Latourell Falls
Witness a breathtaking 249-foot waterfall cascading over striking columnar basalt cliffs. Explore easy paths to the base or a scenic loop to the top.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Latourell Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness a breathtaking 249-foot waterfall cascading over striking columnar basalt cliffs. Explore easy paths to the base or a scenic loop to the top.
"One of the prettiest falls along old Highway 30 in the gorge, with easy access and great photo ops."
🚗 Beat the Parking Rush
Arrive early on weekdays or late afternoon to snag a parking spot. Overflow parking can mean a longer walk.
🥾 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
The trail to the upper falls is rocky. Good footwear ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lower Latourell Falls
Base of the falls
A stunning 249-foot plunge over a unique basalt column cliff. Easy access for photos.
Upper Latourell Falls
Top of the falls (via loop trail)
Experience the falls from above and enjoy panoramic gorge views on the loop trail.
Historic Bridge View
Near the lower falls
Catch a glimpse of an original historic bridge, adding a touch of history to the natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Access
Trail Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Multnomah falls tips?
🚗 Beat the Parking Rush
Arrive early on weekdays or late afternoon to snag a parking spot. Overflow parking can mean a longer walk.
🥾 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
The trail to the upper falls is rocky. Good footwear ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike.
Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls - which to see which to skip?
Easy (but satisfying!) hikes in the gorge?
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
The lower falls offers fantastic vantage points. The loop trail provides unique perspectives from above.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Even short hikes can be tiring. Carry water, especially during warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat the Parking Rush
Arrive early on weekdays or late afternoon to snag a parking spot. Overflow parking can mean a longer walk.
🥾 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
The trail to the upper falls is rocky. Good footwear ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
The lower falls offers fantastic vantage points. The loop trail provides unique perspectives from above.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Even short hikes can be tiring. Carry water, especially during warmer months.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Latourell Falls for its stunning beauty, particularly the unique columnar basalt formations and the impressive plunge of the lower falls. The easy access to the base makes it a crowd-pleaser, though the loop trail to the upper falls offers a more challenging and rewarding experience for hikers. Parking can be a significant challenge during peak times.
"Nice fall with good size parking lot. Hiked up to the upper fall in about 20 minutes after sun went down. It was still nice enough to view with little light. The trail is a little rocky so may not be doable for some people."
Winston Dy
"The lower falls is very easy to see.
You can go to the bottom much easier than the upper falls. Although the upper falls is not that taxing. There are some spots that may cause someone with height issues to question going."
Brady McCoy
"One of the prettiest falls along old Highway 30 in the gorge. It is a short easy walk down to the base of the falls where there are many good photo vantage points. There is also a good view of one of the original road bridges on the scenic byway."
Denis LeBlanc
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Latourell Falls is located along the Historic Columbia River Highway. From Portland, take I-84 East and exit at 17 for Corbett/US-30. Follow US-30 East, and you'll find signs for Latourell Falls. The drive is scenic and takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
Public transportation options to Latourell Falls are very limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or join a guided tour that includes this stop.
Latourell Falls is part of the scenic Historic Columbia River Highway waterfall tour. You can easily combine it with nearby attractions like Multnomah Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.
Yes, there is a parking lot directly at Latourell Falls. However, it is quite popular and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season.
Currently, no permits or reservations are required for general access to Latourell Falls. However, always check the official Oregon State Parks website for any last-minute changes or special event restrictions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Latourell Falls. Access to the falls and the surrounding trails is free of charge.
Latourell Falls is accessible year-round during daylight hours. The park itself is open from dawn to dusk.
You do not need to buy tickets to visit Latourell Falls. It's a public park managed by Oregon State Parks.
As of now, there are no timed entry requirements for Latourell Falls. However, due to its popularity, arriving early is highly recommended to secure parking.
Information regarding tickets or permits for Latourell Falls is generally not applicable as it's a free-access park. For any updates, check the Oregon State Parks website.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
There are two main trails: a short, easy walk to the lower falls base, and a moderate loop trail (about 2.4 miles) that takes you to the upper falls. The loop can be rocky and has some elevation gain.
You can see the lower falls in about 30 minutes. Hiking the full loop to the upper falls and back can take 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Latourell Falls trailhead. It's always a good idea to confirm their operational status before your visit.
The trail to the lower falls is generally suitable for families. The loop trail to the upper falls might be challenging for very young children due to rocky terrain and elevation.
The area around the lower falls offers numerous excellent photo vantage points. The loop trail also provides unique perspectives of the falls and the surrounding gorge.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Latourell Falls. You'll need to bring your own snacks or plan to eat in nearby towns like Corbett or Troutdale.
Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas, but there are no formal picnic tables. Pack out everything you pack in to keep the park clean.
The closest towns with dining options are Corbett and Troutdale. You can find various cafes, diners, and restaurants in these areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, ideal for capturing the falls. Early mornings can also be good, with softer light and fewer crowds.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and surrounding landscape. A tripod can be useful for long exposures, especially in lower light.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Oregon State Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check current regulations before flying a drone.
The distinctive columnar basalt formations surrounding the falls create a dramatic backdrop, making it a visually striking subject for photographers.
Explore the loop trail for different angles, including views from above. Getting close to the base (carefully) can also yield dramatic perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with slightly older children who enjoy a bit more adventure, the Latourell Falls Loop Trail offers a more engaging experience. The moderate hike includes interesting terrain and the chance to see the falls from above. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear, and keep a close eye on them near the water and on rocky sections. Pack snacks and water, as there are no facilities on the trail itself.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers from Portland
Plan to spend about 1-2 hours here, depending on whether you stick to the lower falls or hike the loop. Arriving early in the morning on a weekday is your best bet for avoiding crowds and securing parking, allowing for a more relaxed experience before continuing your gorge adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Latourell Falls Trails
For those seeking more exploration, the Latourell Falls Loop Trail presents a moderate challenge. This approximately 2.4-mile loop ascends from the lower falls, taking you through lush forest and offering a different perspective of the waterfall from above. A key feature of this trail is a historic bridge and a log bridge crossing the creek, which adds to the adventure. Be prepared for some rocky sections and elevation gain, making sturdy footwear essential.
Hikers often recommend completing the loop counter-clockwise to ascend the steeper section first and enjoy a more gradual descent. Remember to check trail conditions before you go, especially after wet weather, as some areas can become slippery. The loop provides a more immersive experience of the natural beauty of the Columbia River Gorge.
Photography Tips for Latourell Falls
For more dynamic shots, consider using a tripod to achieve long exposures, which will create a silky, ethereal effect on the falling water, especially in lower light conditions. The loop trail offers elevated viewpoints that provide a different perspective, allowing you to frame the falls within the broader context of the gorge. The historic bridge also makes for an interesting foreground element in your shots.
Golden hour, just before sunset, often provides the most magical lighting, casting a warm glow on the falls and the surrounding landscape. However, be mindful of the time if you plan to hike the loop, as it can get dark quickly. Always be aware of your surroundings and any slippery surfaces when seeking the perfect shot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit