Discover the Majestic Wahclella Falls in Oregon
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Wahclella Falls, a hidden gem in Oregon's stunning landscape perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Nestled in the heart of Oregon, Wahclella Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder that captivates visitors with its stunning beauty and serene surroundings. A popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, this picturesque waterfall offers a short yet rewarding trek through lush forests, leading to a spectacular cascade that plunges into a tranquil pool below. The vibrant greenery, rocky cliffs, and the soothing sounds of rushing water make it an ideal spot for photography, relaxation, and immersing oneself in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
A brief summary to Wahclella Falls
- Oregon, US
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning scenery and waterfall.
- Check the weather ahead of time, as rain can make trails slippery.
- Pack a light snack or picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots along the trail.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, you can reach Wahclella Falls by taking the I-84 East from Portland. Take exit 40 for Cascade Locks. After exiting, turn left onto Cascade Locks Highway (also known as the Historic Columbia River Highway). Continue for about 6 miles until you reach the Wahclella Falls parking area on your right. There is no fee for parking, but be aware that the lot can fill up quickly on weekends.
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Public Transportation
To use public transportation, take the MAX Light Rail from Portland to the Gateway Transit Center. From there, transfer to the Columbia Gorge Express bus service, which operates seasonally. The bus will take you towards Cascade Locks. Once you arrive in Cascade Locks, you can either walk to Wahclella Falls (approximately a 1.5-mile walk) or arrange for a local taxi service to take you directly to the falls. Please check the Columbia Gorge Express schedule for current operating times and fares, as tickets generally cost around $10 one way.
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous, biking to Wahclella Falls is a great option. If you have brought your bike on public transportation, you can ride from Cascade Locks along the Historic Columbia River Highway. Be prepared for some uphill sections, but the beautiful scenery makes it worthwhile. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow all biking regulations. It's about 6 miles from Cascade Locks to the falls.
Discover more about Wahclella Falls
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Columbia River Highway Scenic Highway
2.2 km
Experience the stunning vistas and breathtaking landscapes along the Columbia River Highway Scenic Highway in Oregon's majestic Columbia River Gorge.
Fort Cascades Historic Site
2.6 km
Explore the historical significance and breathtaking scenery at Fort Cascades Historic Site, a captivating landmark in North Bonneville, Washington.
Elowah Falls
3.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Elowah Falls in Oregon, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush wilderness and scenic hiking trails, perfect for nature lovers.
Historic Columbia River Highway state trail bridge at McCord Creek
3.6 km
Discover the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail Bridge, a perfect blend of history and breathtaking natural beauty in the Columbia River Gorge.
WA State Historical Marker - Beacon Rock
5.6 km
Explore Beacon Rock, a historic landmark in Washington, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region's natural and cultural history.
WA State Historical Marker #19 - Bridge of the Gods
6.3 km
Discover the Bridge of the Gods: A historical landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Columbia River Gorge.
The Oregon Pony
7.1 km
Discover the Oregon Pony in Cascade Locks, a historic steam locomotive embodying Oregon's rich railway heritage amidst stunning natural beauty.
St Peter's Dome
7.5 km
Discover breathtaking panoramic views and serene nature at St Peter's Dome, a scenic spot in Oregon perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Historical Marker
7.7 km
Discover the rich history of Cascade Locks at the Historical Marker, a key attraction for history enthusiasts and nature lovers in Oregon.
Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness
7.9 km
Explore the stunning Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness in Oregon, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, featuring breathtaking trails and diverse wildlife.
Ainsworth State Park
8.0 km
Experience the scenic wonders of Ainsworth State Park, a natural haven in the Columbia River Gorge, ideal for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
Columbia Gorge Museum
8.5 km
Discover the captivating history and stunning natural beauty at the Columbia Gorge Museum in Stevenson, WA, a gem for tourists and history enthusiasts alike.
Rock of Ages Arch
9.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Rock of Ages Arch in Cascade Locks, Oregon, a must-visit landmark in the Columbia River Gorge.
