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Great place to take a hike on a hot summers day. It was 97 degrees out, and my brother in law and I set out at 4:30p on a Saturday. My sister didn't want to venture into a hike where you would get wet, so she waited in the SUV. The path was not too crowded. There were children, parents, couples, and pets hiking up the stream towards the waterfall. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, you will get wet since this hike is in the bed of water where you will go over sections of logs until you get to the waterfall. There will be a lot of climbing up, down, around, and through the logs. Just before you get to the falls, is the deepest part of the stream, on your hike. The water will get up to your waist, or chest high, depending on your height. It was cold. But, since today was a hot 97 degrees the water felt cold but it was bearable. After you enjoy nature, and take pictures of the Gorge and Falls, head back, and have fun, maneuvering back through the three sections of logs that are in the middle of the cool stream. Be sure to park your car legally, since my sister didn't want to hike down, she saw a lot of cars being towed, by the towing Companies, because many people were illegally parked, or were blocking others cars in, so some hikers called the police. Hence, their cars were towed away, when they returned. Overall, this hike was very exciting. As a novice hiker, I enjoyed it. It wasn't too long. Although, it was a challenge for me to negotiate and strategize climbing the logs as well as not slipping off the logs or on the rocks, into the stream, it was the best hike I've experienced, thus far. We both enjoyed our fabulous hiking experience through the Gorge to the Lower Oneonta Falls.
So it was a halfway decent day and I wanted to take a break from work to get outside. I had a list of waterfalls and since this was the closest decided to check it out first (in case it was cool then it was easy to get back to). Anyway, so we drive out there and we see a line of stopped cars. So most people turn around and leave after talking to the forest employee or whatever. We get up there and it's like "do you have a reservation?". Yeah, I didn't notice anything on the website that day about needing reservations so I didn't have one. No, you don't need to have just to come up here, but they do want one for you to hike. My problem is that it's no longer convenient to come hike, but you also have requirements of people just for them to come hike (a device, internet, banking info) that not everyone does have, and you have to PAY to go into NATURE. And don't say "it's only $2" because 1) it's not your money and $2 means a lot to some people and 2) it's not going to stay that price for long. So we're up there and we see the falls, which were okay, nothing spectacular. Areas were closed off so there isn't swimming and not much to see. We noticed next to no one setting out to hike so not really buying the bull that reservations are for "congestion". Yeah, there were no time slots available, yet no one is heading to the hiking trail, sus. Since they keep closing down outdoor areas it feels more like they're corralling us to fewer places. I'll never return because it's nothing special, not worth even the slightest inconvenience or cost honestly.
HOLY $#!T. One of the most amazing and unique hikes I've ever done. Our friend took us here and the photos looked amazing on Yelp. But the photos don't even compare to how this looks with your own eyes! First of all, be ready to get wet. You WILL get wet. There is no way avoiding getting wet unless there is a dramatic drought in Portland. Second, you will get extremely wet and the water is COLD! Be sure to bring a change of clothes and if possible water shoes. Third, be ready to do some climbing. This hike is pretty unique. You will have to go through a log jam at the beginning - you will feel like you are a ninja warrior for about 10 minutes. The log jam can be tricky and slippery, so be sure not to slip and fall on the cold water! And be courteous and be aware that people are also trying to leave via the log jam. After the log jam, its simple walking until this specific area where the water goes up to about your chest - assuming you are average height. There is no way to avoiding this. You will have to get wet unless you turn around and call it a day. After this, its the amazing waterfall. You are already wet, so might as well swim in it! Great hike. Must do. Amazing. 5 stars. People, please don't ruin this spot.
If you prefer to keep your forays into the wild on the domesticated side, you can drive to Multnomah Falls and see it from the car. Or follow the thousands of others up the manicured trail. It is one of the reasons that I'm in the minority and don't consider Multnomah Falls the best there is. It is too damn accessible and everyone and their grandmother has seen it. If you don't mind getting a little wet and dirty, you can have a much more authentic, personal communion with nature if you continue down the road to Oneonta Gorge. It is the perfect place to beat the heat on a hot summer day. As others have mentioned, if you stay in the gorge, it isn't so much a hike as a scramble over rocks, a log jam and through the river up to your navel. My tip is to bring an extra set of clothes and shoes so you can change after your adventure. This area is called the 'secret garden' since it isn't on the standard tourist track and is host to all sorts of flora that you won't see elsewhere. Some of the moss looks like it was spray painted on the rocks and there are caves and hideyholes bored into the rocks. It is sort of a naturalist's paradise. Enjoy the gorge and falls, just don't come by the busload.
