cider houses, and Columbia Gorge AVA wineries make for a relaxed post-hike meal and tasting.
Logistics Snapshot
Distance: 0.5–3 miles depending on route • Elevation: moderate (stone stairs) • Access: Historic Columbia River Highway pullout • Parking: limited • Best time: spring mornings • Permits: none required for day visits.
Sustainability Note
Stick to designated trails, avoid trampling moss and root mats, and choose organized transportation or e-bike options to reduce roadside parking impacts.