These 10 Epic Waterfalls Near Portland Will Take Your Breath Away
One of the most special things about Portland is that you are about an hour away from our beautiful mountain range and the rugged Pacific Ocean. Having some of Oregon’s most beautiful waterfalls so close is a privilege, but if you’re looking to experience some incredible cascades even closer to home, these hidden waterfalls near Portland, Oregon are sure to satisfy your waterfall-chasing wanderlust — and take your breath away, too!
There are so many hidden beautiful waterfalls near Portland, Oregon. Which ones take your breath away? What are your favorite parks near Portland for waterfall chasing? Please share them with your fellow PNW waterfall chasers in the comments!
Still on the hunt for “waterfalls near me” in Portland? We have just the thing: this epic, weekend waterfall road trip!
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More waterfalls near Portland Oregon
What are the best waterfall hikes near Portland, Oregon?
Some of the best waterfall hikes near Portland, Oregon include:
- Multnomah Falls
- Wahclella Falls
- Drift Creek Falls
- Bridal Veil Falls
- Ponytail Falls
- Trail of Ten Falls
Portland is practically bursting with beautiful waterfall hikes, thanks, in part, to the Columbia River Gorge. Hailed as The Crown Jewel of the Pacific Northwest, the Columbia River Gorge is the largest natural scenic area in the United States, and it's a veritable treasure trove of falls, too. The mighty Columbia River serves as the border between Oregon and Washington, and there are all sorts of treasures awaiting you on both states’ sides. We’re partial, of course, to the Beaver State’s side of this natural wonder; with more than 90 cascades on the Oregon side alone, there’s no better place to go waterfall chasing than the Columbia River Gorge. Wahclella Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Ponytail Falls, and, of course, mighty Multnomah Falls -- these are just some of the incredible cascades you'll discover in the Columbia River Gorge.
Of course, if you're up for a little day trip adventure, head up to Silver Falls State Park to the Trail of Ten Falls. As its name suggests, this hike leads past 10 wondrous waterfalls, many of which you can walk behind, too! Hiking clockwise, you'll encounter South Falls, Lower South Falls, Lower North Falls, Double Falls, Middle North Falls, Drake Falls, Twin Falls, North Falls, Upper North Falls, and Winter Falls. Phew! It's admittedly a bit of a trek; the trail makes a 7.2-mile loop through a beautiful forest in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, as well as some of the best scenery within this beautiful park, which many regard as the crown jewel of the Oregon State Parks. This is definitely a hike for your Oregon bucket list!