Make a Day of It: 6 Areas with Multiple Waterfalls
Sometimes, one waterfall just isn’t enough. These areas in Oregon and Washington have two or more waterfalls so you can combine trips into one big adventure!
Columbia River Gorge
They don’t call it the waterfall corridor for nothing! There are no shortage of waterfalls along the Columbia River. If you drive the historic Columbia River Highway (or grab a shuttle) between the Vista House and Ainsworth State Park, you’ll drive right by Latourell Falls, Wahkeena Falls, Bridal Veil, Multnomah Falls, and Horsetail Falls. There are many more waterfalls along the Columbia River (like Wahclella Falls-pictured left), it would be impossible to list them all here. Be sure to do your research and check road and trail conditions before you go!
Silver Falls State Park
Silver Falls State Park features a stunning collection of ten waterfalls. If you are up for it, you can hike the 7 mile Trail of Ten Falls and see all of them! Those who prefer a shorter adventure can visit the popular South Falls area, hike a few falls from the North Falls entrance, or design your own adventure by checking out a park map.
Olympic Peninsula
It may take a couple trips to visit all of the falls on the Olympic Peninsula, but checking out some of these spots is worth it if you are road tripping in or around Olympic National Park! The weather can vary greatly across the Olympic Peninsula so be sure to check road and trail conditions.
McKenzie River
Hiking to Koosah and Sahalie Falls makes for a perfect day! Located on the McKenzie river 40 minutes from Sisters, these falls sit on the same easy/moderate trail. You can hike the full loop to see the falls from both sides, make it an out and back hike, or drive to both falls and walk to each viewpoint. If you choose to hike, you’ll also get a chance to view the beautiful, deep blue water of the McKenzie River. During the winter and into Spring, this trail is often covered with deep snow, so plan ahead!
Gifford Pinchot National Forest
There are many waterfalls in this forest located in SW Washington. Exploring the Lewis River trail is a great day trip that can include multiple waterfalls. Another well-known waterfall duo is Falls Creek Falls and Panther Creek Falls. These falls are on two separate trails, but are located not far from each other. Falls Creek Falls sits at the end of a moderate 3.2 mile out and back trail (in the winter, you must hike to the trailhead making this trail 8ish miles- and you may need snowshoes, spikes, etc.) Panther Creek Falls is much shorter but just as beautiful. You can hike .3 miles to the upper viewpoint, or walk about a half mile more to the lower viewpoint (the lower viewpoint is down a somewhat steep trail). These trails get snowy in the winter, so do your research about road and trail conditions so you are prepared!
If you are looking for more waterfall ideas- check out this post. Have fun and remember to leave no trace!
