The Ultimate Guide to Waterfalls Near Portland, Oregon

Portland is blessed with some of the country’s most beautiful natural landscapes, and the aptly named Cascade Mountains are nearby and brimming with the highest concentration of Waterfalls in North America. 

In this guide, we cover the three main waterfall areas near me here in Portland:

The Columbia River Gorge (30+ minutes away), 

Mt. Hood National Forest (60+ minutes away), and 

Willamette Valley and Beyond (1.5 hours or more from Portland).

It’s said that there are 7 Switzerlands in Oregon so it’s no surprise there are so many beautiful, distinct areas to explore right near us. 

Here’s the ultimate list of the best waterfalls near Portland, along with driving times, permit requirements, parking availability, and Google review summaries.

Waterfalls Near Me: The Columbia River Gorge (30 Minutes Away)

The Columbia River Gorge is Portland’s best destination for waterfalls, located just a 30-minute drive from downtown. This area has the highest concentration of waterfalls in North America (over 90!) and would have been a national park if 30,000 people weren’t already living there when it was designated a National Scenic Area instead in the 80s. Home to Oregon’s tallest and most accessible waterfalls, many are reachable by car, bike, and the Waterfall Shuttle for a hassle-free trip.

1. Latourell Falls

• Distance from Portland: 30 miles (40 minutes)
• Trail Length: 2.4-mile moderate loop
• Permit: No permit required
• Parking: 4/5 – Decent parking lot, though it fills up on weekends. Overflow parking available at Guy W Talbot State Park.
• Google Review Summary: 4.8/5 – Reviewers praise the easy accessibility and scenic loop trail. Visitors recommend visiting early in the morning to enjoy the falls without the crowd.
• What to Expect: Just a short drive from Portland, Latourell Falls is a striking 249-foot waterfall that plunges over basalt cliffs. The loop trail takes you through moss-covered forest, with great views of both the upper and lower falls.

2. Bridal Veil Falls

• Distance from Portland: 32 miles (45 minutes)
• Trail Length: 0.5 miles, easy loop
• Permit: No permit required
• Parking: 3/5 – Limited parking; best to arrive early
• Google Review Summary: 4.7/5 – Visitors love the short, easy hike with rewarding views. The two viewpoints are especially popular for their photogenic views.
• What to Expect: This 120-foot, two-tiered waterfall is only a short walk from the parking lot, making it perfect for families and a quick photo stop.

3. Wahkeena Falls

• Distance from Portland: 35 miles (45 minutes)
• Trail Length: 1.5 miles round trip, moderate
• Permit: No permit required
• Parking: 3/5 – Limited parking along the Historic Columbia River Highway
• Google Review Summary: 4.6/5 – Reviewers highlight the peaceful ambiance and praise the short, scenic trail. Many appreciate the option to connect to the Multnomah Falls trail for a longer hike.
• What to Expect: This 242-foot, multi-tiered waterfall creates a misty, magical ambiance. Wahkeena means “Most Beautiful” in the local language. 

4. Multnomah Falls

• Distance from Portland: 35 miles (45 minutes)
• Trail Length: 2.4 miles round trip to the top, moderate to difficult
• Permit: Timed entry permit required in peak season (May – September)
• Parking: 3/5 – Large lot fills up quickly and closes for hours. Smaller lot on the scenic is $20 and always full. Lottery system
• Google Review Summary: 4.8/5 – Visitors adore Oregon’s tallest waterfall, with frequent comments on the beauty of the Benson Bridge and views from the top. The only downside mentioned is the high traffic, especially in summer.
• What to Expect: As Oregon’s tallest waterfall, Multnomah Falls is the crown jewel of the Gorge, plunging 620 feet in two tiers.

5. Horsetail Falls

• Distance from Portland: 37 miles (50 minutes)
• Trail Length: 0.4 miles, easy
• Permit: No permit required
• Parking: 4/5 – Smaller lot but decent turnover; close to the road
• Google Review Summary: 4.7/5 – Known for its accessibility and stunning views, Horsetail Falls is a favorite for families and those wanting a quick stop with a view.
• What to Expect: Horsetail Falls is visible right from the road, making it one of the easiest falls to access in the Gorge.

6. Fairy Falls

• Distance from Portland: 38 miles (50 minutes)
• Trail Length: 2.4 miles round trip, moderate
• Permit: No permit required
• Parking: 3/5 – Parking can be limited, especially on weekends
• Google Review Summary: 4.7/5 – Fairy Falls receives high praise for its enchanting atmosphere and tranquil setting. Reviewers love the secluded vibe of the trail.
• What to Expect: Fairy Falls is a delicate, 20-foot waterfall tucked in Wahkeena Canyon.

7. Elowah Falls

• Distance from Portland: 39 miles (55 minutes)
• Trail Length: 1.6 miles round trip, moderate
• Permit: No permit required
• Parking: 3/5 – Limited parking along the highway; go early for best chances
• Google Review Summary: 4.7/5 – Visitors highlight the peaceful, hidden gem feel of this waterfall, with stunning photos and fewer crowds than other Gorge falls.
• What to Expect: This 289-foot waterfall cascades into a lush, mossy basin.

Waterfalls Near Portland: Mt. Hood National Forest (About 1 Hour Away)

For those willing to venture a little farther from Portland, Mt. Hood National Forest offers beautiful waterfalls set against the stunning backdrop of Oregon’s iconic mountain.

8. Ramona Falls

• Distance from Portland: 55 miles (1 hour 15 minutes)
• Trail Length: 7.1 miles round trip, moderate
• Permit: Northwest Forest Pass required
• Parking: 4/5 – Parking lot available, but can fill up on weekends
• Google Review Summary: 4.9/5 – Reviewers describe Ramona Falls as “magical” and “worth the hike.” Photographers especially appreciate the unique fan-shaped cascade.
• What to Expect: Ramona Falls is one of Oregon’s most enchanting waterfalls.

9. Tamanawas Falls

• Distance from Portland: 62 miles (1 hour 20 minutes)
• Trail Length: 3.6 miles round trip, moderate
• Permit: Northwest Forest Pass required
• Parking: 4/5 – Ample parking available
• Google Review Summary: 4.8/5 – Tamanawas Falls is praised for its majestic views and the beautiful forested trail leading up to it.
• What to Expect: This 100-foot waterfall thunders over a cliff, with a scenic trail along Cold Spring Creek.

Waterfalls Near PDX: Willamette Valley and Beyond (1.5 Hours or More)

For those up for a longer journey, the Willamette Valley and surrounding areas offer unforgettable waterfall experiences.

10. Willamette Falls

• Distance from Portland: 14 miles (20 minutes)
• Trail Length: No hiking trail; viewpoint accessible by car
• Permit: No permit required
• Parking: 5/5 – Parking lots are available nearby
• Google Review Summary: 4.4/5 – While not as scenic as others, visitors appreciate the unique industrial backdrop and historical significance.
• What to Expect: Located in Oregon City, Willamette Falls is one of the country’s largest waterfalls by volume.

11. Silver Falls State Park

• Distance from Portland: 60 miles (1 hour 30 minutes)
• Trail Length: 7.2-mile loop (Trail of Ten Falls), moderate
• Permit: Day-use pass required
• Parking: 4/5 – Large parking area available; fills up on weekends
• Google Review Summary: 4.9/5 – Visitors rave about the variety and beauty of the falls along the trail, describing it as a must-visit in Oregon.
• What to Expect: The Trail of Ten Falls showcases 10 waterfalls, including the 177-foot South Falls.

12. Salt Creek Falls

• Distance from Portland: 137 miles (2.5 hours)
• Trail Length: 0.4 miles, easy
• Permit: Northwest Forest Pass required
• Parking: 4/5 – Plenty of parking
• Google Review Summary: 4.7/5 – Known for its impressive height and power, Salt Creek Falls is appreciated by those looking for a short, dramatic viewpoint hike.
• What to Expect: Salt Creek Falls, the second-highest in Oregon, plunges 286 feet.

Tips for Visiting Waterfalls Near Portland

1. Arrive early or go later in the day: The Gorge can get very busy, especially on weekends.
2. Check for permit requirements: Some areas require permits, especially in high season.
3. Wear the right gear: Waterproof shoes and layered clothing will keep you comfortable on Oregon’s wet trails.
4. Stay hydrated and pack snacks: Most trails don’t have amenities, so bring your own.
5. Check trail conditions: Some trails may close seasonally or due to weather, so check online before heading out.
6. Don’t leave valuable in your car at trailheads: Locals know not to leave anything in your car at a trailhead.

With options from quick stops to full-day adventures, the waterfalls near Portland offer something for every outdoor adventurer. For a convenient experience, with all the decisions made for you and a great time guaranteed consider booking the Waterfall Shuttle.