Oneonta Gorge

The Basics

Walk upstream from the river’s outlet along the Columbia River Highway to see Lower Oneonta Falls, Upper Oneonta Falls, and Triple Falls. You can also hike down Horsetail Falls Trail to the bridge crossing over Oneonta Creek, which provides views of Middle Oneonta Falls.

Columbia River Gorge tours sometimes include a visit to Oneonta Gorge along with Multnomah Falls, Bonneville Dam, and Beacon Rock. Some combination tours combine a Columbia River Gorge visit with a hop-on hop-off tour of Portland.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Oneonta Gorge is a must-see for nature lovers.

• There's no trail through the lower gorge, so hiking here usually involves walking in cold water that can be anything from ankle deep to chest high, depending on the season.

• If you plan on hiking, wear closed-toe hiking shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting wet.

• The Oneonta Gorge is not accessible for wheelchair users.

How to Get There

Oneonta Gorge is located roughly 35 miles (56 kilometers) outside of Portland, Oregon, just off Interstate 84. Public transportation to the site is limited, but you can take a taxi, rental car, or guided tour.

When to Get There

Since there is no trail and you will likely get wet while hiking along the riverbed, it’s a good idea to visit during Oregon’s warm summer months. To avoid crowds, opt for an early morning or weekday visit.

Must-See Spots Near the Oneonta Gorge

Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is full of waterfalls to explore, including Latourell Falls, Wahkeena Falls, Punch Bowl Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. There are numerous hiking trails throughout the area, making Columbia Gorge a popular scenic getaway from downtown Portland.

Where is Oneonta Gorge located?

Oneonta Gorge is located on the outskirts of Portland, Oregon, in the Columbia River Gorge area. It’s a popular hiking area for locals and visitors. The gorge is located inside the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. It’s about a 40-minute drive away from the city of Portland.

What is the best time of year to visit Oneonta Gorge?

The best times of year to visit Oneonta Gorge are summer and fall, when there’s not much chance of snow. Fall can be cooler, but during this time, you also can avoid some of the heavier crowds that make their way to Oneonta Gorge in the summertime.

Is there an entrance fee for Oneonta Gorge?

No, there is no entrance fee for Oneonta Gorge in the Columbia River Gorge area. The Oneonta Trailhead is where most travelers start their hikes, and it doesn’t cost any money to begin at the trailhead.

What should I wear when visiting Oneonta Gorge?

You should wear close-toed hiking shoes for stability when hiking the trails at Oneonta Gorge. It’s also a good idea to wear light clothing layers. This is especially helpful in case you accidentally get wet—an extra pair of socks in your backpack is ideal.

Are pets allowed at Oneonta Gorge?

Yes, dogs are allowed on the trails at Oneonta Gorge, but like most public parks and outdoor spaces, your dog must be on a leash and up to date with its current vaccines. You can no longer swim at the gorge, and dogs are not allowed in the water either.

Can you swim in Oneonta Gorge?

No, you can no longer swim at Oneonta Gorge, due to damage from a 2017 wildfire in the area. There are hopes that swimming will be allowed again in the future, but there are no current plans to allow swimming for at least a few more years.

Ways to explore

While Oneonta Gorge itself has been closed to hikers since 2017, the Oneonta Trail is open for exploration. Take this challenging trail 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers) to a viewpoint overlooking Triple Falls; for a longer (even overnight) adventure, head 7.7 miles (12.4 kilometers) up to Larch Mountain.

Columbia River Gorge tours often include a visit to Oneonta Gorge along with other landmarks such as Multnomah Falls, Bonneville Dam, and Beacon Rock. Hiking and biking tours get you out on the best trails, while food and wine tours combine the region’s natural and culinary delights.

Accessibility

Oneonta Gorge is not accessible to wheelchair users.

Age limits

While there technically are no age limits, young children might struggle with the steep grade and heavy mileage.

What to pack

Water bottle, sunscreen, rain gear, offline map

What to wear

Comfortable hiking shoes, layers for fluctuating temperatures

Not allowed

Smoking or vaping, littering, loud music on the trail

Amenities

There are no amenities at the trailhead. The closest restrooms and concessions are located at nearby Multnomah Falls.

Address 

Oneonta Gorge is located roughly 35 miles (56 kilometers) outside of Portland, Oregon, just off Interstate 84. The best way to get there is to drive or take a guided tour.

Driving

To reach the Oneonta Trailhead from Portland, head east on I-84. Take Exit 35 and follow the Historic Columbia River Highway for 2 miles (3.2 kilometers). A small parking area will be on your right.

Public transportation

Public transportation is limited. While the Columbia Gorge Express goes to Multnomah Falls, it doesn’t stop near the Oneonta Trailhead. If you don’t have a car, take a guided tour instead.

Best times to visit

The postage-stamp-sized parking lot fills up fast. Plan to arrive early to secure a spot.

Best days to visit

If you want to avoid crowds, don’t visit on a holiday or weekend. Aim for midweek instead.

Best months to visit

July through October are the best months to explore the Columbia River Gorge, as the weather is warm and rainfall is less likely.

Special events

Trail runners shouldn’t miss April’s Gorge Waterfalls event, which offers 30K, 50K, and 100K races through some of the most beloved sections of the Columbia River Gorge.