10 Best Waterfalls Near Portland, OR

Ready to explore some of Oregon’s most breathtaking cascades just outside the Rose City?

 Portland, also known as the Rose City, is situated along the Willamette River in the Pacific Northwest. The city is surrounded by beautiful forests, volcanic scenery, and breathtaking river gorges, making it an ideal location for waterfall adventures. Did you know, just a short drive from the city, you will find some of the most beautiful Waterfalls near Portland, Oregon, that are situated within the Mount Hood National Forest and the Columbia River? Fascinating, right?

From the famous Multnomah Falls, which is known as one of the tallest waterfalls in Oregon, Horsetail Falls, known for its water cascading down like a horse tail, to Punch Bowl Falls, which is famous for its deep pool and dramatic drop, and Wahkeena Falls, known for its gentle falls between the forest, there is something fascinating to discover at every corner.

Below is the list of the 10 best waterfalls near Portland. Check them out and make your trip a memorable one!

Latourell Falls is situated in the Columbia River Gorge and is just 35 minutes from Portland, making it one of the closest waterfalls to the city. The waterfall is situated on the historic Columbia River Highway in the Guy W. Talbot State Park and is named after the settler Joseph Latourell. The journey to the fall is a 2.4-mile stroll, which is easy and allows dogs on leashes. Once you reach the waterfall, you will see a 220-foot water plunge over striking columnar basalt, creating a natural amphitheater where you can stand beneath and enjoy the mist.

Wahkeena Falls is a tranquil waterfall situated along the Columbia River Gorge, approximately 35 minutes from Portland. The waterfall is encircled by thick Douglas fir trees, moss, and beautiful ferns, and tumbles 242 feet down tiered granite cliffs. A short 0.5-mile out-and-back walk leads straight to the base, making it a more peaceful walk than a hike. If you want more adventure, go to connecting paths, which lead to Fairy Falls and provide stunning gorge views. No parking pass is needed, and dogs on leashes are allowed.

Multnomah Falls is situated on the Columbia River Gorge and is approximately thirty minutes from Portland. The waterfall drops from a height of 620 feet and is the highest waterfall in Oregon. A quick ¼-mile paved walk takes you to the misty viewpoint and the famous Benson Bridge. If you want more exploration, continue your journey uphill to the upper viewpoint situated on a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail. Parking must be reserved in advance, and entry must be timed. Visit early to enjoy softer light and peaceful moments.

Tamanawas Falls is situated in the Mount Hood National Forest and is about one and a half hours from Portland. The 3.4-mile out-and-back trail follows Cold Spring Creek through Douglas fir forest and leads you to a striking lava cliff where the waterfall drops from a height of 110 feet into a cold pool. There are several viewpoints situated around the foot of the waterfall. The trek is moderate with a brief rock scramble at the end and a gradual elevation climb. Dogs must be kept on leashes, and access may be impacted by seasonal road closures in winter, so plan accordingly.

When looking for the best Portland waterfall hikes, Ramona Falls stands out. It is a famous waterfall in Mount Hood National Park that is about one hour and 15 minutes from Portland. The hike to the falls is a picturesque 7-mile circle that follows the Sandy River through mossy woodland. You also have to cross the river on logs to get to the falls, which adds to the adventure. The Ramona Falls cascade gently over layered rock, creating a scene straight out of a fairy tale. Visit early to enjoy peaceful trails and light around Mount Hood. Dogs on leashes are allowed, and a Northwest Forest Pass is required.

Punch Bowl Falls is a breathtaking 100-foot cascade that is approximately 45 minutes from Portland and is situated on the Eagle Creek Trail. The 4.2-mile out-and-back trek passes through mossy forest, basalt cliffs, and several lesser waterfalls before reaching the Punch Bowl Falls after 2 miles, where the water plunges into a circular pool. The fire damage and log jam make access slightly tricky, but there are various cable handrails along the exposed sections to make your trip easy. The falls also provide stunning views of the gorge, making it a great place for cooling down on hot days.

Bridal Veil Falls is a beautiful 120-foot two-tiered fall that is situated in the Columbia River Gorge and is approximately 30 minutes from Portland. A 0.6-mile out-and-back trail passes through thick woodland and takes you to the base, where you can enjoy water fanning out like a thin mist. The walk is simple and suitable for families with children. If you want extra scenery, visit the nearby interpretive route in the area, which leads to an overlook with expansive views of the Columbia River. This waterfall is ideal for a brief getaway, and parking is free.

Elowah Falls is situated in John B. Yeon State Park and is a 40-minute journey from Portland. The easy-to-moderate 1.5-mile round-trip hikes wind along steep canyon walls, over footbridges, and through lush woodland and take you to the fall where water plunges 213 feet downward into a mossy basalt amphitheater. This hidden gem is quieter than many gorge waterfalls, offering a serene and mystical environment. No parking pass is needed, and dogs on leashes are allowed. If you want to enjoy more picturesque views, continue your journey to the neighboring Upper McCord Creek Falls.

Horsetail Falls is just 35 to 45 minutes from Portland and is situated just off the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway, and has its own car park, making it quite accessible. The waterfall drops down from 176 feet into a deep basin and spreads out like a horse's tail. Continue your journey on a 1.2-mile trail where Ponytail Falls, also known as Upper Horsetail Falls, waits for you, which drops 80 feet over a basalt cliff. The mossy cliffs, green foliage, and shoreline rocks of the area make it perfect and one of the best waterfalls near Portland for photography

The Trail of the 10 Falls is situated in Silver Falls State Park, about one hour and 20 minutes from Portland, and serves as a 7.4-mile loop that passes through lush woodland and features 10 breathtaking falls. You can see the South Falls, which drops from 177 feet and offers hikers a rare opportunity to stroll behind the tumbling water. The trail is moderate and has an elevation gain of 1190 feet. It also offers close-up views of the Lower South Falls, Middle North Falls, and North Falls. Dogs are not allowed, and a $5 day-use pass is needed. It is an ideal hike for people who want to enjoy a waterfall and experience an Oregon adventure.

Planning a waterfall adventure near Portland? Stay at Portland Inn for a comfortable base with easy access to scenic trails, waterfalls, and city attractions.