Spend The Day Exploring These Four Pedestrian Foot Bridges In Oregon
By Sarah McCosham|Published November 18, 2021
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
There’s something so magical about happening upon a pedestrian foot bridge whilst traipsing through the Oregon forest. These winsome wooden structures add an enchanting, fairy-tale quality to a hike that’s downright Tolkienesque. This is why the Latourell Falls Loop Trail is such a find. This lovely three-mile loop trail within the Gorge features not one, not two, not even three, but four pedestrian foot bridges — and a wondrous waterfall! — making for a totally enchanting day hike adventure in Oregon.
The Columbia River Gorge is home to breathtaking natural beauty and some of the best waterfalls in Oregon; it's also one of the most definitive features of the Pacific Northwest.
This region, shared by both Oregon and Washington, is perhaps best-known for its incredible waterfalls. There are over 90 cascades on the Oregon side alone, making this a treasure trove for Beaver State waterfall chasers.
Within the Columbia Gorge, Guy W. Talbot State Park is a secluded, oft-overlooked gem. Don't overlook it, though, because it's a treasure trove of natural beauty -- and foot bridges!
In fact, this Oregon State Park's Latourell Falls Loop Trail boasts four different wooden bridges, making for a marvelous afternoon adventure. You'll find the trailhead just off the Historic Columbia River Highway.
This lush, forested area is a delight to explore, with an abundance of beautiful foliage, including Port Orford cedars, Douglas-firs, alders, and maples.
Not only will you travel across multiple bridges on this trail, but hikers can also walk underneath a historic 1914 bridge en route to the base of Lower Latourell Falls, a 224-foot plunge that's worth the trip alone!
At just three miles long, this is a quick and straightforward hike; the majority of the trail’s elevation is at the beginning, but be aware that certain areas can get quite slippery after a rain, so be sure to dress accordingly -- and take your time!
Taking your time won't be a problem, however, as this trail offers amazing view after amazing view. The best view, of course, is found on a beautiful wooden foot bridge that gets so close to Latourell Falls, you'll feel its spray!
Upper Latourell Falls is the third tallest waterfall in the Columbia Gorge. It’s a two-tiered drop that plunges powerfully into an emerald pool. Between these falls and the trail's charming bridges and verdant green scenery, this is one of the most wondrous day hike adventures in Oregon!
Have you ever hiked the Latourell Falls Loop Trail? What an amazing adventure! Learn more about this lovely hike by visiting AllTrails. And for another epic hiking adventure in Oregon, check out the trek at Drift Creek Falls.
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