Wahclella Falls Trail (#436)
Fee Tube Inoperable
We are currently not able to accept cash at this site. Purchase a recreation pass before you go or scan the QR code to pay once you arrive
Wahclella Falls Trail offers a relatively easy, 2.4 mile out-and-back day hike through a slot canyon to one of the more spectacular waterfalls in the Gorge.
The trail begins on an old, gated road alongside Tanner Creek (area is unavailable). Pass a small intake dam for the Bonneville Fish Hatchery and continue into the narrowing canyon. You have entered the Mark O. Hatfield wilderness. A tributary stream creates a dramatic waterfall at the first bridge, and the trail forks after 0.7 mile. The upper section of trail was heavily damaged after the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire burned away vegetation from the slopes, causing landslides and rockfall to cover parts of the trail and damage the bridge, which was replaced in 2020.
At the end of the trail lies Wahclella Falls, a 350-foot two-tiered plunge. The upper falls are 15-25 feet, while the lower 60-foot "horsetail" style falls plummets into an enormous splash pool. Watch for water ouzels bobbing and diving on the side of the stream, and for spawning salmon at the base of the falls during late fall.
In 2017, Eagle Creek Fire burned especially hot in the Tanner Creek watershed that feeds into Wahclella Falls, so we do not recommend hiking the area during or within 48-hours of heavy rain and snow events, as these can trigger flash floods, tree fall, and landslides. Risks will remain elevated for up to 10 years after the fire.
At a Glance
Current Conditions: | 7/28/23: We are unable to accept cash at this site. A valid recreation pass is required or scan the QR code at the trailhead to pay once you arrive.Parking is limited; do not leave any items of value in your vehicle. |
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Fees: | Day use fee of $5/vehicle/day or a valid pass. |
Open Season: | Year-round |
Usage: | Heavy |
Restrictions: | Motor vehicles and bikes are prohibited. Fires not allowed within 200 feet of trail. |
Closest Towns: | Cascade Locks, OR |
Water: | No |
Restroom: | There is a portable toilet on site year-round. |
Operated By: | Forest Service |
Information Center: | Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. |
General Information
Directions:From Portland, OR travel east on Interstate 84 to exit #40, Bonneville Fish Hatchery. Turn right and right again (south) and follow the road to the trailhead.
From Cascade Locks OR travel west on Interstate 84 to exit #40, Bonneville Fish Hatchery. Turn left (south) and follow the road to the trailhead on the right.
General Notes:
Activities
Day Hiking
This is an easy day hike to see some spectacular waterfalls.
Viewing Wildlife
Watch for water ouzels bobbing and diving on the side of the stream, and for spawning salmon at the base of the falls during late fall.
Viewing Scenery
Three waterfalls can be seen along this trail, with Tanner Creek Falls being the most spectacular.