There is nowhere quite like the Columbia River Gorge. Known as the waterfall corridor of the Pacific Northwest, this dramatic landscape is home to towering basalt cliffs, mossy forests, and more waterfalls per mile than anywhere else in the country. Each season brings its own kind of magic. Spring wildflowers blanket the slopes, summer brings warm days perfect for wild swimming, and fall paints the Gorge in autumnal colors. No matter when you visit, there’s something spectacular to see while hiking the trails or driving the Historic Columbia River Highway.
Whether you want to chase hidden waterfalls on a short trail or spend a full day climbing toward sweeping viewpoints, the Gorge offers hikes for every type of adventurer. Below are some of the most rewarding hikes along both the Washington and Oregon sides of this incredible natural wonder.
Best Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge
BZ Falls Trail
Distance: 0.5 miles round trip | Difficulty: Easy
Washington side
This short and sweet out-and-back trail near White Salmon, WA, follows the river for about 30 minutes of peaceful walking. Watch rafters and kayakers ride the rapids of the White Salmon River while wildflowers brighten the path in spring. Minimal elevation gain makes it a great warm-up or a quick nature break during your Gorge adventure. Parking and facilities are available year-round at the trailhead.
Buck Creek Falls Loop
Distance: 3 miles round trip | Difficulty: Easy
Washington side
This short, family-friendly trail travels along Buck Creek and passes by Buck Creek Falls about a quarter mile from the trailhead. Along the way, you’ll wander through lush woodlands of Douglas fir, western red cedar, and bigleaf maple before reaching the falls pouring from a slot canyon into a pool below. The waterfall overlook is a perfect spot to enjoy a picnic and soak in your surroundings. To reach the trailhead, cross the White Salmon River and head to the Buck Creek Campground, where you’ll find basic facilities and a map of the trail system.
Weldon Wagon Road Trail
Distance: 4.6 miles round trip | Difficulty: Moderate
Washington side
This 2.3-mile out-and-back traces a historic 1911 wagon road once used by settlers hauling produce to town and returning with supplies for their homesteads. The trail begins in a forest of Oregon white oak, then breaks into open fields where spring wildflowers – from lupine to balsamroot – put on an unforgettable show. With more than 1,000 feet of elevation gain, it offers a rewarding challenge and sweeping vistas over the White Salmon Valley and Mount Hood. Parking is below the start of the trail: walk 0.1 miles up an abandoned road to reach the Weldon Wagon Trailhead. Note that there are no facilities here.
Eagle Creek to Tunnel Falls
Distance: 12 miles round trip | Difficulty: Strenuous
Oregon side
This legendary trail winds deep into a moss-draped canyon where waterfalls seem to appear at every turn. It is a gradual 1,640-foot climb to Tunnel Falls, where the trail tunnels behind a roaring sheet of water blasted through solid rock. It’s one for the bucket list and is best for serious hikers. Hold onto the cables that run along the trail where it hugs the basalt cliffs. Return the same way for a downhill finish.
If a full-day hike feels ambitious, the shorter 3.8-mile out-and-back from Eagle Creek to Punch Bowl Falls is a fantastic, family-friendly way to get your feet wet and cool off with a wild swim in summer. To reach the trailhead, head toward Eagle Creek, and at the road’s end, there is a parking area, restrooms, and the trailhead.
Multnomah – Wahkeena Loop
Distance: 4.6 miles round trip | Difficulty: Moderate
Oregon side
The most famous waterfall in Oregon is only the beginning. After viewing Multnomah Falls and its postcard-perfect Benson Bridge, the trail climbs switchbacks (1,700 feet elevation gain) to follow Multnomah Creek upstream. Continue the loop to discover more waterfalls hidden deeper in the forest. Starting early helps you beat the crowds and savor the enchantment. Refreshments and restrooms are available at Multnomah Falls Lodge. Visitors can park at the I-84 lot (secure a timed-use permit for $2 during summer through Recreation.gov) or take the Sasquatch Shuttle.
Dog Mountain Loop
Distance: 6.9 miles round trip | Difficulty: Strenuous
Washington side
Steep almost from the start, Dog Mountain makes you earn its treasures. It’s very popular on weekends, especially during wildflower season (mid-April to mid-June) when the summit meadows are carpeted in balsamroot. With 2,820 in elevation gain, the route offers some of the Gorge’s most jaw-dropping views. For hikers who love a challenge and a rewarding panorama, this one is a must. The site is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, is dog-friendly, and provides restrooms at the trailhead. Secure a timed-entry permit (peak season-only) from Recreation.gov or by taking the shuttle.
Latourell Falls
Distance: 2 miles round trip | Difficulty: Easy
Oregon side
The first waterfall encounter for travelers coming from Portland, Latourell Falls, is the perfect introduction to Gorge hiking. The lower falls plunge dramatically over columnar basalt right from the parking lot. The loop climbs to Upper Latourell Falls, which feels like a hidden world surrounded by lush greenery and mist. It’s worth the 600-foot elevation gain. The parking area is just off the Historic Highway, and restrooms are located at the trailhead.
Triple Falls
Distance: 3.6 miles round trip | Difficulty: Moderate
Oregon side
One waterfall after another keeps this trail exciting from beginning to end. Begin at Horsetail Falls, then continue to Ponytail Falls, where you can actually walk behind the cascade. The trail climbs through Oneonta Gorge and across a footbridge above moss-lined canyon walls before a final push leads to Triple Falls. Admire the three streams of water plunging into the valley below in mesmerizing formation before completing the loop that brings you back to where you started.
Tips for Hiking in the Columbia River Gorge
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction. Trails can be slippery when wet.
- Bring hiking poles for support on steep climbs or uneven trails.
- Wear water-repellent layers to stay dry in waterfall mist.
- Check hike permit requirements ahead of time.
- Expect the most powerful waterfall flows in spring.
- Check the weather conditions before you head out.
- Clean your boots before and after hiking to prevent the spread of invasive seeds.
- Remember to leave no trace by packing out what you pack in.
Guided Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge
You can even elevate your experience with guided private or group hikes and sightseeing tours that teach about native flora, share local history, and chase the region’s most iconic waterfalls with an expert by your side.
Where to Stay in the Columbia River Gorge
Your trip to the Gorge deserves an equally memorable home base. Under Canvas Columbia River Gorge rests on 120 breathtaking acres in Washington’s White Salmon River Valley, surrounded by forested hillsides and the mighty Cascade Mountains. With upscale, safari-inspired tents, modern comforts, private decks for lounging, and daily guest activities, this is glamping at its finest with nature right at your tent flap. You’ll be conveniently located near the region’s top hiking trails, waterfalls, wineries, and the iconic peaks of the Pacific Northwest. At day’s end, sip a locally inspired beverage, breathe in the scent of cedar and pine, and watch the sky fade into starlight as the campfire crackles. Then drift off in king-size comfort, ready for the adventures that await.