7 Best Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge (Must-See Stops)

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The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most breathtaking places in Oregon, with an incredible number of waterfalls packed into a short stretch of road. Within just a few miles, you’ll find towering cascades, fern-lined trails, and falls you can see right from the highway, along with others reached by quiet forest walks.

Some of Oregon’s most iconic waterfalls are found here, making the Gorge an easy and unforgettable stop, whether you’re visiting for a few hours or spending a full day exploring. This guide highlights the best waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, from well-known classics to a few quieter spots that are perfect for photographers, casual hikers, and first-time visitors.

If you’re looking for even more waterfall inspiration across the state, you can also explore my guide to the best waterfalls in Oregon.

Multnomah Falls is the most famous waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge and one of the most recognizable landmarks in Oregon. Dropping more than 600 feet in two dramatic tiers, it’s an unforgettable sight even if you’ve seen it in photos before.

The waterfall is visible from the historic Columbia River Highway, making it one of the easiest waterfalls in the Gorge to visit.

Multnomah Falls / Best Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge 

A short paved trail leads to the Benson Bridge, where you can stand between the upper and lower falls and feel the mist on your face. If you want a bit more of a walk, you can continue hiking past the bridge for higher viewpoints and quieter sections of the trail.

Because of its popularity, Multnomah Falls now requires timed-entry reservations during peak season (spring through fall), so it’s best to plan ahead. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays also helps you enjoy the falls before crowds arrive.

Latourell Falls stands out from many other waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge because it plunges straight down over dark basalt cliffs instead of cascading in steps. The contrast between the bright white water and the rugged rock face makes it especially striking, even from a distance.

The paved trail to the lower viewpoint is short and easy, making this a great stop for all ages and ability levels.

Latourell Falls / Best Falls in the Columbia River Gorge 

If you have extra time, a longer loop trail continues to Upper Latourell Falls and offers quiet forest scenery along the way.

Parking is located just off the Historic Columbia River Highway and is generally easier here than at Multnomah Falls, though it can still fill up on summer weekends. Early mornings are usually the calmest.

Bridal Veil Falls is a gentle two-tier waterfall tucked just off the Historic Columbia River Highway. It has a softer, more delicate look than some of the taller Gorge waterfalls, with water spreading over mossy rocks as it flows down the hillside. A short, mostly flat trail leads to a wooden viewing platform near the base of the falls, making it an easy stop.

Parking is available in a small lot just off the highway and usually turns over quickly, though it can fill up on busy summer days. Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, when the waterfall is at its fullest.

Wahkeena Falls is a wide, stepped waterfall just a short distance from Multnomah Falls. Even though it’s close to one of the busiest spots in the Gorge, it often feels a bit less crowded, especially earlier in the day.

The waterfall drops over several rocky ledges and is surrounded by greenery most of the year. The viewpoint is right near the parking area, so it’s an easy stop if you don’t want a long walk.

Wahkeena Falls / Best Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge

If you do feel like hiking, a steeper trail continues uphill and connects to longer routes in the Gorge. Parking here is limited and can fill up fast, so visiting early or on a weekday makes things much easier.

Elowah Falls is a bit tucked away, which makes it feel quieter than some of the more popular waterfalls in the Gorge. The water drops into a wide, rocky bowl surrounded by mossy cliffs and a forest, creating a peaceful and scenic stop.

Elowah Falls / Best Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge 

The hike to Elowah Falls is about half a mile one way (around 1 mile round trip) and is considered moderate. The trail is well-marked, with some short uphill sections and a few uneven spots. It takes roughly 20–30 minutes each way at a relaxed pace.

Parking is limited, so you may need to wait for a spot to become available.

Punch Bowl Falls is one of the most photographed waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, famous for the deep, round pool at its base. The waterfall sits along Eagle Creek, which is lined with mossy cliffs, ferns, and lush forest, making the hike itself as enjoyable as the destination.

Punch Bowl Falls / Best Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge 

The hike to Punch Bowl Falls is about 2 miles round-trip from the Eagle Creek trailhead and is considered moderate. The trail is mostly well-maintained, but it includes some narrow sections along the creek, a few stairs

Parking at the trailhead can fill up fast on weekends, so plan accordingly.

Dry Creek Falls is a hidden gem tucked away in a quieter section of the Columbia River Gorge. Unlike some of the bigger, more popular falls, it has a slender, graceful drop that threads through a narrow canyon.

Dry Creek Falls / Best Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge 

The trail to the falls is about 1.2 miles round trip and is rated moderate because of a few short uphill stretches and rocky spots.

Unlike Punch Bowl Falls or Multnomah, Dry Creek Falls rarely gets crowded, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for a calm stop.