21 BEST Columbia River Gorge Hikes
There’s no place like the Gorge. People travel from all around the country to take in this natural wonder of the Pacific Northwest, and while there are tons of ways to experience this area, the hikes in the Columbia River Gorge take the cake.
The magnificent trails of the CRG offer a variety of scenery, including gushing waterfalls, birds-eye views, and plenty of viewpoints over the gorge itself. I’m lucky to have grown up hiking these trails.
Some hikes will lead you over the border into Washington (since the gorge straddles both states), but there are also plenty of great trails close to Portland if you’re short on time.
These are our favorite hikes in the Columbia River Gorge!
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Table of Contents
- 1. Bridal Veil Falls
- 2. Angel’s Rest
- 3. Dry Creek Falls
- 4. Horsetail Falls and Ponytail Falls
- 5. Latourell Falls Loop Trail
- 6. Eagle Creek Trail
- 7. Mount Defiance Trail
- 8. Wahkeena and Multnomah Falls Loop Trail
- 9. Wahclella Falls
- 10. Elowah and Upper McCord Creek Falls Trail
- 11. Horsetheif Butte Trail
- 12. Triple Falls
- 13. Coyote Wall Loop Trail
- 14. Rowena Plateau Trail
- 15. Dog Mountain Trail
- 16. Cape Horn Loop Trail
- 17. Larch Mountain Trail
- 18. Hamilton Mountain Trail
- 19. Beacon Rock Trail
- 20. Lyle Cherry Orchard Trail
- 21. Table Mountain Trail via Pacific Crest Trail
- Camping in the Columbia River Gorge
- Cabins & Glamping Options:
- More Hiking in Oregon
- 17+ Badass Bend Hikes to Conquer During Your Visit
- 37 of The Best Oregon Hikes You've Got to Check Out
- 21+ Awesome Hikes Near Portland to Escape The Bustle
- 17+ Must-Visit Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls
- Waterfalls Near Portland: 17 Gorgeous Waterfall Hikes
- 17 Breathtaking Oregon Coast Hikes
- 28 Stunning Oregon Waterfall Hikes
1. Bridal Veil Falls
Distance: 0.6 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 121 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is no fee for this trail
Located on a short 0.6-mile out-and-back hike, you have two options with this hike.
First, there’s a paved universal-access path that circles up to a viewpoint of the gorge and the Pillars of Hercules rock formation.
Second, you can take a lower trail down to the base of the falls. Even though the second hike is short, there are stairs and switchbacks, so this trail is not wheelchair accessible.
At the bottom, you’ll have a great view of Bridal Veil and understand where it got its name.
RELATED: Waterfalls Near Portland: 17 Gorgeous Waterfall Hikes
2. Angel’s Rest
Distance: 4.5 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 1,489 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is no fee for this trail
The Angel’s Rest trail is located off the same highway exit as Bridal Veil, so add this difficult trek to your itinerary of Columbia River Gorge hikes if you’re up for a challenge.
Compared to some other hikes in the gorge, this route is pretty short when you consider the epic views you get over the gorge. On a clear day, you’ll even be able to see Mount St. Helens and Mount Baker.
That being said, you will need to conquer some big boulders, a few scrambles, and some steep drop-offs. Watch your step and you’ll be fine!
If you’re really feeling adventurous, you can do a 10-mile loop that includes Coopey Falls, Angel’s Rest, and Devil’s Rest (hard).
3. Dry Creek Falls
Distance: 4.4 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 898 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is a fee for this trail, pay $5 or display your NW Forest Pass
This waterfall is located where the Pacific Crest Trail crosses the Bridge of the Gods. You’ll hike part of the PCT as a 4.4-mile out-and-back to get to this waterfall.
The area is very secluded and offers an immersive escape from daily life. Also, the falls create a nice breeze that you’ll enjoy once you reach it. Keep an eye out for horses, as people like horseback riding through here!
4. Horsetail Falls and Ponytail Falls
Distance: 0.8 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 301feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is no fee for this trail
Horsetail Falls and Ponytail Falls are some of the most popular Columbia River Gorge hikes. People come from all around just to see these waterfalls.
The Eagle Creek Fire had an impact on this site, but the good news is that both waterfalls are now open again for hikers to experience.
