Latourell Falls

Latourell Falls are one of tallest waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge—a National Scenic Area that stretches 80 miles (129 kilometers) along the Washington–Oregon border. A gentle 2.1-mile (3.4-kilometer) hiking trail leads to Latourell Falls and the separate Upper Latourell Falls. Latourell Falls feature on numerous tours from Portland, which range from guided hikes to itineraries that pair Columbia Gorge with trips to nearby wineries. Scenic flightseeing tours offer a particularly dramatic perspective. 

• The area can be misty and rainy, particularly in winter, so come prepared with sturdy shoes, warm layers, and a waterproof jacket. 
• Though some of the trails were damaged during the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire, the area is generally safe and open to visitors.
• If you’re planning a speedy visit, you might not even need to get out of the car—some portions of the falls are visible from the Historic Columbia River Highway.
• A paved ramp extends from the on-site parking lot to a viewpoint of the falls, offering a viewing option for visitors with limited mobility.

Latourell Falls are located just 30 miles (48 kilometers) from Portland in Guy W. Talbot State Park. The area is best reached by car and most trips take under an hour; take I-84E to US-30BYP, or for a slower but more scenic route, journey along the Historic Columbia River Highway—parking is available on site. Alternatively, tours from Portland take all the hassle out of driving. 

Summer is often the worst time to visit Latourell Falls when the trail is most crowded and the creek that feeds the falls is often reduced to a trickle. Instead, visit in autumn or spring. Winter sees the falls at their most powerful and dramatic, though the trails are more difficult to access.

Visits to Latourell Falls are often paired with highlights of the Columbia River Gorge. Venture to Bridal Veil Falls, which consists of two cascades that resemble its namesake, and Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon, and instantly recognizable for its two tiers and scenic viewing bridge. Many tour itineraries pair the Columbia River Gorge with trips to Mt. Hood.