Latourell Falls: The Easiest & Prettiest Waterfall Hike in The Gorge?

If you’re looking for a quick and rewarding waterfall stop along the Historic Columbia River Highway, Latourell Falls is one of the best bang-for-your-buck hikes in the area.

With a dramatic drop, lush greenery, and an optional longer trail to Upper Latourell Falls, this stop has a little something for everyone—no matter how much (or how little) hiking you’re in the mood for.

We love this spot, and taking a stroll here while cruising the Gorge is a worthwhile stop!

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Start With the Main Viewpoint (No Effort Required)

The main attraction—Lower Latourell Falls—is basically right off the parking lot.

You’ll follow a short path with a slight incline to reach the viewpoint, and boom—you’re standing in front of a 224-foot stunner plunging off a cliff-lined with columnar basalt. You’ll probably hear it before you see it, and yes, it’s that dramatic.

If you want to get even closer (and trust me, you do), take the short spur trail down to the base. It’s a little rocky and slippery near the water due to the mist, but it’s worth it to stand just feet away from that roaring curtain of water.

You can’t exactly go behind the falls, but you can get close enough to feel the full misty experience. And the view looking back up at the cliffs—black rock stacked in perfect hexagonal columns—is super unique.

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Want a Bit More Adventure? Do the Full 2-Mile Loop

From the base of the lower falls, you can continue on to complete the full 2.4-mile loop.

It’s a moderate hike, but not difficult—just take care with the rocky terrain underfoot, especially around damp sections of the trail.

The path winds through a gorgeous, mossy forest with a thick tree canopy, so it’s shady and lush the whole way.

This area seems to have been untouched by the wildfires that hit other parts of the Gorge—it still feels wild, green, and beautifully Pacific Northwest.

Half Way Point:

Halfway through the loop, you’ll hit Upper Latourell Falls, a two-tiered waterfall that’s definitely worth the extra distance.

A cute little wooden bridge lets you cross in front of the upper falls for a perfect photo moment, and the view here is totally different—more gentle but just as beautiful in its own right.

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Navigation Note: The Weird Street Crossings

Here’s where things get quirky: if you’re doing the full loop, there’s a section where the trail pops out near the highway.

You’ll have to cross the road, pass under a bridge, and cross again to pick up the trail and complete the loop. It’s not hard, just mildly confusing.

You’ll also pass by a picnic area with grassy space and several tables—a great spot to chill if you brought lunch.

If you’re only doing one part of the trail:

• Go left from the parking lot to hit the viewpoint.
• Go right to reach the base of the lower falls.
• Go either direction for the full loop—it’s a circle, after all.

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Final Thoughts

Latourell Falls is a quick stop that doesn’t feel rushed. You can be in and out in 20 minutes if you’re short on time, or stay for a full hour and enjoy both falls plus the forest trail.

It’s one of those spots that manages to feel epic and accessible, which is part of what makes it so popular—but don’t worry, it still feels peaceful if you come early or midweek.

Whether you’re on a Columbia Gorge road trip or just want a quick nature fix outside of Portland, this one should be on your list.

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