Wahkeena Falls
A breathtaking 242-foot waterfall with trails that let you walk behind the cascade, offering stunning views and picnic spots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Wahkeena Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 242-foot waterfall with trails that let you walk behind the cascade, offering stunning views and picnic spots.
"Amazingly beautiful area! You can find the perfect angle to get any camera shot you want."
Free Parking Advantage
Enjoy free parking here, a huge plus compared to nearby Multnomah Falls! :car:
Sturdy Footwear Essential
Wear good hiking shoes/boots; trails can be steep and the way down can be tough on feet. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wahkeena Falls
Main viewpoint
A stunning 242-foot cascade, easily accessible and perfect for photos. The trail even crosses behind it!
Bridge Viewpoint
Short paved trail
A quick, paved walk leads to a bridge offering spectacular views of the falls and surrounding gorge.
Wahkeena-Multnomah Loop
Trailhead
A scenic 5-mile loop connecting to Multnomah Falls, featuring multiple cascades and lush forest.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Parking
Trail Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Multnomah falls tips?
Free Parking Advantage
Enjoy free parking here, a huge plus compared to nearby Multnomah Falls! :car:
Sturdy Footwear Essential
Wear good hiking shoes/boots; trails can be steep and the way down can be tough on feet. :athletic_shoe:
Visiting Multnomah Falls (and Wahkeena) 2025
Wahkeena & Multnomah Falls loop - is it really "hard"?
Picnic Paradise
Plenty of peaceful spots for a family picnic with amazing views. :sandwich:
Connect to Multnomah
A short, easy 0.5-mile walk connects you to Multnomah Falls. :walking:
Confused about Wahkeenah Falls closure, has anyone been recently?
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Parking Advantage
Enjoy free parking here, a huge plus compared to nearby Multnomah Falls! :car:
Sturdy Footwear Essential
Wear good hiking shoes/boots; trails can be steep and the way down can be tough on feet. :athletic_shoe:
Picnic Paradise
Plenty of peaceful spots for a family picnic with amazing views. :sandwich:
Connect to Multnomah
A short, easy 0.5-mile walk connects you to Multnomah Falls. :walking:
Photographer's Dream
Find perfect angles for stunning waterfall shots; no fees charged! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Wahkeena Falls for its stunning beauty, free parking, and family-friendly atmosphere. Many appreciate the accessible trails and the unique opportunity to walk behind the cascade. While some trails can be steep, the overall experience is highly recommended for its natural splendor and picnic-perfect spots.
"We recently visited Wahkeena Falls in Oregon, and our whole family absolutely loved it! The trail is beautiful, the views are amazing, and it’s the perfect spot to enjoy nature without a long hike. The area has plenty of peaceful places to sit, making it a great spot for a family picnic , we brought lunch and it was one of the highlights of our trip.
One thing to note: the restroom near the trailhead was closed, likely because of the season. It wasn’t a big issue for us, but good to know ahead of time.
Overall, Wahkeena Falls is a wonderful place to relax, explore, and enjoy the beauty of the Columbia River Gorge. Highly recommend for families looking for a scenic and memorable outdoor experience!"
Mohaymen
"I was here on October 8th. From this spot, where parking is for free, you can do a 5 mile loop ending at Multnomah falls then walk back to this parking lot, like 5-10 minutes. This 5 mile loop is very pretty and has a number of falls. The only issue with it is that you'll keep hearing the traffic. But this way is easier than starting at Multnomah where a steep ascend is needed. I spent 4 hours here but people can finish it way faster."
Mais Kassas
"Amazingly beautiful area! There is a short but fairly steep hike up the left side of the stream with some great photo spots. To the right is a 0.2 mile paved trail that leads up to a bridge with a spectacular view. Also, another benefit is free parking here and a 0.5 mile hike/walk to Multnomah Falls (where parking is $20)."
Alan Knuteson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wahkeena Falls is located along the Historic Columbia River Highway in Oregon. It's easily accessible by car, with free parking available. Many visitors combine a trip here with a visit to nearby Multnomah Falls.
Yes, there is free parking available at Wahkeena Falls, which is a significant advantage. Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
Absolutely! There's a convenient 0.5-mile trail connecting Wahkeena Falls to Multnomah Falls, making it easy to visit both without moving your car.
The drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway to Wahkeena Falls is incredibly scenic, offering breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge.
Restrooms are available, though one reviewer noted the restroom near the trailhead was closed seasonally. It's advisable to check current conditions or be prepared.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no fees charged to hike around Wahkeena Falls, making it a budget-friendly natural attraction.
