Looking for a waterfall hike in Oregon that’s moderate, family-friendly, and packed with stunning scenery? Latourell Falls Trail in the Columbia River Gorge is a fantastic choice.
The trail to Latourell Falls offers incredible flexibility, with options to take a short, easy walk to the lower falls or tackle the loop trail for epic views and two waterfalls. You can even see the waterfall from the viewing platform just steps from the parking area – which was great when my parents came to visit!
It’s an easy day trip from Portland and one of my go-to spots for both quick visits and sharing the outdoors with friends and family—it was even one of the first trails I took my kids on by myself after moving to Oregon!
In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to plan your visit to Latourell Falls, including trail details, what to expect, and must-know details.
Latourell Falls Loop Trail Overview & Hike Details
- Distance: ~2 miles for the loop or ~0.3 miles to the base of Lower Latourell Falls
- Elevation Gain: ~600 feet
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Best time to visit: My favorite time of year to visit is mid-winter through spring for the best water flows. But it’s also great in summer for vibrant greens and fall for colors!
- More Trail Details
One of the best things about the Latourell Falls hike is how flexible it is for adventurers of all levels.
Want a quick stop to see the falls? The short trail to the base of lower falls gets you up-close and personal with the 200+ foot drop, making it one of Oregon’s trails that are perfect for families with younger kids or those who can’t hike for long periods.
Can’t walk down to the falls? No worries! You can see it from the viewing platform just adjacent to the parking lot.
For hikers looking for a bit more, the Latourell Falls Loop Trail is the way to go. This ~2-mile loop features two beautiful waterfalls— Lower Latourell Falls and Upper Latourell Falls—plus incredible viewpoints overlooking the Columbia River Gorge. The trail is well-maintained but includes a few steeper sections, making the rating for the full loop moderate and manageable for most hikers.
How to Get to Latourell Falls & Important Things to Know
Directions & Map
The Latourell Falls Trailhead is located about 45 minutes east of downtown Portland, Oregon, along the Historic Columbia River Highway. Simply follow I-84 eastbound, take exit 28 toward Bridal Veil, and continue on the scenic highway until you reach the Latourell Falls parking area. It’s well-marked and easy to find.
Click here for a map and driving directions
Entrance Fee or Pass
Good news! There are no entrance fees or passes required to visit Latourell Falls, making it an affordable adventure for everyone.
Bathroom
There are basic bathrooms available at the trailhead. Note: They do close seasonally. Check here for updates.
Parking Area
Like many popular waterfalls in Oregon, the parking area for Latourell Falls is relatively small and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends or during peak hiking seasons. You’ll have the easiest time parking early in the morning or later in the afternoon, particularly during the summer months or on a weekend.
I’ve found that even if the lot is full, typically a spot will open up quickly. Many people stop and view the falls from the viewpoint or only do the short hike to the lower falls so they don’t stay long.
🧭 This is the most reliable app I’ve found for tracking your hikes on trail.
What to Expect on the Trail
This trail is moderately to heavily trafficked, particularly in the summer. Generally, the biggest crowds are Lower Latourell Falls, but no matter where you explore keep in mind the basics of hiking etiquette so that everyone on the trail has a great day.
Lower Latourell Falls
The lower falls are the highlight of this trail and easy to get to. It’s a 200+ foot drop that plunges over a columnar basalt wall, making it super photogenic and worth the stop. You can reach the base of Latourell Falls with a short walk from the parking lot or as part of the full Latourell loop.
Upper Latourell Falls
The upper falls are along the ~2-mile loop trail. They’re smaller than the main falls (sources vary, but the drop is somewhere around 120 feet), but still a great stop along the way.
While Lower Latourell Falls is impressive, I really enjoy Upper Latourell Falls more. Less people do the complete loop so most of the time, I’m able to have the falls to myself for a short time. 🙌 Plus, it’s a great spot for a snack break – especially with kids!
Views of the Columbia River Gorge
Along the trail, you’ll find a handful of spots where the trees open up to incredible views of the Columbia River Gorge. Be sure to take advantage of them!
📸 If you take pics with your phone, this flexible tripod is the best for hikes.
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Trail Conditions & Notes
The trail is well-maintained but can be muddy, especially during the wetter months. You’ll want sturdy hiking shoes, especially if you’re doing the loop, since some sections are steeper and have exposed roots or rocks.
Trekking poles might come in handy, but they aren’t a must (I don’t routinely use them on this trail).
There is often spray from Lower Latourell Falls so take note, particularly if you’re visiting when the weather is cool and plan your layers and outerwear accordingly!
Before heading out, I always suggest double checking the State Park website for Latourell Falls Trailhead for any closures or advisories.
📲 This is the app I check for recent trail reports from other hikers.
Weather Considerations
Just like other trails in Oregon, during the winter be prepared for mud on the trail and rain showers.
Occasionally, trails along the Columbia River Gorge Historic Highway will have some snow and ice. During winter, I always check the weather and
If you decide to visit in summer, the waterfalls won’t be as full, but you’ll have a ton of lush greenery! And much of the trail is under tree cover so you won’t be baking in direct sun for the entire hike.
🤩 I love these hiking poles! They’re lightweight and easy to collapse down when not in use.