It’s pretty cool to be able to see two waterfalls on such a short hike, and you can even walk behind Ponytail Falls for an epic photo shoot. Tread with care—it can get pretty slippery behind the waterfall!
RELATED: 17+ Must-Visit Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls
5. Latourell Falls Loop Trail
Distance: 2 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 639 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is no a fee for this trail
- Trail is currently closed indefinitely for repairs. Check here for updates*
This loop trail is 2 miles long and gives you some awesome views of the waterfall. In fact, there are two waterfalls and three viewpoints. First, you’ll see Lower Latourell Falls from the bottom.
Next, you’ll hike around and up to see the same falls from the top. After that, you’ll follow Latourell Creek upstream and walk past Upper Latourell Falls.
To finish the loop out, you’ll follow the other side of the creek back to the highway.
→ For a fun and active tour to Latourell Falls and other beautiful falls in the Columbia River Gorge, take this hike and bike waterfall tour from Portland.
6. Eagle Creek Trail
Distance: 4 – 25.8 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Easy – Hard
Elevation Gain: 500 – 4,829 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is a fee for this trail, pay $5 or display your Northwest Forest Pass
- Permit required for camping along this trail
At over 25 miles, the Eagle Creek Trail is one of the most epic Columbia River Gorge hikes. As you hike, you’ll pass waterfalls, wildflowers (in the Spring), streams, and lakes.
Of course, you don’t have to complete the whole thing in one go.
Backpacking is popular along this route (permit required), or you could hike just a portion of the longer trail—Punchbowl Falls (2 miles) and the 4.5-mile bridge are both popular turn-around points.
TIP: If you can get to the 6-mile point, you can make it to Tunnel Falls and then turn back unless you have a permit to hike. Tunnel Falls is just what it sounds like: a tunnel behind a waterfall!
7. Mount Defiance Trail
Distance: 12.6 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 5,193
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is no fee for this trail
In Starvation Creek State Park, you’ll find a few different hiking trails. However, if you want to see all the sights, you’ll take the Mount Defiance Trail.
This trail is a 12.6-mile loop that will take you by four waterfalls: Starvation Creek Falls, Cabin Creek Falls, Hole-in-the-Wall Falls, and Lancaster Falls.
The good news is that you’ll see all these falls within about two miles of the parking lot, so you don’t have to do the whole loop if you aren’t up for it.
However, if you do the whole thing, you’ll pass by the gorgeous Warren Lake.
8. Wahkeena and Multnomah Falls Loop Trail
Distance: 5.1 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,640 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is no fee for this trail (Timed used permit required for Multnomah Falls when visiting between Memorial Day and Labor Day)
Multnomah Falls is one of the most iconic Columbia River Gorge waterfall hikes and open. However, the loop hike we recommend goes all the way around to Wahkeena Falls.
Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon, and the views from the bridge are spectacular. Along the hike, the crowds will thin, and you’ll pass several falls, including Ecola Falls and Weisendanger Falls.
The loop comes around, and soon, you’ll be at Fairy Falls, then Wahkeena Falls. From here, you loop right back to Multnomah!
This is probably the most iconic hike in the Columbia River Gorge, combining two of the prettiest waterfalls with some bonus ones in between.
→ If you are traveling alone, join this awesome waterfall hiking tour to the Columbia River Gorge from Portland.
TIP: Go clockwise and start with Multnomah Falls. Get there early and beat the crowds.
RELATED: 13 Portland Tours for The Adventurous!
9. Wahclella Falls
Distance: 1.9 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 308 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is a fee for this trail, pay $5 or display your Northwest Forest Pass
The Wahclella Falls Trail is a 1.9-mile out-and-back that is great for the whole family.
That’s because it’s not too hard and it stays pretty flat the whole time. In the end, you’re greeted with a beautiful waterfall deep in the forest.
Also, the trail follows the creek the whole time, which adds to the beauty.
RELATED: Best Mount Hood Hikes
10. Elowah and Upper McCord Creek Falls Trail
Distance: 2.6 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 709 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is no fee for this trail
- Partial closure: Beyond McCord Creek is inaccessible due to landslide damage. Check for updates.
Epic lookouts, lovely forest scenery, and plenty of waterfalls —what more could you wish for on a Columbia River Gorge hike?
There is some damage from a wildfire, and you can see it in the trees, but it doesn’t take away from the sheer beauty of this trail.
