Horsetail Falls & Trail (#438)

Named for its characteristic form, Horsetail Falls plunges 176 feet within view of the Historic Columbia River Highway's "Waterfall Corridor." Just east of the falls is a great picnic spot to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding area.

This day use area is a trailhead for Horsetail Falls Trail #438, a short but steep hike that passes behind the base of Upper Horsetail Falls (also called Ponytail Falls) and through a basalt overhang before leading to Oneonta Trail #424. Be aware there are steep cliffs in places, so use caution. The Horsetail Falls Trailhead is also used by a section of Gorge Trail #400.

The parking area provides accessible (ADA) parking spots; however visitors will need to cross the Historic Columbia River Highway to access the viewing area and picnic tables.

See timestamp 3:58 in the video below for a glimpse of the picnic area.

Video - Accessible Adventures: Water Falls Along the Historic Columbia River Highway

Current Conditions

Trail is open. Use caution around cliffs.

Specific Trail Information

Trail Type

Standard/Terra Trail — A trail that has a surface consisting predominantly of the ground and that is designed and managed to accommodate use on that surface.

General Information

Year-round

Aircraft/UAS/drone takeoffs and landings are prohibited at this site.
Motor vehicles and bikes are prohibited.
Fires not allowed within 200 feet of trail.

Address: 902 Wasco Ave Suite 200 Hood River, OR 97031
Phone: (541) 308-1700
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.r6crgnsawfb@usda.gov

Getting There

Directions

Horsetail Falls Trailhead is located 2.75 miles east of Multnomah Falls on the Historic Columbia River Highway.

From Portland, OR: Travel east on Interstate 84 to Ainsworth Exit #35. This way allows you to bypass traffic congestion on the historic highway near Multnomah Falls). Follow the off ramp to the intersection with the Historic Highway and turn left (east). Travel west on the Historic Highway approximately 1 mile to the parking area on the right (north) side. Alternately, take Bridal Veil exit #28 but risk getting caught in Multnomah Falls congestion.

From Hood River, OR: Travel west on Interstate 84 to Ainsworth exit #35. Travel west on the Historic Highway approximately 1 mile to the parking area on the right (north) side.