Packing Tips for Your Visit to Latourell Falls
Essential Gear
The Latourell Falls loop hike is pretty straightforward, but it’s important to be prepared on any hike. Aside from the Ten Essentials for every hike, there are a few things to note for this waterfall hike in the Columbia River Gorge.
Make sure you have a good pair of hiking shoes or boots. I always dress in layers, have a rain jacket (my current fav), and wear waterproof hiking shoes or boots (I love these) in the rainy season.
Your rain jacket will come in handy for rain showers, but also for any spray from the waterfall!
🙌 This is the breathable, lightweight rain jacket that comes with me on every hike.
Extras to Consider
- Trekking Poles: Useful for extra stability on steeper or slippery sections of the loop trail, particularly if there is snow and ice on the trail.
- Microspikes: Essential in winter if there’s snow or ice on the trail.
- Extra snacks or lunch: Want to have a snack with a view? Pack a lunch or snack (these are some of my favorite lunch ideas for the trail) to have during a quick break at Upper Latourell Falls.
- Camera & (optional) Tripod: I don’t know about you, but I don’t think I can visit a waterfall without taking at least one picture! I always take at least my phone camera, but for waterfalls I’ll often take my mirrorless camera and a lightweight tripod for the option to take long exposures.
❄️ These microspikes are a game changer in packed snow or icy conditions.
Nearby Highlights
Dining Options Close to Latourell Falls Loop Trail
If you’re looking for a fun spot to grab a bite after your hike, here are a couple of my favorites:
- McMenamin’s Edgefield: The food at McMenamin’s is always solid (the Cajun Tots are a must), but what I love the most is the unique aspect of each location. A large portion of their locations – including this one – are historic buildings and properties that have been converted to restaurants and hotels. Edgefield has several dining options to choose from and you can even walk around the entire property with a cocktail!
- Sugarpine Drive-In: Located in Troutdale, this is one of our favorite places to stop anytime we’re hiking in the Gorge. Their menu features delicious sandwiches, salads, soft-serve ice cream, and other unique offerings. The menu changes seasonally and they source a ton of local ingredients and beverages. Tip: Order ahead online, especially on busy summer weekends!
Where to Stay Near Latourell Falls & the Columbia River Gorge
If you’re planning to stay nearby overnight, here are a couple of options to consider:
- McMenamin’s Edgefield: More than just a place to stay, Edgefield is a destination in itself. It features unique rooms, on-site dining, a winery, a brewery, and even a soaking pool. Staying here lets you unwind after your hike while exploring everything the property has to offer. Note: Not all rooms have private bathrooms, so make sure to double check if that’s important to you.
- Local Hotels in Troutdale or Gresham: Both towns are nearby and have a range of budget-friendly and family-friendly hotels to choose from. Here’s another of my top suggestions.
🤩 This is one of my favorite unique hotels near the Columbia River Gorge!
Other Attractions Near Latourell Falls Trail
The Columbia River Gorge has plenty of other places worth a visit! If you want to add another stop or two to your day, here are a few ideas for you:
- Multnomah Falls: Oregon’s most iconic waterfall is just down the road and always worth a visit, especially if you’ve never been before.
- Vista House: Located at Crown Point, this historic viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the gorge. It’s just a short drive from Latourell Falls.
- Bridal Veil Falls: A quick and easy hike leads to this lovely waterfall nearby, making it a great addition to your day of exploring.
FAQs
Can I see Latourell Falls without hiking?
Yes! You can see Lower Latourell Falls from the viewing platform if you’re not up for a hike.
How long is the hike for Latourell Falls?
The full loop is around 2 miles, including both Lower and Upper Latourell Falls. You can also walk just a short portion – approximately 0.3 miles – to the base of Lower Latourell Falls if you’re not doing the full loop.
Is Latourell Falls Trail Dog-Friendly?
Yes! You can bring your dog, but remember to keep them on leash and pack out any waste.
Is there a fee to visit Latourell Falls?
No! Latourell Falls is fee free.
When is the best time of day to visit?
If you’re hoping for softer lighting for photos and fewer crowds, early morning will be your best bet. Otherwise, you might want to visit on a cloudy day when the sun isn’t super harsh.
📲 This is my favorite app for recording hikes and creating offline maps!
Final Tips for Visiting Latourell Falls Loop Trail
Latourell Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls to see in the Columbia River Gorge, making it a great choice for a quick visit or adding on Upper Latourell Falls for a little more adventure. Here are a couple things to keep in mind during your visit:
- Follow Leave No Trace Principles: While Leave No Trace is always important, the trails in the Gorge see a lot of visitors so it’s especially important to take care of the space and protect it for future generations.
- Check trail conditions: Weather in the PNW can change quickly, so it’s good to be prepared. I like to check recent trail reports (I usually use
AllTrails Plus ) and the weather forecast so I know what to expect.
Before you go…
Latourell Falls is incredible, but it’s only one of the many waterfalls to explore in the Columbia River Gorge. There are so many more that you won’t want to miss!
Read my next article for another stunning waterfall to add to your waterfall bucket list in Oregon…
Complete Guide to Visiting Oregon’s Horsetail Falls & Ponytail Falls