McCord Creek Falls is about 3/4 of a mile into the trail, and from there, you’ll continue your climb up to Elowah Falls.
READ MORE: Elowah and Upper McCord Creek Falls Trail
11. Horsetheif Butte Trail
Distance: 1.0 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 104 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is a fee for this trail, pay $10 or display your Discover Pass
Venture “over the border” into Washington for this easy Columbia River Gorge hike. Horsetheif Butte Trail is a short and sweet trail with great views of the gorge and rocky buttes along the way.
There are even some petroglyphs and information displays along the trail, so you’ll get to learn a bit about the history of the area as you appreciate the natural beauty.
Seriously, at one mile, you can’t beat the payout!
RELATED: 25 EPIC Hikes in Washington to Tackle
12. Triple Falls
Distance: 3.1 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 859 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is no fee for this trail
As the name suggests, this trail leads to the three-tiered triple falls. While the waterfall is no doubt a highlight, the scenery along the way is also noteworthy.
You’ll hike along Oneonta Creek, passing several waterfalls before you get to the main attraction. As you ascend the cliffside, you’ll also get some great views of the Gorge below.
Note that this area was affected by wildfire damage, so you’ll see some bald trees. The Oneonta Gorge was once a famous hike here but has remained inaccessible for years.
TIP: This is a great hike in the Gorge to pair with Ponytail and Horsetail Falls!
13. Coyote Wall Loop Trail
Distance: 6.3 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,765 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is no fee for this trail
- Shared trail with mountain bikes
For views that just don’t quit, check out the Coyote Wall Loop Trail across the river in Washington.
From start to finish, you’ll be treated to gorgeous views of the Gorge, and on a clear day, you can spot Mount Hood poking out on the horizon.
There are some steep inclines on the way up to the ridge, but once you’re up top you can relax and take in the views. Just beware that you’ll be pretty exposed to the elements (think wind and sun!) up here.
14. Rowena Plateau Trail
Distance: 2.1 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 259 feet
Other important info:
- No dogs are allowed
- There is no fee for this trail
On this trail, you’ll get to admire some prehistoric geology. That’s because the Gorge and its surrounding landscape show evidence of the last ice age in this area.
And in the springtime, you can enjoy a hike surrounded by wildflowers.
The hike is a 2-mile loop that is located near The Dalles. Be aware that this hike is within the Tom McCall Nature Preserve. That means it’s gorgeous and pristine, but it also means it’s closed from Nov. 1 through April 30.
TIP: There’s a popular U-shaped road viewpoint here at the start of the hike too!
15. Dog Mountain Trail
Distance: 6.5 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 2,998 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is a fee for this trail, pay $5 or display your NW Forest Pass
- A special permit is required to hike Dog Mountain on Saturdays and Sundays during peak wildflower season. You can find the specific dates each year here.
Dog Mountain is one of the most popular Columbia River Gorge hikes, and once you step onto the trail, you’ll understand why. This trail offers some of the best views of the Gorge. Period.
The views (and tough climb) are simply to die for, especially during peak wildflower season.
TIP: There are two routes to pick from: “difficult” or “more difficult.” It’s going to be hard either way, so pick the “more difficult” route and avoid the crowds a bit more!
READ MORE: The Dog Mountain Trail in Washington
16. Cape Horn Loop Trail
Distance: 6.8 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,404 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is no fee for this trail
The Cape Horn Loop Trail has it all. A high viewpoint to take in the Gorge, fields of lava rock, and a waterfall that cascades into the Columbia River.
You’ll gain 1587 feet in elevation on this trail. Be aware, the lower half of the trail is closed between February 1 and July 15th for falcon mating season.
TIP: Although dogs are technically welcome, this trail can be hazardous (steep cliffside) to dogs, so leave them at home.
17. Larch Mountain Trail
Distance: 13.3 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 4,012 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is no fee for this trail
- Only recommended for seasoned adventurers
At 13.3 miles, the Larch Mountain Trail is another epic CRG hike. This extremely difficult trek is only recommended for experienced hikers, as the elevation gain and technical aspects are no joke.
You’ll journey through the forest, with various waterfalls (including Multnomah), bridges, and lookout points along the way. The view from the top is crazy, and you may find yourself a bit dizzy if you’re scared of heights.
