Top 9 Waterfalls around Stevenson

For a family-friendly experience, consider Falls Creek Falls. It features a 3.4-mile loop trail through old-growth forest, leading to a breathtaking multi-tiered waterfall. Dogs are welcome off-leash, and no permits are required. Another good option is Wahclella Falls, which offers a relatively easy hike to a gorgeous 350-foot, two-tiered plunge waterfall.

Yes, Upper Rock Creek Falls, located directly in Stevenson, offers opportunities for swimming in the summer. A relatively new trail provides excellent access to this impressive waterfall, which features a 150-foot wide block of cataracts.

While many waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge are popular, Dry Creek Falls is known for receiving less traffic than others. It's a beautiful basalt plunge waterfall accessible via the well-maintained Pacific Crest Trail, offering a more tranquil experience. Additionally, Steep Creek Falls, a picturesque 52-foot cascade near Stevenson, remains relatively unknown, providing a sense of seclusion.

Many waterfalls are accessible via scenic trails. For example, the 3.4-mile loop trail to Falls Creek Falls is highly recommended. The Pacific Crest Trail provides access to Dry Creek Falls. For a longer adventure, the 2-mile loop trail to Wahclella Falls is also popular. You can find more hiking options in the area on the Hiking around Stevenson guide.

The waterfalls in Skamania County offer diverse experiences throughout the year. During moderate flows, multiple cataracts develop, merging into one large flow during high water, typically in spring. Summer offers opportunities for swimming at places like Upper Rock Creek Falls. Late fall can be a good time to visit Wahclella Falls to potentially see spawning salmon.

Beyond waterfall viewing and hiking, the region around Stevenson offers excellent opportunities for cycling. You can explore routes like the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail or the Cascade Locks – Starvation Creek State Park loop. Find more details on the Cycling around Stevenson guide or the Road Cycling Routes around Stevenson guide.

Yes, Panther Creek Falls is considered one of the most unique and complex falls in the Columbia River Gorge. Its trail drops off the road, and a viewing deck provides excellent photographic opportunities. Dry Creek Falls is also notable for its beautiful basalt plunge and surrounding basalt walls.

The Lewis River Falls (Lower, Middle, and Upper) are a bit further afield but are truly breathtaking. The Lower Falls are 43 feet high and 200 feet across, offering magnificent views. The Middle Falls showcase the clear river and volcanic bedrock, while the Upper Falls stand at 58 feet high and 175 feet across. They are worth visiting for their sheer size and the scenic progression along the river.

Upper Rock Creek Falls is unique due to its direct proximity to Stevenson and its impressive scale. It features a 40-foot tall rock wall across the canyon, creating a staggering 150-foot wide block of cataracts. At moderate flows, multiple cataracts develop, merging into one large flow during high water, and it offers opportunities for swimming in the summer.

Yes, some waterfall trails are dog-friendly. For instance, the hike to Falls Creek Falls in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest welcomes dogs off-leash, making it a great option for pet owners.

The difficulty of waterfall hikes varies. Some, like the trail to Wahclella Falls, are considered relatively easy. The 3.4-mile loop to Falls Creek Falls is also generally gentle. However, other trails, especially those leading to more remote or complex falls, might be intermediate or challenging. Always check specific trail information before heading out.

Big Creek Falls offers an impressive 125-foot plunge into a steep canyon. The 1.4-mile hike to reach it is leisurely, following an old logging road, and a viewing deck provides full views of the spectacular waterfall. It is open year-round.