Ponytail Falls
9.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ponytail Falls, a stunning waterfall in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, perfect for hiking and photography.
Oneonta Trailhead
10.5 km
Discover the beauty of nature at Oneonta Trailhead in Oregon, a perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
Unmissable attractions to see
East Fork Falls
0.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of East Fork Falls in Cascade Locks, Oregon – a serene retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Munra Falls
1.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Munra Falls in Oregon, a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Wahclella Falls Trail
1.4 km
Experience the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Wahclella Falls Trail, a premier hiking destination in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge.
Bonneville Fish Hatchery
1.8 km
Explore the Bonneville Fish Hatchery in Cascade Locks, Oregon, where nature and education meet in a stunning riverside setting.
John B. Yeon State Scenic Corridor
2.5 km
Experience the stunning views and rich natural beauty at John B. Yeon State Scenic Corridor, a must-visit state park in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge.
Ft. Cascades Historic Site
2.6 km
Experience the history and natural beauty of Ft. Cascades Historic Site, a vital military outpost in Washington's breathtaking landscape.
Bradford Island Visitor Center
2.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge at Bradford Island Visitor Center, your gateway to the region's natural beauty and rich history.
Eagle Creek Trailhead
3.3 km
Explore the beauty of Eagle Creek Trailhead in Oregon, where stunning landscapes and unforgettable hiking experiences await every nature lover.
Upper McCord Creek Falls
3.4 km
Experience the natural beauty of Upper McCord Creek Falls in Cascade Locks, Oregon, where stunning scenery meets tranquil hiking trails.
Elowah Falls Parking
4.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Elowah Falls, a stunning hiking area in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Punch Bowl Falls
4.5 km
Explore Punch Bowl Falls, a stunning waterfall in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge, where nature's beauty captivates and adventure awaits.
Beacon Rock Boat Launch
5.4 km
Discover the beauty of the Columbia River Gorge at Beacon Rock Boat Launch, the perfect destination for boating, fishing, and hiking adventures.
Hamilton Mountain Trailhead
5.6 km
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Beacon Rock Trailhead
5.6 km
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Pool of the Winds
5.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Pool of the Winds in Stevenson, WA, a serene waterfall surrounded by lush nature and stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge.
Essential places to dine
Brigham Fish Market
6.7 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Brigham Fish Market in Cascade Locks - where local flavors meet stunning river views.
Cascade Dining Room
8.5 km
Experience American cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Cascade Dining Room in Skamania Lodge, Columbia River Gorge's culinary gem.
River Rock
8.5 km
Experience American cuisine with breathtaking views at River Rock in Stevenson, WA - perfect for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Big River Grill
10.0 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Big River Grill in Stevenson, WA – where local flavors meet hearty comfort food.
Ivy Bear Pizzeria
29.1 km
Experience the best pizza in Sandy, Oregon at Ivy Bear Pizzeria - where fresh ingredients meet local charm.
Rendezvous Grill
29.6 km
Discover the taste of Oregon at Rendezvous Grill – where delicious grilled dishes meet cozy ambiance in beautiful Welches.
Koya Kitchen
29.9 km
Discover Koya Kitchen in Welches, Oregon – where authentic Japanese flavors meet creative Asian fusion in an inviting atmosphere.
Mogul Mountain Pizza
30.2 km
Discover gourmet pizzas at Mogul Mountain Pizza in Welches, Oregon - your destination for delicious flavors amidst stunning natural beauty.
Barlow Trail Roadhouse
30.4 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Barlow Trail Roadhouse in Welches, OR - where hearty breakfasts meet rustic charm and local legends.
Zigzag Mountain Cafe
30.4 km
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ZigZag Inn
30.5 km
Discover family-friendly dining at ZigZag Inn in Welches, Oregon—your go-to spot for delicious pizza amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Skyway Bar & Grill
31.0 km
Discover delicious grilled dishes and live music at Skyway Bar & Grill in Zigzag, Oregon – a perfect blend of flavor and entertainment.