TIP: For the “lazy” ones out there (no shame!), you can drive to the trail’s end rather than hiking the grueling 13+ miles and still get a view. The road is open seasonally.
18. Hamilton Mountain Trail
Distance: 5.4 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 2,057 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is a fee for this trail, pay $10 or display your Discover Pass
This 5.4-mile out-and-back trail takes you up Hamilton Mountain. Also, it’s a popular hike, so it’s a good idea to go in the early morning if you want to beat the crowds.
On this hike, you’ll get to see Hardy Falls, The Pool of the Winds, and Rodney Falls.
The Pool of the Winds is an enclosed rocky pool at the base of the middle waterfall. It’s deep, dark, and windy from the rushing water.
The 2488-foot summit of this mountain doesn’t quite have the view you’d expect, but if you turn and walk across the saddle to a plateau, you’ll have a better view of Mount Hood, Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and Table Mountain.
19. Beacon Rock Trail
Distance: 1.5 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 574 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is a fee for this trail, pay $10 or display your Discover Pass
If the view of Beacon Rock from the Fort Cascades Trail left you wanting more, you’ll be pleased to know it’s there for the climbing. You can get to the summit of this ancient volcano in around an hour.
It’s suitable for most hikers thanks to the series of switchbacks made of wooden boards, but be aware that not all of the route is paved. It’s a bit of a workout, but the views from the top are worth it.
20. Lyle Cherry Orchard Trail
Distance: 5.0 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,213
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is no fee for this trail
On this trail, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the gorge, dense oak groves, and grassy plateaus. The Lyle Cherry Orchard Trail is just east of the small town of Lyle, Washington.
The effort you put in on the climb will be rewarded by panoramic views of the Gorge. Also, you’ll see a boot brush here.
Whenever you see one of these, take the time to clean your boots before and after your hike. It helps to keep weeds out of these areas.
21. Table Mountain Trail via Pacific Crest Trail
Distance: 16 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 4,215 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is a fee for this trail, pay $5 or display your NW Forest Pass
- Beware of loose rocks along the trail
This 16-mile lollipop trail starts off on the same trail that goes to Gillette Lake. However, you’ll pass the lake and add some significant mileage to get to Table Mountain.
Towards the end, you have the option of continuing up Heartbreak Ridge or choosing the easier, slightly longer Westway trail to the summit. Make sure you pack enough water for Heartbreak Ridge if you go that way.
It is very steep. Also, at the top, you can enjoy an almost 360-degree view of the surrounding wilderness.
→ To experience the Columbia River Gorge from a different perspective, take a scenic flightseeing tour or sail through the gorge on a classic yacht!
Camping in the Columbia River Gorge
As you’re well aware now, there are tons of Columbia River Gorge hikes. To get the most out of the area, why not go camping? This is what we do so we can start our hikes early.
There are a number of great spots, but here are a few of our fav campgrounds in the Columbia River Gorge.
Read more about camping near Portland and camping around Oregon!
- Ainsworth State Park: Great campground near all the hot spots in the western Gorge area, including Horsetail Falls. This is our personal favorite!
- Deschutes River State Recreation Area: Scenic spot along the east Gorge where the Deschutes River flows into Columbia.
- Eagle Creek Campground: Central to many Columbia River Gorge hikes. Very popular—make reservations!
- Herman Creek Campground: First come, first served campground with trailheads to Herman Creek and the Pacific Crest Trail.
- Memaloose State Park: Large state park campground with lots of full hook-up and tenting sites.
- Viento State Park: One minute from Mount Defiance Trail and all of its waterfalls. Less popular and less crowded than other Gorge campgrounds.
- Wyeth Campground: Primitive campground east of Herman Creek with its own hiking trails. Bring your own water!
READ MORE: 17 Amazing Spots to Go Camping on The Columbia River Gorge
Cabins & Glamping Options:
- Dragonfly Creek Retreat Cabin – Located in Mosier, this artsy cabin sits on 24 wooded acres with a seasonal creek. It’s only two miles from town but it feels secluded and wildlife abounds.
- Cottage in the Heart of the Gorge – This beautifully remodeled cottage in Mosier has river views, which are best enjoyed from the deck. It has everything you need for a relaxing and comfortable vacation.
👉 More Accommodation in The Gorge
We hope this guide to hiking the Columbia River Gorge helped you plan your trip!