Outstanding, Must Visit While In Oregon! Working your way along the river in frigid waters you cross piles of logs and go waist deep in ice water as you make your way to the falls through this ever wondrous area of resplendence. Tip: Make the journey as early as possible so you can find parking easily and beat the rush there before the crowds descend like swarms of humans and you can no longer get a decent picture without 40 people at a time taking selfies! No trip to the Portland area or the Columbia River area of Oregon would be complete without visiting This area and all the magical wonder it bestows upon your senses. This entire area is filled with magical little trails that take you up and down mountains over little creeks, rivers, into and through or around waterfalls, and all of the most wonderful places you could hope to find. I saw so many nice things here in this area that now that I am home I feel like Oregon became sort of home too. Now I am counting the time until I return here to explore more and enjoy all the wonderful green lush areas the Oregon has to offer. Hop on a plane and go visit this area and all it has to offer and you'll be glad you did for sure!
One of the most beautiful and surrealist hikes I've been on! It's like being on the set of Jurassic Park. This short hike is definitely worth getting a little wet! You will have to climb through a dam of collected tree stumps and walk through puddles and streams of water. I even climbed the side of the cliff, so I wouldn't get soaked from the not so shallow part of the stream. Love it! I would recommend this hike to anyone who is willing to go on a little adventure.
It is cheesy to say, "pictures don't do this place justice", but no kidding, the experience was amazing! Even through the tricky climbing, freezing water and balancing on rocks and hanging on to each other, I would do it again. I had an incredible time just pushing myself to get through this course for the beautiful waterfall! We went in the middle of May and around 5:30pm, and basically had this whole place to ourselves, and the same month where they blocked out the path with caution tape due to path being messed up from the flood. But me and my friends didn't fly to Oregon not to experience this hike! So being from San Jose, we climb over it willing to take the risk, and honestly it was totally fine, minus the water temperature; it totally numb my toes..! You will get wet on this trip, no way to avoid this, some parts gets deep, certain areas I had to swim across, but if you don't know how to swim, you can hang on the side with the rocks, as you pull yourself over. Most of the time, water will be as high as your knees, but don't forget it also depends what month you go. -water shoes -waterproof camera -waterproof bag (or ziplock everything!) -and a sense of adventure! The hike honestly is not a hike, you'll climb over logjams, and from there you walk on the creek till you get to the waterfall. It's less than a mile to get to the waterfall. You'll noticed on other reviews about driving directions, and it all depends on which side you're coming from, but it's impossible to get lost. There's a side that will say oneonta gorge. Once you see a random tunnel, finding parking. And from the tunnel, depending which side you come from, you'll see a random bridge. And at the end of the bridge, on the side, there's this random stairs that leads you down from the bridge to the creek. That's the path!! It's near horsetaill falls!
GORGE-ous place. Hands down my favorite hike thus far!! Short distance, but rewarding end goal of a beautiful waterfall/pool. So much adrenaline climbing over logs and rocks and walking through cold waist-deep water. Beautiful view throughout the whole trail, surrounded my mossy canyon walls. Remember to wear sunscreen and water shoes. You'll be glad you did. It'll be crowded on the weekends, so plan to go early! It's definitely worth visiting!
The Oneonta Gorge is a great place to go when you want to cool down but you're not in the mood to hike like 10 miles. At a flat grade and with a distance of 0.5 miles, Oneonta is great for beginners! Be warned that the water can be up to waist deep and there will be some climbing, however. There is a logjam at the beginning so please be careful! I recommend wearing a good pair of shoes and securing your belongings. It's not uncommon to hear stories of people dropping and losing their keys/phone/camera during the climb over the log jam. Though not necessary, I would recommend wearing a backpack so you can secure things like keys and water bottles whilst at the same time having both hands to climb the logs. I had a pair of shorts on with my iPhone in my pocket and holding a hydroflask with one of my hands. I was able to get over the logjam just fine but I had to be a little extra... careful in making sure I don't lose either of those items. Also be sure that you are prepared for water. Having an extra change of clothes and a good pair of shoes (preferably water resistant) are a must! There are a few spots where you will be waist deep in water. This also means if you are going to carry anything (e.g a nice camera), you will have to expect to carry any non-waterproof stuff over your head as you walk through the water. The end of the hike is absolutely gorgeous and the waterfall itself is super accessible. The best time to go (obviously during a hot day) for photos is 1) during overcast days, 2) earlier in the morning or 3) later in the afternoon. At around noon time the sun tends to be right over the top of the fall and you'll be battling lens flare when taking pictures of the fall. Again, I recommend this hike to all who want to cool down and don't mind a little bit of climbing.
