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If you’re planning a waterfall trip in the Columbia River Gorge, Latourell Falls deserves a spot at the top of your list. Just 30 minutes east of Portland, this 249-foot waterfall is the first major falls you’ll reach driving the Historic Columbia River Highway — and many visitors say it’s the most photogenic of them all. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Latourell Falls, from parking and trails to the best time to go.

What Makes Latourell Falls Special?

Unlike most waterfalls in the Gorge, which tumble and cascade down rocky steps, Latourell Falls plunges in a single, dramatic free-fall drop of 249 feet. The water pours over a sheer cliff of columnar basalt — those striking hexagonal rock columns formed by ancient lava flows — splashed with brilliant yellow-green lichen that makes the whole scene look almost painted.

Photographers love Latourell because you can walk right up to the base of the falls and feel the mist on your face. The contrast of white water, black basalt, and neon lichen is unlike anything else in Oregon.

Where Is Latourell Falls?

Latourell Falls sits inside Guy W. Talbot State Park along the Historic Columbia River Highway, about 3 miles west of Bridal Veil and roughly 10 minutes from Multnomah Falls. If you’re driving from Portland, take I-84 East to Exit 28 (Bridal Veil) and follow the historic highway west, or take Exit 22 (Corbett) and wind your way east past the Portland Women’s Forum viewpoint and Vista House — one of the most scenic stretches of road in America.

The Latourell Falls Hike

You don’t have to hike far to see the falls. A paved path leads from the parking area to a viewpoint in under five minutes, making this one of the most accessible waterfalls in the Gorge.

If you want more, the Latourell Falls Loop Trail is a 2.4-mile loop with about 600 feet of elevation gain. The trail climbs to Upper Latourell Falls — a beautiful two-tiered waterfall where the trail crosses a footbridge right in front of the cascade — then loops back with sweeping views of the Columbia River. Most hikers finish in 1 to 1.5 hours. The trail is family-friendly, though it can be muddy in winter and spring, so wear shoes with decent grip.

Do You Need a Permit?

No. Unlike Multnomah Falls, which requires a timed-use permit during peak season, Latourell Falls has no permit and no entrance fee. Parking is free, but the lot is small and fills quickly on summer weekends — arrive before 10 a.m. or visit on a weekday if you can.

Best Time to Visit Latourell Falls

Latourell flows year-round, but each season offers something different. Winter and spring bring the heaviest flows, when the falls thunder into the canyon. Spring adds wildflowers along the loop trail. Summer offers the easiest road conditions and warm weather, though crowds peak midday. Fall wraps the canyon in golden bigleaf maples — arguably the prettiest time for photos.

For lighting, mornings are best. The falls face roughly north, and soft early light avoids the harsh midday contrast that can blow out the white water in photos.

Can You Visit Latourell and Multnomah Falls in One Trip?

Absolutely — and you should. Latourell, Bridal Veil, Wahkeena, Multnomah, and Horsetail Falls all sit along the same stretch of the Historic Columbia River Highway known as the Waterfall Corridor. The challenge is parking: every lot along the corridor is small, and circling for spots can eat up half your day in summer.

That’s exactly why we run the Waterfall Shuttle. Our guided tours from Portland stop at the Gorge’s best waterfalls — including Latourell — with no parking stress, no permit hassle, and a local guide who knows the stories behind every falls. You ride, you look, we handle the logistics.

Tips for Your Visit

Bring a rain jacket even on dry days — the mist at the base of the falls is real. Closed-toe shoes beat sandals on the gravel and mud near the viewpoints. Keep an eye on kids near the creek, and pack out everything you bring in. If you’re photographing, a polarizing filter cuts glare on the wet basalt, and a tripod lets you capture that silky long-exposure water effect.

Skip the Hassle — Let Us Drive

Latourell Falls is a stunner, but it’s just one stop on the Gorge’s incredible waterfall corridor. Skip the parking battles and permit logistics — book a Waterfall Shuttle tour and see Latourell, Multnomah, and more in one relaxed, guided trip from Portland.