Wahclella Falls
Cascade Locks, Oregon
Details
Distance
1.74 miles
Elevation Gain
410 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Vic Garcia
Quick and easy trail to take in the powerful 65-foot Lower Wahclella Falls.
This is a very short and fairly easy, 1 mile in – 1 mile out, hike with a little bit of elevation gain. I took my time hiking and enjoying the scenery with the intention of this being a photo heavy trip. When I got to the end I spent at least an hour shooting from every angle I saw fit. Once you arrive at the falls though, all you can do for at least a minute is stand in absolute awe at the power and beauty of this waterfall.
What makes this hike so great is its accessibility. The trailhead is easy to find and the hike is short enough that once you are done gawking, you have time to jump back in the car and do another hike.
Something to remember - Be prepared to pay the $5 fee at any Gorge trailhead OR just buy a Northwest Pass if you do enough hiking to justify it. Those are only $30 and you can pick them up at your local REI or other outdoor retailers.
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Reviews
I left to do this hike after work on a week night, and still had plenty of time to explore after the drive out. The falls are easy to find, and so are ways to get down to the river and do a lil side exploring. My pup was stoked on it too.
4.0
This was shorter than expected but with decent elevation gain for a 45 minute hike. Grab a brew at hood river afterward!
4.0
Stunning and easy hike! Definitely recommend going during the rainy season so you can see all the amazing seasonal waterfalls.
5.0
Fairly easy hike up to another breathtaking waterfall in the region. Quite a bit of mist comes off, bring a cloth for your camera. Also be prepared for major crowds, parking can be difficult on weekends the two lane road that leads along there gets packed with traffic as well. Worth a trip if you go early!
4.0
Out of all of the waterfalls in the gorge this one is my favorite. An Easy and scenic hike makes this a must do. During the rainy season you will find small waterfalls throughout the hike. Highly recommended!
5.0
I always take my guests and family who come from other states here. It's an easy hike to a beautiful waterfall. However, it does get crowded during the day, so try to aim for an early morning.
5.0
I went on a foggy day so there were less people around, but that meant it was a little slippery around the falls. The water flow was gushing though and was stunning. I set up my hammock between two trees and had a great view of it, as well as the lovely tree tops above me when I wanted to lay back and relax. It was a short hike with a rewarding end, and there's several other hikes nearby to keep the nature fun going.
5.0
The 2 mile out and back hike to the falls is perfect for photographers who have heavy gear, kids, and also for dogs!! Be careful though it does get crowded on weekends and the parking lot is pretty small.
5.0
A sheer delight on a hot day. A short loop in to some pretty stunning falls with lots of options to dangle your feet in the cold mountain stream.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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