WEAR WATER SHOES! Shoes with closed toes! Do not wear sandals or your poor toes will get smushed against the slippery rocks that you have to walk on. Don't say I didn't warn you haha The infamous oneonta gorge hike is BEAUTIFUL. It's a must for anyone and everyone who is visiting Oregon, especially in the summertime! You do get wet, but not entirely. I'm 5'5" and the water only went up to my waist at most. However, it was freezing cold. Good thing I went when there was a heat wave. Anywho, park in the parking lot and walk through the tunnel. You'll walk onto a bridge and see some stairs to your left (or right, depending on which side you park). This is where the trail begins. Be careful of where you step because most of the rocks are not settled. You'll end up jamming most of your toes if you tried to walk as fast as I did. You'll reach a point where the trail is blocked by all these logs. Like who's idea was it to put all these logs in the middle and have people climb over it? Oh well. It was kinda fun. After that, it's prob only .5 miles until you reach the waterfall at the end. There's a part where you go waist deep in the water and that's right before the falls. :) It's a short "hike", but well worth seeing and jamming all your toes for. I definitely want to come back when there's less people and when the sun isn't too bright to take more photos!
Pack WATER SHOES. I bought mine for dirt cheap off of Amazon and it got the job done. Pack towels and extra set of clothes (YOU WILL GET WET!) Park your car and walk to the trail. Take the stairs down and walk through the gorge. The day that I went the water wasn't too high (about mid thigh deep, I am 5'5") However the final crossing before the water was DEEP. (We asked someone who walked through and he said the water came up to his nipples, he is over 6 feet tall lol!) Sadly I didn't get to cross it. The water was just too cold. So cold that some people brought wet suits! But if you're brave enough to handle the chill you can walk through the deep water. Be careful and take your time crossing the logs. Lots of horror stories of people breaking bones attempting to climb over the logs.
This hike was the highlight of our trip! We were hesitant to do it at first but we are so glad we did! We came in mid-July, a time when you'd hope to have some warm sunshine... But we didn't really have that. We did this hike in cold, gloomy weather. Just imagine your entire body in the cold water! BUT I must admit that it was not bad at all. For most of it, your feet to your legs may be in water but there's a small portion where if you're short like me (5'1" tall), then you may need to swim for about 10 feet. Some tall guys who were 6 feet tall were still able to walk in it so it really wasn't that bad. We avoided the swimming by staying to the right side of that portion. You can kind of climb along the wall and step on parts of the rocks. Also, be prepared to climb over log jams and a boulder. It's not that hard but it's fun. Be careful though! At the end of the hike, you see this beautiful waterfall. It's worth it! TIME: 1 hour (with time for stopping for photos) DISTANCE: probably about 1 mile WHAT TO BRING: - dry fit leggings (if you wear shorts, you may end up with some scrapes) - bathing suit - water shoes - waterproof phone case/go pro - backpack PS Multnomah Falls is nearby. If it's your first time, stop by there for some pictures afterwards.