Wahkeena Falls is an outdoor natural attraction and is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours.
No advance booking or tickets are required for Wahkeena Falls, as it is a free-access natural area.
Yes, parking at Wahkeena Falls is free, which is a major draw for visitors.
Timed entry permits are not required for Wahkeena Falls, unlike some other popular attractions in the Columbia River Gorge.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the beautiful 242-foot Wahkeena Falls itself, with a trail that allows you to walk behind the cascade.
Some trails are paved and easy, like the one to the bridge viewpoint. However, the loop trail to Multnomah Falls and beyond can be steep and challenging in parts.
You can find great photo opportunities right from the parking area, behind the falls, and from the bridge viewpoint. The loop trail also offers numerous scenic spots.
Yes, Wahkeena Falls is very family-friendly. There are accessible areas, beautiful views, and peaceful spots for picnics, making it a memorable outdoor experience.
You can see the main falls and bridge viewpoint in about an hour. The loop trail to Multnomah Falls can take 3-4 hours, depending on your pace.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly at Wahkeena Falls. It's best to pack a picnic or dine in nearby towns like Hood River or Troutdale.
Yes, Wahkeena Falls is an excellent spot for a picnic, with many peaceful areas to sit and enjoy your meal amidst nature.
Limited food options are available directly at the falls. Consider bringing your own food or visiting nearby towns for a wider selection.
Yes, bringing food and drinks is permitted, and it's highly recommended for enjoying a picnic experience.
Currently, there are no cafes or snack bars operating directly at Wahkeena Falls.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the beauty of the falls.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and surrounding landscape. A tripod can be useful for long exposures in lower light.
Generally, photography is welcomed, and there are no specific restrictions mentioned. You can find many perfect angles for any camera shot.
Drone usage may be restricted in national forest areas. It's best to check current regulations with the U.S. Forest Service before flying a drone.
The multi-tiered cascade, the ability to walk behind the falls, and the lush green surroundings make Wahkeena Falls exceptionally photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic – there are plenty of peaceful spots to enjoy lunch with a view, making it a perfect family outing. While the loop trails can be steep, the core area is very manageable for younger children. Ensure everyone has comfortable shoes, and be prepared for a memorable nature experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, pack your own food and drinks for a picnic. This avoids the cost of dining out and allows you to enjoy the scenic surroundings. The ability to connect to Multnomah Falls via a short walk also saves on potential parking fees at the busier attraction.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Explore the loop trails for more diverse shots of smaller cascades and lush forest. Visiting during golden hour (early morning/late afternoon) will enhance your photos with beautiful light. A wide-angle lens and tripod are recommended for capturing the scale and detail.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wahkeena-Multnomah Falls Loop
While often rated as 'hard,' the difficulty is primarily due to a steeper incline encountered on certain sections of the trail, particularly if you start from the Multnomah Falls side. However, starting the loop from Wahkeena Falls, as many suggest, can make the ascent more gradual. The trail itself is well-maintained but can be rocky and uneven in places, emphasizing the need for good footwear.
Be aware that parts of the trail run close to the highway, so you might hear traffic noise. Despite this, the payoff is immense, with stunning viewpoints and the chance to discover smaller, less-crowded cascades. Allow 3-4 hours to complete the loop comfortably, and bring water and snacks.
Photography Opportunities
Beyond the primary falls, the short paved path to the bridge offers a classic viewpoint, framing the waterfall within its natural gorge setting. For those venturing onto the loop trails, numerous other smaller falls and lush forest scenery present endless photographic possibilities. The free parking and lack of entrance fees mean you can spend ample time finding the perfect shot without feeling rushed.
To make the most of your photography session, consider visiting during the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – for softer light and fewer crowds. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the grandeur of the falls and the surrounding landscape, while a tripod can be beneficial for longer exposures, especially in shaded areas or during lower light conditions.
Family-Friendly Exploration
The availability of peaceful spots for picnics makes it an ideal location for a family outing. Packing a lunch and enjoying it with a view of the falls adds a special touch to the visit. While the loop trails can be challenging, families can enjoy the main falls area and the bridge viewpoint without undertaking strenuous hikes.
It's worth noting that while the main areas are manageable, if you plan to explore further, ensure children have appropriate footwear and are supervised closely on steeper or uneven terrain. The overall experience at Wahkeena Falls offers a wonderful opportunity for families to connect with nature and create lasting memories.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit