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Eagle Creek Trailhead & Trail (#440)
This spectacular cliffside hike passes through a forested basalt cliff overlooking Eagle Creek. It affords spectacular views of the creek's slot canyon, where a cool, ethereal fog offers a reprieve on a hot summer day. Small waterfalls trickle along the sides of the cliff, and the trail passes many larger waterfalls, including the iconic Punch Bowl Falls, which is accessed from a side trail about 2 miles up the trail. About 3 miles up, hikers will encounter the aptly named High Bridge, which traverses a narrow gorge 150 feet above the creek. Many hikers choose to backpack as far as Tunnel Falls, about seven miles up the trail, where they can pass behind falling waters. Around mile 5, you enter Wilderness where a free permit is required (available at the wilderness boundary).
This is one of the most popular trails in the Columbia River Gorge and can be a crowded experience on summer weekends. Sheer cliffs have no hand rails on parts of this trail, so this hike is not recommended for children or those afraid of heights, despite its gentle overall grade. Please also be mindful of your pets and be sure to wear proper footwear.
In 2017, more than 150 hikers had to be rescued from the Eagle Creek Fire by emergency personnel who assisted them up the remaining 12 miles and 3,000 foot elevation gain to the Wahtum Lake Trailhead. Many shivered through a hungry, exposed night outdoors and shared afterwards that they learned why it's so important to pack overnight essentials, even for a short day hike.
The trail connects to several other remote, multi-day loop backpacking opportunities in the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness on the Hood River Ranger District in the Mt. Hood National Forest. It is also a popular alternative route to the Pacific Crest Trail. However, recovery efforts from the 2017 Eagle Creek wildfire are still underway on some of these multi-day loop trail opportunities (Ruckel Creek #403, Tanner Butte #401, Eagle-Tanner #433, and Tanner Cutoff #448 trails remain closed). Please check the Mt Hood National Forest and Columbia River Gorge National Forest Closures for the latest information.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | A valid recreation pass is required. |
|---|---|
| Fees: | $5/vehicle/day |
| Permit Info: | Wilderness Permits are required when entering Mark O Hatfield Wilderness. Free permits are self-issued at the Wilderness boundary. |
| Restrictions: |
|
| Closest Towns: | Cascade Locks, OR |
| Passes: | A valid Recreation Pass is required at Eagle Creek trailhead. |
| Operated By: | Forest Service |
| Information Center: | Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area |
General Information
Directions:From Portland, OR: Travel east on Interstate 84 to exit #41 which is just past the interstate tunnel. Get in the right lane before entering the tunnel. Take a right at the end of the off ramp and follow the signs to the Eagle Creek Trailhead/Picnic Area.
From Cascade Locks, OR: Travel west on Interstate 84 approximately 3 miles to Bonneville Dam exit #40 (there is no westbound exit #41). Turn left at the stop sign, go under the interstate and then turn left onto the eastbound freeway entrance. Travel east approximately 1 mile on Interstate 84 to exit #41 which is just past the Interstate tunnel. Get in the right lane before entering the tunnel. Take a right at the end of the off ramp and follow the signs to the Eagle Creek Trailhead/Picnic Area.
Activities
Day Hiking
Recreation areas with activity Day Hiking:This trail follows a cliff for portions and can be very dangerous when slippery. Not suitable for young children.
Backpacking
Recreation areas with activity Backpacking:One of the most popular backpacking trails; there are multiple camping sites along the trail. Also loop opportunities with other Gorge trails abound. Please consult a good, up to date map when planning backpacking trips.
Viewing Scenery
Recreation areas with activity Viewing Scenery:This trail offers some of the most spectacular scenery of any trail in the Gorge, including at least 5 waterfalls.
General Info:
Safety InformationCURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO DAMAGE FROM A 2017 WILDFIRE
Permits & Regulations
Around milepost 5, hikers must register and issue themselves a permit. Read the regulations carefully and attach the permit visibly on your backpack.
Alerts & Warnings
- Microwave Tower Fire Closure/Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail Reopens
- Whisky Creek Fire in Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness
- Klickitat Mile One Overnight Use & Large Boat Launch Prohibition
- Concept Development for Mosier to The Dalles Trail Underway
- Effective Jan 1, 2024-October 20, 2024: Eagle Creek Fire Closure
- Drones prohibited in wilderness and select recreation sites
- Guard against car theft
- Check road and weather conditions
Related Information
Highlights
Location