Whakeena

Whakeena is best known for the waterfalls which are just a few yards from the original Columbia Gorge Scenic Highway. It's a popular spot for tourists and photographers, and the picnic area just across the road is a favorite for families and groups. There are even restrooms and a covered shelter with fireplace.

But there's much more to Whakeena. A paved trail to the right of the falls leads up a series of steep switchbacks to an overlook with excellent views of the Gorge.

You can also continue your climb by turning left the the top of the paved trail and following Whakeena Creek. You'll padd several smaller waterfalls, the prettiest of which is Fairy Falls. The trail leaves the creek and heads east, and up, until you come to a junction with a sign. Turn right at the junction and walk a few hundred yards and you find Whakeena Spring.

Continue on straight and you''ll reach another junction. From here you can loop back via the Vista Ridge Trail or continue on another mile to the Larch Mountain trail with connections down to the Multnomah Falls overlook and Multnomah Falls. Or take trail #420C another 1.6 miles to Devil's Rest.

Distance from PDX:
29 Miles

Directions
The falls are located 1/2 mile west of Multnomah Falls Lodge. From the city, drive east on I-84, turn off the freeway at Exit 28, the Bridal Veil exit, and proceed east along the Scenic Highway for about 1 mile. The falls are just east of an old stone bridge. This is also the exit for Angel's Rest.