Altitude
31.1 km
Discover Altitude in Welches, Oregon – where American flavors meet breathtaking mountain views in a cozy restaurant setting.
Mallards Café & Pub
31.5 km
Experience delightful dining at Mallards Café & Pub in Oregon's Mt. Hood region with stunning views and a diverse menu perfect for every palate.
Twin Peaks Drive In
32.2 km
Discover delicious burgers and creamy ice cream at Twin Peaks Drive In in Hood River, Oregon – a perfect stop for food lovers!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Spruce Gifts and Provisions
1.8 km
Discover the charm of Cascade Locks at Spruce Gifts and Provisions, your go-to spot for unique local gifts and artisan treats.
Bridgeside
6.5 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Bridgeside in Cascade Locks, where local flavors meet breathtaking scenic views.
Bike the Gorge
6.9 km
Explore the stunning Columbia River Gorge with Bike the Gorge - your gateway to cycling adventures in Oregon's breathtaking landscapes.
Columbia Market
6.9 km
Discover local flavors and fresh produce in the heart of Cascade Locks at Columbia Market, your go-to grocery store for all your needs.
Eastwind Drive-In
7.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of classic American fast food and irresistible ice cream at Eastwind Drive-In in scenic Cascade Locks.
Bloomsbury of Kanaka Creek Farm
9.9 km
Experience the beauty of Bloomsbury of Kanaka Creek Farm, a florist and women's clothing store in Stevenson, WA, where nature meets style.
Carson General Store
16.0 km
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Wind Mountain Ranch
17.7 km
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Cedar Creek Alpacas
27.3 km
Discover the charm of Cedar Creek Alpacas in Cook, WA, where you can connect with friendly alpacas and shop unique, locally-made products.
The Old Trunk
28.5 km
A charming blend of antiques, fresh fruits, and delicious ice cream awaits at The Old Trunk in Hood River, Oregon.
Hoodland Thriftway
30.1 km
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Hoodland Shopping Center
30.1 km
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Hoodland Bazaar
30.2 km
Explore Hoodland Bazaar in Welches, Oregon – a unique gift shop filled with handcrafted treasures, jewelry, lighting, and charming souvenirs.
Apple Valley Country Store
31.6 km
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Mt Hood Foods
32.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cascade Locks Ale House
6.8 km
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Gorges Beer Co.
7.0 km
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Cascade Locks / Portland East KOA Holiday
9.4 km
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Rock Creek Tavern
9.7 km
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Walking Man Brewing
9.8 km
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Red Bluff Tap House
9.9 km
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Bungalow Bar & Grill
15.6 km
Discover the charm of Bungalow Bar & Grill, your go-to spot for local brews and hearty meals in Carson, Washington.
Backwoods Brewing Company
16.0 km
Experience the best of local craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Backwoods Brewing Company in scenic Carson, WA.
Whistle Stop
29.5 km
Discover the charm of Whistle Stop in Welches, Oregon - a grill and breakfast restaurant offering delicious meals in a cozy ambiance.
Pub 26
29.7 km
Discover the unique charm of Pub 26 in Welches, Oregon, where craft beers and hearty meals meet a cozy mountain ambiance for an unforgettable experience.
Red Carpet Inn
32.9 km
Experience the local charm and vibrant atmosphere of Red Carpet Inn, a must-visit bar in Hood River, Oregon, with craft drinks and live music.
Thirteen 0 One
34.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Thirteen 0 One, a must-visit bar in Hood River, offering craft cocktails and local brews in a welcoming setting.
The Beer Den
34.5 km
Experience the best of local brews at The Beer Den, Sandy's cozy pub with an inviting atmosphere and a fantastic selection of craft beers.
Shed
34.5 km
Discover Hood River's vibrant cocktail scene at The Shed, where craft cocktails meet a cozy ambiance, perfect for unwinding after your Oregon adventures.
No Place Saloon
34.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of No Place Saloon in Sandy, Oregon, where good drinks and great entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.