- Locale Destination - It's next to Multnomah Falls - east side of the fall. Each fall is located along the Historic Columbia River Hwy. This was our 3rd falls to stop by. *********** Disclaimer **************** I'm not sure how they categorize those falls/gorge/trail... These pictures were taken at where on the right side of "Oneonta Gorge" sign - right by the tunnel. I don't think this was a "Trail" because trails usually had a sign saying "..... Trail" and the trail here was gone in a few minutes. You actually need to climb up the big trees and rocks since there is no man made trail. But I could be wrong.... I couldn't go much further because I was scared of height and its difficulty to hike. **************************************** ********* How to watch/hike falls efficiently **************** I'm a first timer for OR. To find those falls was VERY confusing at first. I guess it's the easiest way to get to the falls was to get off the exit (follow the sign) on the Historic Columbia River Hwy (30, not 84) and keep driving along the hwy. All the falls were along the hwy. We started from Wahkeena falls, multnomah falls, oneonta gorge/trail, and horsetail falls (Coming from Portland - from West to East). Each fall seemed to have a trail right next to it - hike up to the top of the falls. Some trails like the one for "Multnomah" was pretty hard and long (2 hours if you see/hike them all). I heard there're 10 or more falls there. We used up almost half a day for only 4 falls. But we spent a lot on Multnomah hiking tails ;) You're not allowed to walk on the road, so you must walk on tails for your safety. You park at the one fall, keep walking on the tails and stop by the falls and come back to your car. Most falls have parking spots. You can find shops, coffee stand and restrooms at "Multnomah" falls. Don't leave anything within the sight of your car. Be cautious. It's great to hike, take pictures, enjoy the beautiful nature. So many falls to stop. Not enough time. Some tails are really hard but it totally WORTH it. *************************************************************** - Gluttony Expedition - I couldn't go all the way to see the fall because of the difficulty to hike on the big trees and rocks. It didn't seem to have much distance to get to the falls, but you see the gigantic rocks and trees there. My friend walked there, but not me ;( I actually walked only like 5 minutes or so from the entrance. But this place was very beautiful - look at my pictures. You do climb up stuff, so make sure to wear good walking shoes. Regular shoes are way difficult to walk here. - Conqueror's Deduction - It wasn't like the hike around Multnomah Falls, but it was beautiful none the less. The trail might have worth trying to hike. Next time.
11 years ago
If anywhere deserves 5 stars it's this place. You have to climb over logs and through water so plan shoes accordingly. If you take a pack, you'll be carrying it over your head for a while through water to get to the falls. Such a unique place in the Gorge. Worth a visit. read more
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Went with my boyfriend and 2 friends, and we had an AMAZING experience. Perfect place for photography as well. What you're going to need for Oneonta -Alarm Clock (Get here before 8am. This is the difference between having the place to yourself and being crammed in with hoards of people.) -Swimming Trunks for the guys and quick drying pants for the ladies (I wore a pair of athletic legging and a bathing suit underneath) -Water Shoes (These are a must for Oneonta since you will be walking through water, there is no way around it) -Dry shoes and socks (Something to change into after the hike.) -Water Proof Camera (or the skills to make sure you don't get your normal camera wet) -Your Big Girl Pants (what I mean by this is, NO COMPLAINING, be prepared for the freezing water. It really isn't that bad, just focus on the pretty surrounds.) If you want to see all my pictures from our trip check out my blog post below: http://www.rosyowltravels.com/columbia-river-gorge-day-trip-guide/ read more
12 years ago
This is by the far the most enjoyable place to visit. It's not much of a hike but there are obstacles to cross. Logs and neck deep freezing water. It's all worth it in the end just look at the pictures. read more
11 years ago
This is the most short adventurous, spontaneous, craziest hike we ever did! Be warned though, if you hike early in the morning during late October, the water can be "stabbing" freezing! We weren't prepared clothes/shoes wise but we weren't going to wait especially not knowing when the next time will be... However we've made it through and it was all worth it! read more
13 years ago
10 years ago
Love Oneonta Falls! My boyfriend and I hiked the gorge during our quick stay in Portland and thought it was challenging & exciting. Here is a breakdown of our time there: - Time Visited: 11AM-12:30PM, Friday in June. There were a decent amount of people there during our hike (probably 30-40) with even more people showing up at noon. Go early! - Weather: It was cloudy and cold for most of the hike, and sprinkled for about 10 minutes. It rained the night before, so the water levels were VERY high (up to our necks at points). For a majority of the hike, the water was at our knees. - What to wear: Check the weather! If it's a warmer day, you'll be fine in a swimsuit and shorts. If it a colder day, dress warm and in clothes you don't mind getting soaked! Pants, long-sleeve shirt, waterproof jacket, a wetsuit if you own one... Also, water shoes with good grip are essential! You will be wading in the water and scaling slippery logs, so bring the right footwear to avoid injury. - The Hike: The trail to Lower Oneonta Falls is about 1 mile roundtrip. The current is strong in some areas, so make sure you have good footing when walking through the gorge. The logs are very slippery, so take your time! The waterfall at the end is beautiful and well worth the hike. - Other Tips: Don't bring anything you don't mind getting wet. My boyfriend and I were the ones carrying our cameras in a plastic bag above our heads... Leave some towels in the car for after the hike, too! Also, I wouldn't bring small kids or dogs on this hike (due to possible injury). If you love hiking and are looking for something different: add Oneonta Falls to the list! read more
It's take climbing at first and can be very crowded. Be aware that for parking you will get a ticket for wrong direction or being over the line (Watched the sherif give out several back to back). It is VERY low on water since there isn't runoff this year, I'm 5"8 and it only went to my waist. But be sure to bring sure you can walk through water in. read more
11 years ago
Even with a small crowd of people, this place was absolutely stunning. An amazing place to hang out when the weather is just right! The water is cool enough to be refreshing and warm enough to swim in, and the colors are breathtakingly gorgeous. read more
10 years ago
What a beautiful place! I loved the short hike and it was mostly flat aside from the log dam that you have to climb over. But the sight is beautiful and I loved trekking through the water...what a fun little adventure! In addition to the flat hike, the water is quite cold but nothing you can't manage! I am definitely going to come here again and do recommend this place to anyone wanting to see a waterfall that is easy to get to! read more
10 years ago
We had no idea what we were getting into when we decided to check this place out. We knew we were going to have to wade through the water, but we did not know that we were going to have to do a trapeze act across slippery, wet logs multiple times. We went on a particularly busy day. There were people everywhere. Go prepared with clothes you don't mind getting wet, a change of clothes, and towels. It isn't a long hike, but you have to work to get there. Is it worth it? It was certainly memorable. We considered a team building exercise with our friends. There were people with small children and dogs. There is no way I would be taking either. It wasn't the most relaxing experience, but I am glad we went. read more
9 years ago
I know this fall has a ton of reviews, but I just want to add it to my Oregon Waterfalls list. So here comes some redundant information. I heard about this waterfall through some co workers on a slow day sitting in my office. We all gathered around our pocket protectors as one of our peers had started to tell us tales of this mystical beast of a waterfall. He told us that you must hike up a creek and are forced to by cliffs that don't let you walk on dry land just to get there. Then after scaling massive boulders and logs, you can finally see this amazing fall that very few people get to experience. To be honest, I thought it was an exaggeration, but years later at the recommendation of a friend, I found his tale to be true. The only key difference is that there were tons of people everywhere you look. The hike to the falls was not too far and very tricky, there were huge boulders and trees to scale as well as a waist deep section of the river to walk through. At the end, sure enough, this very remote, very majestic waterfall. I will note that my friends and I went on a holiday weekend in the peak of the tourist season, so we were idiots for that. And just as you would expect we were surrounded by plenty of other idiots. There were people packing babies over the boulders, kids throwing rocks at people while the parents did nothing, and every kind of person you would find anywhere else. When we started this hike, it literally felt like an entire town was evacuating into the woods. People were almost racing each other as they all rushed this wide gorge. But I noticed as we progressed the crowd seemed to dissipate and the end was not very busy, and very enjoyable. The number of people was not surprising at all considering how close this area is to a city, and the time of day and year we were here. If I can give advice it would be to research the time that is the least crowded. Despite all of the chaos, in the beginning, I would totally go on this hike again, even in the same conditions. It sort of felt like I was in a "Walking Dead" episode which added an element of fun. If you go just do your research and I am sure you will have an awesome time! read more
12 years ago
It was so beautiful the walls surrounding you r just break taking! The hike was really short not even 20 minutes. But it was beautiful! The water wasn't bad at all it was easier then I expected! I went twice:) read more
16 years ago
11 years ago
First, if you have any sort of physical issue you can not hike this gorge. The logs are much harder to cross than they look. That said, it was a gorgeous place. We crossed the logs and once we got to the other side we were greeted by such a beautiful sight. The hike through the gorge to the waterfall is not a long one. Most of the time the water is only ankle deep but for about 25 feet it's chest deep. Protect your phone if you are going. Bring a ziplock or something. Wear good shoes with grip. At the end of the gorge is an area to swim and the falls. It was a beautiful experience that I'm so grateful to have gotten the chance to do. It was a highlight of our trip. read more
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Oneonta Falls - parks - Updated August 2026
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